Reviewing the great Eddie Bauer Downlight StormDown Hooded Jacket
Alec Sills-TrauschYou never know how much you’ll love a jacket until it’s freezing out, yet your body is as warm as an oven. That’s what this Eddie Bauer Downlight jacket provides.
In my recent trip to northern Arizona, we ended up getting consumed by an unexpected snowstorm with temperatures dropping into the low 20s. I didn’t expect to need my new Eddie Bauer Downlight StormDown, but it sure came in handy as we huddled in our tent, watching as the temperature quickly trended in the wrong direction.
Eddie Bauer Downlight
Initial Thoughts
I bought this as a substitute for my REI down jacket because that one didn’t have a hood and in cold conditions, having a hood is pretty much mandatory. Additionally, I won a $100 gift card from EB, so I figured this was as good a time as any to upgrade the jacket.
First off, with an 800 fill down, it keeps you oh-so-warm. And this is a great thing. EB’s website says their low activity rating is 40 degrees and their moderate activity rating is -20. So for me at least, and under some blankets, I was pretty toasty in the 20’s. I think they underestimated their rating system a bit.
While it has to be somewhat bulky to be that warm, I never found it to get in the way of everyday activities. With zippered hand pockets and a zippered chest pouch, you are at a near-zero likelihood of losing your phone, wallet, or valuables. There was a time when I forgot where I put my phone (chest pouch) because the thing is so damn puffy/comfy.
Things to Consider
At its regular price of $280, this is a sizeable investment. However, it’s always been on sale whenever I’ve looked at it, which is when I bought mine. Additionally, think about your travels. Do you plan to be in a climate where you need a down jacket – and a pretty warm one? If not, you probably don’t need it. You can get a lighter REI (650 down fill) for around $180.
If you are going to be in a climate where you need a warm down jacket, this one does the trick. Eddie Bauer is an excellent company with ethics and a Responsible Down Standard. (RDS is an independent standard to ensure humane treatment of the waterfowl providing down and feathers for apparel and home products. The welfare of the birds is respected at all times; live-plucking and force-feeding are strictly prohibited.)
I highly recommend this jacket and expect you to be pleased with it.
Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.