THE PUFFER JACKET GUIDE
Brave the elements.
With 170 years of heritage in making gear for unpredictable British weather, discover the puffer jacket built for your winter.
What Is a Puffer Jacket?
A puffer jacket is made with stitched or welded sections called baffles. These compartments hold insulating fill and help trap pockets of air, creating warmth without unnecessary weight.
Hunter puffers contain zero feathers or down. They are filled with Thermore Ecodown, a synthetic insulation designed to stay warm when damp and be easy to wash. The fill is 100% certified vegan.
Weather resistance: PU-coated shell
Sonic welded baffles
Certified vegan
Inside a Hunter puffer
Polyester outer shell with light PU coating
Thermore Ecodown synthetic fill
Breathable inner lining
Are Puffer Jackets Waterproof?
Puffer jackets are generally water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. They can handle light showers and some steady rain, but for prolonged downpours or complete rain protection, choose dedicated waterproof rainwear.
Choose for the forecast
Light drizzleComfortable for brief showers
Steady rainIdeal range for water-resistant puffers
DownpourReach for dedicated rainwear
How baffle construction affects rain protection
Stitched seams
Stitching creates tiny needle holes through the outer fabric, giving water a route to seep through during prolonged or heavy rain.
Sonic welded seams
Heat-bonded baffles avoid needle holes, helping deliver superior rain protection compared with stitched construction.
Compare your outerwear
| Feature | Puffers | Waxed jackets | Rainwear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warmth | High, with insulated fill | Moderate, often layered | Low; designed as a shell |
| Water resistance | Water-resistant; varies by design | Water-resistant when maintained | Waterproof protection |
| Wind resistance | Good, depending on fabric | Good | Good to excellent |
| Weight | Light to moderate | Moderate to heavy | Lightweight shell options |
| Ideal use case | Cold days and everyday warmth | Changeable weather and outdoor wear | Persistent rain and downpours |
How Should a Puffer Jacket Fit?
- 01ShouldersSeam sits directly on the shoulder edge.
- 02ChestZips comfortably over a heavy jumper without flattening baffles.
- 03SleevesCuffs cover wrists when arms are extended forward.
- 04LengthCovers lower back fully when bending.
- 05Collar & hoodZips smoothly under the chin without restrictiveness.
Hunter puffers run true to size.
Choosing a Length
1 / 3
Short / Cropped
Driving & urban commuting
A shorter profile made for easy movement around the city.
Mid-Length
Everyday versatility
A versatile length for daily wear and changing conditions.
Longline
Maximum knee-length warmth
Extra coverage for colder days and maximum warmth.
Between sizes?
Size up if you plan to wear thick winter layers underneath. For sleek, everyday layering, stay true to size.
How to Wash a Puffer Jacket
Check the garment care label before washing. These general steps help protect the shell and insulation.
Before you wash
- Turn inside out
- Close all zips
- Empty every pocket
How to Wash in the Washing Machine
Treat marks gently before washing.
Wash alone in a front-loading machine; avoid agitators.
Use a gentle cycle at 30°C and suitable mild detergent.
Rinse thoroughly to remove detergent from filling.
Choose a low spin setting to reduce stress on the garment.
How to Wash by Hand
Use a clean basin and follow the care label.
Press gently through the water; do not twist or wring.
Rinse with clean water until detergent is removed.
Support the jacket and press water out gently.
Do
- Follow the garment care label.
- Use a gentle cycle and low spin.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Don't
- Do not wring or twist the jacket.
- Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
- Do not use high heat.
How to Dry a Puffer Jacket
Drying fully and evenly is essential to restore loft and help prevent dampness inside the filling.
Air dry
Hang on a wide hanger for 12–24 hours in a well-ventilated place, away from direct heat. Shake and redistribute filling frequently while it dries.
Tumble dry on low
Only tumble dry if the care label allows it. Use low heat with clean dryer balls, checking and shaking the jacket regularly until completely dry.
How to Fix a Puffer Jacket After Washing
Damp insulation can gather into clumps. Gentle drying and redistribution can help bring back an even, lofty feel.
Before · clumped fill
After · even loft
When permitted by the care label, continue low-heat tumble drying with dryer balls. Pause often to gently break up clumps by hand and shake the jacket. Never store it until fully dry.
Everyday care and storage
Air the jacket after wear and spot-clean small marks promptly. Store clean and completely dry in a cool, dry, breathable space; avoid long-term compression in a tight bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wash a puffer jacket in the washing machine?
Check the care label first. If machine washing is permitted, follow its temperature and cycle guidance, close fastenings and use a suitable detergent.
How often should you wash a puffer jacket?
Wash it only when needed, such as when it is visibly soiled or has an odour. Frequent washing can wear the fabric and filling; follow the garment care label.
Can you tumble dry a puffer jacket?
Only if the care label allows tumble drying. Use the specified low-heat setting and check the garment periodically to help distribute the filling as it dries.
Can you dry clean a puffer jacket?
Check the care label before dry cleaning. Some fabrics, coatings or fillings may not be suitable for dry cleaning.
Why is my puffer jacket clumpy after washing?
The filling can bunch together while wet or if the jacket has not dried fully. Follow the care label's drying instructions and gently redistribute the filling as it dries.
How do you get the smell out of a puffer jacket?
Air the jacket thoroughly in a well-ventilated place. If the odour remains, clean it only according to the care label and make sure it dries completely.
Are Hunter puffer jackets vegan?
Materials can vary by style. Check the individual product page and garment information for the materials used in that specific jacket.
Are Hunter puffer jackets filled with down?
Fill materials can vary between styles. Refer to the product details for the filling used in the specific Hunter jacket.
What is Thermore Ecodown?
Thermore Ecodown is a synthetic insulation product. Check the relevant product information for details about its composition and use in a particular jacket.
Should I size up in a puffer jacket?
Use the size guide and fit notes on the product page. Consider how much layering you plan to wear and check garment measurements before choosing a size.
Are puffer jackets warm enough for a UK winter?
Warmth depends on the jacket's insulation, fit and construction, as well as the weather and layers worn underneath. Review the product details and dress for the conditions.
Built for the Cold. Made to Last.
Find the right puffer to take on the British winter, season after season.
GBP £