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TFG readers have been asking, “What are the best winter jackets women rely on?” Find out how to choose the top women’s winter coats in this ultimate guide!

 

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Best Winter Coats for Women

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Table Of Contents

 

 

Winter travel can be a magical experience, and if you’re looking to be outside in the cold season, whether it’s hiking snow trails, snowshoeing, or exploring some parks by foot or on cross-country skis, you’ll need a robust jacket that allows you to move but also keeps you warm in frigid weather.

 

 

I ADORE the Columbia Carson Pass 2 Waterproof Jacket. It kept me warm during winter in Europe and is a go-to choice for chilly days when I’m in the USA! (Read my review on it.)

 

Even if you’re not a big outdoor traveler, winter trips can still entail destinations like Europe, where you might want to visit the traditional European Christmas Markets. In those instances, a good solid coat is vital as you tour the charming stalls and drink mulled wine!

Readers have been demanding this article on how to find the best winter jacket women wear for travel, and we’re happy to oblige and answer all your FAQs!

 

 

The Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Jacket is super lightweight but cozy warm!

 

Should a Winter Jacket for Women Be Heavy to Stay Warm?

 

One misconception is that to travel in winter, you have to pack bulky clothing or buy the heaviest jacket to be warm. This is untrue!

Every trip, even if it’s for the winter, should begin with a capsule wardrobe, which is the key to traveling light. That means choosing a set number of tops and bottoms to match together for various activities, this includes your coat.

 

 

Users say this North Face Arctic Parka is surprisingly light for its heavy-duty warmth factor

 

I’ve outlined this revolutionary way to pack in my ebook Pack Light Stylishly, and in my ebook Stop Overpacking, I discuss how to pack effectively for every season so you can maximize your luggage space. You can also access our Signature Packing Lists, which can fit any length of trip to really cement a travel capsule wardrobe!

Overall, for cold weather, lightweight fabrics such as merino wool, cashmere, and alpaca are ideal, and fleece-lined pants that are quick drying are the most comfortable. But you can get away with wearing ponte pants or jeans as well.

The video below might also help you figure out what to buy to better prepare for winter travel.

 

Get started on organizing for winter travel with this video!

 

And if you’d like more help with what to wear in the winter, check out these articles:

• The Most Comfortable Waterproof Boots
• Best Cold Weather Pants
• Warmest Thermal Underwear
• Best Merino Wool Clothing
• Best Merino Wool Sweaters
• Coziest Cashmere Sweaters
• Soft Alpaca Sweaters
• Reader-Approved Long Sleeve Tees
• Best Cardigans to Layer
• Top Merino Wool Leggings
• Best Fleece-Lined Leggings

 

Merino is the ultimate fabric—lightweight and easy to layer in winter. If you want to see which brands to buy, see our guide to the best merino wool brands!

 

 

The Terramar Silk Undershirt and Silk Thermal Bottoms are voted as some of the best by readers!

 

How Should I Wear My Winter Jacket?

 

Besides the fabrics we mentioned, the biggest secret to staying warm without the bulk is to layer your clothing; this means you definitely don’t need to buy a huge jacket!

 

There’s actually a formula to ensure the utmost warmth is maintained. It’s called the 3 layer rule, and this is how it works:

1. Add thermal underwear or silk underwear underneath all clothing
2. Add a merino wool sweater, cashmere sweater, alpaca sweater, or turtleneck over your thermals. Or a mid-layer could also be a fleece jacket.
3. Add the top layer which would be your winter coat. Even if your jacket is insulated, this is the pro strategy for staying warm in any weather conditions.

 

Remember, when wearing women winter jackets, you can always drop layers if the weather changes during your activity.

 

You also can explore more on what winter clothing to choose from by watching the video below.

 

This video can help you plan a packable winter wardrobe!

 

In addition to your jacket, it’s paramount that you add the proper accessories: a sturdy pair of warm gloves, a knit hat, a neck scarf, and solid, reliable boots. 

 

 

A recent pick by TFGs, the Lands’ End Down Coat ticks a lot of boxes; it’s packable, has insulation, and is durable for a winter day!

 

How to Choose the Best Women’s Winter Jackets?

 

The truth purchasing a winter jacket is an investment and is for a reason.

The biggest mistake is to buy a cheap coat or poor-quality jacket that won’t protect you from the elements and then interrupt your fun because you’ll be soaking wet and miserable—don’t let that mistake happen to you.

 

When you’re ready to consider buying a womens winter jacket, these points are vital to think about:

Insulation: A jacket should have good insulation, such as wool, down, polyester, or nylon materials that will perform in the cold and keep you warm. Down is an ideal material because it combines warmth and weight in a package that is lightweight overall and, therefore, much easier to pack. Down is measured by fill and weight ratings. The higher the fill and weight, the more warm it’ll be. A minimum fill rating of 550 is recommended, which means a jacket with that rating is of higher quality and will be toasty and comfortable.

Weather protection: Other qualities to seek out in womens winter jackets are water-resistant technology and windproof properties. As the wind chill hits, the last thing you want is for you to start shivering. Many top-quality jackets will have DWR (durable water repellent), which is a special coating that keeps the wearer dry and warm in inclement conditions.

Packability: While it’s logical that you’d wear the heaviest items on the plane, such as a jacket and boots, it’s still a good idea to look for a coat that’s easy to carry and packs down so it can fit into your carry-on or backpack.

Breathability: Even though you may be moving about in the chill, a jacket should still be breathable so that when you begin to sweat, moisture isn’t trapped inside and causes you to start shivering, which is bad for the body! Likewise, the seams in a jacket should be sealed well, particularly around the cuff area, so cold air can’t get in.

Durability: A high-quality jacket shouldn’t tear on a whim like a cheaper one might. Movement is also important, so when trying one on, there shouldn’t be too much space between your body and the jacket. You also want to be careful about it being constricting as well. To test the fit, lift your arms and you should be able to do this action without exposing your stomach or back.

Storage: Having ample storage in a jacket is also important; seek out interior and exterior pockets so it’s easy to bring essentials. Some jackets even have hidden secure pockets as well!

 

If you’re facing extreme cold weather – your health is paramount, so ensure you dress properly for sub-zero temperatures! And read why having a waterproof jacket makes a huge difference in inclement weather. 

 

 

The Eddie Bauer MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket is a good example of a jacket that works over base layers and light mid-layers, making it terrific for traveling on those chilly vacations!

 

What Winter Jacket Womens Styles Should I Buy?

 

If you’re not certain where to start your search, here are our favorite winter coats women love for their quality, features, and style:

Toasty Puffer Down Jackets: If it’s going to be in sub-zero temperatures, TFG readers universally agree that the warmest type of jacket is made of down. They definitely offer the most protection in harsh winter weather, and packable ones are wonderful for trips or to wear around town.

Cozy Down Parkas: The best winter jackets for extreme cold are down filled ones. Down fill is long touted as the warmest and is surprisingly lightweight. These parkas are more robust and offer extra warmth when you need it! And if you prefer coats without down, these other non-down winter parkas might suit you more!

Classic Wool Jackets: While wool jackets have the reputation of being heavier, seeking a lightweight wool-based jacket that’s durable is a wonderful choice for city travel, where you may be in and out of places and not walking a lot outside. Another benefit of wool is how it looks—it’s timeless and adds polish to any winter outfit.

 

Unsure how to determine what fill-power to aim for when buying a down jacket? “Fill-power,” determines the quality of the down or the amount of loft. A coat that has 600-fill power vs. one that’s 550-fill power may be slighter warmer but both would still keep you warm. If you plan on more extreme temperatures like Iceland or Norway, it’s best to aim for a high fill power, something 650 and above. Essentially, the greater the fill-power number, the warmer it will be.

 

Still trying to figure out what to get? Review this guide on choosing the right jacket for every season or scenario! ​

 

 

Quince is a great source of quality long winter coats for women, like this stylish Single Breasted Italian Wool Jacket

 

What Are the Best Winter Jackets Brands?

 

A good jacket can cost anywhere between $200 and $400, and sometimes slightly more if you need something for really cold environments.

While outerwear can be an investment, keep in mind it’ll be something you will keep and wear for a long time to come. To help mitigate the costs, regularly check for a winter jacket sale, buy out of season, or choose discontinued colors to save money. When you bargain hunt it’s possible to find coats 30%- 50% cheaper than the regular prices.

 

These are the top brands or stores to find the best winter jackets womens styles:

• Nordstrom: Has many cozy Sam Edelman wool coats, as well as popular brands like Bernardo, Canada Goose, and Save the Duck.
• Quince: Their puffer coats and wool coats are well-loved, lightweight, and great for climates that are not majorly cold but chilly enough!
• Eddie Bauer: One of the favorite brands for down parkas and coats. They have a large selection for different weather systems in the winter season. And they offer plus size winter jackets, You can find discontinued styles on Amazon, too.
• The North Face: Is an excellent source for down jackets and insulated coats to face the cold winter. They also have plus size winter coats. You can buy their coats (discontinued ones as well) on Amazon.
• Columbia: Similar to North Face but a more economical choice, Columbia also offers insulated jackets and down coats, as well as items for skiing and snowboarding. It also offers extended sizes. Find them on Amazon, too.
• Lands’ End: This brand is a reader favorite and has a great selection of warm coats, but also for all seasons. Their trench is especially popular.
• L.L. Bean: Is a classic brand with reliable, warm coats that are a variety of fleece-lined or down-filled
• Amazon: In addition to the brands mentioned above, you can also find jackets here from Marmot and Alpine North, Fjällräven, and Arc’teryx. Another option similar to Amazon is Backcountry, but note, they’re strictly an outdoor brand retailer.
• Patagonia: Is considered high quality in terms of outdoor wear and has several winter parkas or jackets to choose from.
• REI: Another outdoor retailer, REI sells their own branded jackets, Patagonia, Cotopaxi, Outdoor Research, and more—at their buying page.

 

When buying online, try out the jacket thoroughly when it arrives to ensure the fit works for you. Opt for retailers or brands that offer free shipping and returns in case you need to change your purchase. I consider Nordstrom the best but check our entire guide to brands offering free shipping and returns.

 

 

Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes

 

How Do I Pack My Winter Jacket?

 

While it’s wise to bring your heaviest items on the plane, such as your coat and boots, you might be doing a mixed-weather trip first and need to pack a down jacket.

For this task, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes. This allows optimum use of the space in your luggage while keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free.

Many readers use our Compass Rose Packing Cubes for packing, and they’re now offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13″ x 5″ x 2.8″, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8″ x 13″ x 8.5″. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase and can help you organize and compress clothing items.

The medium size is great for bulkier items or clothes you may want to fold instead of roll, like a jacket. Check out this video on how to organize using packing cubes, it’s incredibly easy!

Now that we’ve addressed all the FAQs, see which cute winter jackets are best to keep you warm and toasty for your travels!

 

 

Best Packable Down Jackets

 

A popular lightweight winter jacket is one made of down fill. They’re so convenient for travel because they can pack down very small and often can be squeezed into a pocket or small carrying pouch. The key to buying one is to size up so you can add layers or choose something that’s not snug, according to user reviews.

 

 

Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Jacket | Sizes XS-3X

 

Eddie Bauer CirrusLite

 

This Eddie Bauer CirrusLite winter jacket has 650-fill power and can handle the wet and cold but isn’t heavy to wear or pack. Everything is secure when you’re out snowshoeing or exploring festive decorations at a city park, from the hem to the cuffs and even the secure zippered pockets. But don’t forget that adjustable hood too!

 

Read this review to learn why we, and our readers, rave about Eddie Bauer’s waterproof jackets.

 

 

Quince Lightweight Down Puffer Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

 

Quince Puffer Jacket

 

This lightweight hooded down jacket by Quince has 700-fill power (with responsibly sourced down) and is packable for your winter adventures. It’s water-repellent and wind-resistant and so small it’s able to pack into one of the pockets. The perfect cold-weather companion!

If you want something that doesn’t pack so small, you can grab Quince’s responsible down puffer without this added feature, but it still has superior warmth.

 

 

The North Face Aconcagua 3 Jacket | Sizes XS-3X

 

The North Face Aconcagua

 

The North Face Aconcagua down jacket is made of recycled materials and the interior includes a combination of 600-fill down and synthetic insulation. The other features make this a great piece is the DWR finish to repel water, elasticized cuffs to keep warmth in, and zippered hand warmer pockets. While it doesn’t have a hood, you can wear a wool hat to remain toasty!

 

 

Lands’ End Ultralight Packable Down Jacket | Sizes XS-3X

 

Lands’ End Wanderweight 

 

The Lands’ End Ultralight Wanderweight jacket is so light and toasty due to the 800 fill-power down. You’ll be well protected too, with the water-resistant nylon outershell, zippered pockets, and a storm flap, This coast is packable and could fit into a packing cube if you’re doing a mixed weather trip and need it for later.

 

 

Columbia Harmony Falls Down Jacket | Sizes XS-XXL

 

Columbia Harmony

 

A good option for layering, the Columbia Harmony jacket has a thermal-reflective lining that keeps it toasty but still breathable, an outer shell that repels moisture so you stay dry in any condition, and the 650-fill power amps up the warmth. Add in the fleece lined adjustable hood and sealed cuffs, and you have the perfect weapon against winter!

 

 

32 Degrees 3/4 Ultra-Light Down Jacket | Sizes XS-XXL

 

32 Degrees Lightweight Jacket

 

This 32 Degrees puffer is a TFG reader’s fave brand for incredibly lightweight jackets. This coat is longer to cover past the waist, so it keeps the upper legs warm, and the 650-fill power keeps everything else warm, too! There’s a hood and zippered pockets, as well. This is a budget-friendly, simple choice for travel!

 

 

L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Jacket | Sizes XS-3X

 

L.L. Bean Hooded Jacket

 

This 850-fill down L.L. Bean jacket is super-powered to handle any cold weather but is extremely lightweight, comfortable, and has a DWR finish to handle all kinds of wet snow or rain. A must-get for a wintry trip!

 

 

Best Down Parkas

 

Parkas are some of the warmest winter coats for women, as they’re considered to be more robust and longer in length, and sometimes have a faux-fur lined hood as they’re worn for very cold environments, but there are still many light styles out there that suit travel.

 

 

Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka | Sizes XS-3X

 

Eddie Bauer Superior

 

This sleek Eddie Bauer winter jacket coat has a DWR finish and WeatherEdge® seam-sealed technology to keep you extra dry, no matter the conditions. The front zipper with snap-close storm flap will keep you comfy, and the faux fur-lined hood will maintain warmth from head to toe.

 

 

Shop The North Face Arctic Parka: Amazon | TNF (Sizes XS-3X)

 

The North Face Arctic

 

The North Face Arctic waterproof down parka is a mid-thigh offering that has a double layer of warmth protection—synthetic insulation and 600-fill goose. It has an adjustable hood, a dual front zipper to adjust the fit, secure internal and external zippered pockets, and thumbholes in the cuffs. Many users say this is great for extremely cold weather!

 

 

Quince Responsible Down Long Puffer Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

 

Quince Long Puffer

 

If you’re looking for long winter jackets, this Quince down coat is so ideal for cold weather trips, with 700-fill responsibly sourced down and wind-resistant, water-repellent fabric, thumbholes cuffs, and a sturdy hood, you’ll be snugly warm.

 

 

Columbia Lay D Down Jacket: Sizes XS-XXL Regular | 1X-3X Plus

 

Columbia Lay Down Midi IV

 

The Columbia Lay Down parka is a nice, long length to cover the upper thighs and features 550 down fill power, which is backed up by a waterproof shell that’s fully insulated. Top it all off with a hood with faux fur trim, cuffs with thumbholes to stay extra warm, and secure pockets inside and out, this coat is heavy-duty for any winter adventure!

 

 

 Patagonia Down With It Parka | Sizes XS-XXL

 

Patagonia Down With It

 

One of the best winter coats women’s styles is the Patagonia Down With It jacket is a long-time reader fave and has a durable waterproof shell with 600-fill recycled down with a flattering, modern silhouette. It also has handwarmer pockets and a removable hood that’s insulated. No wonder readers adore it!

 

 

Lands’ End Expedition Waterproof Winter Down Parka | Sizes XS-L

 

Lands’ End Expedition

 

With a 600-fill power, this Lands’ End women winter coat will keep you comfortable in freezing temperatures. It’s also waterproof and has a removable hood lined with Sherpa, along with fleece-lined side and chest pockets that provide a bit of extra coziness. The mid-thigh length is perfect for extra coverage, too!

 

 

REI Norseland Insulated Parka 2.0 | Sizes XS-3X

 

REI Norseland

 

The REI Norseland parka is one of the top womens hooded winter coats because it’s heavy-duty for the cold but light to wear! The nylon shell is treated with DWR coating, and the 650 fill-power makes this ideal to stay warm and dry against light rain or snow. The knitted cuffs stay in place, and the fleece lined hood keeps the head warm. And the handwarmer pockets are a nice touch, too!

 

 

Best Insulated Jackets (Featherless)

 

If you prefer a womens winter coat to not contain down fill, there are lots of non-down jackets available that are just as packable and very warm!

 

 

Columbia Carson Pass Interchange Jacket | Sizes XS-3X

 

Columbia Carson Pass Interchange 

 

Like the Columbia Carson Pass II jacket I mentioned above, the Carson Pass Interchange is in the same family of non-down coats that are extremely warm due to the Omni-Heat™ fibers in the lining, which is a revolutionary thermal technology.

But there’s more built-in, as the hood’s faux fur lining is made from a soft fleece material, and It’s completely waterproof and windproof. I especially like the flattering shape, and while the cuffs with the thumbholes have a practical purpose, it somehow makes the jacket more stylish looking. This is a top winter coat women adore, as evidenced by the 4.5 rating on Amazon!

 

 

Wearing my Carson Pass II Jacket in Park City, Utah, for a snowy cabin trip, and it’s forever warm and still breathable!

 

I’ve definitely got my eye on the Carson Pass Interchange, but I still love my trusty Carson Pass II jacket! It’s very durable and water-resistant, which makes it perfect for adventurous trips and cold, wet weather. It’s light and won’t drag you down in the snow or rain. The fabric is reinforced, so it won’t easily rip or snag, and it will always look close to new. The faux fur lining is removable as well.

I’ve brought this jacket on so many adventures, even one of my latest solo adventures to Japan; read about it here!

 

 

Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go Trench Coat | Sizes XS-3X

 

Eddie Bauer Girl On the Go Insulated 

 

This womens winter coat from Eddie Bauer has all the hallmarks of the original, with a seam-sealed waterproof outer shell, but it has warm built-in ThermaFill insulation to add that warmth that’s needed in colder climates. This piece is ideal for layering while staying completely dry!

 

 

Charter Club Packable Hooded Puffer Coat | Sizes XXS-XXL

 

Macy’s Charter Club Hooded Coat

 

This cute and cozy Charter Club puffer coat is water-resistant and has a zip-off hood and tons of pockets to store essentials. A piece like this is perfect for layering so you may want to size up a little.

 

 

The North Face Thermoball 2.0 | Sizes XS-XXL Regular & 1X-3X Plus

 

The North Face Thermoball 2.0

 

If you need something a bit thinner but still effective, the North Face waterproof winter jacket is insulated and, due to the DWR finish, will still keep you warm if it gets wet. It has a slim fit, so is awesome to act as another layer or good on its own. Users say it’s functional in any weather and totally packable!

 

 

Bernardo Hooded Puffer Jacket | Sizes XS-XXL

 

Bernardo Puffer Jacket

 

The Bernardo hooded puffer coat is ideal for short trips or adventures where you wouldn’t spend tons of time outdoors. Their coats are marked by their flattering silhouettes, and this one is made of EcoPlume™ material made from recycled plastic bottles. It has a removable hood and adjustable thumbhole cuffs. Readers say this is a great European option if you aren’t hitting the Christmas markets.

 

 

Alpine North Glacier Vegan Down Parka | Sizes XS-XL

 

Alpine North

 

The Alpine North winter parka is a non-down alternative that’s one of the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold. It has 100% polyester fill in a cotton-polyester shell that’s designed to keep heat inside. You can stay toasty up to  -22° F (-30°C) and dry as it also has a water-repellent and windproof finish. Users find this coat super warm and love the large pockets that hold possessions like a phone, cash, and cards, and the handy thumb-hole sleeves!

 

 

Best Wool Coats

 

While a packable down jacket is the best, lightest option for winter, a womens wool winter coat is definitely seen everywhere, especially in Europe, so if you don’t mind wearing it on the plane, bring this classic coat with you!

 

 

Quince Italian Wool Cocoon Coat | Sizes XS-XL

 

Quince Wool Coat

 

Always quality at a reasonable price, this Quince Italian wool coat has a classic shawl collar and is super warm. With gorgeous button details, this beauty would fit right into Paris or Berlin.

And if you want long winter coats, check the Quince wool double-breasted jacket, as it will cover past the knees for ultimate warmth!

 

 

Cole Haan Signature Longline Wool Blend Coat | Sizes 2-14

 

Cole Haan Signature

 

Though Cole Haan makes great packable raincoats, you may not have known they also offer cute winter coats, like the Signature wool-blend coat. It’s super chic, too, with a spread collar and a three-button closure. The long length will add coverage where it counts as well, keeping legs warm!

 

 

Bernardo Oversize Lapel Wool Blend Swing Coat | Sizes XS-XXL

 

Bernardo Wool Blend Coat

 

This brand is also most known for its ladies winter coats that are in a puffer style, but this Bernardo wool jacket is on-trend and excellent for layering due to its more relaxed silhouette. It has a chic spread collar and is fully lined, along with being incredibly chic for any European or urban destination!

 

 

Sam Edelman Wool Blend Reefer Coat | Sizes 0-16

 

Sam Edelman Wool Coat

 

Known for their reasonably priced wool blend jackets, this single breasted coat has a notched collar, is fully lined, and boasts a pretty silhouette. Pair with a scarf and faux leather gloves, and you’ll be comfy and stylish!

 

 

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What are some of your favorite warmest winter jackets? Share in the comments!

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