The Best Winter Coats Available in 2023: Best Winter Coats for Women and Men
We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. The newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.
Cold is insidious. Anyone familiar with real cold temperatures knows it will creep in the smallest gap. Only the best winter coats can keep the cold out.
However, there isn’t just one “best” winter coat that can keep everyone warm and comfortable. Finding the perfect coat can be challenging, but it’s the only way to stay warm through a cold winter. Our top pick is The North Face McMurdo Parka for its effective insulation, faux fur lining, and waterproof outer shell.
Best Winter Coats
The North Face McMurdo Parka - Best winter coat overall
The North Face Arctic Parka - Best winter coat for women
Patagonia Frozen Range Parka - Best winter coat for men
Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie - Best color options
Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka - Best plus-size winter coat
Marmot Fordham Jacket - Best winter coat with zip-off hood
Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka - Best down winter coat
Rab Neutrino Pro - Best winter coat for extreme cold
There are too many options for the best winter coats to count. Luckily, you don’t have to wade through them, as we’ve narrowed the list to just a few of the best winter coats. Here we list some of the best winter coats for women and men.
1. The North Face McMurdo Parka - Best Winter Coat Overall - Ranking 4.9/5
Pros:
Recycled waterfowl down at 600 fill
Adjustable hood with removable faux fur lining
Draft flap with hidden hook and loop closure
Cons:
A relaxed fit can be too baggy without a waist drawstring
The hood is bulky and can’t be removed
Why Pick the North Face McMurdo Parka?
North Face has a reputation for the best men’s winter coats. In particular, they are known for offering the best winter coats for extreme cold and handling frigid temperatures. The McMurdo Parka has a reputation for offering the best winter coats. Additionally, you can remove the faux fur lining if you prefer a leaner look.
Why Avoid the North Face McMurdo Parka?
A relaxed fit can be more comfortable, but cold wind can sneak into the smallest gap in your winter weather armor without a way to draw it tight around your waist.
North Face McMurdo Parka Ranking: 4.9/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 5/5
Down is famous for packing a lot of warming insulation in a small package. Effective insulation and a waterproof outer shell are added bonuses, making this one of the best men’s winter coats.
Comfort and Style - 5/5
The relaxed fit means you can comfortably add underlayers. Hook and tab closers at the cuffs also help keep you warm. Furthermore, when it comes to winter fashion, The North Face is considered one of the best designer brands.
Features and Durability - 4.75/5
Most features are focused on warding off the chill. Several pockets allow you to store small items securely, though according to user reviews, the zippers may get stuck.
Summary
North Face offers some of the best winter coats for men and women, with the McMurdo at the top of the list. However, avoid sizing up, as the relaxed fit can leave the coat loose, allowing in cold air despite the down insulation.
2. The North Face Arctic Parka - Best Winter Coat for Women - Ranking 4.75/5
Pros:
550 fill goose down
Heatseeker Eco synthetic insulation in side panels
Waterproof, breathable outer shell
Cons:
May restrict movement
Why Pick the North Face Arctic Parka?
Down fill like that in the Arctic Parka makes for some of the best winter coats for women. The Arctic Parka is one of the best winter coats for women because it adds hi-tech synthetic insulation.
You can secure the faux fur-lined hood to protect your face from the cold. Around your waist, the cinched-waist standard fit helps keep cold air out while allowing room for layering underneath.
As we mentioned above, The North Face is considered among the best high fashion brands, with luxurious but practical winter clothing.
Why Avoid the North Face Arctic Parka?
Unlike the McMurdo Parka, wearers cannot remove its hood’s faux fur lining. Additionally, there are limited plus-sized options.
The North Face Arctic Parka Ranking: 4.75/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 4.75/5
The Arctic Parka is a down coat that can handle most cold weather, making it among the best winter coats for women in cold climates.
Comfort and Style - 4.5/5
The Arctic Parka can keep you warm in cold weather and comes in various colors.
Features and Durability - 4/5
All the focus is on keeping you warm, so there aren’t a lot of fancy features.
Summary
The Arctic Parka is one of the best winter coats for women. It combines natural down throughout, supported by panels of HeatSeeker Eco insulation in the side panels. The style is straightforward, allowing you to add layers comfortably beneath.
3. Patagonia Frozen Range Parka - Best Winter Coat for Men - Ranking 4.9/5
Pros:
700-fill-power recycled down insulation
Two layers of GORE-TEX recycled polyester shell
Interior baffles keep the insulation evenly distributed
Fairtrade certified
Cons:
Expensive option
Why Pick the Patagonia Frozen Range Parka?
Patagonia makes some of the best winter coats for men available, with the Frozen Range Parka at the top of the list. The weather is kept out with both a front zipper and storm cuffs. Interior baffles make sure the insulation stays evenly distributed.
The outer shell is made from GORE-TEX, breathable recycled polyester that is lined with ripstop nylon. That makes it warm, waterproof, and durable.
Although Patagonia is on the pricey side, the brand is among the top luxury brands for the cold season.
Why Avoid Patagonia Frozen Parka?
As with many fair trade goods, paying more for production means a higher price tag. Premium materials also add to the cost. This is the most expensive product on our list.
Patagonia Frozen Range Parka Ranking: 4.7/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 5/5
Not only is the Frozen Range Parka among the best men’s winter coats we looked at, but it’s also one of the best winter coats overall for staying warm.
Comfort and Style - 4.5/5
The nylon lining and high color are rugged and warm but may not be the most comfortable.
Features and Durability - 4.7/5
The ripstop nylon lining and rugged GORE-TEX exterior mean the best men’s winter coats will last for years.
Summary
The Frozen Range Parka is expensive but made for conditions in which severe cold is a concern. The top-quality materials mean this coat will last for years, long enough to make the cost worth it. See also some stylish men’s wallets to go with your winter coat.
4. Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie - Best Color Options - Ranking 4.5/5
Pros:
Responsibly sourced down coat
Compressible 700+ fill power
Recycled VerticalX synthetic insulation in select areas
Six color options, including kalamata, camo, black, naval blue, saddle, and flint
Cons:
Runs a little small
Why Pick the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie?
The Coldfront Down Hoodie is designed to be an all-purpose cold weather coat, serving both for running errands in the snow or going sledding, making it one of the best winter coats for men. Its down insulation will keep you warm in most weather; however, it isn’t the best winter coats for extreme cold.
The ripstop outer and lining also make it durable, which is great for running around town. It can also be compressed to make it easier to carry when you reach your destination. Additionally, it comes in a range of six colors, including options for men and women.
Why Avoid the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie?
The best winter coats for women and men allow room for layering other warm clothes but fit well enough to keep the cold out. The Coldfront Hoodie seems to be either too big or too small for many people.
Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie Ranking: 4.5/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 4/5
Down insulation is used in the best winter jackets for women and men for a reason. While they’re not the best winter coats for extreme cold, the Coldfront Down Hoodie will keep you warm in the winter.
Comfort and Style - 5/5
Winter coats aren’t known for their stylish cut, but the range of colors available means the Coldfront Hoodie can suit just about anyone, making it among the best winter coats for women and men.
Features and Durability - 4.5/5
The ripstop lining and outer mean that this coat can last you for years to come.
Summary
The Coldfront Hoodie can help you stay warm in frigid weather and look pretty good. It’s not just the best men’s winter coat, but it may be the winter coat with the best styling overall, suitable for men and women.
5. Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka - Best Plus Size Winter Coat - Ranking 4.4/5
Pros:
Three different coats in one with separable layers
100% recycled down
Fairtrade certified
Adjustable hood that snaps off
Cons:
Expensive
Why Pick the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka?
Cold comes in a continuum of misery, from bitterly frigid to freezing rain. The Tres 3-in-1 is designed to adjust comfortably to the entire spectrum, making it one of the best winter coats for women and men.
An outer waterproof and breathable shell keeps out the rain and cold air. Underneath, a 700-fill-power recycled down parka helps you stay warm but can zip out if you want.
The combo means it’s probably not one of the best winter coats for extreme cold. However, it’s a great, adaptable coat you can wear daily.
Why Avoid the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka?
Patagonia’s ethical stances seem to add to the price tag. This coat is only the second most expensive, though the most expensive is also from Patagonia. If you’re looking for the best winter coats for extreme cold, the Marmot Fordham Jacket might be a better choice.
Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka Ranking: 4.4/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 4.25/5
The double-coat concept allows you to cope with a wider range of weather conditions. However, putting two coats together is complicated and may create gaps that might leave you somewhat vulnerable to the cold. Therefore, this isn’t our top pick for the best winter coats for extreme cold.
Comfort and Style - 4.25/5
The separable style means that you’ll always have the right coat to go with your look, particularly with five different color options, making this one of the best winter coats for women and men. Pair this with the best sunglasses for men, and you’re ready to hit the snow-covered landscape.
Features and Durability - 4.75/5
The big feature is obviously the separate shell and liner. The parka also has chevron-shaped baffles to keep insulation evenly distributed while providing a flattering shape.
Summary
The 3-in-1 from Patagonia is expensive, but you’ll probably only need one coat to cope with most weather conditions. The waterproof outer jacket separates from the down-filled parka underneath. As a result, it’s easy to cope with snow or just a cold breeze; however, we wouldn’t recommend it as the best winter coats for extreme cold.
6. Marmot Fordham Jacket - Best Winter Coat with Zip-Off Hood - Ranking 4.25/5
Pros:
700-fill down can be easily compressed
Micro-fleece lining in the cuffs
Waterproof and breathable outer fabric
Detachable hood
Cons:
Tight collar when zipped all the way up
Why Pick the Marmot Fordham Jacket?
Marmot’s Fordham is a fantastic example of the best winter coats for men that manage to find the difficult balance between warmth and style. The down fill helps retain body heat, while several colors allow you to match your coat to your style. The hood also zips off, so you can match it with a hat if you prefer.
Why Avoid the Marmot Fordham Jacket?
The Marmot isn’t as expensive as some best men’s winter coats on our list, but it is at the costlier end. Reviewers also mention a tighter fit, perhaps making this a poor choice if you work outdoors.
Marmot Fordham Jacket Ranking: 4.25/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 4.25/5
The down insulation and weatherproof outer fabric make this one of the best winter coats for extreme cold temperatures.
Comfort and Style - 4.5/5
The styling is where the Fordham shines; though it runs a little small, it’s still one of the best men’s winter coats and an excellent option for luxury gifts or designer gifts for men.
Features and Durability - 4/5
Some of the pockets are more likely for appearance than function. It also lacks a double zipper found on other best winter coats for men.
Summary
The Marmot Fordham is an excellent choice for the stylish man who also needs to stay warm. The warm insulation and weatherproof fabric put it among the best winter coats for extreme cold.
7. Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka - Best Down Winter Coat - Ranking 4.1/5
Pros:
Pockets of 700 fill power down insulation within a stretch fabric
Double front zipper
High collar and insulated hood
Cons:
Down filling may move after wearing, leaving some areas uninsulated
Why Pick the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka?
The Stretchdown Parka is unlike other down jackets because the insulation isn’t in baffles. Instead, it’s woven into a stretch material that is comfortable and less puffy than even the best winter coats with the standard design.
This version is for women, though the men’s version also ranks as one of the best men’s winter coats.
Why Avoid the Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka?
While comfortable and flattering, the Stretchdown Parka may not be one of the best winter coats for extreme weather. It may not be the best choice for winter camping and may not hold up in freezing rain.
Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka Ranking: 4.1/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 4/5
The stretchdown material is comfortable but may not be the best for really bad weather.
Comfort and Style - 4.5/5
The unique mixture of down insulation and stretch material makes for a comfortable coat.
Features and Durability - 4/5
While comfortable and warm, the stretch fabric and down combination may not be the most durable.
Summary
The Stretchdown Winter Parka is an excellent option for a comfortable down coat that doesn’t puff up. It can be used as winter or fall fashion.
8. Rab Neutrino Pro - Best Winter Coat for Extreme Cold - Ranking 4.6/5
Pros:
800-fill goose down insulation
Intended for use in cold mountain weather
The hood is designed to fit a helmet
Free shipping
Cons:
It may not be suitable for casual wear
Why Pick the Rab Neutrino Pro?
Rab’s Neutrino ranks as one of the best winter coats for extreme cold on our list. The 800-fill-down insulation is the highest on our list, packing in a lot of insulation to keep you warm. It’s also highly compressible, making it among the best men’s winter coats.
The Pertex Quantum outer shell and lining provide additional weatherproofing to reduce the impact of the coldest winter conditions. A unique feature is a hood sized for a helmet, making this one of the best winter coats for men and women who enjoy skiing or climbing.
Why Avoid the Rab Neutrino Pro?
The Neutrino is designed to handle the extreme conditions you‘ll find on the side of a mountain. However, certain features, like a hood sized for a helmet, aren’t well suited for everyday wear.
Rab Neutrino Pro Ranking: 4.6/5
Warmth and Weather Resistance - 5/5
The Neutrino’s strength is handling very cold and wet conditions while keeping you warm and dry, ranking this among the best winter coats for extreme cold.
Comfort and Style - 4.25/5
It comes to your mid-thigh and includes a drawstring on the bottom to keep the cold out. It comes in several different color options, making it one of the best men’s winter coats for those who want to look stylish. You can match this jacket with one of our favorite designer watches for the ultimate winter outfit.
Features and Durability - 4.5/5
It’s durable, but it may not be the best option for wearing every day in winter.
Summary:
The Neutrino is an excellent option if you’re a skier or mountain climber looking for a warm, functional coat to wear on the slopes. However, it may not be the best men’s winter coats option if you just need it for your daily life.
How To Choose the Best Winter Coats
As the weather gets colder, the best winter coats for men, women, and kids will only get more expensive and harder to find. However, the perfect coat to help you survive the cold weather is within your reach if you keep several factors in mind.
Affordability
The best winter coats can be expensive, as they often use down, synthetics, and other costly materials, though they should last for years. However, you don’t necessarily need to invest big bucks in affording the best winter jacket for everyday wear.
Warmth and Temperature Rating
The best winter coats for men and women need to be more than just a warm jacket. To contend with frigid temperatures, the best winter coats use hi-tech methods to retain body heat. The coat’s insulation types will determine if a coat is a versatile winter jacket suitable for your needs.
Many of the best winter coats for men and women use down insulation. Fill power is often cited, though it’s a measure of compression, not insulation.
If you’re looking to hit the slopes this winter season, check out some of the best sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Weather Resistance
The best winter coats for extreme cold are very warm. However, finding a coat with wind-resistant and water-resistant outer fabric is also important.
In some ways, a rain jacket with a warm sweater may be a better way to handle winter weather than some coats. Good weather protection requires more than just insulation, as it’s not a good idea to get wet in below-freezing temperatures.
Materials and Durability
The best winter coats for extreme weather use high-quality materials that are warm and water-resistant. Wool coats are popular for everyday wear. Down jackets and coats often offer the most insulation.
Down insulation has a whole vocabulary that goes with it. Fill weight and fill power are two different things. Fill weight measures the amount of insulation, while fill power measures how compressible it is.
Comfort and Style
The best winter coats for extreme cold may be too warm for commuting to work. The best winter coats for women often come with fake fur, but that may not be your style. A good winter jacket matches your look as well as keeps you warm, whether that be a stylish jacket, short puffer coat, and down jacket.
Features
Features on the best winter coats tend to be straightforward and practical. They can include things like:
Water-resistant outer shell
Removable hoods
Fleece-lined pockets
Snow skirt for winter sports
Additional pockets for outdoor gear
FAQs About the Best Winter Coats
Have we left you with questions about how to find the best winter coats? See if we answer them below.
What Is the Best Winter Coat Brand?
The best winter coats for men and women can depend on a number of factors, as can the brand. If having a stylish coat is a priority, a brand like Mountain Hardware may have a down jacket for you.
On the other hand, Patagonia and North Face have reputations for incredibly warm coats that are also water-resistant. They can help you survive even in the most cold climates.
What Is the Warmest Coat for Winter?
The best winter coats for extreme weather are usually the best choice for maximum warmth. Generally, down insulation is the best choice if you want to stay super warm. The absolute warmest coat on our list of best winter coats is the Neutrino by Rab.
What Is the Warmest Lightweight Winter Coat?
Most people don’t need the best winter coats for extreme weather, as those would probably be too warm. A lightweight winter jacket can often be enough for getting to work in the city while not being too warm. The warmest jackets may be the stretchdown material from Mountain Hardwear.
However, another option might be a waterproof coat, like trench coats, with a warm sweater underneath.
How Do I Choose a Winter Coat?
The best winter coats fulfill all your particular needs. The best winter coats for extreme weather are too warm for commuting to work. Puffer jackets are warm, but you may not like the style. A warm coat that isn’t waterproof isn’t going to help in wet snow. Consider the weather you’ll need to cope with and the context in which you’ll be trying to stay warm.
If you only experience mild winters in your area, consider one of the best leather jackets to keep the wind out.
Final Thoughts: The Best Winter Coats
The best winter coats can be expensive, but it’s far from a waste of money. A solid coat you can depend on is important for keeping you comfortable and healthy through the winter. As a result, spending a little more on a genuinely first-rate winter coat such as the North Face McMurdo Parka is an investment in comfort and health. You’ll rarely regret spending money on those.
Related Articles:
