Read on for our winter coat recommendations, as well as expert advice on what to look for as you shop for the newest addition to your wardrobe. We also tapped Vivian Lee , director of styling at Dailylook, another online personal stylist service, for extra tips regarding cost, quality, and more.
“When choosing a winter coat, I always recommend that clients keep the occasion in mind before heading out the door,” says McHattie. “For an outdoor activity, an insulated parka that provides warmth in extreme cold is a preferred option, whereas a stylish wool coat may offer less protection against the cold but is more appropriate for a formal look.”
To find the best coats to suit a variety of needs and occasions, we researched the most popular options on the market based on factors like price, style, material, and features, in addition to average customer reviews and ratings. For expert advice on shopping for the best winter coat, we spoke with Gillian McHattie , a stylist at Stitch Fix, an online personal styling service.
For brisk work commutes, chilly outdoor activities, and even holiday travels, a quality winter coat is a necessity to have in your closet. The best winter coats protect you from extreme cold temperatures and have added features like water-resistant fabric, heat-trapping insulation, zippered pockets, and lined hoods. Finding exceptional coats that will last you through those harsh months, however, can be a little difficult if you have a specific style or prefer a certain material.
Patagonia Down With It Parka at Patagonia.com (See Price)
Best Overall Winter Coat
Columbia Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket
Amazon
View On Amazon
$160
View On Columbia.com
View On Shoemall.com
What Stands Out
It has thermal insulation for ultimate warmth.
What Could Be Improved
The sleeves are a tad long.
The Columbia Women’s Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket is our best overall pick because it prioritizes warmth, comfort, and mobility without skimping on style. The winter coat has a slight form-fitting build, adjustable cuffs, and a faux fur hood, and its medium length ensures that you are shielded from blustery winds and cold temperatures. However, the patented Omni-Heat thermal technology is where this coat truly shines. The inner material of the coat is lined with reflective silver dots to retain body heat for ultimate warmth. For insulation, the coat is filled with 100 percent synthetic down polyester, and has a removable faux fur-lined hood to keep your head toasty.
Outside of the warming features, the coat also has several noteworthy details that make it functional. A two-way center front zipper makes it easy to get on and off, the deep front pockets are big enough to hold your phone or a small wallet, and the inner zip pockets are great for keys or IDs. Plus, it comes in a whopping 11 colors, including dusty pink, dark sapphire, and chalk. The only thing to be aware of with this coat is that the sleeves tend to run a bit long, which can be annoying to deal with if you’re working with your hands while you’re outside.
Size Range: XS-3X | Shell Material: Polyester | Fill Material: Synthetic down polyester
Best Budget Winter Coat
Wantdo Winter Hooded Waterproof Parka
Amazon
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$80
View On Wantdo.com
What Stands Out
It has features that are comparable to much more expensive coats.
What Could Be Improved
It has a lot of buttons, which maybe be annoying to some people.
Given its price point and features, the Wantdo Women’s Hooded Winter Coat is a great winter coat for those looking to spend around $100 without sacrificing quality. Designed with a 100 percent Oxford shell, the coat is waterproof and will keep you warm and dry in wintery weather. It is filled with 650-fill-power ClusterLoft, a synthetic down alternative that is light but locks in heat.
In terms of style, the coat is comparable to several other options on our list with its waist drawstring for a flattering silhouette, adjustable hem, numerous pockets, and a removable faux fur hood. The coat also comes in ten different colors and has a large range of sizes to accommodate a wide customer base. The only drawback to note is that the coat does feature a ton of buttons, which may be off putting for those who prefer a sleeker look.
Size Range: S-3XL | Shell Material: Polyester | Fill Material: ClusterLoft down alternative
Best Stylish Winter Coat
Everlane ReNew Long Puffer
Everlane
View On Everlane.com
$278
What Stands Out
It can be dressed up for down for a variety of occasions.
What Could Be Improved
It's heavy, which keeps you warm but might not be appealing to everyone.
Everlane’s ReNew Long Puffer has all of the features of a functional winter coat with polished, minimalist details that can be dressed up for formal events. The coat comes in three neutral hues (black, chestnut, and kalamata), which can complement bold and vibrant colors. Its knee-length design and recycled PrimaLoft insulation gives you plenty of warmth, while the adjustable drawstring waist provides a more form-fitting look.
The ReNew Long Puffer also has oversized button flap pockets for storage and a drawstring hood for those extra cold days. Plus, the coat is made entirely with 100 percent recycled fabric and insulation, making it an eco-friendly option as well. Despite its sleek look, this puffer can feel a little weighty, which may not appeal to buyers who want something lighter.
Size Range: XXS-XL | Shell Material: Recycled polyester | Fill Material: Recycled PrimaLoft
Best Down Winter Coat
Patagonia Down With It Parka
Patagonia
View On Patagonia.com
View On REI
$244
View On Backcountry.com
What Stands Out
People who prefer down coats over synthetic jackets.
What Could Be Improved
People who want a loser fitting coat.
When it comes to a quality down coat, the Patagonia Women’s Down With It Parka is a winner. Down fill is a unit that measures the fluffiness of down feathers and their ability to trap air, which means the higher the down count, the better the coat will be insulated. With 600-fill-power and 100 percent recycled duck and goose down, this coat is built to keep you extra warm in frigid temperatures.
The coat’s specs also include a 100 percent recycled, water-resistant polyester shell, an insulated and removable three-panel hood, hand warmer pockets, and a two-way center-front zipper. It also comes in six colors ranging from basin green to carmine red to suit different style preferences. One con, however, is that this coat runs a bit small, which can make choosing a size more challenging.
Size Range: XS-XXL | Shell Material: Recycled polyester | Fill Material: Recycled down
Best Winter Parka
Orolay Thickened Down Jacket
Amazon
View On Amazon
$152
View On Walmart
$152
View On Orolay.com
What Stands Out
It comes with a variety of pockets.
What Could Be Improved
The zippers aren't the greatest quality.
The Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket is a best-seller for its premium features and chic style compared to other popular options. The coat is both windproof and water-resistant to keep you warm and dry, and features a fleece-lined hood for extra toastiness. A convenient side zipper makes the hem adjustable, and there are six large pockets for storing your phone, wallet, keys, etc.
In addition to the coat’s features, it comes in seven different colors, and is size inclusive, with sizes XXS to 5X available. Some cons to keep in mind, however, are that the coat runs a little small, and the zippers and other hardware aren't the greatest quality. Still, for a relatively affordable coat, this one checks all the boxes.
Size Range: XXS-5X | Shell Material: Polyester | Fill Material: 90% white duck down, 10% feathers
Best Winter Puffer Coat
lululemon Puff Jacket
lululemon
View On Lululemon
$298
What Stands Out
It has a cinchable waist for a more customizable fit.
What Could Be Improved
It runs large.
The struggle to find a decent puffer coat without looking like a marshmallow is real, but the Lululemon Wunder Puff Jacket is a stylish and functional option that makes you look cool while feeling extra warm. It comes in seven unique colors, and has a relaxed fit so it’s great for layering. If you want a more form-fitting look, the jacket has a cinchable waist and hem, allowing you to customize the shape while retaining heat.
The shell is a windproof, water-resistant soft matte texture, with a goose down insulation that makes it light and breathable. The hood is also fully removable, and there are interior pockets as well as zippered hand pockets with a hidden sleeve to store your phone. But even with the adjustable waist, as a puffer coat, there’s still that slight poofy look that some may not like if they’d prefer a sleeker fit.
Size Range: 0-14 | Shell Material: Recycled polyester | Fill Material: 80% white goose down, 20% white goose feathers
Best Fleece Winter Coat
L.L. Bean Mountain Pile Fleece Coat
Zappos
View On Zappos
$149
View On L.L.Bean
$149
What Stands Out
The hood is adjustable, but it's not removable, which might be annoying in spring and fall.
What Could Be Improved
It's not as warm as heavier options.
While the L.L. Bean Women’s Mountain Pile Fleece Coat is not the warmest option on our list, it is a solid fleece pick for mild temperatures during fall, winter, or spring. The coat is made with 300-weight plush shearling fleece, and is designed with an inner backer for windproof protection. The silhouette is slightly fitted for a snugger look, and comes in regular, petite, and plus sizes. With the adjustable drawcord, you can fit the hood to your liking, and easily store essentials in the two zippered hand pockets. In addition to its solid set of features, the coat is available in six different colors ranging from iris mauve to black coffee.
Size Range: XXS-3X | Shell Material: Polyester | Fill Material: Polyester
Best Wool Winter Coat
Mango Woolen Coat with Belt
Nordstrom
View On Nordstrom
$200
View On Mango.com
What Stands Out
It has a very inclusive size range from XXS to 4XL.
What Could Be Improved
It's only available in three colors.
It is rare to find a company that has stylish coats with an inclusive size range, but the Mango Woolen Coat with Belt is available in sizes XXS to 4XL. With a classic structured fit, the full-length coat features a blend of virgin wool and polyamide, which makes it heavy and warm, yet still breathable. It also features a lapel-collar that can be turned into a funnel neck for added flair.
The coat is secured with an adjustable loop belt and three heavy duty buttons, with two large side pockets for hand warmth and storage. However, if you’re someone who likes the look and feel of an oversized coat, this coat may not be suitable for you, as it’s more fitted.
Size Range: XXS-4XL | Shell Material: 62% virgin wool, 23% polyamide, 15% wool | Fill Material: N/A
Best Teddy Winter Coat
UGG Gertrude Teddy Coat
UGG
View On Amazon
$248
View On Nordstrom
$188
View On Zappos
$268
What Stands Out
It's versatile enough for fall and winter.
What Could Be Improved
It's dry clean only.
The Ugg Gertrude Long Teddy Coat will make you look like a teddy bear, in a good way. The 100 percent polyester fleece lining is luxuriously soft and cozy without compromising on warmth or style. The mid-calf length coat comes in a variety of colors, and features plenty of standout details like a notched collar, double-breasted design, and two tortoise shell buttons.
The pockets are fleece-lined to keep your hands extra warm, and the two button closure gives you the option to style it open or buttoned up to keep warm. It can be worn in the fall with a light shirt underneath, or with a few layers in the winter to really bundle up. Either way, this coat is a solid statement piece.
Size Range: XXS-3X | Shell Material: Polyester | Fill Material: Polyester
Best Lightweight Winter Coat
Amazon Essentials Water-Resistant Puffer Jacket
Amazon
View On Amazon
$39
What Stands Out
It's packable and water-resistant, so it's good for outdoor activities.
What Could Be Improved
It's not suitable for very cold temperatures.
If you're in the market for a more lightweight coat, the Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Long-Sleeve Puffer Jacket is a great pick due its inclusive size range that goes up to 6X, its whopping 19 color choices, and its impressive features. Both the outer shell and fill material are water-resistant and withstand wet and brisk winter days. It is slightly fitted, but has enough room for layering a sweater underneath, while zippered pockets and elastic sleeves keep in warmth.
One major highlight with this coat is its portability. This jacket can easily be packed in the provided carrying bag, making it a perfect choice for on the go travels. As a lightweight coat, it might not be the most effective choice against cold temperatures, but it certainly gets the job done if you’re looking for a jacket that’ll keep you dry, and won’t be a hassle to shove in a suitcase or bag.
Size Range: XS-6X | Shell Material: Polyester | Fill Material: Polyester
Best Winter Coat for Extreme Cold
REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka
REI
View On REI
$209
What Stands Out
It has an 850-fill-power shell for ultimate warmth.
What Could Be Improved
It's pretty bulky.
The REI Women’s Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka will keep you warm during the coldest of winter temperatures. The coat is built for activities like snowsports and hiking, with specs that include a two-layer waterproof, nylon shell to protect against snow and freezing rain, along with an 850-fill-power water resistant goose/synthetic down blend for ample warmth. To prevent heat from escaping, it has an insulated, three-way adjustable hood, elastic cuffs, and a draft tube at the neck.
The coat also has zippered hand, chest, and internal pockets for storing essentials. It is available in sizes XS-3X, and comes in black, falcon brown, and sea forest. However, since it’s a large coat, the oversized style might not be appealing to some. That being said, this coat is certainly hard to beat when it comes to maintaining warmth during those brutal winter temperatures.
Size Range: XS-3X | Shell Material: Nylon, polyester | Fill Material: Goose down and synthetic blend
Best Long Winter Coat
Aritzia The Super Puff Long Coat
Aritzia
View On Aritzia.com
What Stands Out
It comes in 23 colors, three heights, and eight sizes.
What Could Be Improved
It's expensive.
The Aritzia Super Puff Long Coat is intended to land slightly below the knee, making it great for people looking for a winter coat with length. The coat’s shell is constructed with cliMATTE, a trademarked water-repellent and wind-resistant matte material that is weatherproof yet soft to the touch. The 700+ fill-power, responsibly sourced goose down is breathable and provides abundant warmth in -40°F temperatures.
You can customize the coat with its removable, cinchable hood, and take advantage of storage with interior and front zippered pockets. The Super Puff Long coat comes in 23 rich colors, and is available in short, regular, and tall sizes. However, as with most long coats, mobility can be an issue, so be sure to take this into consideration if you’re someone who’s constantly on the go during the colder months.
Size Range: 3XS-2XL | Shell Material: Polyamide | Fill Material: 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers
Best Short Winter Coat
The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
The North Face
View On Nordstrom
$231
View On Zappos
$320
View On The North Face
What Stands Out
The 700-fill down insulation provides exceptional warmth, despite the shorter length.
What Could Be Improved
It might be too cropped for some people.
The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket amps up the charm of the original Nuptse jacket from the '90s, with modern perks. Built for outdoor activities or city strolls, the windproof coat has a relaxed fit and 700-fill goose down insulation for warmth and breathability. The ripstop shell fabric is water-repellent, and there is a cinch cord at the hem to keep in warmth.
It comes in seven different colors, features a hood that can be packed in the coat collar, and if you need to stow the coat away, it conveniently stores in the right hand pocket. Keep in mind that this is a cropped coat, so it may be too short for some people. Still, short coat lovers are sure to enjoy the coat’s overall aesthetic and convenience.
Size Range: XXS-3XL | Shell Material: Recycled nylon | Fill Material: Goose down
Best Waterproof Winter Coat
Land’s End Squall Waterproof Insulated Parka
Amazon
View On Amazon
View On Landsend.com
$200
View On Target
$32
What Stands Out
It's long like a parka but without the puffer look.
What Could Be Improved
The hood is not detachable.
The Land’s End Women's Squall Waterproof Insulated Winter Parka will protect you from the harsh winter elements while keeping you warm and dry. The outer shell is made with nylon and has sealed seams meant to keep out snow, rain, and sleet. For added weather protection, the fleece-lined hood is adjustable, as are the sleeve cuffs.
With dual-entry patch pockets, a zippered side, chest, and internal pockets, your belongings can also be stored safely from the wet, cold weather. The beloved jacket is available in regular, petite, tall, and plus sizes, with six different colors to pick from. Just note that the jacket’s hood is not detachable, which may be annoying to some people.
Size Range: XS-3X | Shell Material: Nylon | Fill Material: Polyester, fleece
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