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We spent months braving the cold of winter to bring you the top winter jackets from Fjallraven, Canada Goose, The North Face, Patagonia, REI, Columbia, L.L. Bean, and more.
Credit: Clark Tate
By Clark Tate ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated October 27, 2025
With the right jacket, freezing temps and biting winds can transform from a warning to an open invitation to get outside.
Since we started testing in 2012, we've bought over 160 top-rated winter jackets. We've tested them to sub-zero temperatures, hiking around town in whipping winter winds, and shoveling small mountains of snow. We measure how warm they keep us, travel to the coldest places on the planet in them, and judge how well they keep up with all our activities.
Fjallraven knocks it out of the park with both the women's Fjallraven Nuuk Parka and the men's Nuuk. Each of these is the warmest and most protective winter jacket our male and female testers have worn. They're comfortable, have tons of pockets, excellent construction quality, and a classic style.
For solid warmth, great weather protection, and style on a more limited budget, our women's testing team highly recommends The North Face Arctic Parka. Our men's team was solidly impressed by the performance of the L.L. Bean Rugged Ridge, which proved comfortable and warm enough for moderate winters for a more affordable price.
For milder weather, many of these jackets will be too much. If you want something warm and packable to use as part of a layering system, see our review of men's and women's down jackets. Want something that will keep you warm even if it gets a bit wet? An insulated jacket with puffy synthetic insulation will do the trick. Both of these will provide a moderate amount of warmth as standalone jackets, without the commitment of a winter coat.
Editor's Note: We updated our winter jacket review on October 27, 2025, with a new award winner, the Patagonia Jackson Glacier.
Who it is best for: The Fjallraven Nuuk Parka is built for anyone who regularly contends with serious winter weather—especially cold, wet, and snowy conditions. Inspired by Scandinavian winters, this parka is ideal for those who need warmth and durability, whether you're trekking through snowy streets, exploring frozen trails, or spending hours outside in subzero temps. “We took it on a mission to find the northern lights in the farthest reaches of northern Sweden, and it kept us warm through -15°F nights,” one tester said. If you're looking for a parka that can double as rugged winter armor and stylish streetwear, the Nuuk Parka fits the bill.
Why we love it: This parka pairs a thick polyamide shell laminated with a waterproof membrane with dense Supreme Microloft insulation, creating a jacket that feels weighted, protective, and incredibly warm. At 4.6 pounds (size 2XL), the Nuuk delivers a cocoon-like feel that's both rugged and comfortable. “This jacket has more pockets than a fishing vest, a fur-lined hood with Arctic vibes, and quality construction that made me feel invincible in snowstorms,” one tester noted. The subtle urban styling and field-ready durability make it a standout in both the backcountry and on city streets. It's not built for full-blown expeditions like the Canada Goose Expedition Parka, but it's one of the warmest and most comfortable parkas we've tested.
Should you buy it? You should consider the Nuuk Parka if you want long-lasting warmth and serious weather protection with an understated, stylish look. It transitions easily from outdoor adventures to everyday urban use—but there are trade-offs. The zipper connects on the opposite side from what most Americans are used to and is finicky to align, which can be frustrating in gloves. It's also bulky and doesn't compress well, making it a poor choice for travel. “It's definitely not packable, but when I need warmth and durability, this is the jacket I grab,” one tester explained. The Nuuk is hard to beat if you prioritize rugged performance and timeless style.
Who it is best for: The Fjallraven Nuuk is an easy favorite for anyone who wants warmth without sacrificing style, and comfort without compromising durability. It's perfect for those facing extreme cold—whether you're commuting through biting wind, strolling through town on frigid nights, or heading out on winter hikes. With a relaxed yet refined design and tons of smart features like plentiful pockets, storm flaps, and a faux-fur-lined hood, it's one of the most wearable jackets in our tests. As one tester said, “I wore this to the dog park, then straight into town for dinner—and I was warm, comfortable, and liked how I looked in it.” If you value performance that doesn't scream “technical outerwear,” this jacket is built for you.
Why we love it: The Nuuk kept our testers warm in wind chills down to -30°F, earning it the title of warmest jacket in our lineup. The spacious collar, deep hood, and high-zipper design create a cocoon against the elements. “I could zip it up to my nose and didn't feel a hint of wind on my face,” one tester said. The roomy cut easily fits insulating layers but still maintains a flattering profile. With well-designed breathability features, like a storm flap that can be partially unsnapped or unzipped, it's comfortable across various temps. “What really impressed me,” our lead tester added, “was how I didn't overheat when things warmed up a little. It's rare to find a jacket this warm that also breathes so well.”
Should you buy it? You should consider the Nuuk if you want serious warmth and long-lasting construction in a sleek package—but keep in mind it's not the most convenient piece to lug around. “As much as I love wearing it, I hated carrying it through the airport—it's just too bulky,” one tester admitted. Additionally, while the generous fit is great for layering, some testers found the cut a bit too ample and the sleeves overly long. The face fabric also tends to retain water, making it less ideal for truly wet conditions. Still, for dry, frigid climates, the Nuuk is a standout for cozy, enduring protection.
The Fjallraven Nuuk has ample insulation and other warmth features that make it great for frigid temperatures, although it may be a bit too warm for milder winters.
Who is it best for: The Patagonia Jackson Glacier is a high-loft down jacket with a waterproof shell that allows it to stand up to a variety of winter conditions. It will keep you comfortably warm as a standalone jacket down to 20-25°F, even when standing still. It has a relaxed cut that is roomy enough to wear a few additional layers if the temps drop below that. It has a hood with a drawstring cinch on the front and back, allowing you to keep your field of vision intact, which is perfect for those who need to stay aware of their surroundings, such as while biking.
Why we love it: The Jackson Glacier is a supremely comfortable jacket. Our tester commented that “pulling it on feels like slipping into a warm cloud.” The pockets are large enough to accommodate a gloved hand, and are at a perfect height: just above the hip. Our broad-shouldered tester also never felt restricted in the torso, and the shorter length allows for full mobility in the legs as well. The cherry on top is the thoughtful fleece lining found along the inside of the zipper near the chin, creating a soft landing space for wind-chapped skin.
Should you buy it? The Glacier jacket is not a full-on storm parka, but for many users, that might be a pro. It is plenty warm to keep you outside during the winter in most conditions, while still being appropriate to wear around town or to dinner. It doesn't have a fur ruff on the hood, and our tester noted that he would get a blast of cold air up the sleeves while riding his e-bike to work if he wasn't careful about his glove choice. If you live in the far north, you'll likely want something a bit more protective, but if the winter precipitation you encounter is a mix of snow, slush, and humid wind, the Patagonia Jackson Glacer repelled water better than any other jacket we tested, while still offering an impressive amount of warmth.
The Patagonia Jackson made it through some very moist and heavy early winter precipitation, and didn't soak up any of it.
Who it is best for: The The North Face Arctic Parka is ideal for anyone who wants to stay warm and dry in bitter winter weather without giving up mobility or style. It's especially well-suited for commuters, travelers, and everyday winter explorers who value a sleek look with dependable cold-weather performance. This parka is an excellent option if you want solid waterproofing, warmth down to your thighs, and a design that doesn't feel bulky.
Why we love it: We're big fans of how the Arctic Parka blends functionality and comfort. “I was seriously impressed by how the tall collar and faux-fur-lined hood protected my face from icy wind while still feeling cozy,” said one tester. The clever fold-out faux fur ruff acts like a wind tunnel, forming a buffer against gusts when extended, and providing cozy insulation when snapped back. The 600-fill recycled down insulation feels silky smooth thanks to the baffled liner, and the soft elastic cuffs keep cold air from sneaking in around your wrists. With a mid-thigh cut that allows for freedom of movement and a storm flap that's easy to adjust on the go, this parka is packed with thoughtful details.
Should you buy it? If you need a winter jacket that's both warm and waterproof with a flattering, functional fit, the Arctic Parka is a smart buy. It does have a few small drawbacks—like cold handwarmer pockets not built into the insulation and a non-removable hood—but overall, it delivers excellent performance at a reasonable price. “Despite those minor issues, I rarely reached for another jacket,” one tester shared. Just be aware that when the soft elastic cuffs get wet, they stay cold. Still, this jacket offers impressive value and comfort for winter weather warriors who want lasting protection without breaking the bank.
Who it is best for: The L.L. Bean Rugged Ridge Parka is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable, waterproof jacket that doubles as outerwear and activewear. It's particularly well-suited for people who are frequently on the move in cold, wet conditions and need breathable performance with functional features like adjustable drawstrings and storm protection. The Rugged Ridge delivers solid value if you're not expecting sub-zero temperatures but still want protection from wind, rain, and snow.
Why we love it: Its sheer toughness really won us over about the Rugged Ridge. “I loved that this jacket felt like armor against the wind and rain—especially when I tightened the waist and hem drawcords,” one tester shared. Made entirely of nylon and featuring a two-layer TEK waterproof barrier, this parka holds its own against nasty weather. The waterproof exterior pocket zippers, solid storm flap, and double-layered cuffs all feel premium and thoughtfully designed. It's not the warmest jacket out there, but the breathable Primaloft insulation and athletic fit make it perfect for layering and regulating temperature during higher-output activities.
Should you buy it? If durability, weatherproofing, and functionality are your top priorities, the Rugged Ridge is absolutely worth considering. Its insulation won't blow you away in terms of warmth, but it's well-distributed and performs admirably when paired with good base layers. “This is the jacket I keep by the door for unpredictable winter days—it just does everything pretty well,” a tester noted. Our only real gripe is that the velcro feels a bit weak, but it's a minor flaw in an otherwise rugged, versatile package. It's a smart, budget-friendly choice for everyday wear and cold-weather adventure.
Features like an abundance of adjustable drawstrings make the L.L. Bean Rugged Ridge Parka an excellent choice for those who find themselves in unruly weather.
Who it is best for: The Orolay Thickened Down Jacket is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a winter parka that brings both warmth and personality. With 700-fill power down and an oversized silhouette, it's great for folks who prioritize cozy coverage and bold style without spending a fortune. It's also a smart pick if you prefer looser cuts for layering or need extra room in the hips—side zippers let you expand the hem for added space and flexibility.
Why we love it: We appreciate how the Orolay balances affordability, warmth, and originality. “This jacket surprised me,” one tester shared. “The hood is like a warm cave, and the oval cut actually made it easier to move around in heavy layers.” The fleece-lined hood, spacious handwarmer pockets, and oval-shaped cut create a uniquely comfortable wearing experience. Expandable side zips are an unexpectedly functional detail. Its standout shape and subtle design twists offer a refreshing break from winterwear monotony.
Should you buy it? If you're drawn to its unconventional style and don't need full-face protection, the Orolay Thickened Down is absolutely worth a look. It's not as cozy as some options, and it doesn't zip up to your nose, but it performs well in most winter conditions and feels built to last—with a few caveats. “I like the warmth and shape, but the shiny zippers and exposed stitching give me pause,” one tester said. If you're okay with a little flash and a few potential durability trade-offs, this jacket is a solid, standout option in its price range.
Who it is best for: The Wantdo Waterproof Snow Jacket is best for budget-conscious buyers who need a do-it-all winter jacket without expecting top-tier performance. It's a solid choice for folks who want a warm, waterproof jacket for casual outdoor use—think snow shoveling, ski trips in mild weather, or general winter wear in temps above 25°F. If affordability matters most and you don't mind a slightly dated look, this jacket delivers surprising value.
Why we love it: “This jacket really surprised us,” one tester noted. “It's warm, loaded with features, and costs way less than anything else we tested with similar specs.” The Wantdo is packed with function-forward features: waterproof zippers, a drawstring waist, removable hood, storm flaps, wrist gaiters, and even a powder skirt. The thick polar fleece liner and polyurethane-backed polyester shell make it both cozy and waterproof enough for average winter conditions. For the price, it's impressively well-equipped and comfortable.
Should you buy it? If you want a functional winter jacket at a bargain price and can overlook a few shortcomings, the Wantdo Waterproof Snow Jacket is a great option. It's not the most breathable, stylish, or well-constructed jacket we've tested—long fleece liners trap sweat, and the stitching may not hold up over the long haul—but for under $100, it gets the job done. It offers more than enough performance for most mild to moderate winter conditions.
Who it is best for: The Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka is ideal for women living in warmer or unpredictable climates, or for anyone who values versatility in a jacket that can span fall, winter, and spring. If you're the type who wants one coat to do it all—commuting, walking the dog, travel, and rainy-day errands—this parka offers a flexible solution with refined style and serious weather protection. Just make sure you're ready to navigate some sizing quirks.
Why we love it: “The Tres really stood out because it adapts to so many situations,” one tester explained. “I wore it as a full parka during a snowstorm, the shell in a downpour, and the liner to a casual dinner—each layer felt purposeful.” The Tres combines a satiny down-filled liner with a rugged waterproof shell, zipping together into a cozy fortress for true winter conditions. The hood is highly adjustable, and both pieces have a clean, functional cut that looks great whether worn together or apart. Its three-in-one design gives you more mileage per dollar than almost any other parka we tested.
Should you buy it? If you're after a well-made, good-looking jacket that adapts to your changing weather—and you're willing to spend a little time dialing in the sizing—the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 is a top-tier choice. The liner lacks a hood and the shell's pockets aren't insulated, so pair it with a winter hat and gloves in deep cold. But if you get the fit right and don't mind the premium price, this is one of the most versatile jackets we've tested.
Who it is best for: The Patagonia Tres is perfect for anyone who needs a versatile, easy-to-wear jacket that adapts to changing conditions. Whether you're facing cold rain in the fall, a mild winter afternoon, or a snowy commute, this modular design gives you options. It's especially well-suited for urban dwellers or travelers who want to get the most out of a single jacket across three seasons.
Why we love it: “This parka became my daily go-to—I wore the shell alone for wet errands, the liner on cool mornings, and both together when it really got cold,” said one tester. Even with both layers zipped together, the Tres feels surprisingly comfortable and looks sleek in nearly any setting. The outer shell provides serious weather protection, while the down-insulated liner delivers solid warmth on its own. Its versatility is the standout: it adapts to conditions without ever feeling bulky or fussy.
Should you buy it? If you prioritize adaptability and style in a jacket that can handle most winter conditions, the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 is a smart pick. That said, it has a few tradeoffs: the uninsulated hood and pockets mean you'll want to pair it with good gloves and a beanie when the temps drop. Also, in blustery conditions, some wind can sneak in at the collar. But for an all-around performer with real three-season utility, the Tres is tough to beat.
The Patagonia Tres is a great jacket to grab and go if you live in a climate with wet winters and you're not sure if you're going to get rain, snow, or sunshine.
Who it is best for: The Canada Goose Shelburne is ideal for anyone who needs high-end winter weather protection without compromising on style. It's a go-to for city dwellers, travelers, or professionals who regularly transition between formal settings and frigid outdoor conditions. If you're looking for a jacket that performs admirably in bitter cold and also complements a polished outfit, the Shelburne delivers on both fronts.
Why we love it: “I was impressed by how this jacket blends serious warmth with an almost effortless sense of style,” one tester said. The Shelburne combines nearly 500 grams of responsibly sourced 625-fill-power down with a rugged shell and smart features like rib knit cuffs, a two-way zipper, and built-in backpack straps — making it both protective and highly wearable. Its tailored silhouette and iconic branding elevate it far above your average parka, while touches like the storm flap and snorkel hood keep it practical even on the coldest days.
Should you buy it? If you're drawn to premium craftsmanship and don't mind the luxury price tag, the Shelburne offers refined aesthetics, robust warmth, and top-tier build quality. Still, there are tradeoffs. It requires dry cleaning, its straight cut can be tricky to size for curvier body types, and you'll need to buy the fur ruff separately to better block headwinds. But if style and performance are equally important, the Shelburne is a compelling pick.
Who it is best for: The Canada Goose Langford Parka is best suited for travelers, urban dwellers, and cold-weather commuters looking for a premium parka that performs exceptionally well in wind, rain, sleet, and snow. If you're outside for extended periods or want something dependable and stylish that stands up to varied global climates, the Langford is a compelling choice.
Why we love it: “We wore the Langford for eight to ten hours a day across Poland and the Baltics, and it never let us down,” one tester noted. Built with a cozy polyester-cotton exterior, warm 625-fill down, and a full-length cut, the Langford offers serious weather protection with urban flair. Its scuba-style hood is unique in both design and effectiveness, forming a deep tunnel that shields your face from icy wind. Features like ribbed-knit cuffs, an oversized storm flap, cozy handwarmer pockets, and backpack carry straps round out its appeal, making this a highly functional and stylish winter companion.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a high-end jacket that balances performance and style, the Langford is a solid investment. However, be aware of some quirks: the zipper can be finicky, the fit is tight around broad shoulders, and the longer cut adds bulk, making it tougher to pack or store. It's also not the warmest Canada Goose option we've tested.
The Langford Parka is both functional and stylish.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Tested
Each year, we research what winter jackets are best, most interesting, and most intriguing. We then purchase and evaluate them side by side in a series of rigorous and comprehensive tests. Over the past 13 years, we've tested over 150 winter jackets. We have braved blizzards, freezing temperatures, and wet, sloppy weather, leaving no stone unturned in our quest for the best.
We have tested these jackets in winter conditions across the U.S., from West Coast mountain ranges to cold and humid coastal New England. We even brought some of our top performers with us overseas to pit them against frigid Scandinavian and Baltic winters. We've worn them to work, shoveled snow, sledded hills, and walked countless city streets, in order to get a real sense of how each performs in everyday places and situations.
Using thermal imaging to compare our jackets side by side in their abilities to retain heat. Lighter hues show areas where heat is escaping, while darker shades indicate where heat is being retained. In short, darker jackets are performing better.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Closer to home, we perform a series of measurable tests to evaluate warmth, wind, and waterproofing. We stand outside in subzero temperatures for at least 10 minutes, using a wearable thermometer to measure internal temperatures and a thermal camera to look for external leaks. We plop in snowbanks, make snow angels, hang out in wet weather, and even stand in the shower for two minutes to test true waterproofing.
When ranking winter jackets, our testers compare results across six test metrics:
Assessments of Warmth
Tests of Weather Resistance
Checks and analyses of Comfort
Trials and polls of Style
Evaluations of Features and Versatility
Estimations and observations of Construction Quality
We don't hold back when testing jackets. We get the real scoop on what they can do.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Why Trust GearLab
Our results draw from a deep well of tester experience and a wide range of winter environments. The head of our men's winter jacket test team, Jason Wanlass, is a Utah resident with a taste for adventure. His travels have taken him backpacking in places like Argentina, Chile, Nepal, Iceland, Switzerland, France, Slovenia, and Italy. He has wintered in Finland, Estonia, Poland, Latvia, The Netherlands, Lituania, and Sweden. Closer to home, he also faces Utah winters each year, giving him the edge in understanding what it takes to make a jacket great and what just doesn't measure up.
From fall through winter to spring, we put these jackets through their paces to see what they're best at.
Our women's testing team began with Liz Williamson, who tested dozens of winter jackets in the course of five years. She pushed these coats to their limits in the frigid Andes, deep in the severe landscapes of Patagonia, and through wet winters in the High Sierra.
Joining Liz is Senior Review Editor, Clark Tate. With a Master's Degree in Environmental Science and a solid background in science writing, Clark Tate helped develop our current testing plans and rating systems. She lives in Maine and recreates regularly in the snowy yet freezing peaks of New England, giving her an appreciation of the importance of the right winter gear. Clark has been testing and writing for GearLab for many years and has led our women's winter jacket testing team since 2020.
We leave no detail un-tested, always taking our job seriously to bring you the best options.
How to Pick the Best Winter Jacket for You
At its most basic, a winter jacket should keep you warm in cold weather. To find one that excels in your preferred environment, consider what activities you'll be engaging in when you wear it. If you're planning a ski trip or climbing excursion, you don't want a heavy-duty jacket with a hem down to your knees. On the other hand, if you live in a place that regularly sees subzero temps and have to walk your dog daily, you may want exactly that.
Also consider the temperatures and type of winter precipitation in your hometown. If you reside in a place like the Pacific Northwest, where winters are typically wet and relatively mild, you need a truly waterproof option, and insulation will be less important. If temperatures are usually below freezing, you'll need more insulation and may not need to worry about water, as it will come down in snow form.
Winter jackets have more insulation, longer hemlines, and more protective collars and hoods than warm-weather options.
Credit: Clark Tate
Gendered Jackets
No matter what winter coat you're looking for, they are very rarely sold as “unisex.” Instead, each jacket is gendered by the manufacturer and tested by our corresponding testing team. While this article covers our top recommendations for both men and women, you can dive deeper into all the testing we've done by checking out our full lineups. In the chart below, you can see a comparison of all the current women's winter jackets we've tested.
Key Metric Scores of Women's Winter Jackets
Product
Warmth
Weather Resistance
Comfort
Construction Quality
Fjallraven Nuuk
10
8.5
8.5
9
Canada Goose Shelburne
9
9.5
8
8
Outdoor Research Coze
9
7.5
10
6
The North Face Arctic
7
8.5
7
8
Rab Deep Cover
7.5
7.5
7.5
5
Patagonia Tres 3-in-1
6
7.5
7
7
Orolay Thickened Down
8
4.5
9
6
Marmot Montreal
7
7
8
5
Cotopaxi Calidez
6.5
5.5
8
7
Patagonia Down With It
7.5
5
7
6
Columbia Suttle Mountain
4
6
9
6
REI Co-op Norseland
6.5
3
6.5
5
Columbia Hikebound II
5
5
8
2
Fjallraven Kiruna
4
4
5
5.5
32 Degrees Maxi
5
1
8.5
3
Wantdo Snow Jacket
4
6
4
3
Columbia Heavenly
3
3
6
5
Moerdeng ArcticPeaks
4
4
3
3
Four of the five testing metrics we use to analyze every women's winter jacket we test.
Many jackets perform similarly for both men and women, but not always. In particular, the fit of a jacket across different genders and body shapes can be wildly different. The following chart summarizes the complete current lineup of men's winter jackets that have gone through our rigorous testing.
Key Metric Scores of Men's Winter Jackets
Product
Warmth
Weather Resistance
Comfort
Construction Quality
Fjallraven Nuuk
9
8
8
9.5
Patagonia Tres 3-in-1
7
8
8.5
8
The North Face McMurdo
8.5
7.5
7
8
Marmot Fordham
7.5
7.5
8
8
Canada Goose Langford
7.5
8
6.5
9
Cotopaxi Calidez
6.5
6.5
8.5
8.5
Fjallraven Skogso
6
6.5
8
9.5
Patagonia Downdrift
7
7.5
6.5
8.5
Outdoor Research Stormcraft
6
8
6
9
REI Co-op Stormhenge
6
8.5
7
7
L.L. Bean Rugged Ridge
6
7
7
8
Outdoor Research Foray 3-in-1
4
8
8
6
Outdoor Research Super Alpine
7
6
6
6
Columbia Hikebound II
5.5
6
7.5
6
Carhartt Flannel-Lined
4
6
4
8
Wantdo Snow Jacket
5
6
5.5
5
Tommy Hilfiger Hooded Puffer
4
4
8
5
Just four of the test metrics used to compare all our men's winter jackets.
Down vs Synthetic
One of the most important factors in the warmth of a winter coat is the type of insulation it uses. Most use either down or synthetic loft, and there are pros and cons to each material.
Down jackets are lightweight, and have different warmth levels depending on fill power and fill weight.
Credit: Sara James
Down
Down is a great insulator — ask any bird that sticks around in the winter. It has an extremely high warmth-to-weight ratio and is incredibly effective at trapping and holding heat. The quality of down in a jacket is measured by fill power. The higher the fill power, the more warm air the down is able to catch and keep close to your body. Higher fill power down is also more compressible; a jacket with 900-fill power down will be very packable, but also very expensive. It is also probably a bit much for the typical winter wanderer. A 500 to 800-fill power range is more reasonable for most people. The warmth of down insulation also correlates to the fill weight, meaning how much of the down is used in a jacket. Fill weight and fill power combined provide a reasonable estimation of warmth. A 650-fill jacket with a lower fill weight will not be as warm as a 550-fill jacket with a higher fill weight, but it will be more expensive.
Down Jackets pack up super small, but after being compressed, they need some time to expand in order to return to their full lofty warmth.
Credit: Sara James
One downside of down is that it does not insulate if it gets wet. Feathers clump together when wet and lose their lofty heat-trapping ability. Some down is treated with a hydrophobic coating, but a more effective solution is to wear a waterproof outer layer, or have one built into the jacket. Repeated compression of down, whether cramming it into a stuff sack or leaning back against the car seat, will eventually break down the feathers and lessen the lifespan of the jacket. Though many jackets are made using Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified down, the use of any animal product always raises concerns about animal welfare. A down-insulated jacket is best for folks who prioritize low-weight gear and packability, and have a little more cash to shell out.
Choosing the type of insulation is only part of the process. The more crucial piece is making sure the jacket has enough of it. It won't matter what insulation you've chosen if the jacket lacks the right amount to keep you warm. Additionally, where and how the insulation is held in place matters. If a jacket has sewn-through baffles, these tiny seam holes can create weak points for whipping winds to head straight through the jacket.
Down jackets are generally more lightweight than synthetically insulated options.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Synthetic
In a lot of ways, synthetic insulation is the answer to all of down's faults. Made of spun filaments (usually polyester), synthetic insulation retains its loft — and therefore warmth — even when wet, making it a good choice for folks living in wet environments or frequently playing in the snow with dogs or children. It's more resistant to damage from compression, whether that's years of regular wear or being smashed into your suitcase on vacation. However, it doesn't compress as much and will take up more space in your closet or your bag.
Synthetic insulation and sturdy fabric can make for a very warm, durable, and functional winter jacket.
Credit: Clark Tate
Synthetic insulation is heavier than down with the same warmth rating. It's also more difficult to gauge the warmth of insulation based on its numbers and stats. There are many types of synthetic fillers commonly used in winter jackets today, and each of them performs a bit differently. However, if weight is not a huge priority, synthetic insulation can still be just as warm as down, making it great for people who are looking for a more affordable option, something a little more weather-resistant, and hoping to avoid the harvesting of birds.
There are all kinds of synthetic insulated jackets out there. We test them side by side to see which ones are warmest, most weather resistant, and full of the best features.
Credit: Maggie Nichols
Activewear Jackets
If you are looking for a jacket you can wear to the resort, in the backcountry, or more adventurous activities like ice climbing or mountaineering, a winter parka is likely not the right choice for you. Sport-oriented jackets are a different animal from your standard winter jacket.
Quality ski jackets come with features designed for the slopes, like ventilation to release excess heat, large pockets for snacks and equipment, and snow skirts to keep out that spray while you carve. Hardshell jackets can be a valuable tool in the kit for those who like to customize their winter layering system. They have little to no insulation, but are seriously water and windproof, making them a great option to wear over an insulating, but less protective layer (like down). A softshell jacket can be a good choice for high-output endeavors, as they're more breathable and offer better mobility.
Ski jackets incorporate different features and designs specifically for the mountain.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Elements of a Good Winter Jacket
Aside from insulation, winter jackets usually include a few other elements to keep you warm and dry. While most puffy jackets—and even many ski jackets—work best when paired with other layers, a good winter jacket is an all-in-one package that can keep you warm without requiring a complicated layering system underneath.
Outer Shell
Most winter jackets have some level of wind and water resistance in the outer shell, and the two properties go hand in hand; what is waterproof is almost always also highly wind-resistant. The importance of this weather protection depends on where you live. If you live in a truly frigid region, chances are most of the precipitation you encounter will be in the form of snow, and having a waterproof shell may not be at the top of your priority list. Milder or more humid coastal regions often trend towards wetter winter weather, in which case a waterproof shell is crucial to your overall happiness. You also want a more hearty shell if you experience cutting winter winds.
For wetter climates, a weatherproof outer shell becomes a necessity.
Credit: Clark Tate
Fit
Some jackets are made roomier than others. Consider your body shape and your typical winter wardrobe, and be sure your jacket can accommodate your build and your layers. A jacket that is tight across the shoulders is going to be uncomfortable and difficult to move your arms in while loading up the car or rolling a snowman. Likewise, tightness in the hips can make a jacket bunch up when you try to walk or run, leaving your midriff exposed. Hem length affects leg mobility, but also warmth. If you are going to be doing a lot of running around, you may want a shorter model. If you intend to sit on a bench or the ground, a longer hem will keep you warmer and keep your bum protected from cold surfaces.
A long hem keeps your lower body warm, but limits movement and flexibility.
Credit: Clark Tate
Features
Lastly, features are usually non-essential components of a winter jacket, but can be so nice to have sometimes. A quality hood with adequate insulation, a generous ruff, and room enough to wear a beanie underneath will be a gamechanger in stormy weather. We like it even more when this hood can be removed, as it provides a bit more versatility in the shoulder seasons, when you may not need the extra warmth and don't want the extra weight around your neck.
The expandable Orolay Down parka has zippers on each side, giving you more room to layer up.
Credit: Clark Tate
Two-way zippers on a knee-length parka can add a customizable amount of mobility and ventilation; loosening the zipper just a few inches can make all the difference. Wrist cuffs are essential for holding in the heat and keeping the outside out. Some are fleece, knit elastic, or nylon, and some even have an extended portion with a thumbhole that functions as a wrist warmer. We prefer ones with a snap or velcro strap that allows you to tighten the cuff around your wrist, sealing out the cold, wind, or wet.
from the coldest climates to mild everyday wear, we've found a winter jacket that's right for you.
Credit: Clark Tate
Conclusion
Choosing a winter jacket can feel like a daunting task, but knowing what you're looking for can make it a little easier. We hope that our in-depth testing and comprehensive evaluations and comparisons have helped you to feel confident in finding the right jacket with the warmth, features, and protection to fit your needs and budget.
While a great jacket is a major key in winter cold protection, there are a few other pieces essential to complimenting the right one. A pair of winter gloves, a warm beanie, and a solid pair of snow boots are paramount in snowy weather. For colder treks, we recommend adding a toasty set of long underwear and a quality base layer to help keep you warm.
