I think as you gain experience, you move on to more expensive gear, enjoy things while they are cheap.:) The only down jacket I have, is the one my mom gave me, that was my dads. I have taken it on fall week long trips as it was the warmest piece of outerwear I had. Kinda heavy and bulky, not designed for bping. I have a down vest and pants now, I want to get another down jacket, my Golite Coal synthetic jacket doesn't seem that warm when the day starts cooling down.