ive never heard of "coat" testing on animals. but down jackets are filled with "down" which are the feathers of geese and ducks. the conditions these animals endure are beyond words. cruelty doesnt even describe it. thats why if i buy a down jacket ill buy second hand so as not to support the industry and still recycle at the same time. for the most part i think down jackets are ugly but the one i found was actually pretty cute. first one ive ever seen that ive liked, which is good b/c they are the warmest coats ive worn.
oh oops. sorry i read your post wrong. i thought is said "whatever you dont buy old navy or gap clothes....." i thought you were asking me that.
You should check out polypropylene long underwear. Its cheap, thick, and "wicks away moisture". Great for x-country skiing!