A great winter coat does more than just keep you warm. It’s your daily shield against the elements, so it needs to be functional, comfortable, and stylish enough to wear on repeat. Here are the key features to look for when buying a winter coat:
Warmth. Insulation matters, but how much of it depends on the typical winter temperatures you’re in. Down jackets will usually specify its “fill power,” or how much down is inside; jackets with a fill power of 500-600 will keep you warm down to around freezing, while 700-800 fill power is reliable for below freezing temps.
Insulation type. Goose or duck down is the warmest type of insulation, but it loses its power when it gets wet, so we most prefer down jackets that are fully waterproof and made from a sustainable down source. Synthetic insulation is slightly less warm off the bat, but it retains heat even when wet, so this is better suited for damp climates or water-resistant jackets. Lighter winter jackets, like a wool coat, rely on the natural insulation of their materials and can be layered for more warmth.
Ventilation. It’s very hard to temperature regulate when walking around in the winter, whether you’re popping on and off the subway in the city or on a hike. Look for winter jackets with features like pit zips to release warmth on the go, or made from breathable fabrics to allow airflow and regulate your temperature without sacrificing warmth.
Water and wind proofing. A winter jacket should keep you dry in snow and sleet while also blocking icy wind gusts. Many jackets with a DWR finish are reliably water-resistant and will keep you dry in light snow, but if you live somewhere very wet, look for a jacket with a waterproof rating of at least 10,000mm and windproof membranes like Gore-Tex or similar technologies.
Hood design. Opting for a jacket with a hood or no hood feels largely aesthetic — until the wind kicks up on a cold day. A well-designed hood is essential for added warmth and weather protection. We prefer an adjustable hood that can be tightened snugly on a windy day. Faux-fur trims also offer extra insulation and protection against active snow. Some coats also have a removable or stow-able hood, which earns them bonus points for versatility.
Sleeves and cuffs. Coat sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists when you stretch your arms, but not swallow your hands. Look for features like elasticated cuffs, thumbholes, or Velcro straps to seal out cold air and snow.
Pockets. Ample, strategically placed pockets are all non-negotiables when it comes to the best winter coats. It ideally has space for hand-warming, a vertical chest pocket for phones and sunglasses, and pockets that are big enough to stash gloves and other essentials.
Length and fit. Longer jackets, like parkas or long puffers, offer ample coverage and warmth for cold-weather commutes, while shorter, fitted styles may be better for style and mobility. We highly recommend opting for a loose-fitting jacket rather than something tight, which will not only keep you more warm, but allows for layering.
Weight and packability. Big winter coats have a lot of material, which translates to more weight you’re walking around in all day. This can also cause you to sweat more, making you colder as the sweat dries. If you’re traveling or winter hiking, weight is even more important. The lighter the jacket, the better.
Durability. Winter jackets should be a long-term investment, so prioritize durable materials like ripstop nylon or polyester and reinforced stitching, especially if you’ll be in rugged, outdoor conditions. Check for strong zippers and reliable closures to ensure longevity.
Special design features. We highly rate winter coats with nice-to-have features like a chin guard to keep your face warm in winter winds, fleece-lined pockets for warmer hands, two-way zippers for better mobility, convenient zip and snap closures, and removable attachments.
