Can You Hike In A Puffer Jacket?

Is it possible to hike in a puffer jacket? For people unfamiliar with a puffer jacket, it’s a type of jacket made up of synthetic materials and is filled with down or some other kind of insulation. They are those big bubbly-looking jackets you typically see people wear for everyday use, like going to the store on a cold day. They are designed to keep you warm and can be used in both cold and harsh weather conditions.

So, the quick answer to the question is yes, you can hike in a puffer jacket, but you need to consider some things before hitting the trails. 

Is a Puffer Jacket Good for Hiking?

The main thing you need to consider when deciding if a puffer jacket is good for hiking is the insulation inside the jacket. Down is going to be the lightest and most compressible type of insulation, so it’s a great option for hikers who are trying to save on space and weight.

However, down does have a few drawbacks. It’s not as effective in wet conditions and can lose its insulating properties when it gets wet. For this reason, many hikers prefer to use synthetic insulation like Primaloft or Thermoloft. These materials are not as compressible as down, but they will still insulate your body even when they’re wet.

Another thing to consider is the shell material of the puffer jacket. Most are made from some type of nylon or polyester, which are both durable and lightweight. However, you’ll want to make sure that the shell is water-resistant or waterproof. This will help to keep you dry if you get caught in a rainstorm or if you have to cross a river.

Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the puffer jacket you choose is comfortable and has all the features you need. This includes things like pockets, a hood, and adjustable cuffs and hem. These features will help keep you warm and dry on your hike, so make sure to pick a jacket with them.

Puffer jackets are a great option for hikers who are looking for a warm, lightweight, and compressible jacket. Just make sure to choose one with a waterproof shell and synthetic insulation for the best results.

When Should You Use a Puffer Jacket for Hiking

So why and when would you want to use a puffer jacket for hiking? There are actually a few different reasons.

First, puffer jackets are great for layering. They can be worn over a base layer and under an outer shell jacket. This will provide you with extra warmth in cold weather conditions.

Second, puffer jackets are also great for use in emergency situations. If you get lost or injured on a hike, a puffer jacket can provide you with extra warmth and protection from the elements.

Finally, puffer jackets are simply a good option for hikers who want a warm, lightweight, and compressible jacket. If these are features you’re looking for, then a puffer jacket is a good choice for you.

Reasons Not to Wear Puffer Jacket While Hiking

So now, let’s take a look at a few reasons why you might not want to wear a puffer jacket while hiking.

First, as we mentioned before, puffer jackets are not as effective in wet conditions. If you’re planning on hiking in rainy or snowy weather, you might be better off with a different type of jacket – specifically a water-resistant rain jacket.

Second, puffer jackets can be bulky and difficult to pack. A puffer jacket might not be the best option if you’re trying to save space in your backpack. This is probably my biggest peeve about bringing puffer jackets on the trail. They are just so dang bulky!

Finally, puffer jackets can be expensive. If you’re on a budget, you might want to consider another type of jacket that doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of a puffer jacket. A puffer jacket from a reputable brand like Patagonia can go for as much as $250.

So, there you have it – a few reasons why you might not want to wear a puffer jacket while hiking. If you’re planning on hiking in wet conditions or if you’re trying to save space in your backpack, you might want to consider another type of jacket.

Puffer Jacket Vs. Down Jacket: What’s The Difference?

So as I mentioned, some puffer jackets do contain down feathers. And down jackets, of course, are also filled with down feathers. So what’s the difference between the two?

The main difference between puffer jackets and down jackets is the fill power. Fill power is a measure of how much space one ounce of down will occupy in a jacket. The higher the fill power, the warmer the jacket will be.

Down jackets typically have a fill power of 550 or more, while puffer jackets usually have a fill power of 500 or less. So if you’re looking for a warmer jacket, a down jacket is going to be your best bet.

Another difference between puffer jackets and down jackets is the weight. Down jackets are typically much lighter than puffer jackets. This is because down is a very lightweight and compressible material (although, as I said, some puffer jackets will use down.)

Conclusion

Personally, I would only wear my puffer jacket during shorter hikes where I know I won’t need much and I’ll be back home in just a few hours.

Otherwise, I’ll be sticking to a traditional down jacket or a rain jacket – something that will be more effective in wet conditions and won’t take up quite much space in my backpack.

But, at the end of the day, it’s really up to you. If you think a puffer jacket will work well for your needs, then go ahead and give one a try. It’s still comfortable and can be very effective in the right conditions.