Howdy folks. Whatever you think about the Game of Thrones finale, the Starks were definitely right about one thing – winter is coming. So this week I thought I’d warm up with a short and sweet review of this Ali Express Down Jacket.
I picked up this jacket a few months ago for a bargain price. Now that the nights are drawing in, it’s been working overtime! Let’s take a peek at the specs.
Overview / Specs
Size
A quick word on sizing to start. A lot of companies that sell on Ali Express tend to go with a different sizing model that is aimed more at non-western markets. So you may find that your normal size is too small for something like this.
For example, I usually go for a large when it comes to jackets, but I went for XXL in this case and the jacket just about fits me perfectly. If you’re in any doubt, you can always message the seller with your particulars and they’re usually happy to work out the correct size for you.
One thing I love about this jacket (besides the price!) is the fact it comes with a compression stuff sack. This makes the jacket packable down to 25 x 20 x 10 cm (9.84″ x 7.87″ x 3.93″). Having the jacket in such a small stuff sack makes it easy to sling in your pack for those “just in case” days out on the trail.
Weight
Our jacket (an XXL) weighed in at approximately 430 grams / 15.2 ounces,
Materials
This jacket is made of 90% White Duck Down, with a Nylon/Polyester lining. The lack of any waterproofing on the exterior means you’d definitely want to keep this jacket out of the rain. If it gets wet, it’s going to lose its insulating power – so it’s best to see this as a warmth layer.
I usually take a waterproof shell with me on the trail that I can put over the top of a down jacket like this, to make sure I’m covered for both warmth and
As for the down, the Ali Express listing doesn’t really specify the fill power, which makes it difficult to gauge the insulating properties. It’s safe to say you probably won’t want to take this jacket up Mount Siula Grande. But for general Autumn and Winter walking I’ve found it perfectly warm and
Ali Express Down Jacket Review: Worth The Plunge?
I’ve had the opportunity to try out this Ali Express down jacket quite a bit over the last few months. Honestly, I can’t really fault it so far – especially for the price.
Firstly, it’s surprisingly well made. I couldn’t find a stitching fault anywhere on mine. It also has a good amount of loft in it, all of which feels very evenly distributed once you let it unfurl for the first time. When you put the coat on, you instantly notice a huge difference in warmth! I’ve yet to feel a chill any time that I’ve been wearing mine.
The lowest temperature I’ve had this jacket out in so far is about 5c (41f). So time will tell how it holds up in any below-freezing conditions. I wouldn’t expect it to perform at the same level as a down jacket ten times the price. Then again, that’s not really what you’re paying for with Ali Express. If you’re a 3-season camper, this jacket can be a very capable part of any gear list.
And even if you use the jacket as part of a layering system for deep winter hikes, there’s a good opportunity here to save yourself a small fortune on a toasty down jacket.
Well, that’s all for now folks! Hope you enjoyed this Ali Express Down Jacket Review. Have you had any experience using this jacket? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog for more tips, tricks, and gear reviews from the trail. Until next time.
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*Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used in this review.