Chris Townsend reviews a more affordable down jacket with ethically sourced down.
This review is part of our down jackets gear guide, and was first published in the January 2019 issue of The Great Outdoors.
With wide baffles, a straight-sided cut and a two-tone colour scheme, the Transcendent looks rather old-fashioned. This is what all down jackets looked like a few decades ago. Outdoor Research says the wider baffles allow the down to loft better. Sizing resembles previous down jackets too. The Medium fits me comfortably worn over a light fleece jacket, making it a bit roomier than some of the Large jackets reviewed.
The down doesn’t have as high a fill power as in more expensive jackets, but this is still warm for the weight and suitable for all but the coldest weather. The shell is described as water-resistant. The hood is excellent, being one of the few that’s adjustable at both front and rear. The pockets are roomy, but as with most they’re cut off by a hipbelt. They are lined with a soft brushed fabric that feels soft and warm against the hands. The same fabric lines the front of the collar. The chest pocket takes a smartphone but not a map and has a small stretch mesh inner compartment.
The Transcendent Down Hoody performs well and is one of the best jackets in terms of value for money.
