BEAT THE COLD

Winter is a great time to get outside – the tracks aren’t as crowded, there’s fresh powder on the mountains, and there’s much less humidity in the air. But, if you’re not properly dressed, the cold can quickly put an end to your adventures. This is where Macpac Down Jackets come into play – when it’s done right, it’s the most effective way of keeping warm and comfortable so you can enjoy your favourite activities in the outdoors – no matter the season.

Down is nature’s most efficient insulator – it is unmatched in terms of its warmth-to-weight ratio by any synthetic insulation. Exceptionally lightweight and packable, it easily stows away into your pack until you need it, taking up very little room. Down layers are best for cool and dry conditions, as down loses its ability to insulate when it gets wet

When to wear it: The key with traditional down as a mid-layer is keeping it lightweight, and only using it in cold, dry conditions where it’s not likely to come into contract with any moisture. When you’re hiking in crisp conditions, a lightweight down jacket such as the Uber (mens and womens) would be excellent. It easily fits under additional layers and provide just as much warmth as a sweatshirt, without the bulk. 

Many people use an insulated jacket as their main outerwear – particularly for lower intensity activities, or when they won’t be moving much at all. These layers are primarily for providing warmth, but they will protect from very light rain – and often wind as well, as down proof fabric is, by its nature, windproof.

When to wear it:  If you’re out for a very light neighbourhood walk, or simply watching a sports game on a chilly winter morning, a down or insulated jacket is fine to use as an outer layer. Down jackets are not suitable for high intensity activity as they lose their ability to insulate when they become wet.

Check out the complete Macpac Down Range on www.macpac-europe.com