The Best Winter Jackets of 2023-2024 (2024)

• Measured Weight2 lbs., 8.8 oz.
• Insulation700-fill 100% recycled down
• Outer Material75D 2-Layer Gore-Tex 100% recycled polyester
• WaterproofYes
• Center Back LengthNot 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

New for the 2023-2024 winter season, the Patagonia Stormshadow Parka ($899) is our new favorite all-around winter jacket. The luxurious puffiness and waterproof shell provide the best overall combination of warmth, weather protection, and useful features, all in a reasonably lightweight package. It has a simple style that is both casual and sporty, and would be equally at home at a cold-weather sporting event, around town, or around a cold and wet campsite.

The Stormshadow is highlighted by high-end materials including a 75-denier GORE-TEX recycled polyester shell and plenty of lofty 700-fill-power recycled down. While other jackets we tested have a similar combination of down insulation protected by a waterproof shell material, this jacket feels the most puffy, and does so while weighing in at a respectable 2 pounds, 8.8 ounces.

Notable design features include a two-way front zipper to make things more comfortable when sitting down or wearing a climbing harness, dual storm flaps on the inside and outside of the front zipper, fleece-lined and zippered hand warmer pockets, two interior pockets, and comfortable inner sleeve cuffs. The insulated hood has two front and one rear adjustment cords.

We were also very impressed with the attention to detail with the down-filled draft tubes along the collar and along the inside waist over the hem adjustment. A few other models we tested include a draft tube along the collar, but no others include one along the hem. This helps ensure a snug fit and seals out any cold drafts from below.

While we love almost everything about the Stormshadow Parka, it comes with a pretty hefty price tag to match its high-end features and performance. And if we had to nitpick, the outer shell material is just a little bit crinkly compared to some other jackets. Still, its ultimate lightweight warmth and weather protection in a refined and stylish package make it our top overall pick.

For a more in-depth look, Check out our full review of the Patagonia Storm Shadow Parka.

$899 at Patagonia

• Measured Weight2 lbs., 3.2 oz.
• Insulation850-fill Bluesign-approved down, 80 & 180g polyester
• Outer Material2-Layer HyrdroWall recycled nylon
• WaterproofYes
• Center Back Length35.5 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

The REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka ($299) shares a similar down-insulated, waterproof design as the Patagonia Stormshadow above, but is available for one-third the list price. With 850-fill-power goose down and body-mapped synthetic insulation, REI’s HydroWall waterproof/breathable shell material, and a generous thigh-length cut, this parka is well-equipped for cold, wet, and windy conditions.

So what makes the Stormhenge so much more affordable than Patagonia’s Stormshadow? First, while the Stormhenge uses high-loft 850-fill-power down insulation, there is less of it overall, making the jacket lighter, but also not as warm as the Stormshadow. Second, REI’s proprietary HydroWall shell material is a little thinner than the GORE-TEX material on the Stormshadow, and its waterproof/breathable performance is less proven than that of the GORE-TEX. Finally, the Stormshadow has a noticeably higher-quality feel and finish and has many more higher-end comfort features than the Stormhenge.

The Stormhenge is still a quality choice. We tested it while roaming around the frozen streets of Crested Butte, Colo., and felt nice and toasty from our heads to our knees on a bitter windy day. The sleeping bag-style draft tube around the neck effectively prevents cold air from seeping into the core. The semi-slim tailored cut is quite stylish and also makes it versatile enough for an afternoon of shopping or a night out.

For anyone who is averse to the thigh-length parka design, REI also makes the Stormhenge Down Hybrid Jacket with similar specs but is 4 ounces lighter and 4 inches shorter.

$299 at REI – Men's$209 at REI – Women's

• Measured Weight3 lbs., 8.8 oz.
• Insulation600-fill recycled down
• Outer Material70D x 160D 2-layer DryVent 100% recycled nylon
• WaterproofYes
• Center Back Length31.75 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

If you want a winter jacket that prioritizes warmth above all else, look no further than The North Face McMurdo Down Parka ($400). With classy urban styling and a relatively affordable price, the McMurdo is built for people living in the coldest cities on earth.

Though the McMurdo’s down insulation has a relatively low fill-power rating of 600 (increased from the 550-fill-power in previous versions), the physical amount of down included more than makes up for this. With a total weight of over 3.5 pounds, the McMurdo is among the heaviest jackets that we tested.

Weight and bulk don’t always translate to superior warmth, but in the case of this jacket, thick down baffles throughout equal toasty comfort. Thanks to an extra-long hem, the McMurdo extends down to the upper thighs to preserve warmth throughout the length of the torso.

This burly jacket is most effective in frigid conditions, so it’s difficult to rate the wet-weather performance of the 70-denier DryVent waterproof/breathable fabric. Ultimately, the primary purpose of the McMurdo is to keep cold air out and retain heat, and it does so beautifully.

And if it’s cold enough to be wearing the McMurdo, you probably won’t be dealing with liquid precipitation.

Other noteworthy features of the McMurdo include a two-way front zipper, detachable faux fur hood lining, concealed chest pockets, and fleece-lined hand warmer pockets.

$400 at REICheck Price at Amazon

• Measured Weight1 lb., 14.7 oz.
• Insulation650-fill RDS-certified down
• Outer Material45D 100% Nylon ripstop
• WaterproofNo
• Center Back Length30 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

Providing an excellent blend of warmth, comfort, and useful features at a reasonable weight and price, the Mountain Hardwear Nevadan Down Parka ($330) is our top choice for an everyday down parka. Weighing under 2 pounds with 650-fill-power down insulation and a 45-denier nylon ripstop shell, it finds a nice sweet spot between a lightweight technical puffy and a fully featured heavyweight parka.

The Nevadan comes with an impressive feature set for its price tag and weight. Most notably, it includes eight total pockets, including very comfortable fleece-lined hand pockets that are at the perfect height and entry angle, and adjacent top-load stash pockets that are the perfect size for a water bottle, drink can, or cellphone.

It also has a two-way front zipper with dual storm flaps, and we appreciate how the Velcro closure system of the outer storm flap is much easier to operate with gloves on than a flap full of snaps. It also includes standard features like adjustable cuffs and hem and hood adjustments and has a comfortable length that extends below the waist but not too far down the thighs.

Style-wise, we like the more casual feel with a matte shell finish compared to other more technical puffies that usually look thinner and shinier. Fit-wise, the “relaxed” fit felt a little bulky in the torso, but not enough to go down a size since the sleeve length is right on, and it leaves room to add additional winter layers underneath.

The Nevadan Down Parka has a casual, easy-wearing design that is great for everyday wear around town, to work or school, at cold-weather sporting events, or for passive outdoor activities.

$227 at Amazon – Men's$325 at Amazon – Women'sCheck men's Price at mountain hardwearCheck Women's Price at mountain hardwear

• Measured Weight1 lb., 0.6 oz.
• Insulation100% polyester Coreloft (60, 80, & 120g)
• Outer Material30D 100% nylon Tyono
• WaterproofNo
• Center Back LengthNot 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

Despite what its name might suggest, the Arc’teryx Atom Heavyweight Hoody ($350) is actually one of the lightest jackets we tested, weighing right around 1 pound. The simple, lightweight design packs impressive warmth for its weight, and is a great choice for layering under a waterproof shell jacket or for wearing as a standalone piece during more active cold-weather adventures.

The synthetic Coreloft insulation is lightweight and very breathable and is body-mapped with different densities in different areas to help optimize warmth, breathability, and weight savings. While not waterproof, the 30-denier outer material has a nice soft feel and a DWR treatment to help repel light moisture.

In order to help shave some weight, this jacket is pretty light on extra features but includes the essentials like comfortable elastic sleeve cuffs, an adjustable hem and insulated hood, large fleece-lined zippered hand pockets, and an internal zippered security pocket.

With its lightweight design, the Atom Heavyweight is obviously not going to be as warm as dedicated winter parkas that weigh 2 or 3 pounds more, but its lightweight warmth and excellent breathability make it perfect for wearing while skiing, hiking, or snowshoeing. Its clean and simple design fits well and isn’t too technical looking, which also makes it versatile enough for daily wear around town or for a night out to dinner.

Though this is one of the lightest winter jackets we tested, the heavyweight designation is because this is the most insulated model in the Arc’teryx Atom series of jackets (and the heaviest, at 16.6 ounces). Designed as a lightweight mid or outer layer, the Atom series includes the Atom Hoody at 13.1 ounces and the Atom SL Hoody at 9.5 ounces.

$350 at REI – Men'sCheck Women's Price at Arc'teryx

• Measured Weight2 lbs., 14.9 oz.
• Insulation700-fill 100% recycled down
• Outer Material150D 2-layer H2No 100% recycled polyester
• WaterproofYes
• Center Back Length33.1 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

The Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka ($699) is a warm, protective, and versatile winter jacket. With a clean and simple style, it’s great for everyday around-town use, but the 3-in-1 design also makes it versatile for variable conditions and activities.

Going for a hike on a sunny, cold winter day? Just wear the 700-fill-power internal puffy jacket to stay warm but save some weight. Running errands on a milder rainy day? Use just the burly 150-denier H2No waterproof outer shell for burly wet-weather protection. Combine them both for the ultimate warmth and protection when conditions are really poor.

The latest version of the Tres is described as a regular fit compared to the slim fit of past versions, but it still has a snugger feel than most other models we tested (when both jackets are worn together). However, the outer shell jacket feels a bit bigger and looser when worn without the inner puffy jacket, since it is sized to accommodate that extra layer underneath.

Because this jacket consists of two separate jackets that get zipped and snapped together, it also feels a little heavier and bulkier than regular insulated jackets. Also, note that the inner puffy jacket does not have a hood, and the hood of the outer shell jacket is not insulated.

Overall, we really enjoy the clean style and comfortable fit of the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka, and highly recommend it for everyday around-town wear or for those looking for extra versatility.

$487 at REI – Men's$699 at REI – Women's$699 at Patagonia – Men's$699 at Patagonia – Women's

• Measured Weight1 lb., 4.6 oz.
• Insulation700-fill RDS-approved down, 85% recycled VerticalX ECO
• Outer Material53% recycled Pertex Quantum Eco
• WaterproofNo
• Center Back Length29 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

The Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie ($279) is a comfortable midweight down puffy that has a clean and simple design and good all-around performance. With 700-fill-power down insulation supported by VerticalX ECO synthetic insulation in the shoulders and cuffs, and a reasonable weight of 20.6 ounces in a men’s size Medium, the Coldfront has one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios of any jacket that we tested.

The 30-denier Pertex Quantum Eco shell material is soft to the touch and not very crinkly and seems like just the right thickness to protect against rips or snags without becoming too heavy. The jacket has pretty standard features that include oversized fleece-lined, zippered hand pockets, two internal stash pockets, a comfortable insulated hood, and hood and hem adjustments.

The Coldfront is like the Goldilocks of winter jackets. It’s not as warm as burlier winter parkas or as weatherproof as jackets with GORE-TEX shells, but it strikes a great balance of warmth, weight, wearability, and value. While not a sleek urban-styled coat or a truly lightweight and packable technical piece, we could see wearing the Coldfront both for a casual night out on the town and for moderate outdoor activities like hiking or camping.

$195 at REI – Men's$195 at REI – Women's$230 at Amazon – Women's

• Measured Weight1 lb., 3.0 oz.
• Insulation700-fill recycled down with Nikwax hydrophobic finish
• Outer MaterialPertex Quantum 3DWeave
• WaterproofNo
• Center Back Length29.1 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

The Rab Cubit Stretch Down Hooded Jacket ($315) is a very stylish and surprisingly warm jacket, making it a great choice for casual everyday wear or for active outdoor activities. Despite boasting relatively average insulation stats (6.1 ounces of 700-fill-power down), this jacket packs a warm punch thanks to its unique 3DWeave pre-woven baffle design. Rather than utilizing traditional sewn-through baffles, this design welds the baffles from a single sheet of fabric, reducing the amount of stitching and helping distribute the down insulation more evenly.

We also really like the Pertex Quantum outer shell material. It has a soft feel and more of a matte finish and provides good water resistance and excellent wind resistance. We also really like the insulated hood that has a snug fit with an elastic binding around the wearer’s face. While this makes it very cozy, note that it is not sized to fit a climbing or ski helmet, and does not include any adjustment mechanisms.

The Cubit is fairly light on features compared to a fancier parka, but it includes zippered hand warmer pockets, two interior stash pockets, and a lower hem adjustment. While it’s not fully waterproof like some other models we tested, the face fabric is treated with a water-repellent finish, and the down insulation is treated with Nikwax hydrophobic finish. Thanks to its unique style and awesome overall comfort, the Cubit is one of our favorite everyday jackets.

$315 at Backcountry – Men's$365 at REI – Women's$315 at Amazon – Men'sCheck Women's Price at Amazon – Women's

• Measured Weight2 lbs., 5.8 oz.
• Insulation750-fill RDS-certified down, Coreloft synthetic fill
• Outer Material2-Layer Gore-Tex 100% recycled nylon
• WaterproofYes
• Center Back LengthNot 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

On those cold, wet days that hover right around the freezing point, there is no substitute for a warm and fully waterproof jacket. From the chilly city streets of Seattle and Chicago to the ski-in lodges of Whistler and Vail, the Arc’teryx Therme SV Parka ($950) is warm, weatherproof, and looks pretty sharp.

Behind its clean, understated design is heavy-duty weather protection. Besides its obvious extended length, it includes a 2-layer GORE-TEX waterproof and windproof shell, and plenty of lofty 750-fill-power down insulation with strategically placed synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas.

Compared to our top-ranked Patagonia Stormshadow, the Therme SV feels slightly less lofty and warm and has fewer extra features, but has a longer length and a softer face material.

We were impressed by the internal cuff gaskets that effectively seal in heat and keep out cold air and moisture. As a thigh-length parka, the Therme SV comes with a two-way zipper that improves range of motion when sitting down or stepping up into a vehicle. For extra protection, the large hood can be adjusted to block wind, sideways-blowing rain, and snow.

The Arc’teryx SV designation stands for severe weather pieces with the “most durable materials and weather protection, for prolonged exposure to severe conditions.” Arc’teryx also makes a regular Therme Parka with a shorter length and slightly less insulation.

$800 at AmazonCheck Price at Arc'teryx

• Measured Weight2 lbs., 13.0 oz.
• Insulation700-fill down with Down Defender treatment
• Outer MaterialNano Pro 100% recycled polyester
• WaterproofNo
• Center Back Length30.5 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

With an attractive price tag and supreme comfort, it’s easy to fall in love with the Marmot Fordham Jacket ($325). Thanks to its high-quality 700-fill down insulation, the Fordham offers more than an appealing look and feel — it’s also super warm.

First impressions of jackets are telling, especially when it comes to comfort. Donning the Fordham for the first time feels like hugging a (friendly) grizzly bear. When it’s cold out, you simply won’t want to remove this jacket.

Instead of the longer thigh-length cut of many other parka styles that we tested, the Fordham features a standard waist-length fit. Of course, there are pros and cons to both styles. But we like that this jacket allows for leg mobility while sitting, walking in big strides, or riding a cruiser in cold temps.

Longer jackets are generally the better choice for everyday use in extremely cold temps. Yet we found the Fordham holds its own against almost any other jacket when it comes to maintaining a comfortable core temperature.

The Fordham really shines in cold and dry conditions. Though it does have some taped seams, it will soak through quickly in a heavy downpour of rain or sleet. For brief spurts of storm exposure between the car and the house, the Fordham will keep you dry. For anything worse, we recommend a more waterproof option.

Other key attributes of the Fordham include fleece inner sleeve cuffs, handwarmer pockets, and a snug removable hood. Though it isn’t the most feature-packed option, its simple frills-free design offers everything you need in a reliable jacket.

$244 at REI$325 at Amazon

• Measured Weight3 lbs., 8.4 oz.
• Insulation100% polyester High Loft
• Outer Material100% Polyamide
• WaterproofYes
• Center Back Length34 in.

• Very warm
• Adapts well to variable weather
• Large pockets
• Detachable hood

• Synthetic insulation is heavier than down
• Fairly bulky

The Helly Hansen Tromsoe Jacket ($320) is a versatile layer ideal for everyday use in cold climates. We tested this jacket while exploring the Canadian Rockies, and it provided a rare combination of warmth, style, durability, and technical features.

Insulated with synthetic fiber rather than down, the Tromsoe is heavier than most of the other winter jackets that we tested. Aside from the weight difference, it insulates as well as any comparable down jacket.

Two large front cargo pockets give the Tromsoe lots of storage utility and a uniquely stylish appearance. We managed to carry a phone, wallet, keys, snacks, and a notebook in the jacket with plenty of space left over.

In frigid and stormy weather, the Tromsoe’s built-in neck gaiter retains heat and keeps snow out. This isn’t the most waterproof jacket that we tested, but the DWR-treated fabric won’t absorb small raindrops or melting snowflakes.

Ultimately, the Tromosoe’s greatest strength is its adaptability. It isn’t the most technical winter jacket on the market, but it thrives in a variety of scenarios from low-output winter activities to daily commutes on public transit. While we don’t rank it as highly as comparable down-insulated jackets, it still performs well and is on the lower end of the price spectrum.

$240 at Helly Hansen$320 at Amazon

• Measured Weight4 lbs., 1.3 oz.
• Insulation650-fill RDS-certified down
• Outer MaterialWeatherEdge 100% recycled nylon
• WaterproofYes
• Center Back Length33 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

The Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka ($349) is a stylish and warm winter parka that comes at a great price, making it a very nice value. This parka is well made and has plenty of useful features to add convenience to your day to day life.

Comfort wise, we really like the soft knitted sleeve cuffs that wrap around your wrists to help seal out the cold. We also appreciate the oversized adjustable hood with a removable faux fur lining, and the hem adjustment at the waist that helps ensure a snug fit. It also includes seven pockets with plenty of room for all your gear, two-way front zippers with dual storm flaps, and adjustable Velcro outer sleeve cuffs.

So why don’t we rank it higher? First of all, it’s very heavy, weighing over 4 pounds, which is the heaviest jacket that we tested. While we appreciate its warmth and style, combining its bulk with its longer length makes it feel pretty hefty to wear and lug around. Also, while we like all of the pockets inside and out, the exterior hand and cargo pockets are at a somewhat awkward angle, making them a little less convenient to use.

Overall, we’re not crazy about the added weight compared to other models we tested, but we like the style, features, and warmth of the Superior Down Parka. We also like the price tag, and noticed that it’s frequently available on sale, making it a nice value

$209 at AmazonCheck Men's Price at Eddie BauerCheck Women's Price at Eddie Bauer

• Measured Weight1 lb., 7.5 oz.
• Insulation700-fill RDS-certified down
• Outer Material20D Durable Stretch Doubleweave: 86% Nylon, 14% Elastane
• WaterproofNo
• Center Back Length28.0 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

One of the most unique offerings in this lineup, the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Popover Hoody combines the lightweight warmth of a down jacket with the casual style of a hooded sweatshirt. This jacket is a newer offering from Mountain Hardwear’s Strechdown line that uses a single continuous piece of woven material to enclose the down insulation.

While the Popover Hoody admittedly isn’t as warm as heavier winter jackets and parkas, it certainly has a place in your quiver of jackets. We enjoyed popping it on and off for everyday tasks like walking the dog, going outside to restock firewood, and quick trips to the store. Its casual style and convenient front kangaroo pouch and adjacent zippered pocket make it versatile enough for everything from apres ski hangouts to daily trips around town.

The Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown collection has a number of different styles and pieces from traditional zippered jackets and hoodies to a vest and a longer and heavier parka. Check out our testers’ impressions of the Stretchdown Hooded Jacket in our Best Down Jackets Buyer’s Guide.

$320 at AmazonCheck Price at Mountain Hardwear

What is the warmest winter jacket?

Are winter jackets waterproof?

Should I get a winter jacket with a hood?

Are winter jackets expensive?