Women's down parka

[curley]

I am about to buy a women’s midweight down parka to be used for those times when you are sitting around the camp in the outdoors, in wind, cooking etc at temps down around zero (i.e. not for mountaineering, and hopefully not in snow). At present, the choice is between a Rab Ascent and a Montbell Frostline but there is an issue I have found difficult to address and so hope some here might be able to provide some help. The Montbell uses 30 d ballistic nylon with DWR treatment for the external shell and I have seen comments that this is a delicate fabric (Comment by onestepmore on this forum). The OutdoorGearLab review also marks the Montbell fabric a bit lower for water resistance and durability.

On the other hand, the Rab has pertex endurance on the outside and this has been rated better (than the ballistic) in reviews. The Rab is held in stock in Brisbane at K2 so I have checked it out and it certainly feels robust.

Any thoughts on this, based on experience with either of these parkas? I am tending towards the Montbell as it is a bit lighter, compresses more, has box baffles and is higher loft goose down.

[Moondog55]

If this isn't for the snow or Alpine use then perhaps something cheaper and sewn though will do the job. Robustness can be a problem with UL fabrics but they are reasonably tough all things considered
If a LW downie does need protection a shell can be added over the top
Sorry that I can't comment on either of those garments in particular
Fit is important as is a hood if you want to maximise garment warmth

[roysta]

Curley, I have both MontBell and RAB jackets and as you've established in your case, they're quite different.
If you're going to largely use the jacket indoors go for the MontBell, but if there's any prospect you're going to use it with precipitation around then head for the RAB.

[curley]

Thanks roysta. Have bought the Rab as I think the tougher shell will be required.