Pros
- Great weight-to-warmth ratio
- Windproof and water-repellent shell
- Extra lofty and plush insulation
- Close-fitting hood, cuffs, and collar
Cons
- Relaxed fit could look a bit baggy
With a balanced weight-to-warmth ratio, a fully windproof shell, and the insulation to keep you warm from 32F to -40F, Lululemon’s Wunder Puff Jacket is a true gem. The exterior feels buttery-soft and effortlessly repels water, leaving you virtually dry even in the heaviest rain and sleet. We know because we’ve taken this jacket for several rides in the backcountry.
While the 600-fill-power down is not the most impressive, the amount as well as the plush channels of it really help turn up the heat. Wearing this coat feels like being enveloped in a marshmallow. It’s unbelievably light yet plushy and exceptionally insulated. The pockets are deep and the soft lining makes them feel extra cozy—and like a haven for cold hands that need that needed warmth.
We also love the design elements, from the relaxed fit for larger layering to the close-fitting hood and cuffs. The high collar is another notable feature that offers full protection for your neck and lower face against biting winds and cold temperatures. Even better: What we found different about this option versus others on the list is the stretch, which provided mobility and flexibility for our testers, who were able to hike, travel, and do campsite hangouts in it comfortably.
Read More: Best Men’s Puffer Jackets
Insulation Type | 600-fill-power goose down (80% grey goose down, 20% grey goose feathers) |
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Shell Materials | 100% polyester |
Fit | Relaxed |
Pros
- Lengthy cut offers more protection than shorter options
- Windproof
- Hood fastener stows inside the collar for neat look
- Clean, matte fabric is water-repellent
- Sizes range up to 3XL
Cons
- Not completely waterproof
The longer the coat, the less chance of cold drafts sneaking their way in. Enter Uniqlo’s lengthy puffer coat, stopping right at the knee for extended protection. But the cold-weather defense doesn’t end there—this coat is an all-around safeguard from the elements. Its matte shell is windproof, treated with a durable water-repellent finish, and packed with high-performance 750-fill power down to keep you super warm without unnecessary bulk. It even has a versatile hood that tucks away neatly into the collar, letting you keep your look sharp when you’re not braving a blizzard.
While some long puffer coats might feel shapeless and leave you looking like a walking snowman, Uniqlo’s version has a relaxed fit that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style. The Japanese brand designed it with a roomy silhouette, perfect for layering sporty fits or business casual looks—like crewneck over an Oxford shirt paired with clean trousers. And though this might seem like a small detail to some, we found the ribbed cuffs to be an underrated feature that makes a big difference. Unlike the Mango or Mr.P puffers, which have looser, open cuffs, Uniqlo’s snug cuffs hug your wrists tight, preventing cold air from creeping up your sleeves.
Insulation Type | Fill power of 750+ |
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Shell Materials | 100% polyester |
Fit | Relaxed |
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Pros
- Water-resistant fabric
- Versatile for casual, daily wear in the city or suburb
- Fleece-lined and insulated hood
- Under $100
Our testers say this heavyweight option proves you don’t have to drop major cash in order to stay warm and cozy. It’s budget-friendly, sure, but it doesn’t skimp on quality to get there. Going strictly by performance, this jacket has everything you need to tackle winter head-on. With water-resistant polyester taffeta, this coat easily repels light and heavy rain—we’ve experienced it firsthand. And you can count on the fleece-lined and insulated hood to trap heat like a pro. Whether you’re shoveling the driveway, building a snowman with your kids, or taking the dog out for a walk, this jacket holds up in the low 20s and keeps the elements where they belong—on the outside.
If you want to make it through the year’s most unbearable season, it’s crucial that you have a hefty winter coat like this in your arsenal. Yes, it can seem a tad bulky at times, but that won’t completely cramp your style. Since it arrives in a relaxed fit, layering was an easy feat and we didn’t run into any clothes bunching up. All in all, our comfort level in this coat was better than we anticipated, considering it’s a fraction of the cost of our other pricey costs tucked away in the closet.
Insulation Type | N/A |
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Shell Materials | 100% polyester |
Fit | Relaxed |
Pros
- Omni-Shield repels moisture and resists stains
- Made with water resistance and advanced repellency
- Chin guard prevents chafing
- Thermal lining and down fill work together to retain body heat
- Great for hikers
Cons
- Not the most resistant against wind
Delightfully light yet heavy-duty when it comes to retaining your body heat and warming you up, Columbia’s down jacket packs a lot of tech features that make it thermoregulating, water-resistant, but also breathable. “As someone who loves to layer my outerwear, this puffer was perfect for throwing over my favorite thin hoodie I used as a midlayer,” says our tester.
The 650 down fill feels lofty without being too puffy, and, coupled with the brand’s signature Omni-heat reflective lining on the inside (a shiny silver lining) that manages body heat across a wide range of outdoor climates, our tester was able to sport Columbia’s jacket on occasions from mildly cold NYC to long hikes in Alaska. We also love the baffle design texture of the jacket which holds insulation in place and gives it a more dynamic appearance opposed to the other puffers we’ve tested.
Insulation Type | 650 down fill and baffling |
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Shell Materials | 100% polyester |
Fit | Active |
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Pros
- Wind- and waterproof and highly protective against rain and snow
- Easy to layer underneath
- Warm enough for both freezing cold and mild winter temps
- Velcro cuffs secure tight closure
Cons
- Tend to sell out often
Patagonia’s Windshadow Parka is like your all-in-one cold-weather hero. If you’re after a jacket that handles everything from chilly winds to unexpected downpours without weighing you down, this is the one to grab. The two-layer body fabric is a total game-changer. It’s treated with a hydrophobic PU lamination, which is a fancy way of saying it’s got a water-repellent finish that’s seriously effective—rain just beads and rolls right off. Plus, the jacket’s insulated with 200g of Thermal Green polyester in the body (that’s Patagonia’s sustainable, high-performance insulation) to keep you warm in freezing temps, and the hood and sleeves are packed with a slightly lighter 150g to keep things cozy but not overstuffed.
Fit-wise, we love the regular cut because it’s not too tight or too loose—it’s the sweet spot. You can throw a few layers under it without feeling restricted, and its still slim profile keeps things looking sleek, not bulky. The hood is spacious but cinches down with a drawcord, so whether you want to pull it tight in a storm or leave it loose for a bit more air, you’re good to go. And of course, it’s not just water-resistant—it’s fully waterproof, so you’re ready for rain, snow, or anything in between. Overall, the insulation and ruggedness of the parka provide the versatility and fundamental warmth you need for everyday use in winter.
Insulation Type | 200-g (body) and 150-g (hood/sleeves) Thermogreen 100% recycled polyester |
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Shell Materials | 2-layer, 4.7-oz 150-denier 100% recycled polyester ripstop |
Fit | Regular |
Pros
- Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, tubing
- Excellent weight-to-warmth ratio
- Stows away in pocket for easy transportability
- Fishtail hem provides extra coverage
Cons
- Might have to use more force for zipper in freezing temps
Even gusty winds and snow flurries don’t stand a chance against the Fjallraven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie. In other words, if you’re heading out there on the slopes to ski or snowboard, you want to have this bad boy on your back because it’s practically built for all winter adventures. The hood itself pulls tight around your face to shut out any breeze, thanks to the yellow drawcord and leather tabs. Since the padded coat is designed with 700-fill power down stitched into channels, you have an excellent weight-to-warmth ratio ideal for active outdoor use. During a trip to Aspen, we found the insulation over the shoulders does wonders, fighting off moisture and pressure like a champ.
Falling at the hip with a fishtail hem in the back, this option provides enough coverage to make sure you don’t feel a thing. The cut is rather slim, but not suffocating for athletic builds. Another bonus: When you’re done, it stows away into its own pocket, and boom—ready to go.
Insualtion Type | 90% goose down, 10% feather |
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Shell Materials | Recycled nylon |
Fit | Slim |
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Pros
- Can handle all weather: rain, sleet, hail or snow
- Has the highest fill down on the list (800)
- Extremely durable
- Comes with adjustable, detachable hood
Cons
- Pricey, but long-lasting compared to others
One of the main purposes of a winter coat is to handle whatever weather—rain, sleet, hail or snow. If any label can deliver outerwear that’s up for the job while also inserting bold personality, it’s Moose Knuckles. Built like a tank for Canadian winters, this jacket features a water-repellent shell that shrugs off the elements with ease. During our mountaineering journey, we never were soaked, nor did we feel a chill creep in—this jacket held its ground against everything Mother Nature threw at us. Not to mention, the 800-fill down–the highest on the list—is no joke, making it a favorite for city dwellers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Moose Knuckles knows how to balance utility with good looks. The Everest 3Q has that sleek, urban aesthetic—slim enough to avoid bulk but voluminous enough to layer underneath. The quilted design and metal hardware logo adds a touch of edginess and luxury without going overboard. Yes, the price tag is a little steep, but this isn’t a jacket you’ll move on from after one season. Based on its durable craftsmanship, you’re investing in a coat that’ll survive years of wear and tear, whether you’re battling full-on snowstorms or having a blast on the slopes.
Insulation Type | 800 fill power, 90% duck down, 10% feathers |
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Shell Materials | 100% nylon |
Fit | Regular |
Pros
- Shirt-style collar has button closure to seal out cold
- Sleek, straight drape
- Looks great with monochromatic or neutral tones
Cons
- Not the heaviest wool blend
Just because winter is in full effect, doesn’t mean you can’t amp up your style. Whether it’s a festival holiday gathering or a night at the opera, dressy occasions call for a swanky coat like this one from Mango. We love that it’s adorned with a shirt-style collar, which is a subtle nod to tailored button-downs, and has a closure on both sides to seal your neck from the cold.
The fit is pretty relaxed, but has a nice, streamlined drape that keeps things looking polished without feeling stiff. Since it has a clean, minimal aesthetic, the key is to keep the rest of your outfit simple and sleek, letting the coat stand out as the statement piece. For a complete refined look, we recommend a monochromatic or neutral color scheme with a slim turtleneck sweater and tailored trousers.
It’s not the heaviest wool coat we’ve ever tested, but our editors say the material is dense enough that you won’t be shivering in 40-degree weather. And don’t think this option is only reserved for special events—we’ve worn it during quick errand runs and weekend shopping trips. The menswear brand only offers it in one color, but it should mix and match seamlessly with all shades and hues.
Insulation Type | N/A |
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Shell Materials | 59% polyester, 33% wool, 4% acrylic, 2% viscose, 2% polyamide |
Fit | Relaxed |
Pros
- An affordable, two-in-one special—grey side looks very dressy
- Keeps you warm and dry without the weight
- Great for temperatures around 32F
- Plenty of functional pockets for everyday carry
Cons
- Wind can get through the zipper
Two is always better than one. This especially rings true for a winter coat that has the duality to bring the heat and have you looking on-point without compromising on either. Speaking of which, Mack Weldon’s reversible jacket dons a quilted exterior on one side and a herringbone fabric on the opposite. The good thing is both faces are water-resistant, which means you’re ready for any unpredictable weather in style. We’ve been caught in a sudden downpour on the way to grab coffee, but the rain didn’t stop the show—the fabric easily shed moisture and kept us dry.
Our testers found that the puffer is its most versatile style that is equally great for everyday living as well as outdoor adventure. Sporty casual meets performance is kind of the vibe here, so anything from a sweatsuit to a casual crewneck over a dress shirt with chinos works. While it’s lighter in comparison to the heavier puffer jackets, the Thinsulate fill kept us hot and unbothered in both big cities as well as small towns or suburbs. Add in six pockets, you can be hands-free and secure your valuables as you’re on the move.
Insulation Type | Thinsulate fill and quilted nylon |
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Shell Materials | 100% polyester |
Fit | Slim |
Pros
- Belt helps cinch waist for streamlined silhouette
- Fabric is warm and breathable
- Ideal option for dressier occasions—holiday party or dinner date
Cons
- Cuffs don’t have elastic to seal out cold
A belt on a winter coat isn’t just an accessory—it’s like the cherry on top of your cold-weather fit, pulling everything together. Take this belted version from Mr P., which is super chic and classy, crafted from a ​​black and white Donegal wool-blend fabric that screams you’re dressed for the cold but still serving main character energy. As the layers start piling on, the belt lets you cinch your waist, keeping you from resembling an overstuffed pillow. Beyond shaping your silhouette, the belt helps seal in warmth by blocking out icy winds, so you stay cozy and exude confidence in sub-zero temps.
When it comes to styling with this coat, an all-black ensemble is your best bet—from a turtleneck and chinos down to the boots. Although the fabric isn’t as stretchy as other coats that we’ve tested, it’s not restricting in the least bit. In fact, if you want a looser fit with more room, you can go up one size.
Insulation Type | N/A |
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Shell Materials | 65% wool, 30% polyamide, 5% cashmere |
Fit | Loose |
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Pros
- Arctic Tech provides optimal warmth for extreme conditions
- Shell sheds off rain, snow, and is windproof
- Versatile for everyday city life or outdoor adventure
- Pockets galore—seven in total
Cons
- More pricier than others, but will last for a long time
Canada Goose may come with some sticker shock, but the brand’s high-performance outerwear is a smart investment that pays off tenfold in warmth, durability, and style. First thing’s first, it’s built for some serious cold. Crafted with Arctic Tech, the parka is both water-repellent and designed to handle those brutal winter days when the wind feels like it’s cutting straight through you. During our testing, we found the longer cut provides added leg protection—ideal for when the city gets hit with more than four inches of snow.
But it’s not just about staying warm; it’s about convenience, too. We’re talking pockets galore—four on the outside and three inside—so this option has more storage than your average coat. That means it’s suitable for daily commutes, weekend getaways, or those days when you need to carry more but still want to be hands-free. There’s plenty of room for essentials like your phone, wallet, beanie, or winter gloves—and even that snack you’re smuggling in. Another thoughtful touch is the chin guard, lined with tricot fabric for an extra layer of softness.
Sure, it caused a slight dent in our wallet, but we had to bite the bullet and think about the bigger picture. We can easily step outside and not feel like we’re wrestling with the elements. It’s become our go-to armor for extreme conditions, and it’s already survived three ruthless winter seasons in a row.
Insulation Type | 625 Fill Power Responsibly Sourced Down, 80% Down, 20% Feathers |
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Shell Materials | 83% Polyester, 17% Cotton |
Fit | Classic |
What Is Down Fill Power?
Fill power is basically the “fluff factor” of down insulation. It measures how much space one ounce of down can fill, which tells you how warm and lightweight a jacket will be. The higher the fill power—like 700 or 800—the better it traps heat and the less bulky the jacket feels. So, a high fill power means you’re getting maximum warmth without feeling like a marshmallow. It’s the secret sauce to staying toasty without being weighed down.
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The Difference Between Winter Coats and Winter Jackets
For most of us, the terms “jacket” and “coat” are probably interchangeable. However, the main difference between a coat and a jacket is a coat prioritizes function first. A winter coat’s main objective is to keep you warm, which is why they’re bigger and thicker, extend longer past the waist at times, and are filled with some type of insulation. A jacket, on the other hand, is considered a combination of style and warmth. They don’t typically go past the waist and they’re designed to be worn indoors at times, if you so choose. Winter jackets can be layered more with outfits too—sometimes even under a coat.
These days brands are incorporating all sorts of fabrics and using different types of construction to maximize the warmth of a winter jacket, which has made them more viable as your main outerwear garment when temperatures drop. But if we had to put a ballpark number on the temperatures a winter jacket can withstand you’d probably be good wearing most styles into the mid-30s (Fahrenheit). Anything lower than that temperature you want to consider switching over to a thick winter coat. This advice is simply based on our experiences in buying winter coats and jackets. We all interpret the cold in different ways.