BEST CAMPING HIKING PRODUCTS

When you’re out hiking, backpacking, or camping, staying warm without carrying extra weight is essential. Ultralight down jackets are a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable insulation in cold weather while keeping their pack light. These jackets are designed to trap heat while being incredibly light and packable, making them perfect for adventures where every ounce counts. Here are some of the best ultralight down jackets available.

1. Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Hoody

Rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Weight: 8.8 oz (250g)

Features:

• 800-fill power RDS-certified down for maximum warmth-to-weight ratio.
• Highly compressible and packs into its own pocket for easy storage.
• Windproof and water-resistant fabric for added weather protection.
• Adjustable hood and hem to keep warmth in.

The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 is one of the lightest and most compressible down jackets available, making it a favorite among ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers. With its high warmth-to-weight ratio, it’s perfect for cold-weather adventures where minimizing weight is crucial.

2. Eddie Bauer Men's CirrusLite Down Jacket

Rating: ★★★★☆

Price: $$

Weight: 9 oz (255g)

Features:

• 650-fill premium down insulation for lightweight warmth.
• Water-repellent finish to shed light rain and snow.
• Packs down small, making it easy to store in a backpack.
• Affordable price, offering great value for ultralight outdoor enthusiasts.

The Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Jacket is a budget-friendly option that offers solid warmth without weighing you down. Its 650-fill down provides a good balance of warmth and packability, making it a great choice for both everyday wear and outdoor adventures.

3. Columbia Men's Voodoo Falls 590 TurboDown Jacket

Rating: ★★★★☆

Price: $$

Weight: 13 oz (368g)

Features:

• 590 TurboDown insulation (a mix of 550-fill down and synthetic insulation) for warmth even in damp conditions.
• Water-resistant shell and Omni-Heat™ thermal reflective lining to retain body heat.
• Lightweight yet durable, ideal for hiking and casual use.
• Zippered hand pockets and elastic cuffs to lock in warmth.

The Columbia Voodoo Falls 590 TurboDown Jacket combines down with synthetic insulation, providing excellent warmth even in wet conditions. While it’s slightly heavier than other ultralight options, the added durability and weather resistance make it a great all-around jacket for unpredictable conditions.

4. Outdoor Research Men's Transcendent Down Hoody

Rating: ★★★★☆

Price: $$$

Weight: 13.7 oz (388g)

Features:

• 650-fill responsibly sourced down insulation for warmth and compressibility.
• Lightweight yet durable ripstop shell with a water-resistant finish.
• Adjustable hood and zippered pockets for extra functionality.
• Stows into its own pocket, making it easy to pack for backpacking trips.

The Outdoor Research Transcendent Down Hoody offers excellent warmth and features for backpackers and hikers. Its high-quality down insulation provides reliable warmth, while its ability to pack into its own pocket makes it a practical choice for ultralight adventurers.

5. Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket

Rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Weight: 14.5 oz (410g)

Features:

• 700-fill power ethically sourced hydrophobic down for added water resistance.
• Lightweight Pertex® Quantum fabric for durability and weather resistance.
• Adjustable hood and hem for a snug fit in cold conditions.
• Packs into its own stuff sack for easy storage.

The Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket is a high-performance option designed for cold and damp conditions. Its hydrophobic down helps it retain warmth even when wet, and the lightweight yet durable fabric makes it ideal for long-term outdoor use. It’s perfect for mountaineering, alpine adventures, and winter camping.

6. Hawke & Co Men's Packable Down Jacket

Rating: ★★★★☆

Price: $

Weight: 10 oz (283g)

Features:

• 80% down insulation for lightweight warmth.
• Packable design, easily folds into its own pocket.
• Water-resistant shell and zippered hand pockets.
• Affordable and versatile for both casual wear and outdoor activities.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Hawke & Co Packable Down Jacket provides excellent warmth and packability at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. It’s a great choice for those new to outdoor activities or who need a versatile jacket for various occasions.

7. The North Face ThermoBall Eco Jacket

Rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$

Weight: 12.3 oz (348g)

Features:

• ThermoBall™ synthetic insulation mimics the properties of down but retains warmth even when wet.
• Lightweight and packable into its own pocket, ideal for backpacking and hiking.
• Water-resistant fabric and elastic cuffs to keep the elements out.
• Made from 100% recycled materials, offering an eco-friendly option.

The North Face ThermoBall Eco Jacket is a great alternative to down, offering similar warmth and packability but with better performance in wet conditions. Its eco-friendly materials and versatility make it a popular choice for those who want both sustainability and performance in one jacket.

8. Marmot Men's Tullus Hoody Down Jacket

Rating: ★★★★☆

Price: $$$

Weight: 14 oz (397g)

Features:

• 600-fill down with Down Defender for water-resistant insulation.
• Lightweight and compressible for easy packing on cold-weather trips.
• Elastic-bound cuffs and an adjustable hem to seal in warmth.
• Zippered hand pockets and an attached hood for added protection from the cold.

The Marmot Tullus Hoody is designed to keep you warm and comfortable during cold-weather adventures. Its water-resistant down insulation helps keep you dry, while its lightweight design makes it easy to pack and carry. It’s ideal for winter hiking, backpacking, and general cold-weather use.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Ultralight Down Jacket

When selecting the best ultralight down jacket, consider these factors:

1. Fill Power: Fill power measures the quality and warmth of the down insulation. Higher fill power (700 and above) provides more warmth for less weight, making it ideal for ultralight jackets.

2. Weight: Ultralight down jackets are designed to be as light as possible. Jackets weighing under 15 ounces are ideal for backpacking and hiking.

3. Packability: Look for jackets that can be compressed into their own pocket or stuff sack for easy packing.

4. Weather Resistance: Water-resistant or hydrophobic down and treated fabrics can help keep you warm even in wet conditions. If you expect rain or snow, opt for a jacket with added weather protection.

5. Fit and Features: A snug fit with adjustable hems, cuffs, and hoods can help trap warmth. Additional features like zippered pockets and internal storage are useful for outdoor activities.

Whether you’re an ultralight backpacker, casual hiker, or simply need a reliable jacket for outdoor adventures, an ultralight down jacket is essential for staying warm without the bulk. From the budget-friendly Eddie Bauer CirrusLite to the high-performance Rab Microlight Alpine, these jackets offer the perfect blend of warmth, weight, and packability for any cold-weather adventure. Explore these top picks and find the best ultralight down jacket for your next outdoor experience!