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TFG readers have been asking, “What is the best winter coat to wear? Wool-based, down-filled, or non-down?” Here’s a round-up of the top women’s winter coats that encompasses all three, plus some tips on how to choose the right one for you!
Womens Winter Coats and Jackets
Written By: Niki Landry
Table Of Contents
TFG readers are always asking what are the warmest winter coats for women?
When it comes to buying a jacket for the cold months of travel, it depends on your activities and the severity of the weather you’ll encounter. One thing to note, when taking a trip in chilly weather it’s best to wear your heaviest items on the plane, such as your coat and boots, so that frees up space in your carryon suitcase.
But, to answer that question of which type of coat is best, let’s break it down:
- Down coat – When you plan on spending a lot more time outside or visiting a particularly frigid destination, down is a terrific option because it will always keep you warm and any wind or water-resistant properties will stave off chill and wet. Down coats are also more lightweight than other jackets, therefore, easier to roll and pack down! You can source a jacket that has the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), to ensure that the feathers were responsibly sourced. For a high-quality coat that will be warm and comfortable, seek one out that has a minimum 550-fill rating.
- Non-down coat – If down is not something you’d want to choose, you can opt for a well-insulated nylon or polyester coat that has been treated with weather protection. This could be wearable for more outdoor excursions like cross country skiing or out and about.
- Wool coat – While some wool-based jackets can feel heavy, a lightweight one that’s durable is a wonderful choice for city travel, where you may be in and out of places, and not doing tons of walking outside. Wool is naturally water-resistant too so when there is snow, you’ll stay dry. Another benefit of wool is how it looks—it’s timeless and adds polish to any winter wardrobe.
- Features of a coat – Always look for things like a hood (even better if detachable), sealed cuffs, and faux fur lining. Storage in a jacket is also important, so having interior pockets, as well as exterior ones, makes it easy to bring essentials.
While, yes, you’d probably be wearing your jacket on the plane, aim for something packable if you’re opting for a smaller coat, so in practice, you could squeeze it into a packing cube. If you want to check out some packable down jackets, visit this post!
Silk Undershirts | Silk Thermal Pants
Ultimately, layering beneath your coat and clothing will also help keep you warm, such as adding thermal underwear and a merino wool sweater. In fact, this is actually one of the secrets to traveling carryon only in winter. Choosing certain fabrics like merino is another pro travel strategy to packing light in the cold.
Layering strategically allows you to pack less without sacrificing warmth. Learn how to layer.
It’s important to note that bulky fabrics won’t necessarily make you feel warmer! You have to choose the right cold weather fabrics and layer your items strategically as explained below (and also check out the preparation video below too!).
Get started on preparing for winter travel with this video!
We also created a three-part YouTube series on packing light for winter travel that could be helpful to you. Below I’ve amassed a roundup of statement coats to inspire you to be bold and beautiful this winter.
You can also read these general tips on packing for winter travel:
- Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
- How to Pack for Cold Weather
- How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
- The Best Travel Shoes for Winter
If you’re on the hunt for outerwear that’ll tick off all the boxes, take a look at these top winter coats women travelers return to again and again for their warmth and style factor!
Best Womens Down Winter Coats
Shop: Amazon | Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer Cirruslite Women Winter Coat (Regular, Petite, Tall, and Plus Sizes)
Lightweight and packable, the Eddie Bauer Cirruslite hooded winter coat is a toasty 650-fill made with responsibly sourced down and is water repellent due to the DWR finish.
The sturdy hood, zippered pockets, lightweight materials, and slimming fit are the perfect ingredients for style and comfort while traveling.
A reviewer says, “It’s lightweight, and it seems like somehow it adjusts to regulate temperature because on days that are just cool and not cold, I’m still comfortable in it. It has a flattering, feminine cut.”
Comes in a variety of colors and regular (XS-XXL), petite (XS-XL) tall (S-XXL), and plus sizes (1X-3X).
Read this review to learn why we and our readers rave about Eddie Bauer’s waterproof jackets.
Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon | Backcountry | The North Face
The North Face Arctic Womens Parka Winter Coat
Get ready to make tracks in the snow! This North Face down winter coat with fur hood is insulated with 550-fill goose down and made to handle serious winter weather. Readers who own it, vouch for its effectiveness.
Looks-wise, the jacket offers a removable hood, adjustable elastic at the waist, and a variety of different colors. While it has a slim look, fans of this coat say it fits well, with room enough to add layers underneath.
If you’re looking for an investment piece that you can wear daily, then the Arctic Parka is the jacket for you! You can grab this in sizes XS-3XL.
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Patagonia
Patagonia Down With It Women’s Winter Coat
Whether you’re sipping piping hot cocoa in Lake Louise or filling your belly with steaming borscht in Moscow, these stylish winter coats from Patagonia will keep you warm and comfy for your travel experiences.
It has a slim fit, multiple color options, and is made from 100% recycled down, at a 600-fill power. You’ll definitely look chic and be super toasty at the same time!
This jacket can even withstand extreme temperatures and is fitting for even active travelers. “I traveled to Iceland and needed a warm jacket. I hiked to a glacier and a lot of waterfalls with a variety of weather and this worked for me.” This is available in some great basic neutrals and sizes XS-XXL.
Shop: Amazon
32 Degrees Ultralight Packable Down Long Winter Coats Style (Regular and Plus Sizes)
This 32 Degrees 3/4 packable down jacket could be the warmest womens winter coat that’s actually lightweight! And this brand is highly popular with readers, too. With responsibly sourced down and an adjustable, detachable hood and elastic cuffs, this traps heat in all the right areas.
A versatile jacket that can handle rain, wind, or snow, it’s easily able to be layered and even the product description warns it has a bit of room to add sweaters and thermals underneath. The sizing ranges from XS-XXL and 1X-3X, and comes in a variety of cute colors to pick from!
One reviewer happily notes just how cozy and packable this coat is, “I love the design of this coat. It’s very slimming, with deep pockets and a wind flap in front of and behind the zipper. I also like the fact that it’s so light, you barely know it’s on. I can wear long underwear and a sweater underneath without feeling like I’m stuffed into a sausage. I like that it comes with a small bag you can stuff it in for travel. A great all-purpose coat.”
Shop: Amazon | Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer Sun Valley Long Winter Coats Womens Style (Regular, Petite, Tall, and Plus Sizes)
This best-selling Eddie Bauer Sun Valley long winter coat is ideal when you need more leg coverage and it delivers with a plethora of features! Made with a moisture resistant DWR finish, it comes with a chic, detachable faux fur hood, two secure zip pockets for safekeeping items, and super warm fleece-lined pockets.
When it comes to long winter coats for women, you heard it here ladies… one happy user says, “It’s comfortable and stylish! It’s hard to find a parka that doesn’t look like you’re wearing a sleeping bag. This is it.”
It boasts flattering lines that will keep you fashionably toasty for many cold trips to come! It’s offered in rich neutrals and sizes regular (XS-XXL), petite (XS-XL) tall (M-XXL), and plus sizes (1X-3X).
Best Womens Insulated Winter Coats (Non-Down)
Shop: Amazon (Sizes XS-3X) | Columbia (Sizes 1X-3X)
Editor’s Pick: Columbia Carson Pass II Womens Winter Coat (Regular and Plus Sizes)
The Columbia Carson Pass II is one of the most popular ladies winter coats on the blog! It’s durable and water-resistant, which makes it perfect for adventurous trips and cold, wet weather. And since the fabric is reinforced, it won’t easily rip or snag!
It’s waterproof and breathable at the same time, so it doesn’t feel too bulky to pack. The adjustable storm hood keeps you covered yet on those chilly-sunny days you can easily remove it.
Alex feeling cozy in her Columbia Jacket
Editor-in-chief Alex offers a mini-review, “I wore it myself during my National Parks road trip earlier this year when I transitioned from chilly Colorado to more desert climates like Vegas and Utah, and it kept me SOO warm!”
Overall, it has a modern but classic fit, which means it’s suitable for a range of motion and is ideal to wear outdoors to explore or hike around.
A reviewer agrees with how awesome this jacket is. “I love this! it’s very warm and waterproof. I love the look of the belt and how you cinch it so you actually have a defined waist and it’s a good length so you get more coverage. The hood is nice and deep and can be better secured using the buttons at the neck and the hood can be removed. This is a quality winter parka!”
Available in numerous colors and sizes XS-XXL and 1X-3X, right here.
If you want to read more about the Columbia Carson Pass II jacket, see our review!
Shop: Amazon | Columbia | Dick’s Sporting Goods
Columbia Heavenly Womens Hooded Winter Coats (Regular and Plus Sizes)
A women long winter coat like this Columbia pick is the way to go if you want extra coverage for a snowy Alaskan adventure or to tour the European Christmas markets. Equipped with their trademark Omni-Heat, it’s made to keep warmth in, repels water, wind, and rain yet remains breathable as you walk around and your body begins to heat up.
Besides the flattering silhouette that fits a variety of women, it’s extra toasty with a fleece-lined hood and collar, and thumbholes to keep hands warm (but don’t forget gloves!). And don’t fret about storage, because there’s plenty of pockets, both a secure interior pocket and zippered external ones to hold all your winter essentials!
This highly popular jacket comes in sizes XS-XXL and 1X-3X, and in numerous lovely colors!
Shop Sizes 1X-4X: Amazon
Alpine North Womens Winter Coats Parka Style (Plus Size)
This Alpine North winter coat women pick is a non-down alternative that 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 finish.
Ideal for anyone on-the-go, this coat is full of handy pockets to store possessions like your phone, cash, cards, and keys. There are four front pockets, one sleeve pocket, and two interior pockets.
This brand is based out of Montreal, Canada, and knows cold winters but has also made a flattering, non-bulky-looking jacket and the faux fur trim adds extra oomph. A review says, “ Love this coat. It’s super warm, waterproof, comfortable, and of high quality, It’s a flattering fit and the perfect length. Expect lots of compliments – I’ve had several people ask where I got it.”
Some reviews say this coat is a little heavier than a down version might be, but also reiterate it’s very warm and worth it! Comes in sizes 1X-4X and in five gorgeous colors.
Best Womens Wool Winter Coats
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Nordstrom Rack
Pendleton Beverly Womens Wool Winter Coat
This sturdy, chic, and waterproof Pendleton long winter coat women style is resilient enough to withstand the blustery wind strolling Michigan Avenue in Chicago (while looking cute doing so!).
Its secret interior security patch pocket conveniently keeps your valuables safe and the deep front pockets can be used as an extra layer of protection to either keep your hands warm or keep your phone securely snug.
A satisfied user notes, “Love this coat! The neutral color allows me to pair it with anything. With cinched wrists and a hood, this heavier coat is great for cold winters. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great jacket to wear all season.” You can get this in sizes XS-XL.
Shop Sizes 2-16: Nordstrom
Sam Edelman Womens Long Winter Coat With Notch Collar
For something completely versatile, the Sam Edelman long winter coat has a sleek notched collar that looks flattering while keeping you warm, being 95% wool. It’s a classic look with modern touches and would last year after year.
There’s enough room beneath to layer with a sweater or cardigan, but not appear or feel bulky. One happy purchaser doesn’t mince praise, “I love it and feel fab wearing this coat!” This cute number is available in sizes 2-16 and has many fun colors to choose from.
Shop: Amazon
London Fog Double Breasted Womans Winter Coat
If you’re seeking versatile and warm fashionable winter coats, this London Fog wool coat lacks any boxy tailoring and has a nice cinch in the waist, as well as two front buttons that give it a swing-coat look. It’s long enough to keep you cozy through the coldest months, and you can easily pop thermals and a merino wool sweater underneath on particularly chilly days.
If wool can be irritating on your skin, you’ll be excited to know that the blended material of this coat is soft, while still maintaining that classically tailored pea coat styling. “Really nice soft material,” says one review. While another woman notes, “Looks great and can be dressed down or up!”
Comes in sizes XS-XL and in some gorgeous neutrals to liven up your winter wardrobe!
Women Winter Coats Product Comparison Chart
| BRAND | MODEL | FEATURES | REVIEWS | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Best Womens Down Winter Coats | ||
|
Eddie Bauer Cirruslite Women Winter Coat (Regular, Petite, Tall, and Plus Sizes) |
A reviewer says, “It’s lightweight, and it seems like somehow it adjusts to regulate temperature because on days that are just cool and not cold, I’m still comfortable in it. It has a flattering, feminine cut.” | Check Price |
|
The North Face Arctic Womens Parka Winter Coat |
Get ready to make tracks in the snow! This North Face down winter coat with fur hood is insulated with 550-fill goose down and made to handle serious winter weather. Readers who own it, vouch for its effectiveness. | Check Price |
|
Patagonia Down With It Women’s Winter Coat |
“I traveled to Iceland and needed a warm jacket. I hiked to a glacier and a lot of waterfalls with a variety of weather and this worked for me.” | Check Price Check Price |
|
32 Degrees Ultralight Packable Down Long Winter Coats Style (Regular and Plus Sizes) |
One reviewer happily notes just how cozy and packable this coat is, “I love the design of this coat. It’s very slimming, with deep pockets and a wind flap in front of and behind the zipper. I also like the fact that it’s so light, you barely know it's on. I can wear long underwear and a sweater underneath without feeling like I'm stuffed into a sausage. I like that it comes with a small bag you can stuff it in for travel. A great all-purpose coat.” | Check Price |
|
Eddie Bauer Sun Valley Long Winter Coats Womens Style (Regular, Petite, Tall, and Plus Sizes) |
When it comes to long winter coats for women, you heard it here ladies... one happy user says, “It's comfortable and stylish! It's hard to find a parka that doesn't look like you're wearing a sleeping bag. This is it.” | Check Price |
| Best Womens Insulated Winter Coats (Non-Down) | ||
|
Editor’s Pick: Columbia Carson Pass II Womens Winter Coat (Regular and Plus Sizes) |
The Columbia Carson Pass II is one of the most popular ladies winter coats on the blog! It’s durable and water-resistant, which makes it perfect for adventurous trips and cold, wet weather. And since the fabric is reinforced, it won’t easily rip or snag! | Check Price |
|
Columbia Heavenly Womens Hooded Winter Coats (Regular and Plus Sizes) |
A women long winter coat like this Columbia pick is the way to go if you want extra coverage for a snowy Alaskan adventure or to tour the European Christmas markets. Equipped with their trademark Omni-Heat, it’s made to keep warmth in, repels water, wind, and rain yet remains breathable as you walk around and your body begins to heat up. | Check Price |
|
Alpine North Womens Winter Coats Parka Style (Plus Size) |
This Alpine North winter coat women pick is a non-down alternative that 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 finish. | Check Price |
| Best Womens Wool Winter Coats | ||
|
Pendleton Beverly Womens Wool Winter Coat |
A satisfied user notes, “Love this coat! The neutral color allows me to pair it with anything. With cinched wrists and a hood, this heavier coat is great for cold winters. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great jacket to wear all season.” You can get this in sizes XS-XL. | Check Price |
|
Sam Edelman Womens Long Winter Coat With Notch Collar |
For something completely versatile, the Sam Edelman long winter coat has a sleek notched collar that looks flattering while keeping you warm, being 95% wool. It’s a classic look with modern touches and would last year after year. | Check Price |
|
London Fog Double Breasted Womans Winter Coat |
“Looks great and can be dressed down or up!” | Check Price |
How to Pack Your Winter Coat Jacket or Other Layers
It’s usually recommended that you wear the heaviest layer on the plane, like a coat, but that still leaves other layers to deal with. Packing cubes can help you organize coats (If you plan to pack it) and other winter clothing. We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything (the video below illustrates!).
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
How Editor-In-Chief Alex Rocks Cute Winter Coats
What are your tips on finding the best winter coats? Please share in the comments below!
For more winter fashion tips, please read:
- How to Pack for Cold Weather Like a Boss
- Best Winter jackets for Outdoor Adventures
- How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather
- Best Waterproof Boots for Travel this Season
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Author Bio: Niki is an interior designer and artist from Louisiana. In addition to her design work, she writes for local and online publications sharing her experiences and passion for travel. Niki is currently adding stamps to her passport while building her design practice, Niki Landry Designs. nikilandry.com nikilandrydesigns niki-landry-designs-llc
I love the down coats from Lands’End. They have such beautiful colours and are even available in plus size. Bought one in green and petrol, they look great on pictures :-).
Love those colors!!! Thank you for sharing your photo worthy winter jacket with us! ?
Thanks for sharing your great tips with us. I really like your blog. you want to see some collection of plus size clothes check it.
Hi Jesleen, so pleased you enjoy the blog and the tips!! Thank you for your lovely comment 🙂
These are great tips for beating the winter coat blahs while staying at home in the winter too!
Glad you like them Natasha!
I wear either a navy blue riding coat (it’s knee-length and 75% cashmere) or a beige long coat under my floor-length black fine wool cloak. 😀 But only if it’s really cold! Otherwise, just the cloak by itself, with a colourful silk scarf, – or grey or pink cashmere, I have a thing for scarves! – and my favourite pink tartan cap. 😀 I certainly stand out from the crowd. 😀
Sounds lovely and very pretty 🙂