Padded synthetic fibre was developed as an alternative to down. Why do we need an alternative to down? Well, if down gets wet, its thermal insulation capacity decreases and it takes a long time for it to dry. Synthetic fibre, on the other hand, keeps you warm even when wet and dries very quickly. If you're regularly out and about in wet and cold weather, be it on hikes, during a walk in the woods, walking the dog or going for a stroll in the city, a padded synthetic fibre jacket may well be perfect for you. They're not only warm; they're often windproof, low-maintenance, robust, breathable, at least water-repellent, and some models are even waterproof. With or without a hood, padded synthetic fibre jackets also work great under a hardshell rain jacket.