Even an expensive down jacket doesn’t keep you warm? Why heat 'escapes' — and how to fix it in the cold 0 18

Why the jacket stops retaining heat

The main task of a winter jacket is to maintain a layer of warm air between the body and the cold. When this layer is disrupted, even the warmest down jacket stops working.

The reasons can vary:

• compressed filling;
• exposed areas of the body;
• moisture;
• lack of additional layers.

Restore the volume of the filling

Over time, both natural down and synthetic materials clump together. "Cold zones" form between them, through which heat escapes.

What to do:

• wash the jacket on a delicate cycle;
• place 2–3 tennis balls in the drum;
• regularly shake the down jacket during drying.

This will help the filling become airy again and distribute evenly.

Seal all "heat leaks"

Sometimes the problem is not with the jacket itself, but with gaps through which the cold seeps inside.

Check:

• whether the collar fits tightly;
• whether the hood covers the neck well;
• whether there is cold air coming in from below;
• whether there are gaps at the cuffs.

Additionally, use the principle of layering and don’t forget about a hat, scarf (or buff), and warm gloves.

Add an extra insulating layer

In severe cold, a down jacket alone may not be enough. Manufacturers and sports brands offer special thermal insulation liners.

This can be:

• a thin insulated vest;
• a lightweight inner jacket.

Such a layer is worn under the main outerwear and significantly increases thermal insulation.

Protect the jacket from moisture

Even the warmest down jacket stops keeping you warm when it gets wet. Moisture destroys the air layer and "pulls" heat away.

To avoid this:

• treat the jacket with a water-repellent spray;
• try not to stay under wet snow or rain for long;
• dry the jacket immediately after it gets wet.

What’s the conclusion

If the jacket suddenly became "cold", don’t rush to replace it with a new one. Often, it is enough to restore the filling, block the cold, and protect the clothing from moisture — and it will start keeping you warm again even in severe frost.