Bottom Line
REI strikes again with the Campwell Down Parka, formerly known as the Norseland. We had some minor “huhs” about the Norseland coat, and it seems like REI read our review! The hood cinches are more accessible, the buttons are stitched to last longer, we like the wrist gasket material better than Norseland’s chunky ones, and the pocket zippers are higher quality. The exterior material is ever so slightly more buttery and less crinkly.
In terms of weather protection, the water-resistant, PFC-free finish helps bead and shed light snow and drizzle, but this is not your coat for rainy conditions other than running from the car to the store. It wetted through during our soak test in just 7 minutes. However, the down maintains some loft, which we did not expect.
We only have a few disappointments with this version. They didn’t line both panels of the pockets with the cozy brushed tricot like the Norseland had. The neck is still not lined with brushed tricot (dearest REI, if you’re reading this, give our chins a soft place to tuck away from the cold). Finally, if you wear makeup, or are a greaseball, or just wear sunscreen every day (you should), the lighter colors will discolor, but the jacket is machine washable.
With these updates, the Campwell still stands at the top of our list of best winter jackets because of its affordability, warmth, and functional style. The insulation power of this coat is not messing around. The combination of 650-fill down and synthetic insulation excels in providing warmth without a hefty price tag.
How We Tested
We lab-tested the insulation and water-repellency of the Campwell, and it performed better than we expected for such an affordable winter jacket. We wore it on winter scooter rides through downtown Denver. We stood in 40 MPH winds in NW Montana, ran errands, went to the movies and out to dinner, and walked our dog in sub-zero temps in this down parka to see how it fared in variable conditions, from cold and dry to wet and snowy.
Quick Specs
REI Campwell Parka
Best Budget Parka
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $230
Weight: 2 lb. 2.2 oz.
Insulation: 650 down-fill (80% recycled down/20% feather)
Length: 36.5 in.
Pros
- Very warm
- Long-lasting insulating power
- Water-resistant
- Shearling hood
Cons
- Side zips give it a boxy shape
- Pockets aren’t fully brushed-tricot lined
Warmth
The REI Campwell Down Parka was unexpectedly one of our best performers in warmth. This is thanks to the combination of 650-fill down insulation and 120g of recycled synthetic insulation in the lower body and hood opening. This design helps retain heat and keeps you comfortable in cold weather.
Our warmth test confirmed how we felt in the field. The Campwell lasted 145 minutes before the temperature dropped 30 degrees to ambient conditions. The fleece-lined hood and knit cuffs further enhance the jacket’s ability to lock in heat, making it a solid choice for winter temperatures as low as the low teens. It’s a great balance of warmth and weight, especially for those who want to stay cozy without feeling weighed down.
Weather Resistance
The Campwell Down Parka performs best in short stints of rain, light snow, and low temperatures. Its DWR-treated recycled polyester shell will bead moisture, but prolonged exposure to precipitation will eventually penetrate the shell, dampen the down, and zap your warmth.
In our soak test, it took 7 minutes for water to migrate to the inside of the jacket. This was typical among other DWR recycled polyesters. We did notice that the down did a great job of maintaining loft, and we couldn’t squeeze moisture out of the coat, unlike some other models we tested. It also dried out quickly.
Comfort & Functionality
Comfort is a major plus with the REI Campwell Down Parka. It has a roomy, comfortable fit, perfect for layering over sweaters or base layers. We carried it on the plane and used it like a blanket. The fleece-lined hood looks cool and feels nice, but it doesn’t slide easily over a beanie. If left down, it accumulates snow in a not-so-pleasant way.
For this reason, we prefer this coat for shorter bouts of snowy conditions, like going from the car to the store. Otherwise, it was perfect in the cold and dry conditions of Colorado this December. While we never try to break a sweat while wearing down jackets, we did appreciate its breathability instead of trapping our sweat when we got huffing and puffing.
The side zips are functional for ventilation and mobility. Plus, it stops the parka from doing that big belly bubble when sitting. However, while standing, it can give the jacket a slightly boxy look and cause the back panel to flare out. The jacket’s overall fit is more relaxed than slim-cut parkas, so if you prefer a more fitted look, this may not be the best choice.
The hood cinch got a redesign, and it’s cuter and more functional. The collar is tall and keeps the wind out, but the fabric isn’t the softest, so we did get a little redness/chafing, but that was after a long day of wearing it and constantly tucking my chin in and out.
Features
The REI Campwell Down Parka boasts several features that aim to appeal to many types of wearers for both comfort and function. The front zipper is protected by an inner and outer storm flap, and the two hand pockets are brushed tricot-lined to help keep your hands warm. The side zips are a unique feature, allowing for extra comfort for sitting or venting.
The boxy fit from the side zips isn’t as sleek as some other parkas on the market. Still, for the price, the Campwell includes impressive details like a cozy fleece-lined hood and practical storm flaps for added warmth and weather resistance.
Should You Buy the REI Campwell Down Parka?
An affordable parka that actually keeps you warm is hard to find. High-quality down is usually very spendy, but this jacket is both warm and affordably priced. It’s got a hardy shell, lofty down, and has a roomy fit that works for all body types. The cozy fleece-lined hood is a nice touch, but not the most practical for anyone who has hair that has an affinity for rat nests. Overall, this is a great coat for casual outings in bitter weather.
What Other Winter Jackets Should You Consider?
The REI Campwell isn’t the only winter parka on our guide to the best winter jackets for women. Here are some other winners that you might like:
The North Face Hydrenalite Review: A little more trendy, less bulky, and a less abrasive fabric, this hip cut puffer lets you stand in chilly weather and feel pretty dang comfortable, but it isn’t meant for serious winter exposure.
Outdoor Research Coze Down Review: For ultimate coverage and long-lasting warmth for standing or walking around in extreme winter winds and snow, check out the Coze Down from Outdoor Research.
Rab Deep Cover Parka Review: If you’re after a quick-drying down puffy parka that balances technical performance with everyday style, the Rab Deep Cover delivers.
