The 13 Best Puffer Vests for Expert Winter Layering

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When it comes to dressing for colder weather, layering is key. And let's be honest: there's no layer like the best puffer vests. They're the definition of versatility: you can wear them over a long-sleeve or under a puffer jacket for extra insulation. That's why investing in a puffer vest is one of the best decisions you can make as the cooler temperatures descend.

Naturally, the market is saturated with styles upon styles, making it difficult to find the perfect puffer vest to suit your needs (and your wardrobe). We turned to Laura Kinman, product line director of women's sportswear at Patagonia, for some expert shopping tips. "When looking for a puffer vest there are three key components that I think about when looking for the perfect vest: Warmth, length, and layer-ability," she recommended. "Lightweight layering vests work well for those activities where you might be building some body heat, but consider a higher loft down or synthetic vest for additional warmth in a less active scenario." The length of your puffer vest will inform how you can layer it, she added: "Longer [works] for modesty and warmth, while shorter vests layer more easily with high-waisted bottoms. Thinking about what you are most likely to be wearing when you add a vest is key to successful layering."

Keeping Kinman's advice in mind, we tracked down the 13 best puffer vests for women who take seasonal layering seriously. Take on winter with your favorite of the reviewer-backed options ahead.

Wunder Puff Cropped Vest

Lululemon's vest is warm, sure, but what really makes it something special are its extra features. These said features include: a cinchable hem to tailor the fit, removable hood, interior pockets, and zippered exterior pockets with a hidden phone sleeve.

Sizes: 0–14

Colors: Heathered wild indigo, sonic yellow, velvet dust, faded zap

What reviewers are saying: "Wunder Puff Vest Perfection! This is the perfect vest as it’s long enough yet cropped enough to look tailored and fresh. I found this vest to run large and am happy I sized down. Feels very luxurious and I’m pleased with my purchase."

Nano Puff Vest

The Nano vest is one of the most iconic vest styles, with insulation that seems surprising given its lightweight design.

When it comes to styling, Kinman adds, "I am really loving the look and functionality of lightweight vests being used as a mid-layer for casual dressing. Something about a light layer peeking out of your blazer or outerwear looks fresh and add just that little extra warmth as the season turns colder." Noted.

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Colors: Black, lagom blue, sleet green, birch white, belay blue, burl red, obsidian plum, classic navy

What reviewers are saying: "Keeps you warm, easy to pack for travel or in a backpack, can be dressed up or down, I have two of them now!"

Archivio Dna Ghany Vest

Practically synonymous with high-end winter wear, Moncler's sleekly luxurious vest is not to be missed. The iconic logo dots the chest in a subtle patch, and the glossy finish adds a glamorous touch.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Colors: Light blue

Cypress Down Vest

It wouldn't be a vest roundup without a style from Canada Goose. Choose from a variety of hues for an ultra light puffer that keeps you toasty warm even in sub-freezing temperatures. Oh, and it packs into its left interior pocket for compact carrying.

Sizes: XXS–3XL

Colors: Atlantic navy, black, silverbirch, dawn blue, meltwater, summit pink, and more

The Re:Down Vest

Here's one for the eco-minded, as Everlane delivers an entirely recycled vest filled with repurposed down from pillows, comforters, and sleeping bags. The shell itself is also made from recycled nylon and polyester.

Sizes: XXS–XL

Colors: Kalamata, bone

What reviewers are saying: "Love the material, the cut, the collar— love it all."

Cropped Quilted Vest

Coming just under $50, Zara's cropped version is both affordable and high quality. With both water and wind protection, it gets the job done.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Colors: Ecru, black, khaki

Thorium Vest

This black puffer vest is as basic as it gets, and we mean that in a good way. The cut is designed for unrestricted movement, insulted mid layers increase warmth, and a water-repellant treatment makes it ready to combat the elements.

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Colors: Black, arctic silk

What reviewers are saying: "I bought this last year and it is my favorite vest ever! I have worn it well over 100 days now and it still looks brand new. I love that it packs well, is easy to clean and is flattering."

Iria Long Hooded Puffer Vest

As Kinman mentioned, long puffer vests keep you even toastier than their shorter counterparts. You can wear this style over a winter dress with fleece-lined tights for the coziest dinner party look.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Colors: Ink blue, bloom pink, brown black, burgundy black, laurel green, and more

What reviewers are saying: "I was visiting my sister, and I did not have a warm jacket. She let me wear her long vest and it was perfect for the chilly days. My arms were free, and my body was extra warm. Ordered mine the next day. Bonus, saved a duck!"

1996 Retro Nuptse Vest

The North Face takes us on a journey to a few decades ago with a vest straight from the '90s. The oversize baffles coupled with the ripstop fabric create a chic durability.

Sizes: XS–3XL

Colors: Pine needle, black, coal brown/black, gardenia white/black, taupe green/coal brown, wasabi

What reviewers are saying: "Love the vest. It fits the same as my long sleeve puffer jacket from North Face with the same great quality and style. I wouldn't hesitate purchasing other colors and recommending it to others."

Puffer Gilet

The longline fit and minimal funnel collar make this puffer vest best worn as an outer layer. Pair with some dark denim and combat boots for the edgiest of winter outfits.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Colors: Camo, jet black

Metallic Quilted Down Vest

Bring a touch of sheen to your winter wardrobe with this metallic number. The stand collar zips all the way up to keep your neck from freezing, without the added bulk of a hood. You're really getting the best of both worlds.

Sizes: 2–12

Colors: Chantilly

5 Stripe Vest

Contrary to what you may think, this surf culture-inspired brand actually makes outerwear that can hang in cold weather. This vest, for example, can be zipped up over a thermal long-sleeve or thrown under a larger puffer jacket for complete coziness.

Sizes: XS–XL

Colors: Black, cherry, navy, snorkel blue

What reviewers are saying: "I got this as a gift for my mom and she loves it! She wears it almost every day in the winter. It is also very soft!"

The Super Puff Vest

The Super Puff is in its own category of cult-favorite winter outerwear. It's not hard to see why: The ripstop fabric makes it durable, it's water-repellent and wind-resistant, and it's super soft and warm. Sold yet? We hope so.

Sizes: 0–14

Colors: Lavandin, matte pearl, haze grey, fluent taupe, marble grey, modern taupe, and more

What reviewers are saying: "I would 100% recommend this to a friend. The fabric and everything about it is great."

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