The 8 Best Winter Coats for Braving the Cold
Wind, snow, and wintry weather are no match for these jackets and parkas.
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Temps are taking a pleasant dip and we’re excited to break out our favorite boots, and while we’re not looking forward to the trials of winter, we can’t wait to pull our cozy winter coats out of storage. If you’re looking for a new puffer or parka this winter, your options range from high-performance waterproof coats to classic wool jackets. Our list of the best winter coats includes options to keep you toasty going to work, carving lines on the slopes, or running around town.
The Best Winter Coats
- Best Overall: Eddie Bauer Down Alpine Parka Coat
- Best Budget Option: REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Hoodie Winter Coat
- Best Classic Puffer: The North Face 1996 Nuptse Down Winter Coat
- Best Warmth-to-Weight Ratio: Arc’teryx Atom Hoody Winter Coat
- Best Waterproof: The North Face McMurdo Down Parka
What to Consider
Shell Material
The material of the outer layer of the jacket, or shell, needs to be something that cuts the wind, keeps out the cold, and preferably has some weatherproofing. Nylon and polyester shells that have a DWR—durable water repellent—coating are best for winter jackets because you’ll likely encounter some sort of precipitation whether that be rain, snow, or a wintry mix.
Some jackets are waterproof on the outer shell with an extra two to three layer construction of water-resistant materials that ensure you stay dry. For casual wear, you can skip the most waterproof options since they tend to be less breathable—but if you’re outside in snow, you might need it. It’s one thing to be wet or cold, but being both makes for a miserable (and potentially dangerous) excursion.
Durability
As far as durability, check to see if the shell has a denier count. Denier is a unit of measurement in fabrics that determines the thickness of fibers in each individual thread of fabric—in this case, nylon or polyester.
Retailers list these to let you know just how thick the shell of a jacket is, to give you insight on its durability and longevity. The higher the number, the thicker the threads, and the more durable the jacket. For those who plan to hike or work, or people who just wear their clothes hard, look for a high denier count—around 30 denier, or 30D—as it’ll give you the most abrasion resistance.
Insulating Materials
Your body generates heat and warms the still air trapped between the fibers and filaments of the materials.
“We know air is the best insulator on earth,” says Hsiou-Lien Chen, a textile researcher and associate professor at Oregon State University. “If you can create more spaces to trap that air, the material will have better insulation.”
You can determine how much of that space is in your down or down alternative jacket by checking the fill power. Fill power represents the volume of an ounce of down when it’s compressed. Down jackets typically have 450 to 900 fill power—the higher the number, the warmer the jacket. For true winter, your best bet is to buy a jacket with at least 550-fill-power.
If you opt for genuine duck or goose down, make sure it’s ethically sourced and carries one of two sustainable down certifications—either the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) or the Global Traceable Down Standard (Global TDS).
If you’re allergic to down or prefer synthetic fill, you can still stay warm. Synthetic down is just as effective and sometimes fares even better in wet, wintry mixes than the real stuff.
Wool is another common option for warm winter coats as it’s known for its natural insulating properties—that’s why we love it in our chunky sweaters and comfy socks. Wool topcoats and peacoats are dressier options to wear when you need to be more formal, though keep in mid these have virtually no water resistance, so keep an umbrella handy.
Features
A winter coat with a hood can protect you from the elements and trap more warmth around your head, and make sure to check for features like extra pockets to stash gloves or a hat before you buy.
How We Selected
To find the best winter coats, we considered price, insulating ability, comfort, materials, waterproofing, and style. We then consulted our test editors to get intel on jackets they’ve had personal experience with while hiking, skiing, and simply running everyday errands during the winter months.
We combed through customer reviews for further info and firsthand experiences in order to get a selection that would deliver on the promised features. Our selection includes picks that’ll cover a wide array of personal styles as well as give you the warmth and protection you want when the temperatures take a serious drop.
Pros
- No cold spots
- Ample pockets
- Generous cut is easy to layer
Cons
- Limited color options
I wore this jacket while snowmobiling in Alaska during snowfall and it successfully cut the freezing wind and beaded off precipitation.
The 800-fill goose-down is stacked in a zig-zag pattern instead of the typical horizontal rows of baffles, so there’s continuous insulation that prevents cold spots or down migration.
The large, internal mesh dump pockets have enough room for a water bottle, and the outer pockets keep your hands extra warm. The cut is close but spacious enough for adding plenty of layers underneath, though even without, it’s a bulky jacket.
Key Specs
| Shell | 30D ripstop nylon |
|---|---|
| Insulation | 800-fill down |
| Weatherproofing | DWR treated |
Pros
- High fill power
- Packable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Shorter length gives you less coverage
REI’s in-house brand made this affordable coat that boasts a higher fill count than you see on others that are triple the price. The 850-fill power will keep you toasty in freezing temps and its DWR coating will keep you dry in rain and snow.
It’s also super lightweight, so you can easily shove it in your pack when you get warmed up on a tough hike.
It has a drawcord hem to keep out the wind and though the cuffs aren’t adjustable, they’re elastic and hug your wrist. The draft collar provides added warmth for your neck and the adjustable hood can be cinched down to minimize skin exposure.
While it does cut at the hip, the jacket is cut larger and longer than a regular fit so you’ll get some extra coverage and can still layer underneath.
Key Specs
| Shell | Recycled ripstop nylon |
|---|---|
| Insulation | 850-fill goose down |
| Weatherproofing | DWR treated |
The North Face McMurdo Down Parka Winter Coat
Pros
- Durable shell
- Extended length for better coverage
- Removable fur on hood
- Ample pockets
Cons
- Not easy to pack
The McMurdo has a two layer construction and DWR finish to ensure you stay dry in any snow or wintry mixes. The 600-fill synthetic down will keep you toasty in frigid weather and it’s cut a bit longer to give you some added coverage.
There’s plenty of storage space with zip side-entry pockets behind the top flap pockets at the hip; there are also zip pockets at the chest to secure a phone or wallet. Adjustable cuffs and the hood can be snugged up to block out the wind and cold, and the faux fur trim can be removed for a more subdued style or when you don’t need the extra warmth.
It’s cut large so it’s easy to layer underneath but we still recommend taking your normal size. While it does have a hearty nylon shell, the extended length and bulkiness aren’t best for lots of backcountry activity.
Key Specs
| Shell | 70D Nylon |
|---|---|
| Insulation | 600-fill power synthetic down |
| Weatherproofing | 2 layer construction, DWR treated shell |
Pros
- High fill power
- Packs into its own pocket
- Durable shell
Cons
The Neutrino is kitted out to keep you warm both in the city and on your favorite hikes. The sturdy nylon shell won’t easily rip if caught on something and the helmet compatible hood is perfect for climbers or cyclists.
It has a substantial two-way zipper that’s easy to use even if you have on your thickest pair of gloves. It weighs just over a pound and packs into an included stuff sack so it’s easy to clip onto gear or throw in your backpack.
The adjustable cuffs and hem help you seal out the cold or whenever the wind picks up. The length is just past the hip so while it doesn't give you coverage like a parka, it’ll keep your backend warm.
Key Specs
| Shell | 20D recycled nylon |
|---|---|
| Insulation | 800-fill RDS goose down |
| Weatherproofing | DWR treated |
Pros
- High fill power
- Pack into its own pocket
Cons
The Nuptse is a retro puffer that’s as at home in the city as it is in the backcountry. The oversized baffles have 700-fill power for warmth while still being compressible and it packs down into its right hand pocket.
It has a DWR treated shell to keep you dry in mild rain and snow. An adjustable hem and cuffs help you seal out the wind and rain, and the hood cinches for a customized fit. If you prefer the high-collar silhouette instead, the hood stows into the collar adding some versatility to the jacket.
This classic silhouette has stood the test of time for almost 30 years and is a good bet if you’re not sure where to start for a new winter coat.
Key Specs
| Shell | Ripstop nylon |
|---|---|
| Insulation | 700-fill RDS goose down |
| Weatherproofing | DWR treated |
Pros
- Extended length for better coverage
- Pairs with formal and casual wear
- Relaxed fit for layering over a suit
Cons
- Not water resistant
Sometimes you can’t wear a bulky parka to a meeting or a night out with your significant other, but nobody wants to freeze on their way there. This topcoat has a wool blend that’ll keep you warm and is cut generously for you to layer underneath as needed.
The sleeves adjust with a button tab and you can flip up the large collar for extra protection when the wind picks up (though we suggest pairing this with a scarf to keep your neck warm). The length hits below the knee giving you a lot of coverage, but it has a center vent so it’s comfortable to walk and sit.
Key Specs
| Shell | Wool, polyester, nylon blend |
|---|---|
| Insulation | None |
| Weatherproofing | None |
Pros
- Ultra lightweight
- Easy to layer
- Versatile
Cons
- Tailored cut may be hard to layer over sweaters
If you’re looking for warmth without heft, pick the 13.2-ounce Atom LT from winter experts Arc’teryx. You’ll be very impressed with the 60-gram Coreloft insulation that’ll keep you as warm as a heavier jacket would. Cinch the adjustable cords at the waist and on the hood to further seal in heat.
The height of the zipped-up collar perfectly hits right at the chin and offers wind protection without getting in the way. The Atom is versatile, ideal as a mid-layer, and can serve as a top layer in milder temperatures. The insulation used isn’t the typical baffle stitch so it’s easier to layer under a shell or coat.
Key Specs
| Shell | 20D nylon |
|---|---|
| Insulation | 60g Coreloft Compact insulation |
| Weatherproofing | DWR treated |
Pros
- Classic style
- Easy to layer
- Has some synthetic insulation for added warmth
Cons
- Not water resistant
Before synthetic down and techie fabrics, natural fibers were the only option—and wool was the go-to for winter. The peacoat was first created for sailors in the U.S. Navy and is an elegant staple of winter wear. Its thick wool construction keeps out the wind and the large collar and lapels provide coverage when buttoned all the way up.
L.L. Bean’s version stays true to tradition with anchor buttons and a double-breasted closure. The polyester lining has a thin layer of Thinsulate insulation so there is some added warmth but it isn’t as effective as down fill. Wool also won’t repel water, so don’t go out on a cold rainy day lest you resemble a sponge by the time you get to where you’re going.
A wool peacoat is ideal for those that are trying to keep warm but need something that fits with a dressy or business casual setting.
Key Specs
| Shell | Wool |
|---|---|
| Insulation | Polyester |
| Weatherproofing | None |
Danny Perez is a Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.
Brad Ford has spent most of his life using tools to fix, build, or make things. Growing up he worked on a farm, where he learned to weld, repair, and paint equipment. From the farm he went to work at a classic car dealer, repairing and servicing Rolls Royces, Bentleys, and Jaguars. Today, when he's not testing tools or writing for Popular Mechanics, he's busy keeping up with the projects at his old farmhouse in eastern Pennsylvania.
Will is the director of product content for Hearst’s Enthusiast Group, leading reviews and gear coverage across Best Products, Bicycling, Popular Mechanics, and Runner’s World.
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