When the temperature drops, icy rain, and snow start to fall and the wind is howling, you’ll need a winter coat you can trust to keep you warm and dry. Over the past 10 years, our team of experts has braved the elements, testing 30 jackets over 500 miles of cold-weather trekking for their warmth, comfort, versatility, and durability.
And for more info, check out some of our other most popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Men’s Winter Coats
The CleverHiker team has spent the winter testing coats to come up with our new list of favorites:
Best Winter Coat Overall: REI Stormhenge 850 Down Hybrid Jacket ($279)
Best Warm Down Jacket for Technical Winter Use: RAB Neutrino Pro ($400)
Most Comfortable & Durable Winter Coat: Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka ($340)
Best Expedition Quality Down Jacket: Feathered Friends Khumbu Down Parka ($729)
Best Heavy Insulation for Windy Days: Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka ($479)
Best Wet Weather Insulator: Patagonia DAS Parka ($449)
Affordable Lightweight, Warm & Packable 3-Season Down Coat: LL Bean Ultralight 850 ($269)
Best Warm & Stylish Winter Coat: The North Face McMurdo ($400)
Best Jacket Made with Sustainable Materials: Patagonia Downdrift ($330)
Most Heavily Featured Parka: Fjallraven Nuuk Parka ($500)
Technical Parka for City Use: Helly Hansen Urban Lab Down Parka ($450)
What’s New
- The Patagonia DAS Parka provides excellent warmth when wet performance, is lightweight, and packable with an included stuff sack.
- With its long length and thick outer shell, the Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka is one we reach for on cold and windy days.
- The Patagonia Downdrift is constructed with sustainable materials like recycled down and a shell made from recycled fishing nets.
- If you’re looking for one of the most heavily featured and engineered jackets on the market, check out the Fjallraven Nuuk Parka.
- With Helly Hansen’s renowned wet weather performance, the Helly Hansen Urban Lab Down Parka is a great parka for city wear.
Men’s Winter Jackets Overall Testing Scores
REI Stormhenge 850 Down Hybrid Jacket
Best Winter Coat Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 4.9/5.0
Price: $279
Weight: 1 lb. 14 oz.
Insulation: 850-fill-power down / synthetic blend
Pros
- Comfortable
- Warm
- Waterproof
- Versatile
- Pit vents
- Affordable
Cons
- May be too slim for broader torsos
The REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid Jacket seamlessly combines warmth, weather resistance, and functionality, making it a top choice for winter adventures or everyday wear. With an 850-fill-power down body, and synthetic insulation in the hood and arms, it delivers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio while maintaining performance in wet conditions. The HydroWall 2L waterproof shell and DWR-treated insulation ensure you stay dry, and thoughtful details like a brimmed hood and pit zips enhance comfort and versatility.
Designed for active pursuits, the Stormhenge is ideal for temperatures down to 10°F, especially when body heat aids insulation. While its hip-length cut suits mobility, it lacks the full coverage of longer parkas. The jacket is lightweight and packable but may feel snug in the shoulders and slightly boxy in the torso.
Standout features include fleece-lined hand pockets, a generous chest pocket, and adjustable hems and cuffs, though the Velcro cuff tabs could be more glove-friendly. Tested in Alaska’s rugged winter backcountry, this jacket proved its durability and adaptability across diverse winter conditions.
The REI Stormhenge offers exceptional value for a waterproof down jacket, excelling in warmth, weather resistance, and versatility. While it might not replace highly specialized backcountry gear, it’s a reliable, all-in-one solution for most cold-weather activities.
Rab Neutrino Pro
Warm Down Jacket for Technical Winter Use
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $400
Weight: 1 lb. 5 oz.
Insulation: 7.5 oz. of 800 fill-power down
Pros
- Warm
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Packable
- 2-way zipper
- Fleece lined pockets
- Adjustable hood
Cons
- Not as weather resistant as some
- Expensive
- Too warm for most 3-season ultralight backpacking trips
The Rab Neutrino Pro Jacket is a top-tier choice for winter enthusiasts seeking lightweight warmth and technical performance. Packed with 800-fill-power hydrophobic goose down treated with Nikwax, this jacket delivers impressive insulation while resisting moisture. It excels in extreme cold conditions without adding unnecessary bulk and is ideal for alpine climbs, backcountry treks, or basecamp warmth.
The Pertex Quantum Pro shell features a DWR finish, protecting against light snow and brief exposure to rain. While it’s not designed for prolonged wet conditions, it is better suited for dry, frigid climates. Its baffle construction eliminates cold spots, ensuring even warmth across the torso. While too warm for active, high-output activities, it’s perfect for low-exertion moments like resting at camp or layering during frigid descents.
Thoughtfully designed, the Neutrino Pro includes fleece-lined hand pockets for added comfort, an insulated zipper baffle, and an adjustable hood. The jacket’s cut balances roominess for layering with an athletic fit, though its length can leave the lower hem exposed when paired with a shell. Lightweight and packable, it compresses easily into a small volume, making it a reliable choice for cold-weather adventures in the backcountry.
The Rab Neutrino Pro is an investment, but its high warmth-to-weight ratio and technical features justify the cost. If you need a jacket for the cold that prioritizes warmth and packability over urban versatility, the Neutrino Pro is a great choice.
Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka
Comfortable & Durable Winter Jacket
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $340
Weight: 1 lb. 10 oz.
Insulation: 700-fill-power down
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable
- Great mobility
- Durable outer fabric
- Lightweight & compressible
- Stylish fit
- Unique stitching
Cons
- Not as weather resistant as some
- Not as warm as some
The Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka combines 700-fill down insulation with a unique stretchy outer fabric, offering warmth, mobility, and durability. Designed for active cold-weather outings, this parka provides excellent coverage and freedom of movement, making it a versatile option for moderate winter temperatures.
The parka’s standout feature is its durable, softshell-like 20D Stretch Doubleweave fabric, which enhances comfort and weather resistance compared to traditional down jackets. It sheds light rain and snow effectively, though it’s not suitable for prolonged wet conditions. The welded seams and modern design add durability and style, while the longer cut increases warmth and coverage during outdoor activities.
While the 700-fill down insulation is less lofty than higher-fill options, it delivers reliable warmth for temperatures in the teens and twenties, excelling during active pursuits like hiking or ice skating. Its parka length and lightweight design make it suitable for layering in colder weather or as a transitional jacket in the fall and spring.
The Stretchdown Parka features dual chest pockets, fleece-lined hand pockets, and a dual-zipper system that improves mobility and ventilation. However, its boxy fit runs large, potentially requiring resizing for a better fit. Though not ideal for extreme cold or high-fashion use, its technical capabilities and flexibility make it a solid choice for most outdoor adventures.
Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka
Best Expedition Quality Down Jacket
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $729
Weight: 2 lb. 2 oz.
Insulation: 900-fill-power down
Pros
- Premium quality
- Thoughtful features
- Extreme warmth
- Durable
Cons
- Expensive
- Overkill for everyday wear
The Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka is an expedition-level jacket designed for extreme cold-weather conditions. Featuring 900-fill goose down—the highest fill power in its class—this parka delivers unparalleled warmth for mountaineering, polar expeditions, or high-altitude adventures. Reinforced with Pertex Shield XT fabric, it offers exceptional windproofing and protection from snow and ice, making it a reliable choice for subzero temperatures.
Designed for temperatures well below zero, the Khumbu’s baffles trap warmth efficiently, while the double-layered Primaloft Gold-insulated collar adds extra protection in moisture-prone areas. Tested in Alaska’s deep cold, it kept us warm even in double-digit negative temperatures. However, it is too warm for anything above the single digits, making it best suited for the coldest environments.
This technical parka features a durable design with nylon-reinforced elbows and forearms, a zippered internal baffle for extra insulation, and a helmet-compatible hood with easy-to-adjust cinches. Dual front zippers allow for temperature regulation and belay access, while its included stuff sack compresses the jacket to the size of a large water bottle for transport.
While its bulk and expedition-ready design make it less practical for casual use, the Khumbu is unmatched for performance in severe winter conditions. For those venturing to the coldest places on Earth, the Khumbu Parka is an essential piece of kit.
Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka
Best Heavy Insulation for Windy Days
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $480
Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz.
Insulation: 800-fill-power down
Pros
- Warm
- Durable
- Long-length coverage
- Included stuff sack
- Wind-resistant
Cons
- Expensive
- Bulky
- Not waterproof
The Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka is built for extreme cold, combining 800-fill down insulation with a rugged 30-denier Pertex Quantum Pro shell. Its long length and exceptional wind resistance make it a reliable choice for frigid, windy conditions, and perfect for mountaineering, ice climbing, or sub-zero adventures.
Designed for serious warmth, the Super Alpine excels in low-output activities or rest periods in severe cold. During testing in Alaska’s subzero temperatures while backcountry ice skating, it provides outstanding insulation down to the upper thighs, with enough room to layer underneath. However, its weight and bulk—packing down roughly to the size of a sleeping bag—make it less suitable for multi-day backcountry trips where packability is required.
The durable outer fabric enhances wind protection and offers moderate resistance to snow and ice, though it is not waterproof and will eventually wet through while in heavy precipitation. Brushed fleece linings in the pockets, collar, and chin add comfort, while a dual-zipper design accommodates belay devices and improves mobility. Five pockets, including two internal stuff pockets, provide ample storage for essentials.
The Super Alpine prioritizes warmth and durability over style. Its technical fit is slightly trimmer than other parkas we tested, and its performance-oriented design suits harsh winter conditions more than casual settings. For those facing some of the coldest, windiest days, the Super Alpine Down Parka is an essential companion.
Patagonia DAS Parka
Best Wet Weather Insulator
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $450
Weight: 1 lb. 4 oz.
Insulation: Synthetic: 133g & 40g Primaloft Gold Eco
Pros
- Lightweight
- Synthetic insulation is warm when wet
- Packable
Cons
- Expensive
- Too technical for casual use
The Patagonia DAS Parka is a high-performance winter jacket designed for climbers, alpinists, and adventurers in damp and cold environments. Featuring 133g PrimaLoft Gold Eco synthetic insulation with an extra 40g in the core, it delivers exceptional warmth, even in damp conditions. Tested in coastal Alaska’s cold and wet, this jacket excels in retaining warmth when wet, making it an ideal choice for damp, frigid adventures.
The DAS Parka’s 10-denier Pertex Quantum Pro shell with a DWR finish offers moderate weather resistance, shedding snow and light rain while blocking wind effectively. Although not waterproof, it performs well in icy or snowy conditions. Its roomy fit is tailored for layering, and elastic side panels maintain heat retention without feeling restrictive.
Technical features include elastic thumb loops to keep sleeves secure, a helmet-compatible hood with a rear tensioner, and a cinched hem to seal out snow. Five pockets—two hand, one chest, and two large internal stash pockets—enhance functionality, and the included stuff sack makes it highly packable, compressing this jacket to the size of a water bottle.
The DAS Parka prioritizes function over style, making it more suitable for mountain summits and backcountry treks than urban wear. If you need lightweight, reliable insulation for wet and cold conditions, the DAS Parka is a high-performing choice.
LL Bean Ultralight 850
Affordable Lightweight, Warm & Packable 3-Season Down Coat
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $269
Weight: 1 lb.
Insulation: 850-fill-power down
Pros
- Lightweight
- Packs into its pocket
- Comfortable
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Not as durable as some
The L.L.Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Jacket is a lightweight, packable, and versatile option for three-season use and aerobic winter activities. Featuring 850-fill DownTek water-repellent insulation, it delivers warmth without the bulk, making it perfect for hikers, ultralight enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an adaptable cold-weather layer.
Weighing one pound, this jacket is one of the lightest we tested and is highly compressible. Thanks to a reversible pocket, it packs down to the size of a Nalgene bottle. Its Pertex Quantum shell provides some resistance to snow and light moisture, while the treated down helps to repel moisture and retain loft. However, it’s not designed for prolonged exposure to heavy rain or wet snow and is best paired with a waterproof shell over top.
The slightly fitted cut and hip-length design strike a balance between trail functionality and style, while elastic cuffs, adjustable hood tensioners, and a drawcord hem enhance fit and comfort. Best paired with a mid-layer, the Ultralight 850 is ideal for aerobic winter activities, chilly rest breaks, or as a versatile three-season piece.
The Ultralight 850 offers impressive performance for its weight but sacrifices some durability and warmth compared to heavier options. While not built for extreme cold or rugged use, it excels as an ultralight insulating layer for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts prioritizing weight and packability.
More: L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Jacket Full Review
The North Face McMurdo
Best Warm & Stylish Winter Coat
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $400
Weight: 3 lb. 4 oz.
Insulation: 600-fill-power down & synthetic fibers
Pros
- Very warm
- Waterproof
- Hand-warmer chest pockets
- Removable faux fur ruff
Cons
- Heavy
- Bulky
- Not ideal for backcountry use
The North Face McMurdo Parka is a rugged, stylish jacket designed for extreme cold and harsh winter weather. Featuring 600-fill down insulation and a waterproof DryVent 2L shell, it delivers reliable warmth and weather resistance. Perfect for front-country use and urban settings, this parka combines performance with everyday practicality.
Tested in subzero Alaskan conditions, the McMurdo kept us comfortable with its robust windproofing and insulation, even with just a base layer underneath. Its faux-fur-lined hood adds extra protection against biting winds but can collect ice and snow. Though the jacket excels in low-aerobic activities and long periods outdoors, it can be too warm for temperatures above 20°F and lacks ventilation options like pit zips.
The McMurdo is one of the heaviest jackets we tested, making it unsuitable for backcountry or highly active pursuits. Its roomy fit accommodates layering, but the bulky design and lack of a hem cinch can feel cumbersome. Seven pockets—including hand-warmer chest pockets—provide excellent storage, while the detachable faux-fur ruff is a great feature to alter the jacket’s look.
The McMurdo is ideal for those needing a durable, warm jacket for the coldest days, whether for work, casual outings, or enduring winter storms. While its bulk and weight limit versatility, its superior insulation, waterproofing, and classic style make it a dependable choice for winter weather.
Patagonia Downdrift Jacket
Best Jacket Made with Sustainable Materials
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $329
Weight: 2 lb. 4 oz.
Insulation: 600-fill-power down
Pros
- Stylish
- Durable
- Sustainable materials
- Metal snaps
Cons
- Bulky
- Not for backcountry use
The Patagonia Downdrift Jacket combines retro style with sustainable design, making it a great choice for casual winter wear in town or light outdoor activities. Insulated with 600-fill recycled down and featuring a durable shell made from recycled fishing nets, this jacket balances warmth and durability with its eco-friendly construction.
Ideal for temperatures between ten and twenty degrees, the Downdrift provides ample warmth for short hikes, chores, or city excursions. However, its hip-length cut offers less coverage than longer parkas, and gusts of wind can creep in. The DWR-treated shell offers light weather resistance but isn’t designed for heavy precipitation or extended exposure to wet conditions.
The jacket’s classic design is enhanced with practical features like dual front pockets, a zippered internal pocket, and a removable hood for customizing its look. While the metal snaps add a vintage touch, the slightly boxy fit, and shorter length may feel restrictive when worn with a backpack or during active use.
The Downdrift excels as a stylish, durable jacket for casual outings and everyday winter tasks. Though not suited for technical or backcountry adventures, its recycled materials and timeless design make it a standout choice for those prioritizing sustainability and urban versatility.
Fjallraven Nuuk Parka
Most Heavily Featured Jacket
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $500
Weight: 4 lb.
Insulation: Synthetic: 8.8 oz Supreme Microloft
Pros
- Warm
- Durable
- Lots of pockets
- Good features
- Removable faux fur ruff
Cons
- Heavy/bulky
- Tactical style not for everyone
The Fjällräven Nuuk Parka is a rugged, weather-resistant jacket built for cold and harsh conditions. Featuring synthetic Microloft insulation and a durable polyamide shell, it provides reliable warmth, even when wet. Waterproof and windproof, it’s ideal for winter work, front-country adventures, or urban wear in the coldest climates.
Tested in Alaska’s subzero temperatures, the Nuuk delivered excellent insulation and weather protection. The long length and robust materials shield against wind and snow, though the hem’s loose fit may allow cold air to creep in. It’s one of the heaviest jackets we’ve tested making it best suited for stationary or low-output activities rather than backcountry use.
The Nuuk’s standout features include eleven pockets for ample storage, a fleece-lined collar and hood, a removable faux fur ruff, and large leather zipper pulls for glove-friendly functionality. However, its oversized fit—particularly in the hood, sleeves, and body—can feel bulky and less streamlined. While getting the zipper started gave us trouble, the overall design of the jacket excels in durability and utility.
The Fjällräven Nuuk Parka is a top choice for those prioritizing warmth, protection, and a tactical design. Though its heavy-duty construction may not appeal to minimalist adventurers, it’s perfect for those needing robust gear for cold, wet climates or demanding winter tasks.
Helly Hansen Urban Lab Down Parka
Technical Parka for City Use
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $450
Weight: 3 lb. 14 oz.
Insulation: 480 fill-power down
Pros
- Warm
- Durable
- Large pockets
Cons
- Heavy/bulky
- Expensive
The Helly Hansen Urban Lab Down Parka combines sleek city style with superior weather protection. Designed with Helly Hansen’s proprietary Helly Tech Professional outer shell, it’s highly resistant to snow, rain, and wind. The 480-fill-down insulation provides ample warmth, keeping you cozy in temperatures below zero, even with just a base layer underneath. Tested in Alaska’s frigid conditions, the parka’s long length offers full coverage down to the upper thigh, ensuring protection from the cold.
While the Urban Lab excels in weather resistance and warmth, it has a bulky, oversized fit without cinches at the cuffs or hem, which can make it feel too large for some. Despite its weight and lack of packability, this jacket performs best as a robust city parka, perfect for urban commutes or winter outings across town. The parka includes practical features like seven pockets, a unique chest storage zip, and a D-ring for additional accessories, ensuring functionality without an overly technical appearance. The hood is slightly smaller than typical parkas, offering better visibility without overwhelming the wearer.
If you’re seeking a durable and stylish jacket for harsh city winters, the Helly Hansen Urban Lab Down Parka is a top contender. Though too bulky for backcountry use, its weatherproof design, insulation, and comfort make it an excellent choice for everyday winter wear.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Insulation | Warmth | Weather Resistance | Comfort & Functionality | Features | 0 |
REI Stormhenge 850 Down Hybrid Jacket View at REI 
|
$279 | 1 lb. 14 oz. | 850-fill-power down / synthetic blend | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 1 |
Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka View at Amazon View at REI 
|
$340 | 1 lb. 10 oz. | 700-fill-power down | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 2 |
Rab Neutrino Pro View at REI View at Amazon
|
$400 | 1 lb. 5 oz. | 7.5 oz. of 800 fill-power down | 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 3 |
Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka View at Feathered Friends |
$729 | 2 lb. 2 oz. | 900-fill-power down | 4.9 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4 |
Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka View at Amazon View at Outdoor Research |
$480 | 1 lb. 13 oz. | 800-fill-power down | 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 |
Patagonia DAS Parka View at Patagonia View at Backcountry
|
$450 | 1 lb. 4 oz. | Synthetic: 133g & 40g Primaloft Gold Eco | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 6 |
LL Bean Ultralight 850 View at LL Bean |
$269 | 1 lb. | 850-fill-power down | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 7 |
The North Face McMurdo View at Amazon View at REI |
$400 | 3 lb. 4 oz. | 600-fill-power down & synthetic fibers | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 8 |
Patagonia Downdrift Jacket View at Patagonia View at REI |
$329 | 2 lb. 4 oz. | 600-fill-power down | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 9 |
Fjallraven Nuuk Parka View at Amazon View at REI |
$500 | 4 lb. | Synthetic: 8.8 oz Supreme Microloft | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.7 | 10 |
Helly Hansen Urban Lab Down Parka View at Helly Hansen |
$450 | 3 lb. 14 oz. | 480 fill-power down | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.3 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
WARMTH
We test a jacket’s warmth by spending as much time as possible in a variety of temperatures. Testing in a variety of temperatures is key as it allows us to find the optimal temperature range where a jacket excels. We also test the jacket at various activity levels to determine if it is best used at rest or in motion to enhance its warmth.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Being able to block the rain, wind, and snow is an essential function of every winter jacket. As such, we are diligent in taking every jacket we test out into the worst weather possible. From rain, to snow to blizzards, we field test every jacket to test how well they protect from the elements.
COMFORT & FUNCTIONALITY
While comfort is a somewhat subjective metric, we evaluate each jacket based on its cut, style, and feel while out on adventures. Does the jacket feel bulky and heavy? Or is it sleek and trim? Functionality refers to which setting the jacket excels most in. While highly technical jackets are great for summits and backcountry adventures, they may not be the best option for around town. Similarly, some casual parkas are the perfect jacket for a night out but lack the performance to be the best choice for the backcountry.
FEATURES
The features metric refers to the design and engineering of the jacket. We evaluate every detail on the jacket including pockets, cinches, and hoods. While some jackets prioritize trim features for a lightweight design, others come heavily engineered with a plethora of pockets and design elements. We test features to see how they enhance the user experience and how they complement the overall design and function of the jacket.
Why Trust CleverHiker
Winter jackets are your first line of defense against the onslaught of winter weather. As such, we take pride in sending every product we test through the wringer to bring you only the hardiest and best options available. CleverHiker’s Alaska-based gear analyst, Miles Knotek, is no stranger to winter’s harshest weather and can be found outside no matter the conditions. Whether it’s a winter storm dropping a meter of snow, or an arctic windstorm pouring off ice fields, Miles can be found recreating and testing his gear, in all conditions. With a critical eye for details and an appetite for finding the limits of his gear, every product Miles tests has been thoroughly vetted to bring you the most comprehensive and well-researched analysis possible.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the lookout for the most outstanding piece of gear at the best price. For us, value is more than just a cheap jacket. It’s the combination of high performance while still being at a reasonable price.
With those two things in mind, the REI Stormhenge and the L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 are the two best options for high-value jackets.
The Stormhenge combines great warmth from both synthetic and down insulation with a waterproof shell. This hybrid insulation is capped with a waterproof shell to bring performance unseen in traditional down jackets.
The L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 weighs in at just one pound, making it one of the lightest we’ve tested. Its low weight plus three-season versatile warmth and a sub-three hundred dollar price tag make it an excellent performer at a reasonable price.
WARMTH
We’ve emphasized warmth as one of our most important testing metrics for one simple reason: if you’re not warm, you won’t be able to focus on and enjoy your winter activities. We’ve taken our lineup down to temperatures in the negative double digits in search of the warmest products on the market.
In these conditions, the Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka and the Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka are two top performers.
With 900-fill down, the Khumbu Parka is fit for some of the coldest environments on the planet. It excels well below zero and is perfect for mountaineers or anyone with prolonged exposure to extreme cold.
With a slightly lower fill power, the Super Alpine Down Parka offers a longer length and thicker shell for great warmth in windy conditions.
While these highly technical jackets excel in the mountains, they may not be the best fit for the city. For city wear warmth, The North Face McMurdo and Fjallraven Nuuk parkas are the leaders.
The McMurdo combines the warmth of down with the weather resistance of The North Face’s renowned shell construction to bring a bombproof jacket fit for town or work.
The Fjallraven Nuuk takes a slightly different approach with proprietary synthetic insulation to provide warmth when wet performance overlaid with a heavy-duty polyamide shell to ensure durability and wet weather performance.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
While some jackets are meant for layering with a waterproof shell over top, those with a high degree of weather resistance already in their construction earned top marks in our lineup.
The REI Stormhenge, The North Face McMurdo, and Fjallraven Nuuk are all top performers in this metric.
We love the Stormhenge’s lightweight yet waterproof shell over its down-insulated core. Synthetic insulation in high-contact areas like the arms and hood is a great touch for places that are frequently exposed to moisture. This is a great backcountry option for cold and wet days.
The North Face McMurdo and Fjallraven Nuuk both fill similar niches as city/workwear but with notable key differences. The McMurdo, while a slightly shorter parka than the Nuuk, has a fully waterproof shell that beads moisture excellently. The Nuuk is the longest and heaviest jacket we tested, covering more of the body than any other. The polyamide shell does bead precipitation relatively well but will eventually let moisture penetrate the fabric. However, it never reaches the insulation or the core, keeping us safe and dry during all our testing.
COMFORT & FUNCTIONALITY
A comfortable jacket should feel like an extension of your own body. It fits through the torso and arms and does not feel like an impediment to your hike or activity. It should enhance your experience in the outdoors and provide you with the means to best enjoy your adventure.
Functionality refers to where the jacket excels, and what settings it is most at home in. While comfort is subjective to the wearer, and functionality can be blurred across lines, we strongly believe that well-built jackets are comfortable to wear and have a specific function.
For technical wear, our top choices are the Rab Neutrino Pro and the Patagonia DAS Parka.
Both of these jackets are decidedly technical and while they might not win you any fashion awards, they excel in the backcountry. Both are slim enough to avoid bagginess while simultaneously allowing enough room to layer underneath. If you’re looking for a jacket to wear all weekend long in the backcountry, the Neutrino or DAS are the two we most recommend.
On the other side of the coin, we have jackets for casual or city use. While they may be too bulky for the backcountry, they provide excellent style as well as performance for city wear. For wearing across town, The North Face McMurdo and Helly Hansen Urban Lab are our two favorites. Both are parka-style jackets with a timeless look, but with performance solid enough for front country excursions.
FEATURES
When analyzing our lineup of best jackets, three stood out to us for their outstanding features: The REI Stormhenge, Feathered Friends Khumbu, and Fjallraven Nuuk all have unique features that enhance their performance.
The Stormhenge is our top pick for features that enable a jacket for high-output activities. Its pit zips are a feature found in no other jacket we reviewed and are highly effective at dumping heat while out for a vigorous hike.
The Khumbu is the cold weather king of jackets and its features help give it that title. The secondary zip on the interior baffle is extremely effective at preventing cold from seeping in and the hand pockets are fully insulated with down inside and out.
The Fjallraven Nuuk wins for the most number of pockets. A whopping eleven pockets make it effective for workwear, expeditions, or around-town functionality. Highly engineered, the Nuuk is built for cold weather functionality no matter the activity.
How to Choose a Winter Jacket
IDENTIFY THE JACKET’S INTENDED USE
Before purchasing a winter jacket, consider the climate you live in, as well as the activities you intend to use it for. Are you facing extreme cold and heavy snow? Will this jacket be for around town and the city or exclusively for hiking and climbing? Technical jackets prioritize function and performance over looks while those for urban use, balance warmth with style. Just like any product, winter jackets have conditions and activities they excel in. Matching the jacket to your intended use is important to ensuring a safe and enjoyable time outdoors.
TYPES OF INSULATION
Down Insulation: Down provides an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and is ideal for very cold, dry conditions. Fill power ratings indicate the down’s level of warmth and quality. Higher numbers (600-900) are preferable. Down is very packable and is easily packed into a ball to stuff into a backpack or included stuff sack. The biggest drawback of down insulation is that if it gets wet, it clumps and loses its loft and warmth. Search out a down jacket where the down has some sort of hydrophobic treatment. This will help the jacket remain warm even if it gets wet.
Synthetic Insulation: The biggest benefit of synthetic insulation is that it retains warmth even when wet. This makes it more suitable for damp climates. Common materials include PrimaLoft or Thinsulate and the amount of insulation is typically measured in grams. While synthetic may not be as packable as down, most modern synthetic jackets offer all the benefits of down, but with increased performance in wet conditions.
Hybrid Options: Some jackets combine both down and synthetic for versatile performance. Synthetic insulation is placed in areas more prone to exposure like hoods, collars, and cuffs with down placed around the core for increased warmth and loft. We love the versatility of hybrid insulated jackets and they are quickly becoming the norm amongst the highest-performing products.
SHELL MATERIALS
Waterproof and Breathable Shells: Essential for wet or snowy environments where you are frequently exposed to the elements. These shells help to protect underlying insulation. Look for materials like Gore-Tex or Polyamide. Most jackets come with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings to help bead and repel moisture. Many brands build their jackets with PFAS-free DWR coatings for health and safety.
Softshells: Offer better flexibility and breathability over fully waterproof shells, but sacrifice weather resistance. As such they are better for active pursuits in milder weather.
Hardshells: Provide robust protection against wind and rain and are ideal for the most severe conditions. While they may sacrifice breathability, these jackets are great for enduring the elements and withstanding heavy precipitation.
CONSIDER FEATURES FOR COMFORT & FUNCTIONALITY
Hood: A detachable hood adds versatility but can often be bulky. The best hoods are sleek yet protective and can be adjusted to keep out the cold and elements. Fur-lined or insulated hoods provide extra warmth. Faux-fur ruffs are common in casual-style jackets.
Pockets: Multiple internal and external pockets store essentials and enhance the jacket’s functionality. While ultralight jackets may forgo having a variety of pockets, and casual jackets have a plethora, the best jackets offer enough to be useful without being overly technical. We prefer two hand pockets, one external chest, and one internal.
Cuffs and Hem Adjustments: Adjustable cuffs and drawcord hems help seal out cold air. Some longer parkas do not have an adjustable hem.
Zippers: Double zippers allow you to belay while wearing the jacket and can help increase ventilation or eliminate awkward bunches while sitting. Fully sealed zippers or storm flaps enhance protection against wind and moisture.
Fit: The fit should allow for layering without being too loose or too restrictive. Ensure mobility in the shoulders and arms for active use. Try the jacket over the clothes you plan to wear beneath it for its intended activity.
Conclusion
At CleverHiker, we never shy away from getting out and testing equipment in some of the harshest weather all year round. When the temperature drops and the snow piles up, we head out to bring you the most thorough analysis possible.
