Quality alternatives to down, especially within the market for high performance clothing for cold weather activities such as skiing, have greatly increased in recent years. Most ski and outdoor active jackets use PrimaLoft, probably the best known proprietary synthetic insulating material. PrimaLoft insulation is divided into three categories, black, silver and gold, with the Gold Series being the highest performing. One way to shop for down alternatives is to simply look for the PrimaLoft tag, ideally Gold, but here are some notable specific suggestions and other alternatives to down. Extras include an interior zippered chest pocket, an interior mesh pouch pocket, and zippered hand warmer pockets.

Source: Forbes January 18, 2017 01:00 UTC