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We bought and tested 17 top men's winter jackets from Fjallraven, Patagonia, The North Face, and more to find the best ones to keep you warm and dry
Credit: Jason Wanlass
By Jason Wanlass ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated February 11, 2026
Winter weather can include anything from blizzard winds to pelting rain to sub-zero eyelash-freezing temperatures. Sound fun? In the right winter jacket, it can be, or at least a little closer to fun than you would expect.
The top winter jacket in our tests is the Fjallraven Nuuk Parka. This is a rugged and quality-made jacket that is super warm, waterproof, and has a plethora of pockets. But if the Nuuk seems like overkill to you (or just more than your budget will allow), we also like the REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka because it rides the sweet spot between warmth and price, and is highly water resistant.
For milder winters, the Columbia Landroamer II is a great budget choice and is roomy enough to wear layers underneath. The Patagonia Tres is not a budget option, but has the versatility to be worn almost year-round, while still being warm enough for winter wear.
Our coat crew has tested over 70 winter jackets, braving horrible weather conditions to push each one to its limits. Whether you are looking for an option to get you through arctic winds or just a solid coat that suits your style and works in a more temperate climate, we've got you covered.
Editor's Note: We updated our men's winter jacket review on February 11, 2026 to confirm our Editors' Choice winner, retest updated models, and add a few new jackets from Patagonia, Marmot, and Columbia to our lineup.
The Swedish-born Fjallraven Nuuk Parka is no stranger to cold, dark, wet winters. This jacket is dense, heavy, waterproof, and warm. Admittedly, it isn't designed for competitive dog sledding or polar expeditions, but our test team found it can certainly hold its own for just about any other urban or wilderness adventure you have planned. The Nuuk's rugged canvas-like shell is made of 100% recycled polyester, and its proprietary Supreme Microloft insulation provides superior warmth by mimicking actual down. We've now been wearing this jacket for more than two years, and haven't noticed any sign of the insulation packing out. At its core, the Nuuk is a cold-weather parka built for more prolonged exposure to the elements. One of our lead testers said this jacket is out to win battles against the wind, rain, and driving snow. That said, the Nuuk's trendy style also lends it to being a great daily wear jacket for life's normal routines. When combined with a beanie, gloves, insulated pants, and some dense top layers, we feel the Nuuk can keep you warm down to about -15°F if you're moving.
SPECIFICATIONS
Insulation and Fill Power
100% recycled polyester
Fill Weight
250 grams/ sq meter
Removable Hood
No
Hood Adjustments
2 side drawcords, 1 rear velcro tab
Shell Fabric
Polyamide
However, we found the Nuuk to have a few flaws. Most notably, the zipper can be quite stubborn, often requiring more finagling than we have patience for. Also, the polyamide shell likes to absorb water. Thanks to an interior polyurethane membrane, the inside of the jacket never got wet in our rain tests; however, the water weighed the jacket down significantly. Our last gripe with this jacket is that it is too bulky to pack in a suitcase, so if you're traveling by plane or public transit, plan to carry or wear it. If you're looking for similar performance but want to take it up a notch or two, we highly recommend the Canada Goose Expedition Parka. If you like the look of the Nuuk's and Expedition's parka length, but don't like their price tags, the Columbia Landroamer II is another tester favorite.
The hunt begins. Arriving at Sweden's northern-most airport, en route to Abisko - a small outpost town where we hope to chase down the Northern Lights. Outside temperature: zero degrees Fahrenheit. Credit: Jason Wanlass
A double-layered storm flap further insulates the front zipper of the Nuuk. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Insulation and Fill Power: 800FP European goose down | Weight: 1.24 lbs
The Rab Neutrino Pro is a down jacket that uses a hefty amount of 800-fill power feathers to provide a thick and cozy wall of insulation. It has one of the highest fill weights of all the down jackets we've tested, and the result is a coat that is much warmer and much lighter than most winter parkas out there. The shorter length hits just below the hips, and the jacket offers a ton of mobility; this is one you'll want to pull on when you don't feel like wearing a coat. The cuffs can be adjusted with a velcro closure, and a two-way front zip allows you to dump heat from the bottom of the jacket when needed. The hood is roomy and also has a cinch cord to keep the wind away from your ears.
The sacrifice you make with the Neutrino Pro is the lack of waterproofing. The outer shell is made with 20D Pertex Quantum Pro fabric, which is moderately durable and can handle light precipitation. This is an improvement over the ultralight exterior found on most down jackets, but it can't compare to the burly nature of the Fjallraven Nuuk or the stormworthy outer of the Jackson Glacier. That said, it still blocks wind really well and is a good choice if you're more worried about staying warm than keeping dry.
Although it is on the heavier side for a traditional down jacket, the Rab Neutrino Pro has the advantage of being very lightweight compared to every other winter parka we tested, and it is just as warm.
Here's the deal: When it comes to value versus price, you will not go wrong with the Columbia Landroamer II. We love this jacket. We rotated it for several months during our field testing, and after all was said and done, we still chose to wear it on the daily — even over the more expensive jackets in our closet. Why? Because the Landroamer looks amazing, it's warm, weatherproof, and it's super comfortable. Our testers have even received compliments from strangers on how good this jacket looks. As for the nitty-gritty, the Landroamer is stuffed with lightweight synthetic insulation that traps heat very well. The interior liner features Columbia's Omni-Heat technology, which reflects body heat (yes, we think it actually works). This coat is also parka length, has tons of pockets, is waterproof, and has an amazing hood and collar that swallows up the face, neck, and head.
SPECIFICATIONS
Insulation and Fill Power
Synthetic
Fill Weight
200 grams
Removable Hood
Yes
Hood Adjustments
2 side drawcords, 1 topside adjustment strap
Shell Fabric
100% polyester
We don't like that the Landroamer II has a lot of stitched seams. This allows for more entry points for precipitation. However, all of the seams are sealed, which should help mitigate this. We also think this jacket's zippers are average quality, but with this price point, we realize you can't have your cake and eat it too. The Landroamer is warm, but not the warmest, so if you live where it's absolutely frigid, you may want to consider one of the other options in our lineup. Our personal opinion is we wouldn't push this jacket much below the 20°F mark. That all said, for daily wear, the Landroamer is a superb choice, and it won't disappoint. If you like the full-length parka look, but want something that is a little more polished, the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka and the Cotopaxi Calidez Down Parka have great style, though they will cost more.
The Landroamer II is versatile enough for just about any winter activity, but honestly, we loved wearing it for normal daily stuff, like walking around. Credit: Jason Wanlass
More rugged than a down puffy, but lighter than a traditional winter parka, the REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka uses a mix of down and synthetic insulation mapped into a jacket that will keep you warm when temps drop below freezing. The Stormehenge has 850-fill down around the torso and sleeves (where you are more likely to need warmth), and polyester fill around the cuffs and the hood (where the jacket is more likely to get wet). This clever combination ensures that you are able to stay warm and dry in any condition. On top of this, a two-layer waterproof shell, a cinchable hood, and snug wrist cuffs kept out a hefty dose of wet precipitation in our testing.
SPECIFICATIONS
Insulation and Fill Power
850-fill goose down, 180 g polyester fill (98% recycled) in hem and cuffs, 80 g polyester fill in hood, sleeves, and side panels
Fill Weight
Down: 180 grams, polyester: 80 grams
Removable Hood
No
Hood Adjustments
2 side drawcords, 1 rear drawcord
Shell Fabric
HydroWall 2L
The Stormhenge has a shorter cut, which automatically limits its warmth. The bottom also flares out in a way that we found unflattering. With a drawstring cinch at the bottom, this doesn't affect warmth, but we prefer more stylish options when exploring the city. The high-fill power down makes it one of the lightest jackets in our lineup, but it has a lower fill-weight (fewer feathers), which also reduces its warmth. If you live in a climate where you don't get a lot of below-zero (°F) days, but you do get heavy, wet snowstorms, the weatherproofing features of the Stormhenge Down Hybrid will suit you well. For an upgrade in quality, the Patagonia Stormshadow is very similar to the Stormhenge, but it's better built, warmer, and more eco-friendly.
The REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka has good adjustability features to seal out the cold without blocking peripheral vision or cutting short your range of motion. Credit: GearLab Staff
If you want to wear a winter parka without looking like you're wearing a winter parka, the Patagonia Jackson Glacier is the jacket for you. The style is more akin to a down jacket, but it offers the added water- and wind-resistance of a 2-ply H2No performance shell. When worn on bike rides through wet, slushy rain, we arrived at our destination bone dry on the inside. A roomy fit allows you to layer as needed, and doesn't feel restrictive through the shoulders and waist. 700-fill power down is on par with some of the warmest jackets we tested, and has the benefit of being comparatively lightweight. The Jackson Glacier only has three pockets: two at the side and one at the chest. This might be disappointing for some, but the minimalist design worked well for our tester, and the pockets are roomy enough to stash most of your personal items. Plus, they each have water-tight zip closures to provide better protection for your tech.
The most notable downside is that this jacket has a waist-length cut that just can't keep up with the warmth provided by longer parkas. It also lacks some protective features and is less likely to perform well in a heavy storm or sub-zero temps. There is no way to cinch the cuffs tight against your wrists, and there is no baffle or ruff on the hood to keep wind and snow off your face. That said, visibility is much improved over other winter parkas, and a fluffy fur ruff can be a bit of a divisive style detail that many choose to remove anyway. If you want an understated yet warm winter jacket that you can wear to work, dinner, or to walk the dog on the trail behind the house, the Jackson Glacier is for you.
Just shy of the level of waterproofing you'd expect from a rain jacket, the Patagonia Glacier is great for winter climates that alternate between wet, heavy snow and blustery winds. Credit: Veronica Palmer
The Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka is an extremely versatile cold-weather jacket with a built-in layering system that can adapt to a wide variety of temperatures, weather conditions, and activities. It is the most versatile jacket in our current lineup and is a fan favorite among our men's reviewers (the same goes for the women's version) for its style, appealing fabrics, and noticeable comfort. The Tres 3-in-1 features an insulated down layer and a water/windproof outer layer that can zip together into one jacket or be worn independently. This gives the user three entirely different layering systems to wage war with a wide variety of elements and temperatures. When fully layered, it can provide warmth on the coldest winter days, and it is roomy enough to accommodate the addition of a sweater, beanie, and scarf without looking or feeling too bulky. It's durable enough for winter recreation, yet dressy enough for casual to semi-formal events.
We don't like this jacket's large front pockets — at least not for hand warming. There are no side-entry pockets on the Tres 3-in-1, and stuffing your hands in the top of the pockets isn't very ergonomic, making them uncomfortable to use while walking. Additionally, they have zippered closures, so the zipper teeth grind against the hands and wrists. That said, these pockets are weatherproof, very secure, and excellent for storing valuables. We have one other 3-in-1 option in our lineup: the Outdoor Research Foray 3-in-1 Parka. It doesn't match the warmth of this Patagonia jacket, but it is very weatherproof and an excellent option if you're in the market for a thinner jacket that can double as active wear.
Go Go Gadget Jacket. This amazing 3-in-1 has tons of style options and can morph into several different layering options to protect against whatever weather you're facing. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Okay, let's get real. The Canada Goose Expedition Parka is legit, BUT, it's super expensive. So, if cash flow isn't a problem — or if you simply need the most weatherproof jacket on the market — this one's the best out there. It's impossible to list everything you get for your money in just a few paragraphs; however, some of the things we loved the most are this jacket's dense arctic-proof shell, down insulation, snappy ribbed-knit cuffs, drawstring waist, elastic powder skirt, and massive insulated hood. And, don't get us started on this beast's incredible pocket system — they're everywhere. It almost goes without saying that this jacket is warm, windproof, and waterproof. Do you need it for your daily commute, or for a quick milk-and-bread trip at the local grocery store? Probably not. Only you can decide if this jacket is worth it. However, we're sure of one thing: you'll get what you pay for.
SPECIFICATIONS
Insulation and Fill Power
625-fill (80% down, 20% feathers)
Fill Weight
Not specified
Removable Hood
No
Hood Adjustments
Adjustable bracing, 2 drawcords.
Shell Fabric
Arctic-Tech (83% polyester and 17% cotton)
As for negatives, the Expedition Parka is one of the heaviest in our lineup and extremely bulky, so traveling with it to see the Northern Lights in Norway could be a bit of a pain. It's also probably too warm to wear if your average winter temps are anywhere above 20°F, though if you're a perpetually cold person, you might appreciate it. Still, its bulk makes it less practical than other jackets we tested, and we already mentioned its hefty price tag. However, all of this aside, you simply can't find a better option when it comes to reliability, performance, and quality. So, if you simply want the best, trust us, you've found it. The closest matches to the Expedition, with more reasonable price tags, are the Fjallraven Nuuk Parka and the The North Face McMurdo Down Parka.
Update February 2026 Canada Goose is making a small design change to the Expedition Parka. The manufacturer has made the decision to go fur-free, and all future models of this jacket will be available without the fur ruff on the hood. We confirmed with Canada Goose that other aspects of the jacket remain the same.
The Patagonia Stormshadow came up just short of winning an award, but it most certainly earned our respect. Well-built and designed for extremes, this jacket is a solid contender if you need a superb product that will protect you in cold, wet conditions. This jacket is lightweight (2.6 lb, XL), but don't let that fool you into believing it's weak — quite the opposite. The Stormshadow's 100-percent recycled down insulation (700-fill) is plentiful and warm. It's also shielded by a protective membrane of GORE-TEX, giving it the perfect blend of warmth and weather protection. This jacket performs extremely well in wind, rain, sleet, snow, and cold. We loved its elastic wrists, insulated drawstring hood, cinching waist, and deep collar. We wore it for weeks in humid, cold weather, and we always felt protected.
SPECIFICATIONS
Insulation and Fill Power
700-fill down
Fill Weight
Not specified
Removable Hood
No
Hood Adjustments
2 side drawcords, 1 rear drawcord
Shell Fabric
100% recycled polyester
We didn't like the length of the Stormshadow; we thought it would look better (and be warmer) as a full-length parka. However, its higher hemline allowed for better mobility and versatility. It's also a bit puffy and tends to look bulky despite being very lightweight. We supposed the trade-off was the added warmth that the extra insulation provided. It is also pretty expensive; however, given this jacket's sealed seams, incredible stitching, massive main-zipper storm flap, GORE-TEX lining, and eco-friendly properties, the extra cost did seem justified. In short, this jacket will cost you a bit more, but we definitely see why it will appeal to a broad range of buyers. Similar options include the Marmot Oslo and REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka, which are both just as weatherproof, but not quite as warm.
Notable for its hard-wearing style with just a bit of retro vibes, we think the Patagonia Downdrift is worth a solid shout-out. We love this jacket for its laid-back look, but it brings much more to the table than its strong jawline. Its biggest flex is an incredible Nylon exterior shell made from 100% recycled fishing nets. Nearly every jacket we've studied has a shell made from polyester, but we were extra impressed by the Downdrift's nylon-based durability and ruggedness. And, it gets even better. This jacket's 600-fill insulation is composed of 100% recycled down. So, not only is the Downdrift warm and durable, but it's also incredibly eco-friendly. Other features we loved were its insulated, removable hood, great zippers, and elastic cuffs.
SPECIFICATIONS
Insulation and Fill Power
600-fill down
Fill Weight
Not specified
Removable Hood
Yes
Hood Adjustments
1 rear drawcord
Shell Fabric
100% recycled nylon
We found the Downdrift to be highly water-resistant, but we're not sure we'd call it fully waterproof. However, we had no real issues during our tests. We didn't like this jacket's front pockets. They employ a fold-over design that makes it difficult to open, especially with cold hands and fingers. We also think it has somewhat of a boxy look, so the fit will be largely up to your preference. Lastly, we liked the elastic cuffs. They clamp well around the wrists, but they aren't adjustable or comfortable. However, the Downdrift offers exceptional durability and warmth for a great price. So, if you want something with a retro-urban-rugged vibe, this one fits the bill. To boot, it's also more environmentally friendly, all at a very reasonable price. Similar to the Downdrift is the Marmot Fordham. We also loved its rugged appearance and found it to be slightly warmer.
This jacket is perfect for hanging around a fire with friends, hitting the sledding hill, or just heading to dinner and the movies. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Product Comparison Table
Trying our best to get a group product shot, but Mother Nature decided to crash our party. During months of testing, we try to examine every detail of every jacket. We use them in as many real-life settings as possible to find the true scope of their capabilities. Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Tested
We've analyzed winter jackets for over a decade and have had hands-on experience wearing and testing over 70 different men's coats. We've refined our testing process and metrics to a rigorous and thorough standard over the years, and we've worn these jackets in every type of winter weather, doing every kind of winter activity — from wandering northern cities to exploring the wilds and small towns in between. We check for warmth features like cinchable straps around any openings — hood, hem, and sleeve cuffs. And intentionally go out in heavy winter storms to test the winder resistance and face protection offered by the hoods. We stand out in below-freezing temps in the middle of the night to push these jackets to the limits of their warmth. See our full How We Test article to get a complete picture of the testing process we put each jacket through.
Our winter jackets are tested side by side and then individually scored against five rating metrics:
Warmth (30% of overall score weighting)
Weather Resistance (25% weighting)
Comfort (25% weighting)
Versatility and Style (10% weighting)
Construction Quality (10% weighting)
We're no strangers to cold weather, and have tested complete layering systems to wear under a winter coat, including fleece jackets for a non-bulky mid-layer, and warm base layers, both of which are essential if you plan to venture out into the cold for an extended period. Hitting the slopes? A good ski jacket is a whole different ball game, and we have slightly different criteria for what makes the best one.
Why Trust GearLab
Our winter jacket test team is headed up by full-time Utah resident Jason Wanlass, who is no stranger to wild winter weather. Jason is an avid trail-seeker who has backpacked routes in Iceland, Nepal, France, Switzerland, Slovenia, and the Patagonian region of Argentina and Chile. He has also braved the wilds of Sweden, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary in the dead of winter. He's weathered decades of Utah winters and faced fierce conditions in remote corners of the globe, giving him the expertise to distinguish between jackets that are the real deal and those that won't stand up to real winter weather.
We rotate through each jacket for months at a time, paying attention to small details like cuffs and hood cinches, warmth during various activities, and overall comfort and wearability.
Analysis and Test Results
We rated each jacket's performance in the key areas, and through our testing process, we learned exactly what to look for in a winter coat and how to narrow down the options. Read on for specifics about how the jackets fared in the individual metrics that comprise the overall scores.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
A good winter jacket can be pricey. In fact, it might be the most expensive piece of clothing many people own. That said, it is one of the most essential pieces of clothing in your winter kit, and can make the difference between enjoying beautiful winter days and shivering miserably, wishing summer would arrive sooner.
The REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka and Columbia Landroamer II hit the sweet spot for most people's budgets. They both are warm and have weatherproof shells. The Stormhenge uses a hybrid down/polyester insulation that helps keep the cost down without sacrificing warmth. The Landroamer uses synthetic insulation that is also quite warm. The Columbia Hikebound II Insulated is a good jacket to consider if your budget for winter attire is very limited. This jacket will keep you warm enough, has a bomber waterproof outershell, and has a roomy cut that allows you to layer when needed. It retails for less than half the price of many other jackets we tested, leaving you some spare cash to spend on a good sweater.
The McMurdo's value hinges on a reasonable price tag, great warmth ratings, durability, and versatility. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Warmth
Warmth is directly dependent on the type of insulation (down vs synthetic) used in a jacket, as well as the amount. Generally, the more insulation a jacket contains, the warmer it is. With down, you can also consider the fill power, which measures the loftiness of each feather inside. Higher fill-power down will keep you warm, even if there is less of it. Of course, the most helpful measurement for warmth is comparative testing in real-life conditions. To do this, we wore each coat extensively and collected anecdotal data. We also strapped Bluetooth thermometers to our bodies and stood out in the cold to record each jacket's maximum interior temperature.
Our top performer in this metric was, without question, the Canada Goose Expedition Parka, which earned the only perfect 10 in the review. It is followed closely by the Fjallraven Nuuk. Although not a true expedition parka like the Expedition, the Nuuk is built for frigid conditions and is by far one of the warmest parkas in our lineup. Right on the heels of the Nuuk is the The North Face McMurdo.
The Nuuk and the McMurdo share identical scores here. Both parkas are warm and built for long-term exposure to cold, even if you are standing still. Their defining difference is insulation. The Nuuk is lined with Supreme Microloft synthetic insulation, while the McMurdo is stuffed with 600-fill down. We used thermal imaging to compare each jacket's ability to hold in heat on chilly winter nights. Both performed well, but the Nuuk was more effective.
Darker colors indicate lower temperatures, clearly showing where heat is lost through fabric. What these images can't show is that a looser fit — like the bottom portion of the Fjallraven Nuuk — allows heat to escape from underneath the jacket, rather than through it. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Lighter hues in the images indicate more rapid or extensive heat loss through the fabric, while the darker shades show how well body heat is being preserved. Although images of the McMurdo are lighter in color, we liked how it more evenly disperses heat throughout the entire jacket. Importantly, though the Fjallraven Nuuk immediately appears to be holding more heat, the bottom portion of this jacket is looser. This allows the heat to escape from below the hem, rather than through the fabric of the jacket.
Despite not being an expedition parka, the Nuuk still offers substantial warmth at a fraction of the cost of its beefier brethren. Credit: Jason Wanlass
One common feature among the top performers is a fur or faux-fur ruff around the hood, which can help block wind and snow and trap warmth around your face. Both the Nuuk and the McMurdo are lined with synthetic fur, which makes them preferable in stormy weather.
Showing off our McMurdo's fake fur. It's a serious game-changer on cold, snowy, windy days. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other top performers include the Marmot Fordham, Patagonia Stormshadow, Columbia Landroamer II, Patagonia Jackson Glacier, and the Patagonia Downdrift. Most of these have down fill, allowing them to be lightweight and warm. For warmth alone, our favorites among the five are the Stormshadow and the Glacier. Specifically, we loved wearing the Jackson Glacier when we knew we were in for some wet winter weather. The 700-fill down kept us warm and dry for extended periods in dense precipitation, and moisture rolled right off the waterproof H2No performance shell, keeping the insulation dry and lofty. The Columbia Landroamer II is the only one of the five that uses synthetic insulation. We were highly impressed with its warmth. In particular, its interior is composed of Columbia's Omni-Heat liner, which does a fairly effective job at reflecting body heat.
At first, we thought the Landroamer's Omni-Heat liner was a gimmick. But, we soon found that it actually makes a difference. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Fill Power
When talking about down jackets, we often mention the fill power of the down, which can range from 400-900+. This number simply refers to the loftiness and quality of the down. Higher loft = fluffier feathers that trap more air and provide more warmth per feather. You can generally count on a high fill-power to provide the same warmth with less bulk. However, fill power is not the only side of the story here. Warmth also depends on fill weight. Fill weight refers to the actual amount of down used in a jacket, and a higher weight = a warmer jacket. For ultimate warmth, you'll want high fill power and high fill weight.
The Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka got our vote for its versatile warmth. This jacket has two separate layers: a long, waterproof outer jacket and a decently warm inner down puffy. Each can be worn separately, the down if you only need warmth but no waterproofing, and the shell if you need a rain jacket with less insulation. When combined, the two layers really pack a punch in terms of warmth and protection, making it functional across a wide range of climates and temperatures. The Tres 3-in-1 is also the longest jacket on our list, which is perhaps its greatest warmth feature.
Wearing all of the Patagonia Tres's layers as we crunch through the snowy wilds of Sweden's Lapland. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Lastly, we were quite impressed with the REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka. It didn't garner super high warmth scores, but it is quite warm for its weight. The Stormhenge is insulated with a unique blend of 850-fill goose down and synthetic fibers, making it one of the lightest full parkas in our lineup.
After being pelted with heavy, slushy snow on our morning bike ride, we remained dry and warm on the inside when wearing the Patagonia Jackson Glacier. Credit: Veronica Palmer
Weather Resistance
Heavy storms are an inevitable part of winter life, making weather resistance a vital factor to consider when purchasing a jacket for battling the elements. This metric makes up 25 percent of each jacket's overall score. Winter jackets must be a catch-all garment that can protect you against wind, snow, rain, sleet, and whatever kind of wacko weather winter throws at you. The ultimate goal is to keep you and the insulation dry. Specs to pay attention to include jacket length, pocket design, adjustable cuffs, drawstring hems and hoods, storm flaps, and waterproof membranes.
Some of the toughest jackets in this metric were the Canada Goose Expedition Parka, Fjallraven Nuuk Parka, Patagonia Jackson Glacier, Patagonia Stormshadow, Marmot Oslo, and the REI Co-op Stormhenge Parka. Each jacket is super weatherproof. They combine quality insulation with a heavy-duty waterproof shell, a formula that seems to be working out pretty well.
The Stormshadow uses GORE-TEX, sealed seams, a massive main zipper storm flap, and tons of down to effectively block out wind, rain, sleet, snow, and cold. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Jackson Glacier and Stormshadow, both from Patagonia, proved themselves during our shower tests by outperforming all the jackets on our list. The Glacier has a double-layer H2No performance fabric exterior, and the Stormshadow has a Gore-Tex membrane. The Stormhenge also has impressive fabric, but the Glacier's durable, watertight zippers made the half-point difference between these jackets. Nonetheless, all three were impenetrable in our testing, even when we intentionally exposed them to a full stream of water from the shower head.
Both side pockets and the main zip form a tight seal that prevents water and wind from entering. Credit: Veronica Palmer
The Stormhenge's treated nylon shell is laminated with REI's HydroWall 2L waterproof membrane. Combined, the two create an incredible barrier against precipitation, keeping the down fill dry and lofty.
Gold medal worthy. Every drop rolls off our Stormhenge during a three minute deluge. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Some of our other top performers include the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka, Columbia Landroamer II, Outdoor Research Stormcraft Down Parka, and Outdoor Research Foray. The Outdoor Research Foray is a very lightweight 3-in-1 jacket that consists of two individual layers that can be worn together or independently. Its outer polyester Gore-Tex shell protects very well against wind and rain. It is a good option if you need a lighter-weight, but very waterproof coat.
Trying to decide if we really want to head out for a winter hike. The Foray is perfect for this type of winter recreation. It's lightweight, warm enough, and shielded in Gore-Tex so you're protected from wind, rain, and snow. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We were also quite impressed with The North Face McMurdo Parka, Marmot Fordham. Both offer great protection from the elements, but worth specific mention is the McMurdo. The combination of its nylon shell, waterproof DryVent membrane, and 600-fill down blocks wind and rain like a brick wall.
The Marmot's dense shell and plentiful down block the elements very well. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Comfort
Ideally, a good winter parka combines insulation and weather resistance into a comfortable package you can easily wear and move in all day. Often, the sheer volume of material in the warmest jackets can be restrictive, which is where clever design and high-fill-power down come in handy. Leading the pack are the Patagonia Jackson Glacier, the Columbia Landroamer II, and the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka.
The Jackson Glacier has a cloudlike feel you usually only get with a down jacket. Our tester remarked that he often forgot he was even wearing it. The cut is relaxed enough to allow for a full range of motion in the shoulders, and we could comfortably fit a light fleece underneath without feeling bulky. It is a bit wide around the bottom hem, but you can use the drawstring to tighten up the waist.
Even when reaching forward for the handlbars of our e-bike, the fabric didn't pull too tight across our shoulders. Credit: Veronica Palmer
The Columbia Landroamer II also surprised us when it came to its amazing comfort. We didn't expect much at all from this jacket, but were extremely impressed from the first time we wore it. It perfectly walks the tightrope of comfort. It's large but still tailored enough to look great. It's also dense, but still lightweight enough to wear all day.
The Landroamer has great sleeves, and it's perfectly notched in the armpits to allow for maximum maneuverability. And although being a full-length parka, this jacket bends well with the body. Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka has a tailored yet flexible fit, and our tester said, “I wore this jacket almost every day for three months and never grew tired of it.” In particular, the herringbone polyester shell is incredibly pliable and hangs similarly to a men's suit coat. Sharing the same testing score as the Tres 3-in-1 is the Cotopaxi Calidez Down Parka. The Cotopaxi is lightweight, super soft, and very accommodating.
The Cotopaxi is comfortable enough to slip on for a casual walk around town. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other comfy jackets include the Marmot Fordham, Outdoor Research Foray 3-in-1, Marmot Oslo, and The North Face McMurdo Down Parka. Additionally, we absolutely loved wearing the Fjallraven Nuuk. The liner is very plush, and the hood and pockets are fleece-lined, creating a cozy landing spot for cold hands. This jacket is weighty and dense, which gives it a certain heft that we enjoyed carrying, though the weight may feel cumbersome in some situations.
The Nuuk is so comfortable, we could lay around in it all day. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Versatility and Style
Style varies from one individual to the next, and our personalities show through our clothing choices — winter jackets included. This review includes a range of parka-style jackets, some with a slightly formal edge, others that convey more of a retro-inspired taste, and some that prioritize function over form. It really comes down to what you like and what you don't. Versatility, on the other hand, is a bit easier to pinpoint. Owning a jacket that not only looks good but one that meets or exceeds your needs is key.
Our hands-down favorite in this metric is the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka, for both style and for its wide range of practical uses. Its excellent layering system provides protection for three full seasons of the year — fall, winter, and spring — and for many, it could quickly become your most-worn jacket.
Showing off the king of versatility. Its layering system allows the Tres 3-in-1 to protect you just about anywhere, doing just about anything. Credit: Jason Wanlass
We also really liked the versatility and style of the Cotopaxi Calidez, Patagonia Stormshadow, Columbia Landroamer II, and Columbia Hikebound II. Of these four, our favorite is the Landroamer II. It scores higher in style than in versatility (it's a little too bulky for some winter activities), but it has a highly wearable monochromatic design that we just loved wearing wherever we were headed.
We especially loved just being out and about in our Landroamer. It's very wearable and has enough style to look good doing just about anything. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Following closely behind these top performers are the The North Face McMurdo and Marmot Fordham. In particular, we really loved the McMurdo's ability to be somewhat of a technical jacket but, at the same time, have that iconic The North Face vibe that has become somewhat of a streetwear staple. It just looks cool in any setting.
Just shoveling snow - but lookin' extra dope doing it in the McMurdo. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Likewise, the Fjallraven Nuuk's urban-native vibe looks great in any setting; it's versatile enough to perfectly balance between outdoor life and city life.
Tromping through Sweden's Lapland. The Nuuk just looks cool no matter where you are. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Lastly, we really like the relaxed, understated look of both the Patagonia Jackson Glacier and the Patagonia Downdrift. Both are warm and rugged enough for a full day of sledding, but also versatile enough to wear to the movies or dinner and still look good.
We appreciate jackets like the Downdrift that are comfortable and versatile enough to wear all day while doing normal, everyday things like making a run to the grocery store.
Construction Quality
Purchasing a winter jacket can sometimes be a significant investment, and you'd be right to expect reasonable durability and longevity. Of all the metrics, this is probably the one where “you get what you pay for” really applies. Features to look for include tight, close stitching, scratch-resistant fabrics, and smooth zippers.
Our most durable performers were theCanada Goose Expedition Parka, Fjallraven Nuuk, the Patagonia Jackson Glacier, Patagonia Stormshadow, and Outdoor Research Stormcraft Down Parka. Both the Canada Goose and Fjallraven models are extremely hardy and built to last, and the Patagonia Jackson has a rugged construction that feels invincible. For some users, they could legitimately be a lifetime purchase if properly cared for. With tight stitching, rugged materials, great accents, and quality insulation, we couldn't find a weak area in any of these five models.
Everything about the Canada Goose Expedition Parka screams quality. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other top-notch jackets include the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka, The North Face McMurdo Down Parka, Cotopaxi Calidez, and Patagonia Downdrift, Marmot Fordham, and Marmot Oslo. For being down jackets, the Downdrift and Fordham, in particular, are very durable. Both have very strong shells, but the Downdrift's shell is nylon, and is composed of 100% recycled fishing nets.
Although thinner and lighter in weight than other jackets, the Oslo is still very well-built. We loved its tight stitching, sealed seams, and GORE-TEX lining. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Other Notable Men's Winter Jackets
For this review, we selected the warmest of the warm; the jackets that can stand up to winter squalls, late fall sleet storms, and early spring slush. There are a few options that didn't make it into the current lineup, but we feel are still worth mentioning.
The REI Co-op Magma 850 Hoodie is a deceptively small down jacket. It is not the warmest jacket out there, but it is one of the most comfortable, and the 850-fill power down provides enough warmth for most situations while cutting down on the bulk. We didn't include it in our lineup of parka-style jackets because it really can't compare to the weatherproofing abilities of some of our top scorers. But for those who don't need a jacket that can handle arctic winds, the Magma hoodie is versatile enough that you will find yourself reaching for it year-round, whether as a laying piece for winter days, or a standalone for chilly summer backpacking trips. To top it off, it is also one of the most affordable options we tested in our down jacket review.
The Marmot Oslo is incredibly lightweight, but also very protective. This jacket will do the job for most winter activity because it's chocked full of 700-fill down that is heavily shielded behind a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane. This dynamic duo of feathers and technology allows the Oslo to weigh less while protecting more. In fact, its highest scores were for its weather-resistance and construction quality. However, keep in mind that we think anything below 20°F may be too cold for this jacket (unless you're moving — A LOT). We also loved its plentiful pockets, waterproof zippers, and comfortable fit. If we were to give it a label, we'd call it a near-perfect general daily wearer with an outdoor flare. But, whatever you call it, it's certainly one of our fan-favorite go-tos for just about any winter adventure or activity.
The Feathered Friends Khumbu Down Parka is another jacket that we tested and liked in the past. It uses 900-fill power down (and a lot of it) to provide one of the warmest winter cocoons we have ever worn. It earned a perfect 10/10 for warmth and isn't nearly as heavy (or expensive) as the Canada Goose Expedition Parka. The Khumbu manages to be moderately water-resistant without adding a heavy outer shell. This jacket is really too warm to wear in temperatures above 20°F anyway, so it's unlikely that less waterproofing will be a problem. For those who are looking for a sweater cozy down jacket that they can wear through multiple seasons, and use to layer, this isn't it. If seeing the mercury drop to 0°F is a regular occurrence for you, and your daily routine takes you outside anyway, you might appreciate it.
I said, “get in the car!” We often grew tired of driving these punks around. Credit: Jason Wanlass
Conclusion
Choosing the right winter jacket for your needs and your budget can be somewhat daunting. Just one search can bring up an endless scroll of brand names, styles, features, qualities, and functions. Lucky for you, our experts have already been down many of those rabbit holes to find a wide variety of jackets that could suit your needs. We've looked at hundreds, whittled those lists down to dozens, and then got our hands on many of the very best options for side-by-side testing. In the end, we hope our efforts will help you find the best product your money can buy.
