10 Best Winter Jackets in 2021

When winter rears its nasty head, you want to make sure you’ve got the right clothing to keep you warm and comfortable. Having the right winter jacket for you is absolutely crucial to making sure you survive winter.

The best winter jacket will be comfortable, weather-resistant, warm, and affordable. Whether you’re looking for a snowboarding jacket or just something to get you to and from work or school without giving you the chills, you’ll need to know what to look out for.

There are so many different types of winter jackets available. It can be easy to get lost in the noise when you’re looking for a good winter jacket, so in order to help clear up any unanswered questions, we have put together this short guide of the 10 best winter jackets in 2020. Read on to find out more about our favorite picks and the things you should keep in mind when buying.

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1. Wantdo Women’s Mountain Jacket

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The Wantdo Women’s ski jacket is a performance coat that is built for skiing and more rugged use. It is lightweight and durable, making it ideal for days on the slopes. The outer lining is made of 240F polyester fiber which is water-resistant and can protect against rips and tears.

The relaxed-fit gives you a comfortable jacket and an inner soft lining offers an extra layer of heat retention. The jacket is designed to keep wind and snow out with adjustable cuffs, waistline, snap skirt, and a stretchable thumbhole glove on the sleeves.

It comes with all of the storage pockets you need as well as a hood to keep you perfectly warm when the wind picks up. It is built specifically for women to provide a stylish, lightweight performance jacket that will work for any ski trip.

Pros:
+ Lightweight and windproof
+ Fleece inner lining
+ Water-resistant
+ Detachable hood
+ Adjustable cuffs and waist

Why we like it – This jacket is a really good affordable option for ladies who need a warm jacket for the slopes. It holds its own in harsh weather and is maneuverable enough to give you a comfortable jacket to ride the hills with.

2. Wantdo Women’s Hooded Down Jacket

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With a down filling, this Wantdo women’s jacket is a good all-around winter jacket for casual as well as performance use. It is warm enough to keep you comfortable as the main winter jacket, or as an additional layer underneath a hardshell windproof coat. It is not perfectly waterproof but, if misted upon, the jacket will repel any unwanted water from getting to your skin.

It has tight hugging cuffs and an attached hood that will keep you warm if it starts to get windy. You can roll the jacket up and store it in a very compact and small bag if you need to pack it away into a backpack.

The seams are tough and durable as they have double stitching to make sure they do not fray or come apart. It is a zipper close jacket and has two side zip pockets and deep inside pockets to keep your valuables safe.

Pros:
+ Super lightweight
+ Water repellant
+ Packs down compact
+ Durable construction

Why we like it – This jacket is perfect for anyone who needs a lightweight layer of warmth for pretty much any occasion. It is super packable and light and is also quite affordable.

3. Caterpillar Men’s Heavy Insulated Parka

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When you’re looking for a heavy-duty jacket that will keep you warm in some of the coldest temperatures, you need one like the Caterpillar Parka. It is made of 100% Polyester Oxford and Taffeta, has a zipper enclosure and is machine washable.

The detachable hood is fleece lined and has a drawstring to keep it as tight and warm as possible. With storm snap flats over the zipper, it is extra resistant to harsh weather and will keep you fully protected. The adjustable cuffs have snap tabs that help them secure tightly around your wrists to keep any cold air out.

A drawcord at the waist also gives you a customized and sealed fit to give you the highest level of warmth possible. You have plenty of storage pockets to keep your tools, phone, wallet, and other valuables safe while you’re around town or working outside in the cold.

Pros:
+ Burly construction
+ Adjustable openings
+ Detachable hood
+ Lots of pocket space
+ Storm flaps

Why we like it – This jacket is tough and durable enough to handle some of the harshest winter conditions. It is warm and adjustable and will keep you comfortable all winter long.

4. Wantdo Men’s Mountain Jacket

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The Wantdo Men’s ski jacket is a versatile choice that looks good in urban areas but is designed to handle the slopes and other fast=paced outdoor activities. The outer lining provides a waterproof shell to keep you dry and warm. The inside has a fleece lining which is warm and hugs you like a bear in hibernation.

It comes with a relaxed fit and quick-dry material. It has adjustable cuffs and a stretchable thumb hole to help you get a warmth seal between your body and the coat. Also, a snap powder skirt will help keep out any snow if you’re in the powder and you happen to take a little fall.

The inside liner is detachable for the times when you only want to have the warm fleece or the waterproof shell, and the jacket has 6 pockets for ample storage space for all of your belongings.

Pros:
+ Performance designed
+ Adjustable cuffs
+ Detachable fleece lining
+ Waterproof shell
+ Plenty of pocket space

Why we like it – This jacket is good for the slopes and it is stylish enough to be worn around town. It has all of the adjustable comfort features and weatherproofing you want to make sure you’re fully protected.

5. OutdoorMaster Women’s 3-in-1 Ski Jacket

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A 3-in-1 jacket is a great choice for anyone who wants a jacket that can perform in multiple areas. The OutdoorMaster women’s jacket can give you warmth and protection in light wind and rain, heavy snowfall, and more frigid conditions.

It has a fleece inner lining, a waterproof shell, and the combination of both works well when the temperature is low and the weather gets a little bit rough. The jacket features waterproof YKK zippers that will stand up to snow and rain without breaking down when it is most important.

The hood is warm but also removable if you want to take it off and put a helmet on for days on the slopes. It has a zipper enclosure and adjustable drawstrings on the cuffs and the waistline to keep things snug and secure no matter where you find yourself.

Pros:
+ 3-in-1 design
+ Fleece lining, polyester shell
+ Water and windproof
+ Adjustable cuffs
+ Removable hood

Why we like it – This jacket gives you options. If you want a lightweight fleece liner or a waterproof hardshell, you get both with this jacket. It is good for the slopes but also works well around town in more casual conditions.

6. Arctix Men’s Performance Tundra Jacket

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This is another heavy-duty jacket for men that will keep you warm in pretty much any condition. It is not perfectly suited for sports, but if you need something to keep you warm in really frigid temperatures, then the Arctix Tundra jacket may be the right one for you.

It is made of 100% polyester, has a waterproof outer shell and warm Thermatec insulation which can handle temperatures as low as -25 degrees. The seams are all sealed to keep out moisture and to ensure the structural integrity of the jacket.

The microfleece inner lining is what gives you that comfortably warmth you want, and it has an adjustable/detachable hood to keep your neck and head dry. Ykk Zippers are durable and reliable, insulated hand pockets offer added warmth convenience, and there is plenty of storage space for your belongings.

Pros:
+ Removable hood
+ Waterproof
+ Fleece lining
+ Insulated pockets
+ Adjustable cuffs

Why we like it – This is a rugged men’s jacket that will handle whatever elements you’re dealing with. It is double layers, with a removable hood and plenty of pocket space for everything you need.

7. Valuker Women’s Down Coat

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The Valuker Women’s Down Coat is a casual coat for women that will work for urban areas. It is not designed for performance, but with down filling, it will keep you warm in the winter months. It will work well with urban style and has a faux fur hood collar that adds a touch of flare.

The filling is 90% down and 10% feather, making this a lightweight and very warm coat. It hugs tightly to the body for a comfortable, snug fit, and the fabric makes this coat water-resistant as long as you don’t get caught in heavy rain.

The stitching is reinforced for a strong durability factor, and the zippers are durable enough to last winter after winter. It is good for temperatures as low as about -15 degrees and works best if you layer underneath to get the warmth you are looking for.

Pros:
+ Down and feather filling
+ Lightweight
+ Stylish
+ Faux fur collar

Why we like it – This coat works well for the winter months in the city as long as it isn’t super frigid outside. It works as an additional layer over a sweater to keep you warm.

8. CAMEL CROWN Ski Jacket Men

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If you want a waterproof ski jacket that is tough and reliable, the Camel Crown ski jacket may be what you are looking for. It is made of woven polyester which acts to bead off rainwater and keep the interior dry and warm.

A fleece liner on the inside is what will really keep you warm though. This jacket is built for the slopes and is tough enough to protect against rips, tears, and scratches from rocks and branches when you’re heading down tree runs.

It is lightweight and maneuverable enough to let you get the performance you want. It is outfitted with waterproof zippers and pockets to keep your valuables safe. The durable construction will ensure that it should last a few seasons of rugged use.

If you want a jacket that is good for the slopes but can also be used in a variety of winter activity situations, then the Camel Crown jacket may be what you’re looking for.

Pros:
+ Rugged design
+ Durable outer shell
+ Inner fleece liner
+ Waterproof zippers and pockets
+ Performance capable

Why we like it – A ski jacket needs to be robust and malleable. You want to be able to move freely without too much hindrance while also being protected. This is an all-encompassing performance winter jacket for the ski hill and the woods.

9. Spmor Men’s Outdoor Sports

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Affordability is always a plus when you’re looking into getting a reliable winter jacket. The Spmor Men’s outdoor sports jacket is a relaxed fitting coat for the mountains and hanging around the house as well. Due to its affordability, you could even have this jacket as a backup coat for a more rigorous outdoor adventure in case you need one.

It is made of polyester and has a soft-shell exterior that quickly dries when it gets wet. The hood is detachable when you don’t want the extra bulk hanging around your neck, and the zippers are strong and don’t snag easily.

It also has a storm flap on the front to help protect you from nasty weather. The cuffs are adjustable and have a drawcord so you can wrap them tightly around your wrists to keep out the wind. Plenty of intuitive pocket space gives you places to store your valuables so you won’t lose them.

Pros:
+ Detachable hood
+ Waterproof shell
+ Adjustable cuffs
+ Polyester
+ Versatile

Why we like it – This jacket is nothing out of the ordinary. It is a simple warm winter jacket for men that could work for sports and just for casual wear. It is pretty warm and durable without costing a ton of money.

10. Columbia Mighty Lite Hooded Jacket

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The Mighty Lite jacket is an excellent choice for women who want a jacket that can do it all. It is super lightweight and resistant to the elements to keep you comfortable. Columbia is known for creating reputable pieces as well.

It has Omni-heat reflectivity which helps maintain a desirable heat level even in the coldest weather. Also, Omni-shield repellency keeps the rain and snow out so you can stay dry on the inside. Adjustable comfort cuffs with thumbholes allow you to pull the sleeves right into your gloves for a snug fit.

It is made of 50% recycled polyester for a touch of eco-friendliness. It has a hood and covers the whole body down to above the knee for the greatest level of warmth and coverage.

Pros:
+ Lightweight
+ Water repellent
+ Good heat reflectivity
+ Warm hood

Why we like it – This is a really good quality jacket for women that is built for casual wear. It is lightweight and durable and warm enough to keep you comfy all winter long.

Winter Jackets Buyers Guide

Now that we have taken a look at some of the best winter jackets this year, let’s talk about what is really important to you. Depending on where you live, what type of lifestyle you live, and what you’re using your jacket for, what is best for you may not be what is particularly best for someone else. Here are some guidelines for you to follow to make sure you’re getting what is best for you.

What are you using your jacket for?

If you’re simply looking for a jacket that will keep you warm as you walk around the city or your local town, then you won’t need one that is designed for high-performance wear and tear.

The biggest differences you will notice when comparing casual jackets and performance jackets are the price, weight, and maneuverability. Performance jackets are designed to be used by skiers, snowboarders, maintain climbers, and more. In these sports, you can’t have a bulky/heavy jacket weighing you down.

Luckily if you’re looking for a casual jacket, you may be saving some money because they are still quite warm but they are not necessarily built with the high-tec materials that a performance jacket will give you. Performance jackets are more versatile in their usability but may lack casual style points.

Insulation

Most jackets will be filled with either down insulation or synthetic. Down jacket is overall the lightest and warmest of all fills due to the tiny air pockets created by the micro feathers used to create down insulation. It is a little bit more expensive, but if you are willing to pay the extra price, down insulation is usually the way to go for most winter jackets.

Synthetic insulation is nothing to be ashamed of though. It is also very warm and works well when exposed to moisture. It is only a little bit heavier and bulkier but is available at a more affordable rate.

Weatherproofing

A good winter jacket will be supremely weatherproof as well. You want the jacket to be able to handle wind and rain. If it doesn’t, the moisture and the cold breeze will get underneath the outer layer and render the jacket useless at doing its intended job.

Make sure that the jacket you’re working with has a waterproof shell that can handle rain and snow when it melts. If you’re buying a performance jacket, make sure it’s got snow skirts and protectors that can help keep snow out of your waistline, arms, and neck. If you get snow inside your jacket, it is always uncomfortable and you could potentially get sick.

Features

Most of the best jackets for winter will have various features like a hood, snow skirt, and a lining that can be pulled inside your winter gloves. Some do not, and that is okay. It all comes down to the level of protection you’re looking for in your winter jacket.

Having a hood can be super helpful and comfortable, especially on windy cold days where the breeze picks up and sends a chill down your spine. If you’re planning on wearing a scarf and a warm hat, then a hood may not be quite as necessary.

You will want to make sure that your jacket has durable and closeable pockets where you can store your valuables so they don’t get lost. Think of features like bonuses and not necessarily must-haves, unless you know for sure that you need a hood.

Weight

Not all winter jackets are really heavy and bulky. Some of them are actually really lightweight and agile. This is possible with high-quality insulation such as down. However, what you’re using your jacket for will largely affect the amount of weight you need for your jacket. Casual jackets that are best for matching with your favorite wintertime attire can be heavier than performance jackets.

You will likely save some money on a heavier jacket and it will still accomplish the intended goal of keeping you warm and comfortable on a winters day. A lighter jacket will be best for you if you want to have the maneuverability and agility that a performance jacket can offer.

Durability

Getting a winter jacket that can’t handle a little cold weather would be pointless. Your jacket will need to be able to last a long time and stay effective no matter what gets thrown in its path. Ensure that the jacket you’re getting has high-quality ratings, double-stitched seams, and hefty construction.

Having a waterproof coating will help the jacket last longer and will keep you warm at the same time. The best way to check for durability when shopping online is to see what other reviewers are saying about a specific product. People generally rave about products that last a long time and stand up to some abuse.

Conclusion

Now you’re ready to pick out your favorite winter jacket that is going to accompany you on this long journey we call the winter. Any of our picks will work well for various purposes, and if you keep the buyers guide in mind, you will have no trouble enjoying your new jacket.

Expert Tip

Always ensure you’re following the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage and washing for your jacket. This will make sure it lasts longer and actually does what it is supposed to.

Did you know?

Down filling is one of the most lightweight types of filling you can get. It is made from the extremely fine feathers found underneath the large exterior feathers of ducks and geese. Because it is so small and light, it is able to hold onto the warm air and trap it to keep the whole jacket warm.