The Finest Artificial Insulated Jackets of 2023

How We Tested Synthetic Jackets

The GearJunkie team has been huddling together in shiver bivies, tugging on tiny granite crimps, and slogging along skin tracks in synthetic jackets for just about forever. When we say we’ve exhaustively sampled the market’s selection — we mean it. No stone was left unturned in the creation of this roundup, and each jacket had to pass a series of demanding tests to merit any real estate in this guide.

Editor-at-Large Seiji Ishii curated our initial selection of 11 jackets for this guide in January 2020. A prolific climber, hiker, and all-around outdoorsman, Seiji has spent many a mile roughing it out in these synthetic puffies, and knows the importance of a solid jacket in the backcountry.

Author and Senior Editor Chris Carter took over this guide in August of 2022, and has been combing through his closet, and scouring the internet ever since to bring you the most current, deserving selection possible. As an ultralight thru-hiker and endurance backpacker, the functionality-to-weight ratio of each item he carries on his back is of utmost importance, and every element of the gear he packs is considered.

Chris has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails, (the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail) and continues to pursue long-distance hiking around the world.

He’s had the chance to test a range of different synthetic jackets on these trails and has found synthetic insulation to be the best choice for versatility, breathability, and weather protection on long journeys. He knows what makes a synthetic jacket worth its mettle for different adventures, and has been fastidiously choosy about what ends up in this guide.

We know the competition for the synthetic podium is fierce and constantly evolving, which is why we’ve slotted this guide into a regular update schedule. As soon as fresh technology or new designs hit the market — we’re scoping them out, testing them in the wild, and deciding whether they deserve attention. Rest assured, every jacket in this guide has been vetted by our stone-cold pros and has proven to be worthy.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Synthetic Insulated Jacket

Compared to down jackets, synthetic insulated jackets have both pros and cons. Importantly, synthetic insulation is able to retain its warmth when wet. This is a huge advantage over down and a key reason why synthetic insulation is often preferred in wet and cold environments.

Unfortunately, synthetic insulation cannot quite match the miraculous warmth-to-weight ratio of down. In other words, synthetic jackets need to be a little heavier to achieve the same level of warmth.

There are many different types of synthetic insulation on the market now, and various companies have their own proprietary types of insulation that they either fill their own jackets with or sell to other companies. A few of the most common types of insulation are PrimaLoft, Thinsulate, and PlumaFill.

PrimaLoft, one of the most widely used types of synthetic insulation, is made with 100% polyester microfiber that mimics the fluffiness of natural down, and comes in a few different categories. The most popular are PrimaLoft Gold, PrimaLoft Silver, and PrimaLoft Silver Eco (which is made of 70% recycled fibers).

PrimaLoft Gold is the most performative and sought-after insulation in their lineup, and is comparable to a 550-fill power down jacket. Each of the categories, to varying degrees, is highly breathable, water-resistant, and compressible.

Thinsulate insulation is considered to be one of the warmest thin apparel insulations on the market. Its incredibly thin fibers retain a surprising amount of warmth, and the nature of its tight construction makes it a prime material for ultralight insulating layers, or small clothing items such as gloves.

Though every type of synthetic material will lose at least some of its insulating properties when wet, Thinsulate boasts excellent moisture-wicking abilities, allowing it to dry quickly. Other types of fill, such as Polartec Alpha and FullRange insulation (used by Patagonia in the Nano-Air series of jackets), offer arguably the most breathable options out there.

Polartec Alpha, or Alpha Direct, was manufactured out of a military request to develop a synthetic and incredibly breathable alternative to down that could be used in high-intensity activities. The insulation eventually found its way into the outdoor industry and is used by many different brands today.

Intended Use

Take a few moments to envision how you’ll use your jacket. Do you need something for winter climbing or long-distance backpacking? Or will this be a jacket that does it all? There’s no right or wrong answer. But being clear about your intended use will help you prioritize certain factors such as breathability and durability.

In each of the product reviews above, we have highlighted a variety of different features that the jackets are known for, in addition to ways they could be improved. Take a look at both the pros and cons of the layers, and focus on what activity you will be using it for most.

If you are setting out on a 5-month thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail, you will need a jacket that keeps you protected and warm in a vast range of ecosystems and climates.

If you want a layer that keeps you cozy while belaying at the crag, or walking the dog downtown, you may not want the most feature-packed, versatile shell on the market.

Breathability

Each of the jackets above is either a regular synthetic jacket or an active insulation jacket, and the main difference between the two types is breathability. Generally, there’s a tradeoff between breathability and waterproofness. Fully waterproof jackets are less breathable than active-use softshell options.

If you’ll regularly wear your jacket as an outer layer, it’s worth investing in a bit more waterproofing. But if you’ll use it mainly for high-output activities, look for a jacket that maximizes breathability.

In general, synthetic insulation is more breathable than down, since it doesn’t trap the body’s heat as effectively as down does. The level of breathability of a jacket varies, though, and has to do with the type of insulation it uses, along with its shell material and design.

Jackets such as the Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hoody, or the Salewa Ortles Hybrid Tirolwool Jacket maximize breathability due to the nature and construction of the insulation used, but also the strategic placement of breathable material used in the shell.

Using your synthetic jacket as an element of your layering system, you can weather most conditions with even a more ventilated model. Pairing a breathable jacket with a burly rain jacket or hardshell when Thor’s hammer strikes gives you a power combo of thermal efficiency. If it’s just burly wind you’re worried about, throw a thin windbreaker jacket over your insulator for an ultralight, ultra-mobile barrier against the elements.

Durability

Durability is particularly important if you plan to wear your jacket as an outer layer in rough and rugged environments. Most jackets on this list stand up great to the rigors of bushwacking or climbing on rough rock. But some need a bit more care than others.

The durability of synthetic insulation versus down insulation is somewhat of a debated topic, as there are a number of factors to consider. Synthetic insulation doesn’t have to be babied as much as down insulation, but also loses its form and breaks down faster over time, especially if you are compressing the jacket a lot. Down tends to leak from the jacket more, however, and therefore slowly loses its warmth.

Not all synthetic insulation is created equal, though, and the different types of insulation will vary in how long they hold up to harsh conditions. When thinking about the durability of a jacket, the type and quality of the insulation (such as PrimaLoft Gold versus PrimaLoft Silver) and the construction of the outer shell (such as what denier and material is used) need to be taken into consideration.

Additionally, it’s important to remember that often the more durable a jacket is, the heavier it is. So, if an ultralight setup is your main concern, you may need to go with a more fragile layer.

A shell like the Patagonia DAS Parka offers increased durability, but may weigh your pack down too much for quick missions in the mountains. If you want to thrash about without concern, something like the thinner Patagonia Micro Puff Hoodie may not be the best choice, but could lend itself as the optimum layer if light and fast is your main goal.

Water Resistance

Where synthetic insulation really trumps down is in its ability to insulate when wet. Down absorbs water, and clumps up, thereby losing its loft, as opposed to synthetic insulation which retains its loft. Water sits between the fibers, allowing the insulation to keep its shape, maintain warmth, and dry faster than down.

While all synthetics will generally repel moisture better than down, the degree to which a jacket will insulate you in damp conditions varies from brand to brand. Most manufacturers are adding a DWR (Durable Water Repellant) treatment to the outer shell of their insulated jackets, which beads up water in light precipitation, allowing it to roll off and not soak into the insulation. This only works to a certain degree, however, and in constant rain, you’ll want to add a rain jacket to your layering system.

Pack Size

Sure, you plan to wear the jacket, not just pack it around. But for those times you need to ditch a layer or bring it just in case, the pack size and weight matter. Synthetic insulation doesn’t tend to pack as small as down (although synthetic fill technology is rapidly improving).

While the Patagonia Micro Puff may not be the most durable jacket, it wins big on the packable scale. The Rab Xenair Alpine Light is another easy-to-pack choice.

Key Features: Pockets, Hoods, and More

Depending on your intended use and general needs, you’ll want to choose a jacket with the right array of features.

Pockets, hoods, adjustable hems, and elastic cuffs are all examples of common synthetic jacket features. Each of these has a unique purpose and value.

Pockets come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. From zippered hand-warmer pockets to low-profile chest pockets, the recommended jackets on this list offer a wide range of configurations.

Many synthetic jackets are available in either a hoodie or non-hoodie style. The best choice for you depends on your use. Hooded jackets are great in frigid or stormy conditions and for people who tend to feel cold in the ears, head, and face. Unhooded options are generally best for everyday use around town or in-bounds resort skiing.

Price and Value

At the end of the day, you want to get a good deal. More than just the lowest price tag, a jacket’s value stems from its usefulness and bang for the buck.

Carefully consider how you’ll use your jacket and then look for features that fit your needs. Helmet-compatible hoods, pockets, and materials become important considerations.

Also, if you plan to wear your jacket regularly, it’s worth investing more. Spending a few extra bucks now will afford you many seasons of warmth and comfort outdoors.

On the lower end of the spectrum, budget picks like Cotopaxi Teca Cálido hover in the $150-$200 range. These jackets will get you around town, and perform about average on light adventures, but won’t have the same level of mobility, breathability, and performance as pricier models in the $250-$300 range — such as Black Diamond’s First Light Stretch Hoody, or Arc’teryx’s Atom Hoody. These will last for years of abuse and will help regulate temperature while keeping pack weight down on truly technical backcountry missions.

Consider the full range of conditions you plan to encounter on your trip, and choose a jacket that will hold up to whatever you plan on putting it through.

FAQ

Synthetic jackets are used in all sorts of situations where comfortable and reliable warmth is needed. From the ski hill to the jogging path, synthetic jackets are a modern and effective tool in the fight to stay warm.

Compared to down jackets, synthetic jackets tend to be slightly heavier and less vulnerable to moisture-related warmth loss. Elite mountaineers use synthetic jackets, as do city dwellers on their way to buy groceries.

On this list, we’ve divided our recommended jackets into two unique categories. For maximum warmth, check out our synthetic insulated jacket category. If you’re looking for a jacket that can regulate your temperature and breathe during active use, check out our active insulation category.

Compared to down, synthetic insulation is slightly heavier, slightly cheaper, and less likely to lose its effectiveness in a rainstorm. Unlike down, synthetic insulation is able to retain its warmth when wet.

When dry, however, synthetic insulation cannot quite match the miraculous warmth-to-weight ratio of down. In other words, synthetic jackets need to be a little heavier to achieve the same level of warmth.

Many skiers wear synthetic insulated jackets as a midlayer beneath their waterproof outer shells. On cold days at the resort, a warm and puffy jacket can be the difference between comfort and misery.

For backcountry skiing, breathable layers are the way to go. During uphill hikes along the skin track, you’ll want layers that can let some of your body heat escape in order to stay cool and prevent sweating.