Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Puffer Jacket. People often feel tempted to choose the warmest down jacket available. If you’re going to be in northern Wisconsin during the winter, like I was while testing these, that’s a smart choice. If you simply want some added warmth for shoulder season outings or summer backpacking at higher altitudes, a heavily insulated winter parka with 800 fill power is not necessary. We recommend choosing jackets with a down fill power of at least 500 for light use. However, unless you will be in subzero temperatures or are someone who is always cold, there’s no need to invest in a jacket with 900 fill power down. If you typically reside in milder climates, opt for a lighter jacket. Additionally, when backpacking, consider the packability of the jacket and the additional weight it contributes to your backpack. Regrettably, the most lightweight jackets usually have a higher fill power, allowing them to retain more heat with less down. However, it’s important to realistically assess the temperatures you will encounter, as you can opt for a more affordable jacket.
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