Some conditions simply call for synthetic insulation: Whenever the weather hurls down rain, sleet, or the dreaded “wintry mix” of waterlogged snow, I reach for the for fast-drying, anti-clumping synthetic insulated jackets. That’s because down jackets, another winter layer go-to, quickly lose their ability to loft when wet—a recipe for hypothermia in cold climates.
After several years of testing hundreds of the best synthetic jackets, evaluating moisture management, breathability, compressibility, fit and warmth, I’ve come away with a few personal favorites. These five, scored on warmth, weight, and compressability, are in constant rotation in my gear closet.
Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets: At a Glance
- Best Bargain: Backcountry Peale Primaloft Stitch-Free Baffle Stretch Jacket ($219)
- Warmest: Black Diamond Solution 4.0 Parka ($449)
- Most Compressible: Mountain Equipment Oreus Hooded Jacket ($450)
- Most Breathable: Marmot WarmCube Active Novus Insulated Jacket ($275)
- Best Lightweight: Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody ($345)
The post For Wet, Sweaty Winter Adventures, These Are the Best Synthetic Jackets I’ve Tested appeared first on Outside Online.
