Down is natural insulation (from duck or goose feathers), it holds heat better than most other organic materials, it’s lightweight, and it’s breathable. But even though down is warmer than wool, that doesn’t mean you should skip a wool coat and go right for down. Wool has one big advantage over down — it can get wet.

Our women’s faux fur, hooded, down winter coat registers at the warmest on our temperature rating. Plus, the impressive 600 fill power down is guaranteed to keep you warm without adding any extra weight, so you’ll never feel weighed down as you go about your busy day.

While it was a close race, Lands’ End’s Shimmer Down Parka was rated the best overall quality jacket by 12 of the 20 reviewers. After reviewing the ten-question survey, Lands’ End scored strong in wind resistance, insulation, wrist cuffs and overall warmth.

Lands’ End customers can be assured that we are fully committed to having a responsible, trustworthy and ethical supply chain that includes the use of 100% Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified down, the highest quality responsibly sourced down available.

It should line up directly with the boniest portion for greatest comfort. It’s less concerning if the sleeves are slightly longer, as these can be hemmed.

Down is remarkably tough stuff and though wet down has virtually zero insulation properties, getting it wet doesn’t hurt it in the least. Washing a down jacket is not much harder than washing a pair of jeans. If you’re looking to ruin your jacket or sleeping bag, washing it incorrectly is an easy way to do it.

Lands’ End does not use, purchase or source live plucked down, which is a barbaric practice that is completely out of line with our values. …