I went to Academy Sports and outdoors yesterday and they had some house brand down jackets on sale for 29$ The fit isn't perfect but cant complain for 30bux. I don't know much about down jackets but when I lay it flat on the ground its a bit over 3inchs thick. Its doesn't have any type of insulated collar at the zipper so I can see that as a problem and its also not baffled like sleeping bags so it might have cold spots. I got the XL since I have long arms so the body section is a bit big, hence my comment about fit. Well weighed it on my works digital scale inside a stuff sack and it weighs 1lb 11.4oz.

I though it might be decent for beginner gear. Especially for 30bux. Going out to the mountains this weekend to hang out with friends in a cabin and want to see if this will keep me warm at night.
Take care.

It'll be fine. Not the lightest, and maybe not the puffiest, but it'll work.

You can get a very warm wool sweater for 2 pounds, though perhaps not for $30. The main thing I would avoid is unnecessarily heavy shell weight. Second things is having nice little pockets in the right places, and warm ones for hands and your lighter and stuff like that. I think alot depends on what al your wearing under it and with it, whether or not it works within your system. I have a heavy down parka I use on really cold days in town and on day-hikes but not on overnight hikes.

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.