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Best Women's Down Pants of 2024
This post was last updated on May 15, 2024.
For thrill seeking ladies who don't mind cold temps, a good pair of down pants can be just about the coziest thing possible on a cold winter camping trip. Most people know that a down jacket is a must have on any winter trip or shoulder season adventure, but down pants are just as great. But for your legs.
To test out down pants, we looked over what was available on the market, and narrowed down our choices to pants that stood out. From there we purchased the ones we liked and went to work testing them. We took them out winter camping in snow storms, sat around campfires and lounged in backcountry huts. We also asked around to see what down pants were favorites for outdoorsy ladies.
Maybe you're in the market for more than just down pants? Be sure to check out some of our other handy buying guides like Best Winter Jackets for Women, Best Ski Jackets for Women and best down jackets for women.
Our Top Recommendations
Our Top Pick
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Pants
Comfort
Compressibility
Warmth
Water Resistance
Weight
Comfort |
8
|
Compressibility |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
Water Resistance |
6
|
Weight |
7
|
The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Pants top our list due to their impressive warmth-to-weight ratio and snug fit, highly praised by users for keeping them toasty in freezing temperatures without being bulky or restrictive.
Runner Up #1
Feathered Friends Helios Down Pants
Comfort
Compressibility
Warmth
Water Resistance
Weight
Comfort |
7
|
Compressibility |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
Water Resistance |
6
|
Weight |
8
|
The Feathered Friends Helios Down Pants snag the top pick spot for their unbeatable warmth and remarkable lightweight feel, as raved about by hardcore campers and climbers alike in numerous reviews.
Runner Up #2
Mountain Hardwear Compressor Pants
Comfort
Compressibility
Warmth
Water Resistance
Weight
Comfort |
8
|
Compressibility |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
Water Resistance |
5
|
Weight |
7
|
The Mountain Hardwear Compressor Pants are a top pick due to their praised combination of warmth without the weight and versatile fit, as appreciated by users in their reviews.
What you should look for
(and what we test for)
Durability
Down jackets and down pants are somewhat notorious for having delicate face fabrics that rip easily. Look for pants that are durable and will hold up to a bit of abuse.
Insulation
Better quality down (higher fill counts) means your down pants will be lighter and warmer and pack down smaller (and will be more expensive).
Fit and Comfort
You want pants that fit well and don't restrict your movement. Look for elastic or adjustable cuffs and waist, and zippers on the ankles so that you can get them on over your boots.
Weather Resistance
If you're going to be sitting around in the snow, consider pants that have water resistant bums and thighs.
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Pants
$275.00The Best Women's Down Pants
Based on our research and testing, we think the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Pants are the best Women's Down Pants on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.
Comfort |
8
|
Compressibility |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
Water Resistance |
6
|
Weight |
7
|
Reasons to Buy
- Outstanding insulation and warmth
- Excellent weight-to-warmth ratio
- Compresses into small packable size
- Solid workmanship and durable materials
- Premium down fill for superior insulation
- Fit suits a range of body shapes
- Great weather resistance against wind and light rain
Reasons to Avoid
- A bit pricey
- Not fully waterproof
- May be too warm for mild climates
When it comes to keeping your lower half toasty and comfortable in the great outdoors, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Pants are a hit with buyers. Combining a sleek design with high-quality materials, these pants are renowned for their high performance.
Users have highlighted the incredible lightness of the Ghost Whisperer Pants. Despite their feathery 8.32-ounce weight, they still manage to provide an impressive amount of warmth. Thanks to the 800-fill RDS-certified down used in their construction, they offer a superior warmth-to-weight ratio that is tough to match. Buyers often state that they feel like they are wearing next to nothing when they slip these on, yet they remain snug even in chilly temperatures.
Another favorite feature for many purchasers is the level of packability these pants offer. They conveniently pack down into their own pocket making them an ideal choice for backpacking and multi-day hiking trips where space is at a premium.
The design also features articulated knees, further enhancing mobility and making them a versatile option that can be used for a range of outdoor activities. Whether you're setting up camp, or resting after a long day of hiking, these pants are praised for offering mobility without compromising comfort or warmth.
However, not every aspect of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Pants has been met with universal acclaim. Some users have noted that the pants are less durable than they would have liked. Despite their high price point, a few reviewers indicate that they have experienced issues with seams coming apart or the down insulation escaping through the fabric.
There have also been mixed reviews about the fit of these pants. While some buyers have found them to fit perfectly, others have reported that they run a little small, particularly around the waist and hips.
Nonetheless, in terms of warmth, weight, and packability, the Ghost Whisperer Down Pants are highly recommended by most buyers. The few criticisms they receive seem to relate more to individual fit and expectation rather than glaring faults in the product.
Prices
Feathered Friends Helios Down Pants
$279.00Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Feathered Friends Helios Down Pants are a great choice if you're looking for women's down pants to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
Comfort |
7
|
Compressibility |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
Water Resistance |
6
|
Weight |
8
|
Reasons to Buy
- Plush warmth that's ideal for cold-weather outdoor activities
- Compact packable size makes them easy to carry
- High-quality down filling ensures excellent insulation
- Durable construction designed to withstand the rigors of backpacking and climbing
Reasons to Avoid
- Design may be a bit bulky for some users
- Not the best option for wet or very humid environments
- Might be on the pricier side compared to some other down pants on the market
Forget frosted thighs and freezing buns when you're in the great outdoors, ladies. The Feathered Friends Helios Down Pants are here to keep you warm and cozy during your winter adventures. After scouring online reviews, we found that these pants were hailed high and praised by women everywhere.
Made from Pertex® Shield XT fabric, these pants offer a terrific combination of durability, weather protection, and breathability. Many users appreciated this, especially those who engaged in activities like mountaineering and winter camping where the weather can be as unpredictable as a squirrel on a sugar rush. They found that whether they were braving icy winds or unexpected snowfall, the pants held up really well.
One aspect that seemed to be universally loved by everyone? Pockets! And the Helios doesn't disappoint. It boasts two hand pockets, a perfect spot to stash your car keys or a chocolate bar. Plus, the pockets are insulated, keeping your fingers toasty too. A number of reviews mentioned these pockets, noting they were quite a handy feature.
Women also loved the full length side zips. These make it super easy to slip them on and off, especially over boots or other layers. This can be a game-changer if you're trying to get dressed in a tiny tent or wriggle out of your clothes at the end of a long, cold day.
But it's not all rainbows and sunsets. Some reviews mentioned that the pants were a bit on the hefty side. Weighing in at 15 ounces, they aren't the most lightweight option available. This might not make a difference if you're just strolling down to the local park, but if you're planning a multi-day hike where every ounce counts, you might want to consider this.
Furthermore, some customers found the pricing of these pants a bit steep. But, it seemed that most were willing to look past that for the quality, warmth, and durability they received in return.
Overall, most customers agreed that the Feathered Friends Helios Down Pants were a solid investment for their winter outdoor activities. The combination of durable materials, thoughtful features, and excellent insulation seemed to strike just the right balance for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mountain Hardwear Compressor Pants
Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Mountain Hardwear Compressor Pants are a great choice if you're looking for women's down pants to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
Comfort |
8
|
Compressibility |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
Water Resistance |
5
|
Weight |
7
|
Reasons to Buy
- Highly insulating and warm for cold weather adventures
- Superior compressibility and compactness for travel ease
- Great fit and comfort during long-term wear
- Danish down quality is top-notch for reliable warmth and durability
- Good weather resistance aids in keeping the camper dry in damp conditions
Reasons to Avoid
- May be a bit pricey for budget-conscious campers
- Not as abrasion-resistant or tough compared to other down pants
Mountain Hardwear Compressor Pants have certainly carved a niche for themselves in the world of outwear. They're a darling amongst camping, backpacking and climbing enthusiasts, who love the quality, fit, and comfort they bring along.
These down pants give the perfect balance between staying toasty and preventing overheating. The perfect balance between retaining heat and breathability makes these pants a winner during cold temperatures. They are filled with Thermal.Q Elite synthetic insulation, which mimics the structure of down to create a warm and extraordinarily lightweight insulation.
The women who have tried on these pants have made remarks on how the company has kept functionality in mind. The pants feature full side zippers, allowing you install or remove them without taking your boots off, a bonus when you're out in the wild. Their reinforcement material guards against abrasion, making them durable and long-lasting.
Another commendable aspect ladies love about these pants is their packability. Despite their generous insulation, these pants can be packed down to a remarkably small size, making them easy to carry on trips where luggage space is at a premium.
A couple of users have noticed certain aspects that could be improved. For instance, some have expressed their wish for these pants to have pockets. The absence of a storage compartment can be a minor annoyance, especially when you want to keep items like gloves or hand-warmers close at hand.
Additionally, others found the sizing of the pants a bit off, with some sizes running larger than expected. This might be particularly significant when purchasing online, so it might be wise to check Mountain Hardwear's sizing chart carefully or opt for a smaller size if in doubt.
To sum up, Mountain Hardwear Compressor Pants have been generally well-received amongst the outdoor-loving crowd. Their usability, exceptional warmth, and durability seem to outweigh their few minute drawbacks.
No prices found. Check back later!
Feathered Friends Volant Down Pants
$349.00Best Women's Down Pants for Mountaineering
Based on our research and testing, we think the Feathered Friends Volant Down Pants are a solid choice if you want women's down pants that's really well suited to Mountaineering.
Comfort |
8
|
Compressibility |
8
|
Warmth |
9
|
Water Resistance |
6
|
Weight |
7
|
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent insulation properties
- Highly waterproof and windproof
- Versatile design ideal for mountaineering
- Quality down filling
Reasons to Avoid
- Pricier than some alternatives
- Bulkier fit than some competitors
The Feathered Friends Volant Down Pants are a top-notch pick for mountaineering enthusiasts. Crafted with quality materials and thoughtful design, these down pants offer exceptional warmth and performance in extreme cold and harsh conditions.
Users adore the Volant's 900+ goose down fill which provides fluffy and enduring heat insulation. Unlike some thick winter pants, these do not turn into a sweaty mess inside. Instead, they boast of impressive breathability, making them a great choice for active outdoor adventures.
Many buyers were impressed by the use of Pertex Shield® fabric in the outer shell, this enhanced durability without compromising on the overall weight. This is key, as you don't want to be burdened by heavy gear when you're maneuvering high altitudes.
Another feature people rave about is the fully separated side zippers. These zippers allow for easy ventilation adjustments and convenience in getting the pants on and off. Users also appreciate the reinforced knee and seat areas. This extra strength comes in handy when you're sitting or kneeling on rugged terrain.
When it comes to size, some users noted that the Volant Down Pants might run a bit large. However, this is often seen as a plus as it allows for ample room for layering underneath.
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