There is absolutely nothing tha keeps you warm better than a good down jacket. Whether sitting waiting for your turn at the crag, playing snowballs with the kids or settling down in camp at high altitude: goose down is the one material that if your jacket is stuffed with properly you will stay snug and warm.
Evolution has done a wonderful job of creating the ultimate lightweight and packable material in the shape of tiny fluffy down feathers that despite our best efforts has yet to be beaten by and man-made substances. Some man-made fillings such as Prism and Loftech do have some other advantages particularly in damp conditions but they simply aren't as good for warmth-weight ratio as quality down feathers and a water resistant shell keeps down performing at full capacity even in damp conditions so its a 'no contest' in my book.
It's exactly these properties that ensure that no self-respecting mountaineer, guide or winter cragger would leave home without a down garment of some description.
This winter, Montane have redesigned their already very successful Anti-Freeze down jacket range and made them even lighter and more packable than ever. Clever stitching reduces bulk while still allowing full loft to be acheived and even look rather good too. Its mostly down to those clever Ukrainian Geese that regularly survive in some of the coldest conditions anywhere on Earth that these jackets blow the competition into the weeds for value for money and performance and Montane of course for sewing them into the jackets.
Outdoor Enthusiast magazine recently reviewed the mens and womens versions and gave glowing reports:
Montane Antifreeze Mens Down Jacket
Montane Antifreeze Womens Down Jacket
OE BEST BUY WINNER
"Lightweight, nicely fitted (but not tight) which appears to be the most complex construction on review. Flattering and slim fit jacket with nice feminine curves. Pockets on the chest and a bit of a drop tail and soft chamy around chin and cheeks. Its packs down nice and small in its own waterproof stuff sac."
OE Magazine - Performance 4/5 - Value 4.5/5
