Best Winter Jackets of 2023 | Switchback Travel

When the coldest winter months arrive, it’s time for a serious jacket. Our picks for the best winter jackets and parkas of 2023 are among the warmest on the market—they are packed with down fill (or synthetic on occasion) and built to stand up to freezing temperatures and howling winds. They run the gamut from casual pieces designed for around-town use to performance options built for the backcountry. Some toe the line nicely and are fully capable of handling double duty. For more background information, see our winter jacket comparison table and buying advice below the picks.
 

Our Team’s Winter Jacket Picks

Best Overall Winter Jacket

Category: Casual
Fill: 600-fill-power down
Weight: 3 lbs. 4.6 oz.
What we like: Proven warmth, waterproof, and reasonably priced.
What we don’t: Heavier and less packable than a more performance-oriented jacket.

You certainly can spend a lot more for a winter jacket, but we love the combination of quality and value offered by the McMurdo Parka from The North Face. This parka covers all of the important bases: it’s warm, waterproof, blocks the wind, and is decently breathable for use in milder temperatures. In addition, we appreciate the upper-thigh-length cut, which offers good coverage while still allowing for plenty of mobility. And with a recent update, TNF incorporated a few key sustainability measures, including the use of recycled down and fabrics and a PFC-free DWR treatment. Last but not least, the $400 McMurdo will set you back considerably less than many of the more expensive parka options below. 

What are the shortcomings of The North Face McMurdo Parka? It has a decidedly casual look and feel, meaning that it isn’t designed for the backcountry. In addition, you won’t get the same warmth for the weight or compressibility as some of the pricier jackets on the list that use thinner shells and 800-fill-power down or higher. But these shouldn’t be huge issues for around-town use, which is exactly why many people buy the McMurdo. And the cherry on top: we really like the looks of the jacket (thankfully, the faux fur along the hood is removable, as that could have been a deal-breaker). On the women’s side, the Arctic Parka doesn’t share the name but has many similarities including full waterproofing, a cozy interior, and a removable faux fur lining on the hood.
See the Men’s The North Face McMurdo  See the Women’s The North Face Arctic

 

Best Value in a Winter Jacket

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 850-fill-power down; 180g & 80g synthetic
Weight: 1 lb. 15.8 oz.
What we like: Premium warmth, strong waterproofing, and a nice feature set at a great price.
What we don’t: Not everyone will like the mix of technical and casual features.

REI’s Stormhenge 850 was a game changer when it hit the market a few years back. Here was a value-priced winter jacket that had true technical chops, including premium 850-fill-power down and a waterproof shell. The Stormhenge has since been refined, and the latest version tacks on synthetic insulation in areas most prone to moisture (like the cuffs and hood), a longer cut for more coverage, and additional storage (we especially like the interior zippered pocket). Importantly, REI has kept core components of the original, including the 2-layer waterproof construction with full seam taping and pit zips for dumping heat. For just $259, the latest Stormhenge is a truly remarkable value.

In terms of categorizing the Stormhenge and who it’s best for, that’s a bit tougher. It has many similarities to a belay jacket or ski shell including the waterproofness and technical features, but the streamlined look and classy colorways could work just fine in the city too. In addition, its warmth falls into an in-between spot: It’s insulated enough for temperatures into the low 20s Fahrenheit with only a light baselayer, but it can’t match a higher-end alternative like the Rab Neutrino Pro below. Despite the nitpicks, we think the Stormhenge Down Hybrid is a very strong offering from REI that provides a hard-to-beat combination of features, performance, and price… Read in-depth review
See the Men’s REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid  See the Women’s REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid

 

Most Versatile Parka for Everyday Wear

Category: Casual
Fill: 4.2 oz. of 700-fill-power down
Weight: 2 lbs. 14.1 oz.
What we like: Clean styling, excellent weather resistance and coverage, and nice versatility.
What we don’t: Pricey for a casual piece.

Finding a winter jacket that is both warm and looks the part for everyday use can be a challenge, but Patagonia toes the line nicely with the Tres 3-in-1 Parka. This jacket is well-insulated, comfortable, fully waterproof, and has clean lines that work well in a variety of situations. Additionally, the versatile 3-in-1 construction gives you the option to wear just the waterproof shell on rainy days or zip in the down inner layer when the mercury drops. It’s true that the Tres doesn’t offer the range of movement of more performance-oriented jackets, but it’s a great option for around-town use and cold spells in places like the Midwest and East Coast of the United States.

Comparing the Tres 3-in-1 to other casual models on this list, the 700-fill-power down is higher-quality than the 600-fill used in The North Face McMurdo, our top choice. And importantly, the parka-length cut offers more warmth and coverage than just about anything outside of Canada Goose. On the flip side, the jacket is expensive (it is Patagonia, after all), and parkas always can be a bit tough to dial in fit. But we love the design and full waterproofing, which makes the Tres incredibly versatile for everything from wet shoulder season days to frigid conditions in midwinter. For a non-waterproof alternative, check out their Jackson Glacier Parka.
See the Men’s Patagonia Tres 3-in-1  See the Women’s Patagonia Tres 3-in-1

 

Best Winter Jacket for Performance Use

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 7.5 oz. of 800-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 4.6 oz.
What we like: Tons of premium down at a reasonable price; great packability.
What we don’t: Somewhat technical look and feature set.

The North Face McMurdo above trends toward everyday use, but there are a number of more performance-oriented winter jackets to choose from. Taking warmth, backcountry-ready features, and value into consideration, our favorite option for 2023 is the Rab Neutrino Pro. Most importantly, you get a whopping 7.5 ounces of 800-fill hydrophobic down (that’s also certified to the Responsible Down Standard), which is considerably more than popular down jackets from brands like Arc’teryx and Patagonia that cost nearly as much. And while the Rab is far from waterproof (we caution against wearing down in wet conditions), the 100% recycled Pertex Quantum Pro shell does a great job fending off light moisture.

What are the downsides of the Neutrino Pro? It has a somewhat technical look, although the clean design and dark color options make it viable for city use as well. Second, the 20-denier shell fabric is respectable in the performance category and helps with weight and packability, but the jacket is more fragile than the more casual options on this list (as with any down jacket, you’ll have to be careful about snags and tears). Finally, Rab is a U.K.-based company and Americans will have to get used to the European-style left-hand zipper. But we love the warmth, feature set, and reasonable price point, which is why the Neutrino Pro is ranked here… Read in-depth review
See the Men’s Rab Neutrino Pro  See the Women’s Rab Neutrino Pro

 

Best Expedition Jacket for Extreme Cold

Category: Performance
Fill: 13.3 oz. of 900-fill-power down
Weight: 2 lbs. 1.8 oz.
What we like: Super warm: the most down fill on this list.
What we don’t: The mountaineering look isn’t for everyone.

Seattle-based Feathered Friends is a small company that specializes in premium down products, and they manufacture most everything in the Unites States. We love their lightweight Eos for cool weather, but the heavyweight Khumbu Parka is about as warm as it gets. Most importantly, it’s absolutely jammed with high-quality down: 13.3 ounces of 900-fill goose down to be exact. And you also get thoughtful touches like PrimaLoft Gold synthetic insulation around the collar, reinforced elbows, and a handy two-way zipper.

The reason the Khumbu Parka is ranked here and not higher is its limited appeal for daily use. It’s true that you can wear this jacket on the streets of Chicago or Boston in the depths of winter, but it’s most at home on big-mountain summits and for uses like high-altitude mountaineering. At the end of the day, more casual options like the Outdoor Research Coldfront and Patagonia Fitz Roy below have a cleaner look and wider appeal for considerably less, but the Khumbu Parka clearly wins on warmth and down fill.
See the Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka

 

Best of the Rest

Category: Performance/Casual
Fill: 7.8 oz. of 700-fill down; 150g VerticalX ECO
Weight: 1 lb. 4.7 oz.
What we like: Comfortable, versatile, and affordably priced for what you get.
What we don’t: Not a standout in warmth or coverage.

Like REI, Outdoor Research is known for providing a lot of bang for your buck, and their Coldfront Down Hoodie does just that. For $229, the hip-length Coldfront offers a competitive mix of protection and warmth, with weather-ready VerticalX ECO synthetic insulation at the shoulders and cuffs and quality 700-fill-power down everywhere else. In trying on the jacket for the first time, we were struck by the soft-yet-rugged shell and thoughtful touches like fleece-lined hand pockets and snug-fitting cuff gaiters with thumb loops. All told, it’s a well-rounded choice for everyday use and outdoor adventuring in most moderate winter conditions.

That said, it’s important to note that the Coldfront contains less down than some of our picks above, including the performance-ready Neutrino Pro. It’s not exactly an apples-to-apples comparison given the differences in fill power—and the Coldfront certainly looks the part with its puffy build—but don’t expect Antarctic-ready warmth. Also keep in mind that despite the generous hip-length style (back length is listed at 29 in.) there’s no below-the-butt coverage, which detracts from overall protection and won’t keep you as warm as the longer parkas on our list. With the right layering, however, or if you plan to mix in hiking or snowshoeing, the Coldfront is a perfectly serviceable—and very affordable—option for both everyday and backcountry use. 
See the Men’s OR Coldfront Hoodie  See the Women’s OR Coldfront Hoodie

 

Category: Casual
Fill: 2.6 oz. 750-fill-power down; 140g Coreloft
Weight: 2 lbs. 1.9 oz.
What we like: Waterproof, highly durable, and excellent fit.
What we don’t: The Therme (below) is warmer and longer for only $50 more. 

Slotting in just below the Therme Parka in Arc’teryx winter jacket lineup is their Camosun. Like the Therme, the Camosun utilizes a proven 2-layer Gore-Tex shell for stalwart protection against moisture and wind. And by combining 2.6 ounces of quality 750-fill down with 140-gram synthetic Coreloft at the cuffs, hood (which is also detachable), and under the arms, the jacket deftly balances cold-weather warmth with added assurance for particularly soggy days around town. All in all, it’s yet another expertly built and great-looking piece from the revered Canadian brand and a great match for areas that experience wet winters. 

In parsing out the differences between the Camosun and Therme, the former costs $50 less, shaves off around 2.5 ounces in weight, and has a thicker outer fabric (150D compared to the Therme’s 75D). On the flip side, the Therme offers better warmth and coverage with 1.1 more ounces of down and a 2-inch-longer length, and you get an additional pocket at the outer chest. But the deciding factor for many will likely be styling: while the Therme has a generous “regular” cut with a classy and protective flap over the front zipper, the Camosun trends toward the more technical side, touting the brand’s well-loved “trim” fit and sleek WaterTight front zip. For an all-synthetic option from Arc’teryx, check out their new Ralle Parka.
See the Men’s Arc’teryx Camosun

 

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 10.4 oz. of 700-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 12.9 oz.
What we like: Clean looks, a lot of mid-range down, and reasonably priced.
What we don’t: Can be hard to find in stock online.

If you’re in the market for a super warm down puffy that won’t break the bank, give the Lightline from Mountain Equipment a serious look. Recently updated to the “Eco” with bluesign-approved, recycled fabrics and PFC-free DWR coating, this jacket is stuffed with an impressive 10.4 ounces of 700-fill down and offers excellent protection from the elements with a windproof and water-resistant Drilite shell. In addition, we really like the Lightline’s clean look, sturdy exterior, and multitude of sleek, subdued colorways—it’s a nice option for everything from technical use to everyday wear in cold climates. Last but not least, it’s one heckuva value at $385 (and often discounted further, including at the time of publishing). Many winter jackets with a fraction of the down cost quite a bit more.

Why is this jacket priced so competitively? U.K.-based Mountain Equipment isn’t all that well-known in the U.S., and the company doesn’t spend a ton on athletes or advertising campaigns. And as often is the case with outdoor gear that wins out in price, the Lightline’s material quality (including the mid-range 700-fill down) is lower than competitors like the Rab Neutrino Pro above. As a result, it can’t quite match the Rab’s exceptional warmth or packability. On the other hand, durability is high with a sturdy 50-denier shell that will hold up exceedingly well to everyday use (the Rab’s is 20D). In terms of value, you’ll have a hard time finding more insulation and comfort for your buck.
See the Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco

 

Category: Casual
Fill: 700-fill-power down
Weight: 2 lbs. 12 oz.
What we like: Super durable, warm, and stylish.
What we don’t: Slim fit, particularly around the collar.

Like The North Face’s McMurdo above, Marmot’s Fordham is another reasonably priced winter jacket designed mostly for casual use. We think it’s a nice all-around option: the Fordham uses a healthy amount of 700-fill down (higher-quality than the McMurdo), has a tough 2-layer waterproof shell, and features a removable hood for when you don’t need the extra protection. We also like the Fordham’s functional, urban look with durable fabrics and plenty of pockets.

Why isn’t the Fordham ranked higher on our list? The fit is a bit snug for a cold-weather layering piece, and particularly in the collar area when trying to add extra warmth like a scarf. It also feels bulkier and puffier than the McMurdo above, especially around the shoulders and arms. But the upside is we found it to offer a step up in warmth on truly frigid days (although its shorter cut can’t match the McMurdo’s coverage). Overall, the Fordham is a very viable competitor to the casual options on this list with its combination of comfort, durability, and price… Read in-depth review
See the Men’s Marmot Fordham

 

Category: Casual/performance
Fill: 625-fill-power down
Weight: 3 lbs. 5 oz.
What we like: Legendary warmth and style.
What we don’t: Very expensive.

At the high end of the winter jacket spectrum is Toronto-based Canada Goose. These jackets are the real deal: they’re extremely warm, well-built, and downright fashionable for those that want a sleek look. Our top pick from Canada Goose is the Langford Parka, which hits a nice sweet spot between Arctic and urban use. With 625-fill duck down (it’s ironic that the company uses mostly duck down and not goose) and a thick and durable Arctic Tech shell, they claim that the Langford can be worn down to a freezing -15°F. This is the company’s second-warmest tier of jacket with the famous Expedition Parka viable down to -25°F.

Aside from the awesome warmth, craftsmanship, and looks, our biggest issue with Canada Goose is price. The Langford is a staggering $1,495 (the Antarctic-ready Expedition Parka is a whopping $1,695), but Canada Goose doesn’t use premium down like Arc’teryx or other high-end brands. In fact, the Langford is only a small step up from the $400 The North Face McMurdo in down quality, although it has more fill and is noticeably warmer. But if you run cold, need the extra insulation, or appreciate the styling, Canada Goose has a valuable corner of the market.
See the Men’s Canada Goose Langford  See the Women’s Canada Goose Trillium

 

Category: Casual
Fill: 9.4 oz. of 800-fill-power down
Weight: 3 lbs. 4 oz.
What we like: Feature-rich and great coverage.
What we don’t: Design can be a bit polarizing.

If you’re looking for a winter parka that is a little more fashionable than some of the options above, the Kuhl Arktik fits the bill. Most importantly, this jacket is super warm with 9.4 ounces of 800-fill down and has a burly shell that will help cut the wind. For protection from snow and rain, the jacket has wax and polyurethane coatings that will help moisture bead off. And this parka offers great coverage: it has a long cut and warm, substantial hood with a faux-fur brim that can be removed.

To be sure, the design of the Kuhl Arktik Down Parka can be polarizing. The zippers, buttons, and shoulder panels are meant to stand out, although we like that Kuhl did away with the two-tone colorways (the latest Blackout, Carbon and Olive options are a bit more muted than past options). In addition, the materials are decent but not high-end—the leather too is of the “faux” variety and that can make a difference in terms of durability and looks over time. But if you’ve worn Kuhl products in the past and liked them, the Arktik Down Parka is a nice cold-weather option.
See the Men’s Kuhl Arktik Down  See the Women’s Kuhl Arktik Down

 

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 5.6 oz. of 800-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 1.1 oz.
What we like: Super cozy and versatile performance piece; clean look.
What we don’t: You can go warmer at this price point.

Down jackets are known for being cozy, but Patagonia’s Fitz Roy is a standout in this regard. In particular, its super plush lining and body-hugging design give it a down sleeping bag-like fit and feel. And the Fitz Roy doesn’t disappoint in terms of warmth: despite cutting the total amount of fill in the latest update (the old Parka version had 8 oz. of the same 800-fill down), this jacket is warm, versatile, and has a high collar for battening down the hatches. Throw in a helmet-compatible hood, and it can be used as a backcountry piece or around town.

Our biggest knock against the revamped Fitz Roy is price. At around $400, you get significantly less down than a jacket like the Rab Neutrino Pro above (7.5 oz. vs. 5.6) for the same price. That said, it’s hard to beat Patagonia’s build quality and close attention to detail, and this jacket has tremendous crossover appeal and is one of the coziest options around. In addition, we really appreciate the Fitz Roy’s just-right level of warmth, which won’t suffice for the coldest winter conditions without layers underneath but is more versatile than other jackets on this list for use in milder winter weather and the shoulder seasons… Read in-depth review
See the Men’s Patagonia Fitz Roy  See the Women’s Patagonia Fitz Roy

 

Category: Casual/performance
Fill: 2.4 oz. of 750-fill-power down; 60g & 100g synthetic
Weight: 2 lbs. 4 oz.
What we like: A waterproof and warm jacket that doubles down for resort skiing.
What we don’t: Pricey and not as long as more casual parkas. 

The Arc’teryx Macai is a unique addition here—it’s designed as a resort ski jacket but arguably is just as functional (if not more so) for daily wear. To start, it’s waterproof and very warm with a combination of 750-fill down and synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas. We love the sleek look, and Arc’teryx even opted for features like flaps over the pocket zippers to keep it clean. Last but not least, the interior is smooth and cozy and reminiscent of a high-end down puffy. You certainly can ski with the Macai and many people do, but the hood and powder skirt are removable and it makes for a great dual-purpose jacket.

Compared to the more casual winter parkas on the list, there are some shortcomings with the Macai. First, the cut is shorter and offers less coverage than models like Arc’teryx’s own Camosun above and Therme below, both of which also happen to be considerably cheaper at $649 and $700 respectively. Second, the Macai is fairly burly and has a fortress-like feel, which is great for those who run cold but can be overkill for moderate winter conditions (we have had a tendency to overheat while skiing hard). That said, we love the versatility of the Macai, and its two-for-one nature makes the cost easier to swallow. If you’re in the market for a premium winter/ski jacket, it’s a great option… Read in-depth review
See the Men’s Arc’teryx Macai  See the Women’s Arc’teryx Andessa

 

Category: Casual
Fill: 8.8 oz. of Supreme Microloft synthetic
Weight: 4 lbs. 0.2 oz.
What we like: A good-looking and well-built synthetic parka.
What we don’t: You can get more warmth for a lot less.

Similar to Canada Goose, Fjallraven makes good-looking outdoor gear that toes the line between casual and performance (at least casual levels of performance). The Nuuk Parka is a durable piece that offers solid warmth and weather resistance with 8.8 ounces of Supreme Microloft synthetic insulation, a water- and windproof outer shell, and clean lines representative of the company’s Scandinavian heritage. You also get a well-rounded assortment of storage and features, including a fleece-lined and fur-brimmed detachable hood, a whopping 10 total pockets, and ribbed knitting at the neck to seal out drafts. All in all, it’s a refined, weather-ready winter parka with a high attention to detail. 

If you like Fjallraven’s styling (we do) and don’t need the low weight or impressive packability of down insulation, the Nuuk Parka is a fine option. That said, it’s too heavy and bulky to bring into the backcountry and lacks the lofty, cozy feel of down-stuffed alternatives like the Rab Neutrino Pro or Patagonia Fitz Roy above. And for about $500, a number of other casual options above are better buys, including the lighter and warmer Kuhl Arktik (although the Nuuk does provide around 2.5 more in. of coverage). And for a slightly more performance-ready option from Fjallraven, the Singi Down Jacket has a similar design but uses 10.4 ounces of 600-fill-power down for $100 more.
See the Men’s Fjallraven Nuuk Parka  See the Women’s Fjallraven Nuuk Parka

 

Category: Casual/Performance
Fill: 700-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 9.6 oz.
What we like: Versatile styling; shell fabric is stretchy and durable.
What we don’t: A bit shorter and boxier than most parkas.

Upon first glance, it’s easy to see that the Stretchdown Parka looks a little different from your standard down jacket. Instead of the typical shiny fabric and horizontal baffles, Mountain Hardwear uses welded seams and a stretchy material (hence the “Stretchdown”) that’s almost softshell-like in nature. The net result is comfortable down insulation that moves with you, is remarkably durable, and doesn’t leave you looking like the Michelin Man. The Stretchdown collection features a range of styles, and the Parka here delivers the most coverage and warmth for true winter weather. 

After wearing the Stretchdown Parka for most of the winter, we’re strong proponents of the jacket with a few small caveats. First is the shape: We got the parka in our standard size medium, but swam in the boxy fit, which is just slightly longer than most of our jackets (30-in. center back length) but significantly roomier around the chest. For comparison’s sake, the jacket version of the Stretchdown is 28 inches down the back and weighs a full 9.6 ounces less than the parka here. This no-frills fit makes us hesitant to recommend the Stretchdown as a stylish piece for casual use; on the other hand, it’s a bit too heavy for dedicated performance use. But the versatile design is serviceable for those who dip their toes in both worlds, and it’s hard to beat the durability and hand feel of the soft and stretchy shell.
See the Men’s Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka  See the Women’s Stretchdown Parka

 

Category: Casual
Fill: 3.7 oz. 750-fill-power down; 100g & 140g Coreloft
Weight: 2 lbs. 4.5 oz.
What we like: A truly waterproof winter parka.
What we don’t: Pricey and fit can be a bit roomy.

Most Arc’teryx jackets are technical in nature, but like the Camosun above, the Therme Parka is decidedly urban, which is a nice change of pace. The biggest upside of this jacket is that it has a high-end Gore-Tex waterproof membrane and fully taped seams—many jackets in this category use lower-quality, in-house designs that aren’t as breathable or long-lasting. Add in 750-fill goose down around the core with quality synthetic insulation in other high-use areas, and you have yourself a mighty warm parka that is perfect for winter in places prone to wet snow, like the Northwest and Northeast of the United States.

As we’ve come to expect from Arc’teryx, the build quality and look of the Therme Parka are top-notch. Most complaints relate to sizing: unlike the company’s normal athletic fit (found on the aforementioned Camosun), the Therme is noticeable roomier, and some people find the hood to be a bit large as well. These issues aside, it’s hard to argue with the warmth, weather protection, and styling, which makes the Therme a popular urban parka year after year. For a step up in price and warmth, Arc’teryx’s top-end Therme SV ($800) is also waterproof and utilizes a similar mix of down and synthetic insulation but boasts a longer cut.
See the Men’s Arc’teryx Therme Parka  See the Women’s Patera Parka

 

Category: Performance
Fill: 133g & 40g PrimaLoft Gold Eco
Weight: 1 lb. 3.6 oz.
What we like: The wet-weather assurance of synthetic insulation. 
What we don’t: Expensive and thin face fabric is very fragile.

The vast majority of jackets here use down fill, which is warmer (for the weight) and loftier than synthetic insulation. But there are undeniable benefits to synthetics: they continue to insulate when wet, breathe better, and provide a cruelty-free, vegan option for consumers (for more on the topic, see our article on down vs. synthetic insulation). One of our favorite cold-weather synthetic jackets, the Patagonia DAS Parka, is a high-performance piece that uses unique insulation mapping to pack in warmth while keeping weight on par with many technical down puffies (for reference, it’s an ounce lighter than the Rab Neutrino Pro above). To top it off, the DAS is mountain-ready with a robust Pertex Quantum Pro shell, helmet-compatible hood, and two-way front zipper with a protective wind flap.

In terms of downsides, the DAS Parka is a decidedly technical piece with a very roomy fit and shiny look that is polarizing for everyday use. In line with its performance slant, the jacket’s shell is also noticeably thin and fragile at just 10 denier. And while there’s no denying that the warmth is impressive for the weight, especially for a synthetic jacket, cost remains high at $449 (synthetics generally save you some money, but not in this case). In short, the DAS has limited daily appeal, but for the right environment—think drippy alpine belays or digging snow pits while backcountry skiing—it’s a nice choice… Read in-depth review
See the Men’s Patagonia DAS Parka  See the Women’s Patagonia DAS Parka

 

Category: Casual/performance
Fill: Thermarator synthetic insulation
What we like: A versatile winter/ski jacket for around $200.
What we don’t: Limited warmth.

Columbia often manages to offer some nice values in the world of outdoor gear, and in terms of winter jackets, the popular Whiribird IV is worth a look. We’ll start with what we like most, which is the price at $230. In practice, the Whirlirbid is billed as a ski/snowboard jacket and it certainly fits that bill, but we like the casual looks and multitude of available colorways, so it wears well around the city too. The 3-in-1 functionality means you get a separated insulated jacket on the inside that zips into the outer shell, which is waterproof via Columbia Omni-Tech fabric. All in all, that makes for very a versatile winter jacket for just over $200 (and often found on sale)

Why is the Columbia Whirlibird IV ranked so far down this list? The thick shell should provide a nice dose of wind protection, but the inner jacket is rather thin and made with Thermarator synthetic insulation (down is the much better insulator), so warmth is more limited than many of the pricier jackets above. Second, we’ve found that Columbia build quality is fairly good overall but the look and feel is a step or two below more premium brands. That said, $230 is a darn good price for a winter jacket that can cross over into winter sports, which is why the Whirlibird is included here.
See the Men’s Columbia Whirlibird IV  See the Women’s Columbia Whirlibird IV

 

Category: Casual/work
Fill: Synthetic insulation (polyester)
Weight: 3 lbs. 8 oz.
What we like: By far the cheapest winter coat on this list.
What we don’t: Heavy, stiff, and could be warmer.

Let’s say you don’t care about fancy high-fill-power down or the latest and greatest synthetic insulation. And let’s say that you just want a warm winter parka that will get that job done for as cheap as possible. If this sounds like you, give the Caterpillar’s Heavy Insulated Parka a serious look. It bucks the performance and even casual trend with a work-like build (outdoor work in the winter is what many people use it for), but it’s a great value for what you get at around $120 (and often found on Amazon for less).

How is this jacket so inexpensive? The insulation and shell of the Caterpillar Insulated Parka are straight polyester—no lightweight insulation or modern waterproof fabrics here. The jacket is water-resistant, and given that you’re not protecting precious down fibers from outside moisture, it does a respectable job of staying warm when wet. In addition, you get ample storage with four large front pockets and one on the sleeve. Is this jacket for climbing mountains? No way. But it’s great for shoveling your walkway, everyday outdoor use, and work in cold climates.
See the Men’s Caterpillar Heavy Insulated Parka

 

Winter Jacket Comparison Table

 

Winter Jacket Buying Advice

Winter Jacket Categories: Casual vs. Performance

Perhaps the single most important factor when choosing a winter jacket is its intended use. Casual winter jackets are designed for everyday wear around town—you’ll see them most frequently in cold places like Denver, Chicago, Boston, New York, and even ski towns. Performance jackets, on the other hand, are more technical in nature and often lighter in weight due to the use of premium down and shell materials. These models are designed for mountaineering, climbing, and other cold-weather backcountry use.

The REI Stormhenge is a versatile performance and casual option

The good news is that going with a casual coat generally saves you a good deal of money. Two of our top casual picks, The North Face McMurdo and Marmot Fordham, are around $300+ yet offer ample warm and weather protection for most people. The compromises come in the weight, packability, and range of movement, which matter if you’re climbing mountains but not so much for the morning commute. Toward the bottom of our picks are a couple of parkas that fall into the casual/work category with extra durable polyester shells and great toughness in general. To help clarify the best uses for each jacket, we list the category in the product specs and in our comparison table.
 

Insulation Types

Nearly all the jackets on this list have down fill, which is the warmest, lightest, and most compressible type of insulation. A few jackets—including the Columbia Whirlibird IV—are made with synthetic, which is heavier and not quite as lofty but does a superior job at insulating when wet. It’s also cheaper than down, which is why you’ll find it inside some of the budget-oriented designs above like the Caterpillar Heavy Insulated Jacket. We love both types of insulation and each has its purposes, but down wins out in pure warmth and coziness for winter. For more background on this topic, see our article on down vs. synthetic insulation.

It’s hard to beat the lofty warmth of down insulation

Warmth

Warmth is a function of many factors: insulation type and weight, shell fabrics, wind, layering, level of exertion, and how warm or cold you run personally. But the two most important factors in determining the warmth of your jacket are fill power and fill weight.

When deciding on a winter jacket, it’s helpful to know both the fill power and fill weight specs

Fill Power
Fill power is the most heavily marketed spec among winter jackets and parkas, and refers to down specifically (nearly all the jackets on this list are down). The higher the number (600 fill, 700 fill, 800 fill, etc.), the more loft and warmth it will provide and the more easily it will compress when packing it away. Premium down also is the most expensive, which is why you’ll see this number loosely correlate with price. Performance winter jackets usually are around 800-fill or higher, and casual pieces run from 450-fill to 700-fill.

Higher fill power translates to loftier down and more warmth for the weight

Fill Weight
Fill weight is often overlooked but just as relevant as fill power. Instead of measuring the quality of the down, fill weight is simply the total weight of the down inside the jacket. For example, the Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody has 5.6 ounces of 800-fill down, while the Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka has 13.3 ounces of 900-fill, which represents a significant difference. The calculation becomes more difficult as the fill power changes: comparing 850-fill down to 500-fill down is apples to oranges, so it’s most helpful when the fill powers are at least similar.

Staying warm in the ski-specific Arc’teryx Macai

Unfortunately, fill weight isn’t always provided by manufacturers, and particularly for casual pieces. We’ve done everything within our power to acquire that number—including spending seemingly endless periods of time on hold and explaining that fill weight is different than fill power—and include it in our comparison table when available. Around half the jackets on this list provide fill weight, which is more helpful than not.
 

Temperature Rating

Winter jackets don’t have a uniform method of measuring warmth like the EN system for sleeping bags, but there are some good clues. As discussed above, make sure to take both fill power and fill weight into account. In addition, the shell of the jacket matters, as do the layers underneath.

Wearing the Marmot Fordham on a subfreezing day

By our best estimation, the majority of the jackets on this list are designed to go well below freezing for use in the heart of the winter months in cold climates like the Midwest and East Coast of the United States. Some jackets are capable of even more extreme conditions (the Canada Goose Langford Parka is given a -15°F rating by the manufacturer), while others are less insulated and designed for active use (REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid). Of course, layer well and don’t take any chances, but this article presents that warmest jackets that we cover on this site. For more lightweight and midweight jacket options, see our articles on the best down jackets and synthetic jackets.
 

Layering

A major contributor to warmth is the layers (or lack thereof) you wear underneath. Due to the hefty amount of insulation inside most of the jackets above, a simple baselayer will do the trick in cold weather that hasn’t yet reached frigid status. Depending on the parka, when the temperature really drops (think well below freezing) you may want to add a lightweight down or synthetic jacket as a midlayer. This would be a lot of insulation, but it’s an easy adjustment to make so long as you have the extra gear and the jacket has room for layering. Warmth is a lot about personal preference and the specifics of the activity and conditions, but it’s always a good idea to carry an extra layer or two should you get cold or the conditions change.

A plush lining is comfortable with or without a long-sleeve layer underneath

Weight

The importance of weight in your winter jacket buying decision depends largely on the intended use. For those looking in the performance category (mountaineers, climbers, winter explorers, etc.), jackets with large amounts of premium down will be the warmest, lightest, and most packable. Our top pick in this category is the Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka (2 pounds 2 ounces). For those buying at the casual end of the market, weight matters much less—you most likely won’t be carrying your down jacket in a backpack and don’t care as much about shaving ounces. Many casual winter jackets and parkas push the 3-pound mark and higher and won’t pack down as small with lower-fill-power down.

The type and thickness of the shell fabric matters in overall weight as well. Performance jackets tend to use technical fabrics that are light and thin, while casual pieces use more durable and heavier shells that add weight. On the upside, the thicker shells are much better at avoiding tears and small abrasions and therefore should last longer. Lightweight down jackets require quite a bit of care and attention.

Weight isn’t a major consideration for casual wear

Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof

Down loses its ability to insulate when wet, and therefore all jackets on this list offer some protection against precipitation. Most jackets are water-resistant or water-repellant, meaning they have a tightly woven face fabric and durable water repellant (DWR) coating that will bead up and shed light moisture. If you combine that with treated or hydrophobic down (a treatment added to the down itself that reduces water absorption and helps it dry faster), you have yourself a pretty effective system even in wet and heavy snow.

The reality is that if you’ll be wearing a full-on winter jacket, it’s unlikely you’ll require complete waterproofing. Water-resistant shells, like what you get with the Rab Neutrino Pro, offer plenty of protection in freezing, snowy conditions. Even the expedition-ready Feathered Friends Khumbu isn’t fully waterproof (the shell material is waterproof but the seams are not taped) because snow and ice won’t penetrate the fabric like rain. If you do need complete waterproofing, however, there are some options on the market including the Arc’teryx Therme (and women’s Patera) and Camosun above. These jackets has fully taped seams and waterproof Gore-Tex shells for staying dry if it happens to be 34°F and pouring rain.

Pertex shells consistently offer good water resistance

Wind Protection

Exposure to wind can make an otherwise freezing winter day even worse. In terms of the wind resistance of a parka, a number of factors come into play including the type and thickness of the shell, amount and distribution of the insulation, and fabric of the liner. In particular, the shell itself matters most: on performance jackets, you’ll see names like Gore Windstopper or Pertex for excellent wind resistance at low weights, and casual coats block the wind by the sheer thickness of the face fabric.

The truth is that all of these jackets do a respectable job at keeping wind and the other elements at bay. Midweight and lightweight jackets are much less substantial and you run the risk of catching a cold breeze through the jacket itself, but this list is composed of heavyweights that all should be considered highly wind-resistant.

Most of the the jackets above are decent wind blockers

Hood

Perhaps more than any other type of jacket, the hood matters a lot with a winter coat. First, the hood almost always is going to have the same type of insulation as the rest of the jacket, so premium down in the body of the coat means excellent warmth for the weight in the hood. Second, a good cold-weather hood can be adjusted and tightened around the head snugly so that wind doesn’t enter or blow the hood off your head (many technical winter jackets also have storm flaps around the collar to block out cold air). Finally, many performance-oriented jackets have helmet-compatible hoods, which are necessary for mountaineering and climbing. Helmet compatibility makes the hood larger and slightly less desirable for wearing without a helmet, but it isn’t a deal breaker for us as long as the hood cinches down evenly.

Removing the hood on The North Face’s Arctic Down II

For use on mild-weather days, some prefer the option to remove the hood from their winter coat altogether. Simply put, these hoods are bulky and can be annoying if they’re just sitting along the back of your head. Most designs have a zipper located just below the collar to make it easy to both remove and put back on. The feature does add weight and bulk, so you’ll typically find it on casual winter jackets. Whether this is a priority will come down to personal preference, but it could be a difference maker in the jacket you select. For example, the Marmot Fordham, The North Face McMurdo, and Arc’teryx Camosun have removable hoods, while the Arc’teryx Therme Parka does not.
 

Sustainability: Recycled Materials, PFC-Free DWR, and More

The outdoor apparel world has seen a sizable uptick in the use of sustainable practices over the past several years, and winter jackets are no exception. Key measures include recycled materials, ethically sourced down, and PFC-free DWR coatings (traditional coatings use perfluorocarbons—a chemical known to be harmful to the environment). Bluesign approval has become one of the gold standards in this realm, indicating that materials have been sourced and produced in ways that mitigate harmful impact on the environment. Finally, many companies are now Fair Trade Certified, which ensures the fair and ethical treatment of workers.

Patagonia leads the sustainability effort, and many other brands have followed suit

The good news is that most brands call out these practices, making it easy to shop with an eye for sustainability. Patagonia is a clear leader: Their Fitz Roy Down Hoody, for example, uses a recycled face fabric with PFC-free DWR and a 100% postconsumer recycled NetPlus lining (made out of recycled fishing nets), is insulated with down certified to the Responsible Down Standard, and is Fair Trade Certified. Patagonia goes as far as detailing the sustainable steps they’ve made at the bottom of their product pages. A number of other brands have followed suit, including REI Co-op, Outdoor Research, Marmot, and more. There’s still a long ways to go in the industry, but the current trajectory and momentum from many of the key players are encouraging.

Women’s-Specific Winter Jackets

Our picks above were based on the input from both our male and female testers, and you’ll see that we link to the men’s and women’s versions whenever available. That said, there are a good number of women’s-specific winter jackets, so we’ve created a separate round-up dedicated to that category. Some of the designs are the same but with altered fits and colorways (on occasion, naming and a couple features might differ), and we’ve included more long, parka-length options given their popularity and around-town appeal.
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