Crescent Down Works or Penfield

[sgiridharan]

I'm looking at a down jacket and trying to decide between buying one from Crescent Down Works or Penfield. Does anyone have any preference or can anyone tell me which brand is better? Any recommendations? I'm on the smaller size 36-38in chest.

Thanks!

 

[gsugsu]

Both well made. CDW will be more expensive. I'd take CDW myself. You can also look at Mt. Rainier Designs (Japanese designed, US fabric made in China but well made). Both they and CDW use 60/40 cloth. Another quality maker to look at is Feathered Friends (US made). From the UK I'd suggest RAB and PHD (Peter Hutchinson Designs). The last 3 makers are highly regarded for functional down products.

 

[sgiridharan]

I guess I'm also looking for a down jacket that is not technical outerwear. I want to wear it to work but also brave the Chicago cold. My work is business casual and I wear jeans. I have a black down puffy north face and I feel like a thug wearing it to work. But it's really warm.

 

[bertie]

I've had a penfield down parka for two years and use it when my North Face is too warm. The quality is very good - I was surprised by the price quality ratio. However, the styling is very basic and even a bit unflattering (though I guess that's par for the course for any parka style).