Looking for down-free jackets? You’re not alone. Birds used for their feathers are inevitably sent to the slaughterhouse, where it’s standard practice to hang them upside down, stun them, and slit their throats—often while they’re still conscious. Thankfully, many companies are using high-tech vegan materials that are better for birds and the environment. For instance, after hearing from PETA, women-powered outdoor and lifestyle brand Krimson Klover confirmed that it will replace all down in its products with recycled polyester fill starting in 2024. This is one of many businesses working to protect birds from having their feathers stolen so that they can be stuffed into coats.
Here are our top down-free jackets to keep you cozy and feather-free:
Krimson Klover Switchback Jacket
If you can’t choose between wearing a jacket or a sweater, this one’s for you. The stylish patterned sleeves on this Switchback Jacket keep your arms warm while the quilted body keeps you toasty with its down-free, recycled polyester insulation. It’s also water-repellant, making it great for rainy days and winter sports.
Neo Active Double Up Hooded Puffer
This humane coat with sustainable filler provides warmth without adding bulk. It’s also easy to pack!
Women’s GIGI Heavyweight Parka by NOIZE
PETA Business Friend NOIZE is best known for its overcoats. Its products are high-quality, warm, fashionable, and—best of all—completely vegan. This quilted coat features a “sweetheart-shaped” hood with luxurious faux-fur trim and is filled with 100 percent cozy polyester insulation.
Save the Duck Women’s Colette Long Puffer Coat
You know it’s gotta be good if superstar Halle Berry is wearing it! This long quilted coat features a soft finish that will help you stand out from the crowd. It’s stuffed with Save the Duck’s Plumtech padding, which is 100% animal-free.
Women’s Palais Parka by Wuxly Movement
Wuxly Movement boasts that, thanks to its use of vegan fabrics, it has saved over 19,000 animals from being killed for their skin. The animal-free outerwear company even offers a “trade-up” program in which potential shoppers can trade in fur-trimmed or down-filled jackets for a credit toward a Wuxly parka. Thankfully, its animal-free jackets will keep you both warm and stylish. Rated for temperatures as low as -22 degrees, this parka has climate-control back straps built in for sudden temperature changes.
GIADA Puffer Jacket by Matt & Nat
Popular vegan brand Matt & Nat—known for handbags, footwear, and accessories—is now creating stylish vegan outerwear that will keep you warm all winter long.
Men’s Alter Hooded Parka by Save the Duck
This jacket, made from a high-performance technical fabric, is designed to insulate and absorb humidity while still providing wind protection and allowing freedom of movement. Find more options for both men and women at Save the Duck’s online store.
Men’s ThermoBall Jacket by The North Face
The North Face’s patented ThermoBall insulation consists of clusters of synthetic balls, which achieve exceptional warmth in cold and wet weather. The jacket is great for travel, because it compresses and packs easily.
Women’s PreCip Eco Jacket by Marmot
Marmot’s NanoPro is a recycled nylon fabric that’s waterproof, breathable, and sweat-wicking, making it a great outer layer for all your outdoor winter activities.
Women’s Girl On The Go® Insulated Trench Coat by Eddie Bauer
This coat’s breathable WeatherEdge shell will protect you from wind and moisture, while a detachable liner of ThermaFill insulation will keep you warm. It’s available in an array of fancifully named colors: Atlantic, cinder, classic black, eggplant, and putty.
Down-free jackets are just the tip of the iceberg. Discover more vegan clothes!
Need more ideas? Learn more about the innovative materials taking the place of wool and down today. Also, see our How to Wear Vegan guide for more on the ins and outs of compassionate shopping. Ever more savvy, conscientious consumers are actively choosing to support forward-thinking brands championing the sustainable vegan fashion revolution. Join us!
