Our cold-loving experts found the best winter jackets of 2023-2024. We've got something for every budget and style.
Our team of winter warriors has spent many seasons testing the best winter jackets on the market in search of the warmest and most versatile styles. This year alone, we researched dozens of models before selecting the 14 best styles to include in the Buyer’s Guide. After extensive hands-on testing in the frigid Rocky Mountain, Sierra Nevada, and Midwestern climates, we’re happy to bring you our selections for the best men’s winter jackets of 2024.
From stylish and streamlined thigh-length coats to sporty and practical expedition-weight parkas, we’ll help you find the right winter jacket for you, no matter your climate, style, budget, or intended use. We tested these winter jackets in the same types of everyday scenarios you’re likely to face. From walking the dog, shoveling snow, or running errands, to a night out on the town or hanging out after a day on the slopes, we’ve organized our selections into distinct categories to help you make an efficient and informed decision.
The winter jacket market is stuffed with innovative designs, cutting-edge insulation, and high-tech materials. To help you decide which men’s winter jacket is best for you, make sure to read our buyer’s guide and frequently asked questions for helpful tips. Also, have a look at our comparison chart to help steer your decision-making.
Editor’s Note: As winter rolls on (or is just getting started) we’ve tested the Helly Hansen Urban Pro Down Coat 2.1 and added it to our lineup as of January 9, 2024. This coat is a great value for anyone who needs knee-length coverage around town and is stylish to boot.
Best Overall Winter Jacket
2 lbs., 8.8 oz.
700-fill 100% recycled down
75D 2-Layer Gore-Tex 100% recycled polyester
Yes
Not Listed
Excellent warmth and loft
Fully waterproof Gore-Tex membrane
Includes dual front zippers with dual storm flaps
Includes draft tubes at neck and hem
Expensive
Material is a bit crinkly
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Budget Winter Jacket
2 lbs., 3.2 oz.
850-fill Bluesign-approved down, 80 & 180g polyester
2-Layer HyrdroWall recycled nylon
Yes
35.5 in.
Great warmth and protection for the weight
Great price and value
Includes 5 total pockets (2 hand warmer, 1 external chest, 1 internal chest, 1 internal stash)
Includes two-way waterproof zipper, elastic cuffs, and hood and hem adjustments
Extended length can feel a bit bulky
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Winter Jacket for Warmth and Value
3 lbs., 8.8 oz.
600-fill recycled down
70D x 160D 2-layer DryVent 100% recycled nylon
Yes
31.75 in.
Good warmth and protection for the price
Versatile and classic style
Includes 7 total pockets (2 zippered hand pockets, 2 external cargo pockets, 2 external chest pockets, 1 internal chest pocket)
Two-way front zipper with storm flap
Heavy
Hand pockets are at a weird angle
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Everyday Down Puffy
1 lb., 14.7 oz.
650-fill RDS-certified down
45D 100% Nylon ripstop
No
30 in.
Includes 8 total pockets (2 fleece-lined hand, 2 side drop-in, 2 zippered chest, 2 internal stash)
Includes two-way front zipper
Hood has drawcord adjustments and a rear webbing adjustment
Good blend of warmth, weight, features, and price
Not waterproof
Fit is somewhat boxy in the torso
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Winter Jacket for Active Use
1 lb., 0.6 oz.
100% polyester Coreloft (60, 80, & 120g)
30D 100% nylon Tyono
No
Not Listed
Lightweight
Synthetic insulation is warm and breathable
Performance-focused design includes articulated elbows
Not fully waterproof
Not as warm as dedicated winter jackets
Light on extra features
Austin Beck-Doss
Most Versatile Winter Jacket
2 lbs., 14.9 oz.
700-fill 100% recycled down
150D 2-layer H2No 100% recycled polyester
Yes
33.1 in.
3-in-1 versatility; includes removable down jacket
Burly 150D outer material with H2No waterproof membrane
Sleek style and fit
Includes dual front zippers with dual storm flaps
Includes adjustable zip-off hood
Fairly expensive
Hood is not insulated
Somewhat heavy
Austin Beck-Doss
Best of the Rest
2 lbs., 9 oz.
80% 600 fill-power duck down, 20% duck feather
100% polyamide with a PFC-free DWR
Yes
34"
Stylish
Durable
Great coverage
Good value
Poor warmth-to-weight ratio
Not very packable
Austin Beck-Doss
1 lb., 4.6 oz.
700-fill RDS-approved down, 85% recycled VerticalX ECO
53% recycled Pertex Quantum Eco
No
29 in.
Good warmth to weight ratio
Includes fleece-lined hand warmer pockets and two internal stash pockets
Includes hem and hood adjustments
Classic styling
Reasonable price
Not as warm or protective as heavier parks
Not waterproof
Austin Beck-Doss
1 lb., 3.0 oz.
700-fill recycled down with Nikwax hydrophobic finish
Pertex Quantum 3DWeave
No
29.1 in.
Lightweight and stretchy material
Good warmth to weight ratio
More streamlined fit than heavier and bulkier parkas
Includes 4 total pockets (2 zippered hand, 2 interior stash)
Down is treated with hydrophobic finish
Simple design has limited extra features
Not as warm as heavier winter jackets or parkas
Austin Beck-Doss
2 lbs., 5.8 oz.
750-fill RDS-certified down, Coreloft synthetic fill
2-Layer Gore-Tex 100% recycled nylon
Yes
Not Listed
Excellent warmth and protection
Attractive streamlined style
Fully waterproof with Gore-Tex membrane
Includes hem and hood adjustments
Includes dual front zippers
Very expensive
Extra long length can feel bulky
Austin Beck-Doss
2 lbs., 13.0 oz.
700-fill down with Down Defender treatment
Nano Pro 100% recycled polyester
No
30.5 in.
Comfortable inner sleeve cuffs
Includes dual-entry (top and side) hand warmer pockets
Hood is removable
Good warmth and value for the price
Somewhat heavy
Not fully waterproof
Austin Beck-Doss
3 lbs., 8.4 oz.
100% polyester High Loft
100% Polyamide
Yes
34 in.
Very warm
Adapts well to variable weather
Large pockets
Detachable hood
Synthetic insulation is heavier than down
Fairly bulky
Austin Beck-Doss
4 lbs., 1.3 oz.
650-fill RDS-certified down
WeatherEdge 100% recycled nylon
Yes
33 in.
Good warmth and weather protection
Includes two-way front zippers with dual storm flaps
Includes 7 total pockets (2 zippered hand, 2 external cargo, 2 external chest, 1 internal zippered)
Reasonable price tag
Much heavier than similar models
Hand pockets are at an awkward angle
Austin Beck-Doss
1 lb., 7.5 oz.
700-fill RDS-certified down
20D Durable Stretch Doubleweave: 86% Nylon, 14% Elastane
No
28.0 in.
Casual and comfy popover hoody style
Includes kangaroo pouch front pocket
Unique woven baffle construction
Reasonably lightweight
Somewhat boxy fit
Popover hoody style is less versatile for technical use
Heavier than comparable down jackets
Not as warm as dedicated winter parkas
Austin Beck-Doss
Many of the folks behind GearJunkie’s testing team dwell in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and Wyoming, the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, and the frozen midwestern plains of Minnesota. We live, work, and play in regions known for seriously cold winters, and we put each of these winter jackets to the test in many of the same conditions that you might face. From sub-zero temps with bitter winds to full-on white-out blizzards, to those damp, bone-chilling days that hover right around the freezing point, our teams have tested the best winter jackets in the worst types of weather.
During our systematic testing process, we paid careful attention to overall warmth and insulation quality, fit and comfort, weather protection, functionality, and style. From daily commutes in Minneapolis to mountaineering in the Tetons, to hiking and plowing snow in Lake Tahoe, we’ve put dozens of men’s cold-weather jackets through the wringer.
The most recent contributor to this Buyer’s Guide is year-round Lake Tahoe resident Nick Bruckbauer. Nick grew up in the great state of Wisconsin, where it’s not uncommon to see cars driving on frozen lakes in the winter, nor is it out of the question to get a freak blizzard in May. After living in Santa Barbara, Calif., for over 10 years, he decided he’d had enough sunshine and paradise, and moved to Lake Tahoe in late 2020, just in time to experience Tahoe’s snowiest season on record in 2022-2023.
Nick spends his winters skiing, shoveling and plowing snow, walking the dog, and sitting by the fire, and spends his summers swimming, paddling, running, hiking, and splitting wood to prepare for winter. His favorite winter jacket is the Patagonia Stormshadow Parka, thanks to its puffy down insulation, waterproof GORE-TEX shell, and reasonably light weight.
The term “winter jacket” is very broad and should really be divided into a few key subcategories depending on your climate and intended use. In this Buyer’s Guide, we focused primarily on winter jackets ideal for everyday use in cold to moderately cold climates. We also included a few lighter-weight pieces that are more specific for active uses or milder climates.
Winter jackets made for everyday use are ideal for casual daily wear in cold climates, and can be used for low-intensity activities like commuting to work or school, running errands around town, walking the dog, or going out to dinner. Typically, these jackets have plenty of insulation and are made from heavier materials that prioritize warmth, protection, and features. Because of this, they are more likely to restrict dynamic movement and are less likely to breathe well, making them poor choices for high-output activities like running or hiking.
Everyday winter jackets often include plenty of comfort-oriented features like cozy wrist cuffs, draft collars around the neck, fleece-lined hand pockets, and adjustable hems and hoods. They also typically have plenty of pockets to carry your wallet, keys, phone, or other necessities. These features inevitably add a little bit to the jacket’s weight, but for casual everyday use, the benefits of the added comfort and convenience definitely outweigh any minor additional weight.
One of our favorite winter jackets for everyday use is the Mountain Hardwear Nevadan Down Parka. This versatile down puffy is warm, surprisingly lightweight (1 pound, 14.7 ounces), much more stylish than most puffy jackets, and comes at a reasonable price. It also has a very impressive feature list, boasting a two-way front zipper with dual storm flaps, hood and hem adjustments, and eight total pockets that include zippered chest pockets, internal stash pockets, unique external “bevvy” pockets that hold bottles or cans, and the most comfortable fleece-lined hand pockets that we tested.
The Nevadan Down Parka from Mountain Hardwear has our favorite fleece-lined hand pockets, along with two drop-in bevvy pockets that perfectly fit a can or bottle. (Photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)Of course, most of the other winter jackets we tested are also ideal for everyday use. Our top-ranked winter jacket — the Patagonia Stormshadow Down Parka — is very warm and puffy with plenty of 700-fill down insulation and boasts a waterproof GORE-TEX shell. It also has a clean and classic style that makes it great for daily wear around town, and is light enough that it could be used for more technical uses like cold-weather camping or hiking. The North Face McMurdo Down Parka is very warm and has a classy urban style, making it another nice pick for everyday wear.
For a simpler and lighter-weight option that we really like for daily use when it’s not quite as cold, the Rab Cubit Stretch Down Hooded Jacket has a unique 3DWeave pre-woven baffle design that not only looks cool but also helps optimize down loft and thermal efficiency. Weighing only 18.7 ounces, it has a Pertex Quantum shell material that also does a great job at blocking the wind on those damp, bone-chilling days in the low to mid-30s, and is versatile enough for daily wear or more active use. The Mountain Hardwear Popover Down Hoody has a similar woven baffle construction with a more casual popover hoody design, but our testers prefer the more streamlined fit of the Rab to the boxier fit of the Mountain Hardwear.
The Rab Cubit Stretch Down is a stylish and lightweight option for when it’s not quite as frigid; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)While everyday winter jackets prioritize warmth, protection, and convenient features, performance-oriented winter jackets will often balance warmth and protection with a lighter weight design and more specific technical features aimed at active uses like running, hiking, or cross-country skiing.
These jackets will often have loftier down and lighter shell materials in order to save weight and make them more compressible for stuffing into a duffel bag or backpack, and will usually have a more fitted style that allows more body movement with less restriction.
Most everyday winter jackets and parkas use 600- to 700-fill-power down insulation and burly 75- to 150-denier shell materials, while performance-oriented winter jackets will often use loftier 800- to 1000-fill-power down or high-tech synthetic insulation, and will have thinner 7- to 30-denier shell materials.
Performance jackets often have fewer pockets, but will include features like dual zippers to accommodate wearing a climbing harness, and either a fitted hood to wear under a climbing helmet, or an oversized helmet-compatible hood.
Performance-use jackets typically have very breathable materials designed to dump extra heat and dry quickly, so you don’t have to remove the jacket during vigorous activity. Many will have synthetic insulation that breathes a little better than down and will retain its insulating properties even when wet from external moisture or perspiration. These jackets will usually have a water-resistant finish but will not be fully waterproof, so most people will also bring along a thin, non-insulated waterproof shell jacket.
The Arc’teryx Atom Heavyweight Hoody weighs just 16.6 ounces with its lightweight and breathable 30-denier nylon shell and Coreloft synthetic insulation, making it ideal fast paced activities like cross-country skiing or hiking.
The Arc’teryx Atom Heavyweight is a lightweight, performance-oriented jacket that weights just 1 pound; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer)We also like the Rab Cubit Stretchdown Hooded Jacket (18.7 ounces) and the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie (20.6 ounces) as versatile choices that blur the line between daily wear and technical use. Both of these jackets are warm enough for daily use in milder winter weather (down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit), but also have simple, lightweight designs that also make them suitable for more active use.
And while they are both insulated with 700-fill down, they both have features to help protect against moisture. The Cubit Stretch has its down protected by a Nikwax hydrophobic finish, and the Coldfront has VerticalX ECO synthetic insulation in body areas that are more prone to moisture.
The Rab Cubit Stretch Down weighs only 18.7 ounces, making it a versatile pick for daily wear around town or more active uses like hiking; (photo/ Nick Bruckbauer)Shell jackets are designed to protect you from harsh weather conditions. Like wearable shields that defend against wind and rain, hard shells are meant to be your outermost layer. Skiers, climbers, and mountaineers hard shells for their windproof and waterproof protection, and will usually wear a shell as part of a multilayer system that may include a base layer, an insulated mid layer, and a waterproof out shell. Depending on where you live, a burly hard shell may be the most sensible winter jacket option.
Many of the winter jackets that we tested include a waterproof outer layer, making an additional shell jacket unnecessary. The Patagonia Stormshadow Down Parka and the Arc’teryx Therme SV Parka both use down insulation shielded by a waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX. This combination provides the best blend of warmth and protection that is ideal for everyday use in cold climates, but is not as versatile as a multilayer system for changing weather conditions.
The Arc’teryx Therme SV has a waterproof GORE-TEX shell material that repels surface water and provides a waterproof barrier even if water soaks into the shell material; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)Other winter jackets like the REI Stormhenge Down Parka, the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka, Helly Hansen Urban Pro Down Coat 2.1, and The North Face McMurdo Down Parka have proprietary waterproof shell materials made by their respective companies. While these materials provide waterproof and breathable protection, the performance of these materials isn’t as well-documented as that of GORE-TEX. For general daily use in normal winter conditions, we had no issues with the waterproof performance of these jackets.
Some models, like the Patagonia Tres 3-in1 Parka, include a removable inner insulated jacket and an outer waterproof shell jacket. Depending on the conditions, each respective jacket can be worn independently, or the inner jacket can be zipped and snapped into the outer jacket for the ultimate warmth and protection.
The Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka is built by combining an internal down jacket that zips and snaps into a waterproof shell. The shell material is Patagonia’s H2No 100% recycled polyester; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)When considering a new winter jacket, overall warmth is obviously one of the most important factors to consider. All of the jackets that we tested contain either down or synthetic insulation, or both. It’s hard to definitely compare overall jacket warmth and comfort since these features are so user-dependent and can be influenced by the wearer’s gender, body type, and activity level, and whether they typically run hotter or colder.
Having said that, three jackets that we tested stand out for their exceptional warmth: the Patagonia Stormshadow Parka, the Arc’teryx Therme SV Parka, and The North Face McMurdo Down Parka. Each of these jackets has a large amount of down insulation protected by a waterproof shell material, provided the ultimate combination of warmth and weather protection. Both the Stormshadow and Therme SV are pretty pricey, so if you’re looking for luxurious warmth without breaking the bank, the McMurdo is a great option.
The Patagonia Stormshadow is our favorite overall winter jacket, providing the best blend of lightweight warmth and weather protection; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer)Made of goose or duck plumage, down is the warmest, lightest, and most compressible type of insulation on the planet. Almost all of the winter jackets that we tested for this buyer’s guide are insulated with down. When considering the warmth-to-weight balance, down continues to be better insulation than any human-made alternative. However, due to a few key drawbacks, down does require careful ownership and handling.
Down insulation works by trapping warm air in the small spaces between the down feathers. However, down insulation does not repel water, and it loses its fluffy loft — and thus loses most of its insulation properties — when it gets wet.
To combat this, many down jackets treat the down with a hydrophobic coating, or add a waterproof or water-repellant outer shell fabric. Some models also will strategically replace the down with synthetic insulation in specific areas of the body — like the shoulders or arms —that are prone to moisture from your body.
The Arc’teryx Therme SV combines fluffy 750-fill-power down insulation on the inside with a protective GORE-TEX waterproof shell material on the outside; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer)Synthetic insulation is designed to replicate the lightweight insulation down and retain its performance when wet. The quality of synthetic insulation is constantly improving, but it still generally lags behind down in its overall warmth-to-weight ratio. Synthetic insulation is typically not as compressible as down, and can lose its loft or fluffiness over time. For those on a budget, synthetic insulated jackets are usually more affordable than down.
The main benefit of synthetic insulation is that it’s far more resistant to moisture than down. Even when synthetic insulation does become wet, it still provides a reasonable percentage of its ultimate warmth. Synthetic insulation also dries quickly, especially when exposed to wind and sun. This makes synthetic insulation popular for performance-oriented winter jackets where an active user will likely be producing a lot of heat and potential moisture from sweat. The Arc’teryx Atom Heavyweight Hoody is insulated with synthetic Coreloft insulation and is a great choice for active pursuits.
If you know you’ll be wearing your winter jacket in soggy environments such as the Pacific Northwest, consider purchasing a synthetic-filled jacket instead of down.
With synthetic Coreloft insulation, the Arc’teryx Atom Heavyweight Hoody is ideal for active pursuits or wetter conditions; (photo/Nick Bruckbauer)The overall warmth of a down jacket is generally a function of the fill power and the fill weight of the down insulation that is used. Fill power represents a volume-to-weight ratio (expressed in cubic inches per ounce), and fill weight represents weight (in ounces). By multiplying the fill power by the fill weight, you can get an overall volume of insulation.
Keep in mind that other factors like jacket materials, fit, and baffle shape, size, and construction can also impact the overall warmth of a jacket.
Fill power is a technical specification that generally refers to the quality or loftiness of down insulation. This is determined by a standardized lab test that calculates the volume (in cubic inches) taken up by one ounce of down. A higher fill power number means that the down has greater loft (meaning it’s fluffier or puffier), which means that it will have better thermal efficiency and provide a better warmth-to-weight ratio.
Keep in mind that a higher fill power does not automatically mean that a jacket will be warmer. It just means that it uses loftier down insulation that will be able to provide better thermal efficiency and warmth at a lighter weight.
Most down jackets — including all of the winter jackets that we tested for this Buyer’s Guide — will have a fill power rating somewhere between 600 and 900. Casual-wear down jackets generally have a fill power rating between 600 and 750, while high-end performance jackets will have a fill power rating of 750 to 900 or higher.
Of the winter jackets that we tested for this Buyer’s Guide, the REI Co-op Stormhenge has the highest fill power rating at 850, and The North Face McMurdo has the lowest fill power rating at 600. However, the McMurdo is warmer overall than the Stormhenge but weighs almost a pound and a half more. The McMurdo weighs 3 pounds, 8.8 ounces, compared to the Stormhenge at 2 pounds, 3.2 ounces.
The REI Co-op Stormhenge Hybrid Parka uses 850-fill-power down, which is the loftiest down of any jacket we tested. Though the Stormhenge isn’t the warmest jacket we tested, it provides an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio; (photo/Eric Phillips)Some ultralight down jackets today use insulation with a fill power rating of 1000. Keep in mind that this value only represents a warmth-to-weight ratio and not the overall warmth of a jacket. Jackets with a fill power rating between 900 and 1,000 will typically weigh 10 ounces or less and are intended for fast and light technical pursuits. These down jackets will not be nearly as warm as any of the winter jackets in this buyer’s guide, but will be much lighter and more packable.
As its name suggests, fill weight refers to the total weight of the down insulation inside a jacket. While fill power is often marketed more prominently than fill weight, both are equally important to the performance of a jacket.
All other factors being equal like jacket materials, fit, and baffle construction, a jacket with 5 ounces of 700-fill-power down (total volume of 5 x 700 = 3,500 cubic inches) will likely be warmer than a jacket with 3 ounces of 900-fill-power down (total volume of 3 x 900 = 2,700 cubic inches), but it will weigh more and be less compressible.
The higher the fill power (quality or loftiness), the less fill weight is needed to create the same relative warmth. This is because the higher-loft down takes up more volume per ounce and is able to trap more air and warmth than a lower fill-power down.
A jacket with 4 ounces of 900-fill-power down (total volume of 4 x 900 = 3,600 cubic inches) and a jacket with 6 ounces of 600-fill-power down (total volume of 6 x 600 = 3,600 cubic inches) should have about the same warmth, but the 900-fill-power down jacket will be lighter, more compressible, and likely more expensive.
Down jackets are typically available with anywhere between 4 ounces and 20 ounces of fill weight. Comparing fill weight is most useful when all jackets in question have a similar fill power rating.
While warmth is typically the top consideration when looking for a winter jacket, protection from the elements is also vital. Cozy down or synthetic insulation will help keep you warm, but a wind or waterproof outer shell, a sufficient length, and a protective hood will help seal out cold wind, rain, and snow.
For wet conditions such as rain and sleet, prioritize a jacket with a waterproof shell. Waterproof jackets come with taped seams and heavy-duty exterior material. Jackets in this category are also great for wind protection. The Arc’teryx Therme SV stands out here for its waterproof GORE-TEX shell, its adjustable insulated hood, and its extended length that almost reaches the knees.
The Arc’teryx Therme SV has a fully waterproof GORE-TEX shell, an extended length, and an adjustable insulated hood; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)If you plan to wear your jacket in freezing conditions where it’s more likely to snow than rain, or you’ll be in a dry cold, a fully waterproof shell may not be necessary. Many highly insulated jackets, while not completely waterproof, come with a quality DWR treatment that sheds light moisture.
Useful features can be the difference between a good jacket and a great jacket. Comfortable hoods, handwarmer pockets, and cuff closures are some of the winter jacket features we consider to be the most valuable. When combined, these design details add significant warmth, versatility, and protection from cold conditions
Winter jacket hoods come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. During stormy weather, a protective hood is mandatory. Well-designed hoods offer ample customization and adjustability. Additional hood features such as a fur lining and a stiff brim are also worth seeking out.
One of our favorites is actually the simple and cozy hood design of the Rab Cubit Stretch Down. This jacket has a fitted hood with no adjustment cords or straps except for an elastic brim around the wearer’s face. While this hood won’t fit over a climbing or ski helmet, we appreciate the simplicity and comfort of the snug fit.
We really like the simple comfort of the Rab Cubit’s hood. No straps or cords, just a sleek, snug, cozy hood; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)On the other end of the spectrum, most of the winter jackets we tested have well-insulated hoods with two front and one rear adjustment cords. This allows the user to dial in a more customized fit, and often allows the hood to be worn over a ski or climbing helmet.
We’d also like to note that the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 has a non-insulated hood since it is part of the outer shell jacket, and the Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka is the only model we tested for this Buyer’s Guide that includes a removable faux fur ruff.
The Eddie Bauer Superior Down parka has a cozy hood with a removable faux fur ruff; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)Two-way zippers allow you to open the front of your jacket from both the bottom and the top. In extra-long and thigh-length jackets, two-way zippers are essential for enabling leg mobility while sitting or stepping into a vehicle. On more technical jackets, a two-way zipper makes it easier to wear a climbing harness while wearing the jacket.
Most of the jackets we tested have a two-way zipper. The Arc’teryx Therme SV is the longest parka that we tested, and we’re thankful that it has a functional two-way zipper.
The Arc’teryx Therme SV is the longest jacket we tested, but has a two-way front zipper that makes it more comfortable to wear while sitting down; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)All of the jackets we tested have a varying assortment of pocket designs, ranging from handwarmer pockets to external gear pockets to chest pockets to internal zippered or stash pockets. More fully featured parkas like the Mountain Hardwear Nevadan or the Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka typically have the most varied and useful pockets, but this also adds to the weight of the jacket. Lighter-weight jackets like the Outdoor Research Coldfront or the Rab Cubit Stretch Down might be limited to handwarmer pockets and maybe an accessory pocket or two.
Hand pockets probably have the biggest impact on comfort and convenience, but not all hand pockets are created equal. Some — like the Mountain Hardwear Nevadan and the Outdoor Research Coldfront — have cozy fleece-lined hand pockets that are at just the right angle to rest your arms. But others — like the Eddie Bauer Superior Down — have oversized pockets that are at an awkward angle and aren’t as comfortable.
The Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka has several pockets with plenty of storage, but the primary handwarmer pockets are at an awkward entry angle, reducing their comfort; (photo: Shannon Bruckbauer)Cuff closures allow you to create a seal around your wrist that prevents wind and snow from entering through your sleeves, and typically include a Velcro strap or snap attachment point. Jackets can also include interior wrist gaiters for extra warmth and soft, cozy protection. Wrist gaiters can be difficult to wear with a wristwatch or bracelet but definitely help the overall comfort.
The Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka has some of the coziest wrist cuffs. Theirs is a soft internal gaiter that feels like a cozy sweater, and an adjustable Velcro strap on the outer cuff.
The Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka has an adjustable Velcro cuff; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer) The elastic cuff on the Rab Cubit Stretch Down Jacket is simple yet effective; (photo/Shannon Bruckbauer)Other models have more simple cuff designs, like an elastic band that helps keep a snug fit around the wrist. This design is usually sufficient for lighter-weight jackets, but isn’t as versatile as an elastic cuff.
What is the warmest winter jacket?
Warmth is perhaps the most important consideration when choosing a winter jacket. If you’re seeking maximum warmth, you’ll want to pay attention to the length, insulation quality (fill power), and insulation quantity (fill weight).
On the fill power spectrum, any rating over around 600 can be considered a relatively high insulation value. On this list, we’ve featured jackets with a fill power rating of up to 850. When comparing jackets of equal fill power, it’s likely that the one with the greater fill weight will ultimately be warmer. The North Face McMurdo Down Parka has a relatively lower 600-fill-power rating, but is one of the warmest winter jackets that we tested, thanks to its heavier weight.
Other factors play a role in the overall warmth including baffling, cuff closures, and exterior materials. Fill weight is a good starting point for research but not the only indicator of warmth. Extra-long and thigh-length jackets will often be warmer than standard jackets of equal fill power.
The Patagonia Stormshadow and Arc’teryx Therme SV are two other models that stand out for their exceptional warmth.
Are winter jackets waterproof?
Some winter jackets are waterproof while others are only water-resistant. The key difference between these labels is that truly waterproof jackets have fully taped seams and a waterproof membrane. Jackets like the Patagonia Stormshadow and the Arc’teryx Therme SV have fully waterproof GORE-TEX shells that can reliably keep you dry, even in a severe downpour.
Also, winter jackets with synthetic fill are more resistant to moisture than down, which becomes ineffective when it wets out.
Should I get a winter jacket with a hood?
It depends on your style and preferences. With that said, hoods can offer lots of protection against various weather conditions including wind, rain, and snow.
While hoods aren’t a substitute for a warm hat in terms of insulation, they are very useful — especially during storms. All of the jackets we’ve included on this list come with hoods.
Some winter jackets include hoods that are removable, which is the best of both worlds.
Are winter jackets expensive?
Winter jackets can be expensive relative to other kinds of jackets and winter clothing. On this list, we’ve included jackets that range in price from less than $300 to nearly $1,000.
Though it’s not strictly necessary to buy a top-end and expensive jacket, you should consider that higher-quality jackets often prove to be a better value in the long run.
Features such as taped seams, handwarmer pockets, durable DWR coating, and two-way zippers will increase the price of a jacket.
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