FJÄLLRÄVEN MEN’S GREENLAND DOWN LINER JACKET, £250

Founded in 1960, Fjällräven is “committed to making nature more accessible”, focuses “on simplicity and practicality” and has “the utmost respect for the environment”. That all sounds good. This down jacket is designed for use as a mid-layer or outer layer, depending on how cold it is and how hot-blooded you are. There are lots of lightweight insulated jackets out there. This one has two good-sized, zip-up, hand-warming pockets, two flap and popper closing chest pockets, and an internal zip up pocket. The main zip is two-way, the cuffs are lightly elasticated, and there’s no hood. In cold weather, Fjällräven suggest wearing it under one of their Greenland jackets. I presume that’s Swedish cold weather. In my experience, it works well as an outer layer and a mid-layer. I wore it under my Hilltrek Assynt, with just a T-shirt underneath, during a birding trip to Burwell Fen (Cambridgeshire). There was a cold wind blowing, but I was comfortable enough. This jacket is warm, cosy and packs down fairly small. It’s warm without being heavily padded – of a total weight of just 530g, 140g is from birds – the insulation is 80% goose down and 20% feathers. This avian content comes with the Fjällräven Down Promise – the “down is 100% traceable and sustainable” and “there is absolutely no live plucking”. I should think not. The ethics don’t stop there. The outer is recycled polyester with Pfc-free impregnation and the flaps on the chest pockets are made from G1000 Eco – a mix of organic cotton and recycled polyester. I did spot a very small amount of down leakage but that’s not unusual, and doesn’t worry me. Take care with the zips though – to avoid them snagging in the fabric. This Fjällräven Jacket is not inexpensive, but does its job very well, and does it with a conscience. It is a pleasure to wear. I like it a lot.

Men’s available in Acorn, Black, Dusk and Night Sky, XS-XXL. 400 wash. Made in Vietnam. A women’s version is also available for £250 in Black, Dahlia, Dusk, and Night Sky, XXS-XL. More info: fjallraven.co.uk