Are down jackets waterproof?

Our range includes a number of fully waterproof down jackets that use Pertex® Shield to provide complete weather protection. Check out our men’s and women’s waterproof down jackets. However, not all down jackets are waterproof and it’s important you select the right jacket for your activity and the environment you’ll be using it in. Our guide to choosing a down jacket is here to help you pick the best down jacket for your adventure.

Why Don't You Make All Your Down Jackets Waterproof?

Down’s natural strength lies in its ability to keep you warm while staying incredibly lightweight. To make the most of this, we pair it with lightweight, compressible fabrics that maximize its packability.Adding a waterproof layer to a down jacket increases its weight and bulk, which defeats the purpose of choosing down in the first place.When you’re dealing with wet, cold conditions, it’s usually more efficient to layer a waterproof shell over your down jacket. This keeps your insulation dry while still allowing you to stay warm. Just make sure there’s enough room for the down to loft under the shell, as compressed down won’t trap heat as effectively.

What Are Hydrophobic Down and DWRs?

We treat all our down (900 fill power or below) with a hydrophobic coating that helps it keep its loft in damp conditions. While this doesn’t make your down jacket waterproof, it does allow the down to dry faster and stay warmer if it gets wet.We also apply a DWR (durable water repellent) treatment to the outer fabric, which helps it shed light rain, sleet, and snow.

Can I Make My Down Jacket Waterproof by Spraying It?

The short answer is no, you can’t.Waterproof jackets have a membrane (or PU coating) that makes them fully waterproof. In our jackets, we use eVent, Pertex®, and Proflex™ membranes. To be completely waterproof, the seams also need to be taped.Spraying your down jacket with a waterproofing agent will just add another layer of DWR (durable water repellent) coating to the fabric, but it won't make it fully waterproof.