Maybe a dumb question...

[LastHonestFool]

but, a DOWN jacket/sweater, such as this one:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...%3Den%26sa%3DN

what happens when it gets wet?

as opposed a synthetic one, like this:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...%3Den%26sa%3DN

[rafe]

Easy. Don't wear down in the rain. Seriously.

[LastHonestFool]

that's what I was getting at

I just wanted to be sure I wasnt missing something blatantly obvious

micropuff it is then

[Skidsteer]

that's what I was getting at

I just wanted to be sure I wasnt missing something blatantly obvious

micropuff it is then

You probably wouldn't be wearing a down or synthetic jacket while hiking anyway, which is part of Terrapin's point.

[shelterbuilder]

but, a DOWN jacket/sweater, such as this one:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...%3Den%26sa%3DN

what happens when it gets wet?

as opposed a synthetic one, like this:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...%3Den%26sa%3DN

Generally speaking, when down gets wet, it gets VERY heavy, and you run the risk of the extra weight ripping out whatever internal baffles hold the down in place. Down is difficult to dry properly in the field, and loses much of its insulating properties when wet. With synthetics, there are usually not serious problems with field-drying - squeeze out the excess water (really, really well), and if necessary, put it back on under a Goretex (or similar waterproof/breatheable) rain jacket, and your own body heat will dry it out in a few hours. Even when wet, synthetics retain some insulating value.

At least, that's the theory - your experience may vary slightly. (And I'm sure that someone else whose experience HAS varied from this will call me a fool in short order!)

[mts4602]

does the synthetic pack down really well like a down would or is it like sleeping bags where synthetics don't pack down well at all?

[SGT Rock]

Same stuff. Don't expect much difference. If you carry down, most likely you will not hike in it.

[BlackCloud]

Remember,

No such thing as a dumb question; only dumb people.......

[whitefoot_hp]

but, a DOWN jacket/sweater, such as this one:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...%3Den%26sa%3DN

what happens when it gets wet?

Why would you let it?

[bigcranky]

Raining or not, it has to be *very very* cold before I would wear an insulating layer while actually hiking. A down or synthetic insulated jacket is for breaks and camp, and for adding insulation when sleeping.

Yes, down is pretty useless when it's totally soaked. However, it's actually hard to get it that soaked unless you do something really dumb. Down is lighter and more compressible than synthetic insulation (for the loft/warmth), and will last far longer.

That said, there are some very nice synthetic jackets out there. I have a Micropuff pullover that I got on some huge sale, and take in spring and fall. It is heavier than the down equivalent -- but it's 12 ounces versus 8 for the down, so it's not a huge difference. My down jacket goes in my winter pack.