As winter approaches and we start looking for ways to keep warm, there’s one easy addition to the winter wardrobe that’ll do the trick – a you-beaut puffer jacket! Not only will a puffer jacket help keep you toasty on the coldest of winter nights, it’ll ensure you look good while doing it! Whether you’re the outdoor-loving Aussie, or prefer to be surrounded by four walls, everyone should own one of these puppies. But it can be tricky picking the perfect puffer, and that’s why we’re here.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand the features to look for when choosing a puffer jacket.
1. What are the different types of insulation
When it comes puffer jackets, there are two main types of insulation to choose from, each with their own benefits. Puffer jackets have always been renowned for the warmth they provide, and insulation is the main contributor to this. Depending on where you plan on using the jacket and the climate in that area, as well as what activities you’ll be taking part in, it can really determine how well your jacket performs.
- Down Insulation: Down is the best in the bizz for insulation; it’s light, breathable and incredibly warm, but it has a price tag to match. If you’ve got a camping or hiking trip on the cards and you’re dealing with dry conditions, down offers the ultimate warmth-to-weight ratio. Down isn’t a big fan of rain or moisture, so if you’re venturing to wetter areas, it could be worth looking elsewhere.
- Synthetic Insulation: For those Aussies who can’t get enough of their outdoor adventures rain, hail or shine, synthetic may be a better option for you as it remains warm even when wet. Synthetic is also more affordable and much easier to care for, which if you’re out there a lot, can be a huge bonus.
2. What is fill power?
If you’ve got your heart set on a new down jacket, it’s important to check out the fill power to ensure it’s appropriate for what you have in store. So, what is fill power? It’s a measurement of the quality and insulating ability of the down used in the jacket and refers to how much space one ounce of down occupies when fully expanded. In layman’s terms, it measures how fluffy the down is and its ability to trap heat. A higher fill power means better insulation, a lighter feel, and more compressible.
- 450-550 fill power: These jackets have your basic insulation covered and are designed for use in mild to cool weather.
- 600-700 fill power: If you’re looking for mid-range insulation, this fill power is your go-to. They’re ideal for colder conditions with great warmth-to-weight ratio
- 700+ fill power: These beauties come with high-performance down, which is extremely warm and lightweight. An excellent choice for extremely cold environments or alpine adventures.
3. Make sure your jacket is comfortable and fits correctly
While being warm is an important piece of the puzzle when choosing a puffer jacket, ensuring it fits correctly is equally as important! Most outdoor adventures require some level of flexibility and mobility to get the most out of them. Whether you’re camping, hiking, fishing, or doing any other form of BCFing fun, you’ll want to choose a fit that lets you move freely.
- Slim Fit: From outdoor adventures to urban life, a slim fit puffer is capable of so much. There’s no denying that the biggest benefit of these bad boys is their fashionable appearance, but that slim design also makes them ultra versatile. These jackets are excellent for lightweight activities, travel and even daily wear, and make layering in mid to cold conditions a piece of cake.
- Regular Fit: Offering the perfect balance of comfort, warmth, and functionality, regular fit puffer jackets tick all the boxes. Unlike slim fit jackets which are more tailored, a regular fit provides a much more relaxed fit allowing for more freedom of movement. Layering couldn’t be easier with one of these beauties, as they leave enough room underneath to fit something like a thermal top or sweater with ease. A perfect option for cold weather, or those looking for extra warmth.
- Relaxed Fit: A relaxed fit puffer jacket is designed for maximum comfort, roominess and warmth. The perfect companion for camping that makes lounging around the campfire during winter almost too cosy. When it comes to layering, this one’s the best, allowing you to wear thick jumpers, hoodies or thermals underneath. Great for all body types, a relaxed fit is more forgiving around the shoulders, chest and waist.
4. What to look for in a shell fabric
Australia’s known for its diverse climates – it’s got sun, wind, rain and worse! That’s why it’s so important that your puffer jacket can handle a bit of the rough stuff. Don’t worry, these pearlers are built for this type of thing, but there’s certainly a few key features to look for:
- Breathable: From the hottest of hot to the absolute freezing cold, Australia’s weather has it all! By choosing a breathable jacket, it’ll help regulate your body’s temperature and prevent you from overheating during physical activities. It’s the fabrics that makes all the difference; you want to go with something with a breathable membrane.
- Windproof: There’s no denying that the winds here, especially in coastal and alpine regions, can be harsh - that’s why you’ll want a jacket that can effectively block out the wind. Windproof jackets are great because they help in retaining the warmth and stops cold air from penetrating.
- Water-Resistant: Depending on where you’re venturing, this one can be crucial. The last thing you want is to get wet and turn your outdoor adventure into a damp disaster. Water-resistant puffers give you piece of mind, knowing that if the wet stuff does start coming down, you’re good to go. Constructed from a Pertex® Quantum outer fabric with durable water repellent (DWR) finish, nothing’s raining on your parade.
So, there you have it, some handy hints that’ll ensure your new winter wardrobe is up to the task at hand. No matter what you have on the cards, whether it be hitting the hiking trails, taking the boat for a run, getting your camping fix, or just doing the day to day – puffer’s make it perfect!