WINTER KIT

When it’s damp outdoors, the new synthetic insulation performs better than down... (Women’s versions of all three jackets are available)

Greet cold weather with warm gear.

NANO PUFF JACKET Patagonia, £160 0800 026 0055, www.eu.patagonia.com

Made using PrimaLoft Gold Eco insulation, which comprises 55% recycled materials. Soft and lightweight (337g), it has a snug fit and distinctly unbulky profile – but is surprisingly warm. Even when wet, it scarcely loses any insulating power, though it’s not very snug around the neck so on chilly days you’ll need a scarf, or think about going for the hoody version for an extra £15. The jacket is very breathable, so it’s less likely to feel clammy or muggy – which means that you can wear it in relatively mild weather as well as on chillier days. When is gets really cold, it performs well as a midlayer, with a thermal baselayer.

VERDICT Light, stylish, low-bulk; makes an excellent mid-layer. 4/5

TORRES ALTURO JACKET, Páramo, £170 01892 786444, www.paramo-clothing.com

The bulkiest of the jackets tested, but also the warmest, being designed for long spells in cold and wet conditions. Unusually, it’s meant to be worn over a waterproof jacket (such as Páramo’s snug-fitting Velez); hence the generous cut. It’s windproof and will repel some water, but even when wet, will retain all its insulating power. The fabric and fill are soft, and the jacket envelops you in warmth, with no obvious cold spots. An adjustable, wired hood keeps the wind and snow out of your eyes. The bulk makes it less versatile than the other jackets tested – on a really cold day, though, this is the one you’d reach for.

VERDICT Best for winter hill walking, or long spells in chilly conditions. 4/5

XENON X JACKET Rab, £160 0800 0116107, http://rab.equipment/uk/

Soft and light (343g), the Xenon X has a slim fit – yet envelopes you in warmth. There are no cold spots and the closefitting hood is cosy. Elasticated wrists and an adjustable hem cord keep out draughts. The insulation is efficient and breathable, allowing moisture through it, so you don’t feel clammy. This makes it the most adaptable insulated jacket I’ve ever tried – comfortable across a range of temperatures from the merely cool to the especially chilly. On freezing days, combine with a thermal base layer and a rain-jacket. It makes a compact bundle when stuffed into its own breast pocket.

VERDICT Light, soft and highly versatile – wear with comfort in a wide range of weather conditions and activities. 5/5