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What to Know
Behind the Scenes
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Winter jackets are a must-have in your wardrobe. But, unlikecozy sweatersand sweatshirts, you may not have dozens of them hanging in your closet, so you’ll want to ensure the styles you own are the crème de la crème of outerwear.The best winter coats areultra-warmand durable enough to last several seasons. Hopefully, your winter coat is stylish, too, since it often becomes the star of your winter ensemble.We tested best-selling styles, examining the quality, comfort, fit, and design of 23 women’s winter coats. These were the best we tested, including coats from Columbia, Patagonia, and Lands’ End.Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEOrolay Thickened Down Jacket at Amazon$150$126Jump to ReviewBest Down:SALELands' End Down Winter Coat at Amazon$240$156Jump to ReviewBest Down Alternative:SALEColumbia Joy Peak Hooded Jacket at Amazon$180$120Jump to ReviewBest Water-Resistant:Columbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket at Amazon$112Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Fjallraven Nuuk Insulated Parka at Amazon$399Jump to ReviewBest for Extreme Cold:Triple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down Jacket at Amazon$425Jump to ReviewBest Parka:Patagonia Down With It Parka at Patagonia.comJump to ReviewBest Packable:SALEArc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie at Amazon$300$210Jump to Review
Winter jackets are a must-have in your wardrobe. But, unlikecozy sweatersand sweatshirts, you may not have dozens of them hanging in your closet, so you’ll want to ensure the styles you own are the crème de la crème of outerwear.
The best winter coats areultra-warmand durable enough to last several seasons. Hopefully, your winter coat is stylish, too, since it often becomes the star of your winter ensemble.
We tested best-selling styles, examining the quality, comfort, fit, and design of 23 women’s winter coats. These were the best we tested, including coats from Columbia, Patagonia, and Lands’ End.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEOrolay Thickened Down Jacket at Amazon$150$126Jump to ReviewBest Down:SALELands' End Down Winter Coat at Amazon$240$156Jump to ReviewBest Down Alternative:SALEColumbia Joy Peak Hooded Jacket at Amazon$180$120Jump to ReviewBest Water-Resistant:Columbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket at Amazon$112Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Fjallraven Nuuk Insulated Parka at Amazon$399Jump to ReviewBest for Extreme Cold:Triple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down Jacket at Amazon$425Jump to ReviewBest Parka:Patagonia Down With It Parka at Patagonia.comJump to ReviewBest Packable:SALEArc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie at Amazon$300$210Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEOrolay Thickened Down Jacket at Amazon$150$126Jump to ReviewBest Down:SALELands' End Down Winter Coat at Amazon$240$156Jump to ReviewBest Down Alternative:SALEColumbia Joy Peak Hooded Jacket at Amazon$180$120Jump to ReviewBest Water-Resistant:Columbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket at Amazon$112Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Fjallraven Nuuk Insulated Parka at Amazon$399Jump to ReviewBest for Extreme Cold:Triple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down Jacket at Amazon$425Jump to ReviewBest Parka:Patagonia Down With It Parka at Patagonia.comJump to ReviewBest Packable:SALEArc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie at Amazon$300$210Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEOrolay Thickened Down Jacket at Amazon$150$126Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEOrolay Thickened Down Jacket at Amazon$150$126
Best Overall:
SALE
Best Down:SALELands' End Down Winter Coat at Amazon$240$156Jump to Review
Best Down:SALELands' End Down Winter Coat at Amazon$240$156
Best Down:
Best Down Alternative:SALEColumbia Joy Peak Hooded Jacket at Amazon$180$120Jump to Review
Best Down Alternative:SALEColumbia Joy Peak Hooded Jacket at Amazon$180$120
Best Down Alternative:
Best Water-Resistant:Columbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket at Amazon$112Jump to Review
Best Water-Resistant:Columbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket at Amazon$112
Best Water-Resistant:
Best Investment:Fjallraven Nuuk Insulated Parka at Amazon$399Jump to Review
Best Investment:Fjallraven Nuuk Insulated Parka at Amazon$399
Best Investment:
Best for Extreme Cold:Triple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down Jacket at Amazon$425Jump to Review
Best for Extreme Cold:Triple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down Jacket at Amazon$425
Best for Extreme Cold:
Best Parka:Patagonia Down With It Parka at Patagonia.comJump to Review
Best Parka:Patagonia Down With It Parka at Patagonia.com
Best Parka:
Best Packable:SALEArc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie at Amazon$300$210Jump to Review
Best Packable:SALEArc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie at Amazon$300$210
Best Packable:
Best OverallOrolay Thickened Down JacketPHOTO: Amazon$150$126 at AmazonView on Orolay.comStar QualitiesSuper warm thanks to the thick material, long length, and fleece-lined hoodOne of the least expensive coats we’ve triedPlenty of internal and external pocketsLarge size rangeRed FlagsRuns small, so size up if you plan to layer underneathThis trendy winter coat isn’t just anOprah favorite— it’s our favorite, too. Online, reviewers rave about the style, fit, warmth, and price tag — and we were equally impressed when we tested it. It’s ultra-comfortable and kept us as warm as its luxury counterparts, partly thanks to its longer length and fleece-lined hood.It fits a bit snug, so we recommend you size up to leave plenty of room for your winter layers.Size Range:XXS–5X |Material:Polyester |Colors:11
Best OverallOrolay Thickened Down JacketPHOTO: Amazon$150$126 at AmazonView on Orolay.com
Best OverallOrolay Thickened Down Jacket
PHOTO: Amazon
$150$126 at AmazonView on Orolay.com
Star QualitiesSuper warm thanks to the thick material, long length, and fleece-lined hoodOne of the least expensive coats we’ve triedPlenty of internal and external pocketsLarge size rangeRed FlagsRuns small, so size up if you plan to layer underneath
Star QualitiesSuper warm thanks to the thick material, long length, and fleece-lined hoodOne of the least expensive coats we’ve triedPlenty of internal and external pocketsLarge size range
Super warm thanks to the thick material, long length, and fleece-lined hood
One of the least expensive coats we’ve tried
Plenty of internal and external pockets
Large size range
Red FlagsRuns small, so size up if you plan to layer underneath
Runs small, so size up if you plan to layer underneath
This trendy winter coat isn’t just anOprah favorite— it’s our favorite, too. Online, reviewers rave about the style, fit, warmth, and price tag — and we were equally impressed when we tested it. It’s ultra-comfortable and kept us as warm as its luxury counterparts, partly thanks to its longer length and fleece-lined hood.
It fits a bit snug, so we recommend you size up to leave plenty of room for your winter layers.
Size Range:XXS–5X |Material:Polyester |Colors:11
Best DownLands' End Down Winter CoatPHOTO: Amazon$240$156 at Amazon$180 at Landsend.com
Best DownLands' End Down Winter Coat
$240$156 at Amazon$180 at Landsend.com
Star QualitiesOne of the warmest coats we tried thanks to its fluffy down fillingRegulates temperature, so we didn’t overheatReasonably priced for a down coatRed FlagsSlim fit makes it slightly difficult to layer over chunky sweaters
Star QualitiesOne of the warmest coats we tried thanks to its fluffy down fillingRegulates temperature, so we didn’t overheatReasonably priced for a down coat
One of the warmest coats we tried thanks to its fluffy down filling
Regulates temperature, so we didn’t overheat
Reasonably priced for a down coat
Red FlagsSlim fit makes it slightly difficult to layer over chunky sweaters
Slim fit makes it slightly difficult to layer over chunky sweaters
Since the jacket is pretty fitted, we don’t recommend it as a layering piece when wearing chunky knit sweaters.
Size Range:XS–3X, petite and tall sizes available |Material: Polyester |Colors:9
Best Down AlternativeColumbia Joy Peak Hooded JacketPHOTO: Dick’s Sporting Goods$180$120 at Amazon$170 at Dick’sView on Basspro.comStar QualitiesSynthetic down is warm without being bulkyPacks down well, so it’s great for travelingReasonably pricedRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any!If you’re looking for a top-notch synthetic down jacket, this is one of the best we’ve tried. The jacket is surprisingly slim-cut, thanks to a heat-reflective lining that kept us warm and toasty without the extra bulk of a traditional puffer. It goes down to the mid-thigh, which provides more coverage against the winter elements.The down-filled parka is surprisingly lightweight and packable, too. It runs true-to-size and comes in a slew of neutral and bright colors to compliment anyone’s taste.Size Range:XS–3X |Material:Nylon, polyester, fleece |Colors: 14PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best Down AlternativeColumbia Joy Peak Hooded JacketPHOTO: Dick’s Sporting Goods$180$120 at Amazon$170 at Dick’sView on Basspro.com
Best Down AlternativeColumbia Joy Peak Hooded Jacket
PHOTO: Dick’s Sporting Goods
$180$120 at Amazon$170 at Dick’sView on Basspro.com
Star QualitiesSynthetic down is warm without being bulkyPacks down well, so it’s great for travelingReasonably pricedRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any!
Star QualitiesSynthetic down is warm without being bulkyPacks down well, so it’s great for travelingReasonably priced
Synthetic down is warm without being bulky
Packs down well, so it’s great for traveling
Reasonably priced
Red FlagsWe couldn’t find any!
We couldn’t find any!
If you’re looking for a top-notch synthetic down jacket, this is one of the best we’ve tried. The jacket is surprisingly slim-cut, thanks to a heat-reflective lining that kept us warm and toasty without the extra bulk of a traditional puffer. It goes down to the mid-thigh, which provides more coverage against the winter elements.
The down-filled parka is surprisingly lightweight and packable, too. It runs true-to-size and comes in a slew of neutral and bright colors to compliment anyone’s taste.
Size Range:XS–3X |Material:Nylon, polyester, fleece |Colors: 14
PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best Water-ResistantColumbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated JacketPHOTO: Amazon$112 at Amazon$230$72 at Columbia.comView on Shoemall.comStar QualitiesDurable, water-resistant, and machine washableThermal lining and synthetic down filling offer extra warmthRed FlagsNot ideal for petite framesThis coat provides impressive warmth thanks to Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining that traps body heat. It’s also filled with synthetic down material, which helps to retain heat no matter the conditions — so you’ll be toasty even whenheading out in rainor snow.It has longer sleeves, which we appreciated, although they may not be ideal for petite frames. We also liked how easy this jacket was to layer with chunky sweaters and thin layers alike. Best of all, this coat comes in a decent size range, including plus sizes.Size Range:XS–3X |Material:Polyester |Colors:7
Best Water-ResistantColumbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated JacketPHOTO: Amazon$112 at Amazon$230$72 at Columbia.comView on Shoemall.com
Best Water-ResistantColumbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket
$112 at Amazon$230$72 at Columbia.comView on Shoemall.com
Star QualitiesDurable, water-resistant, and machine washableThermal lining and synthetic down filling offer extra warmthRed FlagsNot ideal for petite frames
Star QualitiesDurable, water-resistant, and machine washableThermal lining and synthetic down filling offer extra warmth
Durable, water-resistant, and machine washable
Thermal lining and synthetic down filling offer extra warmth
Red FlagsNot ideal for petite frames
Not ideal for petite frames
This coat provides impressive warmth thanks to Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining that traps body heat. It’s also filled with synthetic down material, which helps to retain heat no matter the conditions — so you’ll be toasty even whenheading out in rainor snow.
It has longer sleeves, which we appreciated, although they may not be ideal for petite frames. We also liked how easy this jacket was to layer with chunky sweaters and thin layers alike. Best of all, this coat comes in a decent size range, including plus sizes.
Size Range:XS–3X |Material:Polyester |Colors:7
Best InvestmentFjallraven Nuuk Insulated ParkaPHOTO: REI$399 at Amazon$399 at ZapposView on Fjallraven.comStar QualitiesQuality details like thoughtful pocket placement and a fleece-lined collarKept us super warm, especially the zipper closure up to the neckRed FlagsPricier than others on our list, but worth itA high-quality coat can last you for years, and we think this parka is worth the investment: It kept us comfortable in all conditions.We were able to layer all kinds of sweaters and sweatshirts underneath this parka, and it never felt stiff or bulky. We were especially impressed with the little details of the coat, like the hand pocket placement, which felt so comfortable. We also loved that the collar is fleece-lined and the zipper closes up to the neck, so our face was just as toasty as our torso in cold conditions.While this coat is certainly pricy, it’s stylish and functional. If you live somewhere where temperatures are frigid and a cheaper jacket just won’t cut it, we recommend this one.Size Range:XXS–XXL |Material:Recycled polyamide |Colors:6PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People
Best InvestmentFjallraven Nuuk Insulated ParkaPHOTO: REI$399 at Amazon$399 at ZapposView on Fjallraven.com
Best InvestmentFjallraven Nuuk Insulated Parka
PHOTO: REI
$399 at Amazon$399 at ZapposView on Fjallraven.com
Star QualitiesQuality details like thoughtful pocket placement and a fleece-lined collarKept us super warm, especially the zipper closure up to the neckRed FlagsPricier than others on our list, but worth it
Star QualitiesQuality details like thoughtful pocket placement and a fleece-lined collarKept us super warm, especially the zipper closure up to the neck
Quality details like thoughtful pocket placement and a fleece-lined collar
Kept us super warm, especially the zipper closure up to the neck
Red FlagsPricier than others on our list, but worth it
Pricier than others on our list, but worth it
A high-quality coat can last you for years, and we think this parka is worth the investment: It kept us comfortable in all conditions.
We were able to layer all kinds of sweaters and sweatshirts underneath this parka, and it never felt stiff or bulky. We were especially impressed with the little details of the coat, like the hand pocket placement, which felt so comfortable. We also loved that the collar is fleece-lined and the zipper closes up to the neck, so our face was just as toasty as our torso in cold conditions.
While this coat is certainly pricy, it’s stylish and functional. If you live somewhere where temperatures are frigid and a cheaper jacket just won’t cut it, we recommend this one.
Size Range:XXS–XXL |Material:Recycled polyamide |Colors:6
Best for Extreme ColdTriple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down JacketPHOTO: Triple F.A.T. Goose$425 at AmazonView on Triplefatgoose.comStar QualitiesStylish and functional, with lots of zippered pockets750-fill power down maintains warmth in frigid temperaturesHas a sleeker look than others we testedRed FlagsMay be too warm for some climatesPricier than some others we testedThis puffer coat isn’t just stylish — it’s functional, too. The down design, comfortable fit, and cute silhouette make it a must-have for frigid temperatures. This coat is designed with cold temperatures in mind, so it may be too warm for some climates. We liken wearing this jacket to wrapping yourself up in a sleeping bag, since it’s equally cozy and warm. Several design features set it apart from the competition, like its matte finish, several zippered pockets, high collar, and great length.Size Range:XS–3XL |Material:Nylon fabric and750 Fill Power 11 oz. white duck down (90% down, 10% feather) |Colors:4
Best for Extreme ColdTriple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down JacketPHOTO: Triple F.A.T. Goose$425 at AmazonView on Triplefatgoose.com
Best for Extreme ColdTriple F.A.T. Goose Puffer Down Jacket
PHOTO: Triple F.A.T. Goose
$425 at AmazonView on Triplefatgoose.com
Star QualitiesStylish and functional, with lots of zippered pockets750-fill power down maintains warmth in frigid temperaturesHas a sleeker look than others we testedRed FlagsMay be too warm for some climatesPricier than some others we tested
Star QualitiesStylish and functional, with lots of zippered pockets750-fill power down maintains warmth in frigid temperaturesHas a sleeker look than others we tested
Stylish and functional, with lots of zippered pockets
750-fill power down maintains warmth in frigid temperatures
Has a sleeker look than others we tested
Red FlagsMay be too warm for some climatesPricier than some others we tested
May be too warm for some climates
Pricier than some others we tested
This puffer coat isn’t just stylish — it’s functional, too. The down design, comfortable fit, and cute silhouette make it a must-have for frigid temperatures. This coat is designed with cold temperatures in mind, so it may be too warm for some climates. We liken wearing this jacket to wrapping yourself up in a sleeping bag, since it’s equally cozy and warm. Several design features set it apart from the competition, like its matte finish, several zippered pockets, high collar, and great length.
Size Range:XS–3XL |Material:Nylon fabric and750 Fill Power 11 oz. white duck down (90% down, 10% feather) |Colors:4
Best ParkaPatagonia Down With It ParkaPHOTO: PatagoniaView on Patagonia.com$244 at REI$349 at BackcountryStar QualitiesKept us warm in below-freezing temperatures thanks to the down fillingPadded hood provides extra warmthZippered pockets offer added securityRed FlagsTighter on the chest, which might not be ideal for larger bustsNot available in plus sizesIf you plan on braving below-freezing temperatures, consider this Patagonia parka. It’s comfortable and warm, so we were impressed with its performance in colder conditions. The chest section is a bit tight, so this parka wouldn’t be ideal for large busts. We wish it came in a larger size range, too.We were impressed with all the little details on this jacket. The hardware was high-quality, even when compared to other luxury coats. This coat is absolutely worth the investment, and we think it will last you for years to come.Size Range:XXS–XXL |Material:Recycled polyester, recycled down |Colors:7
Best ParkaPatagonia Down With It ParkaPHOTO: PatagoniaView on Patagonia.com$244 at REI$349 at Backcountry
Best ParkaPatagonia Down With It Parka
PHOTO: Patagonia
View on Patagonia.com$244 at REI$349 at Backcountry
Star QualitiesKept us warm in below-freezing temperatures thanks to the down fillingPadded hood provides extra warmthZippered pockets offer added securityRed FlagsTighter on the chest, which might not be ideal for larger bustsNot available in plus sizes
Star QualitiesKept us warm in below-freezing temperatures thanks to the down fillingPadded hood provides extra warmthZippered pockets offer added security
Kept us warm in below-freezing temperatures thanks to the down filling
Padded hood provides extra warmth
Zippered pockets offer added security
Red FlagsTighter on the chest, which might not be ideal for larger bustsNot available in plus sizes
Tighter on the chest, which might not be ideal for larger busts
Not available in plus sizes
If you plan on braving below-freezing temperatures, consider this Patagonia parka. It’s comfortable and warm, so we were impressed with its performance in colder conditions. The chest section is a bit tight, so this parka wouldn’t be ideal for large busts. We wish it came in a larger size range, too.
We were impressed with all the little details on this jacket. The hardware was high-quality, even when compared to other luxury coats. This coat is absolutely worth the investment, and we think it will last you for years to come.
Size Range:XXS–XXL |Material:Recycled polyester, recycled down |Colors:7
Best PackableArc’teryx Atom Insulated HoodiePHOTO: REI$300$210 at Amazon$300 at REIView on Arcteryx.comStar QualitiesSleek, non-bulky jacket packs down wellGreat for moderate weather conditions, including outdoor exerciseRed FlagsNot the thickest or warmest coat we’ve triedThis jacket has a packable silhouette that’s rare for coats and jackets. It’s lightweight, so it folds up nicely and doesn’t take up much room in a suitcase. It’s warm enough for moderate winter temperatures (around 40 degrees Fahrenheit), so it’s the perfect layer to bring with you on mild winter travel.When we tested this jacket, we found that it was effective for outdoor exercise, particularly long runs in the winter. It isn’t bulky so it permits a good range of motion, and we found it warm enough for athletic activities. Plus, this jacket will wear into the springtime, since it makes a great transitional layer.Size Range:XXS–XXL |Material:Nylon, recycled polyester, elastane |Colors:11
Best PackableArc’teryx Atom Insulated HoodiePHOTO: REI$300$210 at Amazon$300 at REIView on Arcteryx.com
Best PackableArc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie
$300$210 at Amazon$300 at REIView on Arcteryx.com
Star QualitiesSleek, non-bulky jacket packs down wellGreat for moderate weather conditions, including outdoor exerciseRed FlagsNot the thickest or warmest coat we’ve tried
Star QualitiesSleek, non-bulky jacket packs down wellGreat for moderate weather conditions, including outdoor exercise
Sleek, non-bulky jacket packs down well
Great for moderate weather conditions, including outdoor exercise
Red FlagsNot the thickest or warmest coat we’ve tried
Not the thickest or warmest coat we’ve tried
This jacket has a packable silhouette that’s rare for coats and jackets. It’s lightweight, so it folds up nicely and doesn’t take up much room in a suitcase. It’s warm enough for moderate winter temperatures (around 40 degrees Fahrenheit), so it’s the perfect layer to bring with you on mild winter travel.
When we tested this jacket, we found that it was effective for outdoor exercise, particularly long runs in the winter. It isn’t bulky so it permits a good range of motion, and we found it warm enough for athletic activities. Plus, this jacket will wear into the springtime, since it makes a great transitional layer.
Size Range:XXS–XXL |Material:Nylon, recycled polyester, elastane |Colors:11
When shopping for a winter coat, stylistChristina Petrysays style versatility is super important. “Having a coat that goes with multiple outfits, whether dressy or everyday casual, is not only functional but realistic for people who want options in their personal wardrobe,” she explains. With this in mind, look for coats that are available in neutral colors or a hue that pairs well with lots of items in your wardrobe (even if that color isn’t neutral).
Whether it’s a rain jacket, a down coat, or some other kind of outerwear, the fit is an essential aspect of jacket shopping. And, if you plan to layer underneath your coat, you will definitely want to consider that, since sizing up might better accommodate chunky knits or multiple layers.
When shopping,Soneca Guadara, a style consultant and personal fashion stylist, says to first ask yourself if you want a coat to be fitted or loose. If considering a more fitted silhouette, she recommends “something that will create definition at your waist,” such as a belted coat or something that cinches in a little more at the midsection.
Fit also defines comfort, which is why Guadara says trying it on with items you’ll actually wear — such as a sweater or sweatshirt — with it is a must.
“You need winter coats that will keep you ready for varying weather conditions such as rain, snow, wind, and really cold temperatures,” saysKriena Nederveen, a stylist with over 30 years of experience. While you might be able to meet some of these criteria with just one jacket, you should consider investing in a couple of different options, especially if you live in a rainy city where more moisture protection is required.
At PEOPLE, we know how important a good winter coat is (especially for those of us who live on the East Coast). We wore 23 coats for a minimum of six hours each. Then, we evaluated each coat on the following criteria.
Jessie Quinnis a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE.com who writes about beauty, fashion, home, pets, DIY, and more. Her work has been published in Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON Magazine, StyleCaster, Brit+Co, Forbes, Bustle, Sunday Riley’s The Sunday Edit, Dermstore, and Girlboss.com. For this article, she relied on the input of our team of product testers and interviewed stylistsChristina PetryandKriena Nederveen.
Our Expert PanelChristina Petryis a professional stylist and owner of Red Carpet Ready Personal Styling.Kriena Nederveenis a professional stylist based in LA with over 30 years of experience.
Christina Petryis a professional stylist and owner of Red Carpet Ready Personal Styling.Kriena Nederveenis a professional stylist based in LA with over 30 years of experience.
We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
source: people.com