When it comes to buying the best men’s winter coats, there should be no compromise on either warmth or style. But there is no reason you can’t get both. You just need to take a couple of things into account before you lay down your money; like the shell’s material, the type of filling, whether it has a hood, and the kind of closures and cinches.
22 Of The Best Men’s Winter Coats
Moncler Morane Men’s Winter Jacket
For exceptional warmth and stylish wear, invest in the Moncler Morane ($1025) this winter. This versatile coat is a stylish navy blue. It has an integrated waterproof hood and comes with a host of features. These include feather-down insulation, front zip fastening, two front pockets, and long sleeves with elasticated cuffs. The shell is waterproof and has a beautiful tricolor striped trimming around the front zipper. The Morane is a coat you’ll love for years to come.
The North Face McMurdo II Parka
We’re going t start of our buying guide with a great budget men’s winter coat from North Face. The North Face McMurdo II Parka Men’s Winter Coat ($340) is an excellent coat for those looking for something below $400. Made in the United States, the North Face McMurdo has great features. Including a 550-down fill power ratio, a neck gaiter built into the removable fur-lined hood, and a two-way front zipper. The extra length of the coat will help keep your upper legs nice and warm as well. And if you’re not into camo don’t worry. The McMurdo comes in a multitude of colors and patterns.
Arc’teryx Camosun Parka Men’s Winter Coat
Don’t judge this jacket by its minimalistic looks. It delivers some of the highest levels of protection of any men’s winter coat in this buying guide. Every jacket by Arc’teryx is extremely technical. That means they obsess over details most companies don’t even notice. Their latest offering, The Arc’teryx Camosun Parka Men’s Winter Coat ($649) is no different.
Made with performance in mind, Arc’teryx’s gear takes breathability very seriously. The shell contains N150p-x Gore-Tex fabric with Paclite technology making it 100% waterproof yet providing breathable protection. The filling contains a combination of down and quick-drying synthetic insulation. In areas prone to moisture you’ll find synthetic insulation. And feather down where warmth is needed. This combination provides an overall down-fill power ratio of 750. If you’re going to be out in the cold this is a coat you should definitely check out.
Moncler Cluny Parka
The Moncler Cluny Parka ($1,455) is one of the premier winter coats for men. It has been the go-to men’s winter parka coat for European climbers and skiers since 1952. Moncler makes their coats to the highest possible standards. Rene Ramillon founded Moncler, a French company, in 1952. The name Moncler comes from an abbreviation of the town Monestier-de-Clermont in the French Alps. The Moncler Cluny is one of the companies most popular jackets. Normally going for around $1800, End Clothing is offering a significant discount off of the retail price.
The Cluny contains a 90/10 down-to-feather ratio filling, water-repellent fabric, and a detachable Coyote fur-lined hood. Additional features include a 100% Nylon shell, central zip closure, and multiple pockets for all of your gear. If you have the scratch, this will make a perfect parka for those who want style and functionality in one package.
Canada Goose Chateau Jacket
The Canada Goose Chateau Jacket ($799) is built to protect you from the worst Mother Nature can offer and will keep you snug and looking great at the same time. The tough, polyester blend shell is stuffed with a 625 fill power white duck down. It also comes with many other features associated with a classic arctic jacket including detachable coyote fur trim; two-way locking zip closure, storm flap closure, center back grab strap, zipped Napoleon pocket, fleece-lined lower handwarmer pockets, and recessed ribbed cuffs. This men’s winter coat is made for the extreme cold, but would also be great for everyday use.
The North Face ThermoBall Jacket
The North Face ThermoBall Jacket ($220) is lightweight, washable, and a great winter coat for all occasions. Short enough to allow full freedom of movement for outdoor types, this Thermoball jacket comes courtesy of The North Face, a company renowned for top-quality winter apparel. The trademarked ThermoBall technology is their unique alternative to down and offers phenomenal warmth whatever the weather. The small, round clusters of ThermoBall trap and then retain heat within air pockets to provide awesome insulation, even in the wettest weather. Compressible and ultra-lightweight, this could be the ultimate winter coat for those who need a lightweight jacket to go anywhere.
Woolrich Arctic Parka
The Woolrich Arctic Parka ($799) comes courtesy of one of the most respected brands for outdoor clothing. Woolrich produced their first coat in 1830, and this Arctic Parka is something very special. Originally it protected oil workers from sub-zero temperatures; this coat has reached iconic status. The Woolrich Arctic Parka features a Teflon coated 60/40 cotton polyester blend shell that is wind and water-resistant, has a duck and feather filling, and numerous other features, this is a coat that deserves all praise it’s been getting.
Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody
The company that makes the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody ($279) was first established in 1974 by dedicated climber and environmentalist Yvon Chouinard. The Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody is a super light, yet warm everyday men’s winter coat. The shell contains 100% recycled polyester ripstop and a durable water repellent finish (DWR). This Patagonia features an 800-fill goose down. The birds from Europe were not force-fed or live-plucked. It will keep you warm and cozy whatever the weather. As you would expect from a brand of Patagonia’s caliber the attention to detail is outstanding. These include an adjustable hood, two large handwarmer pockets with vision zippers and garages, and storm cuffs are just a few of the features of this awesome example of Patagonia style.
Feathered Friends Volant Parka
The Feathered Friends Volant Parka ($409) is one of our favorite winter coats, and we aren’t the only ones as this jacket has won multiple awards for its design and versatility. This is another short coat that bridges the gap between quilted jackets and fully baffled garments. If you are an adrenaline junkie and take part in adventure sports such as ice climbing, this is the ideal jacket. In fact, anyone who comes in contact with a harness should invest in one of these. Recommended for use in the harshest of environments, from Alaska to the Himalayas. The Volant Parka features 100% goose-down fill with an 850+ fill power rating, a waterproof and breathable Pertex Shield XT shell, a removable hood with drawcord, and a velcro-sealed storm flap, insulated handwarmer pockets, two zippered interior pockets, and lycra cuffs and hem.
Feathered Friends Icefall Parka
Best Men’s Winter Coat For Extreme Cold. The Feathered Friends Icefall Parka ($599) is protecting people across the globe from unimaginably cold. You can see them on the streets of Anchorage to the Alpine summits during the winter. We love both their design and their ability to make you feel warm as toast wherever you may be. This Parka is made for the extreme cold. The breathable and waterproof Pertex Shield XT shell is stuffed with pure goose down that has an 850+ fill power rating to ensure a constant internal temperature. It also features tuck-stitched baffle construction, a dual zipper system with an insulated draft tube, a detachable hood with Velcro-sealed storm flap, cargo pockets, and many more features. The Feathered Friends Icefall Parka is a must for extreme temperatures this winter.
Rab Neutrino Endurance Down Jacket
The Rab Neutrino Endurance Down Jacket ($309-$340) could be the last word in men’s winter jackets. There are three words that perfectly sum up this jacket; comfortable, cozy, and classy. A quilted shell combined with down filling provides an 800+ fill power rating. Along with a stitch-through baffle construction, you get constant warmth in whatever environment you find yourself in. The wire peaked hood ensures it stays in place, however, windy. Combine this with two handwarmer pockets, a chin guard, and a two-way zipper and you have perhaps the ultimate winter coat.
Canada Goose Expedition Parka
If you see a picture of explorers in the Antarctic they’re probably wearing a Canada Goose Parka. Canada Goose is the original extreme weather expedition parka and if it can keep explorers safe from the most extreme conditions on the planet, it will keep nice and warm on your adventures. The Canada Good Expedition Parka ($900) features a shell made from 85% polyester and 15% cotton. Filled with white duck down it has a 625 down fill power ratio. Additional features include a zip front with hook and loop placket, unique front hand warmer cargo pockets specifically developed for scientists working in Antarctica, and a fur-trimmed hood. Additional features include a welt pocket with a logo patch at the chest, an adjustable drawcord waist, and recessed ribbed-knit cuffs. And for the style-conscious, the Canada Goose Expedition Parka comes in a multitude of colors.
Mountain Hardwear Chillwave Jacket
The Mountain Hardware Chillwave Jacket ($375) will keep you warm and dry whenever you step out of doors this winter. It both looks and feels like a top-quality jacket so it should be high on your list if you’re in the market for a new winter jacket. Stuffed with goose down with a 650 fill power rating and featuring Air Shield technology and a thick baffle construction, this jacket is hard to beat. Other features include an inside pocket for your valuables and a detachable hood, in other words, other two reasons why this jacket is so popular.
Brooks Range Mojave Parka
The Brooks Range Mojave Down Jacket ($180) is the companies warmest jacket. The Mojave weighs only 16 ounces and features an 800+ fill power rating that gives this jacket one of the best weight-warmth ratios on the market. Their DownTek technology makes their down fill water repellant and resistant to microbes and bacteria. Additional features include a Pertex Quantum shell, attached hood, baffled chest construction, and a zippered chin guard. This guy will perform flawlessly in the harshest conditions imaginable.
Arcteryx Fission SV Winter Jacket
Whether you’re fascinated by the outdoors or looking for a jacket to carry you through the next winter, consider the Arcteryx Fission SV Winter Jacket($425). This 100% polyester jacket has been designed for the most intense weather conditions. It is a breathable and insulated all-mountain jacket guaranteed to keep you dry in the worst conditions. The shell features a GORE-TEX Pro-face fabric for a softer touch and quieter wear. The SV is ideal for winter sports, hiking, or simply enjoying nature. This lightweight jacket has been and features micro-seam allowances allowing it to be folded for easy transportation.
Marmot Fordham Down Jacket
Step out into the latest winter storm and find yourself toasty warm with the help of the Marmot Fordham Down Jacket ($462). For the man who enjoys spending hours in the wilderness enjoying the beauties of nature, regardless of the weather, this functional and rugged jacket makes for the ideal investment. Highly insulated with a water-resistant down that keeps the water out and the warmth within, the jacket is presented with a snap-off hood and a range of pockets for storing all of your essentials. The interior Velcro adjustable cuffs enable you to block out those bitter chills while the elasticated drawcord hem adjusts to fit your body perfectly.
Fjallraven Men’s Greenland No.1 Special Edition Jacket
Initially designed for intrepid mountaineers, the Fjallraven Men’s Greenland No.1 Special Edition Jacket ($299) has been re-imagined for those that appreciate the more classical designs. Stitched in durable G-1000 and trimmed with leather for the most luxurious of finishes, this attractive jacket boasts reinforced shoulders and forearms paired with snap closure over the front zip. There is plenty of storage with the two chest pockets while the curved neckline works to banish the coldest of breezes and lock in the warmth at all times. Lightweight in construction and perfect for transporting on your next outdoor adventure, choose a Fjallraven today.
The North Face Men’s Gotham Jacket Ii Cyk7
The coldest winter days can easily be tackled with the help of The North Face Men’s Gotham Jacket II CYK7 ($286). With a design that lends itself to both an afternoon stroll or an evening out with the lads, this versatile jacket is made from 100% polyester promising a waterproof and snug fit. The zipper enclosure has a wind-protecting flap that works in collaboration with the elasticated cuffs to keep the bitter wind and rain away from your body. And for that luxurious and attractive finish, the removable fur brim hugs the neckline bringing comfort during those bitter walks home.
Mountain Hardwear Therminator
The extreme outdoorsman needs to look no further for the newest addition to his hiking repertoire than the Mountain Hardwear Therminator ($175). Priced in the more affordable range, this attractive mountaineers jacket boasts a unique stitch-free construction which eliminates the risk of warmth escaping or cold breezes finding their way in. With a quilted design and available in a range of colors, added features include the integrated weather skirt that seals in the warmth and the strategic double-weave reinforcement zones that guarantee you a jacket that will stand the test of time during many a cold and bitter Winter.
Helly Hansen Dubliner Parka
Smart in its silhouette and sleek in design, the Helly Hansen Dubliner Parka ($153) offers exceptional warmth for a price that won’t break the bank. Crafted with quality in mind, this reliable parka has Hellytech Protection which guarantees its waterproof, breathability, and windproof properties during the toughest of conditions. Seam-sealed and treated with a water repellency finish, this fully insulated jacket has an adjustable hood, removable faux fur, and plenty of pockets for storing all your essentials on longer expeditions. Available in a variety of colors in keeping with traditional outdoor wear, look no further than you go on the hunt for a winter jacket to rely on.
Columbia Gold 650 Turbodown Hooded Jacket
Keep safe and warm on the darkest and wettest of winter excursions with the Columbia Gold 650 TurboDown Hooded Jacket ($93). The most affordable choice on our list, this lightweight winter jacket has been tested for its waterproof qualities and boasts an Omni-Heat reflective lining that works to keep heat within. Alongside this, the 650 Turbo Down completely covered your body while binding on the hood and cuffs block out those pesky winter chills. With a selection of colors to suit your wardrobe and a slim fit to reduce bulk when traveling, this jacket is one to pick up at the beginning of winter.
Rei Co-Op Magma 850 Down Jacket
For a jacket designed to accompany you on your next hiking trip, the REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Jacket ($189) offers all the qualities of a more expensive outdoor coat with an affordable price tag. Water-resistant in its construction, the goose down that pads it has been finished with a durable water repellent technology that works its hardest to keep you dry at all times. Designed to compact easily and fold down for easy transportation, the Pertex ripstop shell is highly durable while the elasticated cuffs and drawcord hem work together to seam in the warmth. A fine choice for an avid hiker or those seeking warmth on every trip.
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Types of Winter Coats
Before I start going over the technical aspects of winter coats, we need to figure out what kind of winter coat you need. Below I go over the three types of winter coats we’ll be discussing in this article.
Technical Winter Jacket
Technical jackets are for those who need a coat that can provide free movement for athletic activities in the cold, who need additional protection from the elements in a lighter shell, and moisture management features to handle sweat.
Extreme Cold Weather Winter Coats
Extreme cold weather winter coats are the type of coats worn by arctic explorers. If you‘re going to be in freezing temperatures for an extended period of time this is the type of jacket you’ll want. These jackets are full-size and usually not packable. They should come with a power fill rating, along with temperature ratings. They also come with technical features like storm flaps, full-bellow snow pockets, hand-warmer pockets, adjustable waist drawcord, recessed cuffs, and of course a water-repellent shell. If you’re looking to buy a coat in this category expect to pay a little more for the protection.
Casual Winter Jackets
Casual winter jackets focus a little less on absolute protection and fill power ratings and more on style, comfort. And in some cases storability. These coats are great for tooling around the city and for traveling. They can also be packable. Which is great for times when you’re moving inside and outside like airports. And need to throw your coat in your weekender or backpack.
Casual winter coats also have certain features. These include inner cell phone pockets that support earphone access, faux or even fur-lined hoods, and detachable hoods. Casual winter jackets are not recommended for extremely cold weather conditions. For extremely cold weather stay with technical winter jackets or extremely cold weather exploration coats or even ski jackets.
What is Fill Power Rating?
Fill Power estimates how much loft a specific down has. The more loft the higher the fill power rating the more warmth it provides. In the US, the loft is measured by placing down in a cylinder and compressing it using a weight. Most loft evaluation results lie between 300-900 or more. A decent quality coat will have a fill power rating of between 400-600, whereas 600-800 would be awesome. Anything above 800 will be best in terms of class and quality. These kinds of jackets can handle the coldest temperatures during any season and anywhere in the world.
What Are the Key Elements of a Quality Winter Jacket?
For coats intended to have long exposure to the elements, I look for the technical specifications listed below. If the specs aren’t available for things like the fill power rating or the shell, I usually move on.
Outer Shell
This is a thin shell that prevents the penetration of water. It offers superior protection from rain, and snow by using barrier materials such as H2NO, event or even Gore-Tex. This layer, however, offers little in terms of insulation.
The shell of a winter jacket will determine whether it’s water-resistant and breathes. You definitely don’t want to be soaked in your sweat at the end of the day. Some companies listed will have proprietary shells which blend materials to come up with a shell with the best attributes.
Insulation
There are three kinds of insulations: down feather insulation, synthetic fleece, and synthetic fibers. Down feathers and synthetic fibers are, however, the most used in creating insulation for winter jackets.
For our purposes, the best filling is down. When compared to synthetic insulation down is warmer, has better durability, and has higher compression. For weight, any coat that weighs about 16 ounces with a good weight to warmth rating would be ideal.
Down – This represents the original type of insulation and still serves as a standard for nearly all winter jackets. With the necessary care and maintenance, the loft volume for down can be maintained for years.
Down performs poorly in rainy conditions and wet environments. This is because down feathers bundle when wet. Designers try to overcome this flaw by adding a weatherproofing layer such as a DWR coating. This helps the jacket hold up in wet environments.
Synthetic – Synthetic insulation comprises plastic fibers, spun and fitted into clothing to mimic those in down insulation. Synthetic fibers don’t clump when in contact with water, giving this insulation an edge over down insulation.
The only downside of this type of insulation is the packing down and quality reduction of the synthetic fibers. This is due to the constant compression and expansion during the jacket’s lifetime. This makes the jacket lose its ability to retain warmth over the long run.
Features to look for in a Winter Coat
Fastening, a secure zipper, and snug cuffs are vital for keeping out the biting winds. When trying on a winter jacket check for flexibility of the arms. There’s nothing worse than feeling like you can’t move for extended periods of time. You’ll also want a zipper that comes up to your chin and a snug-fitting hood. Don’t buy a larger size so you can layer your clothing underneath. A good jacket is all you need, and an oversized jacket will let the cold in. Below are some of the features you should look for when buying a men’s winter coat.
Hood
Since most of our body heat is lost in our extremities a hood is essential for adding warmth. Removable hoods add a finer touch to a winter coat and can be removed in warmer weather to reduce bulk.
Pockets (Hand Warmers)
If you’re going to be out and about in your winter coats an assortment of pockets is a must. Pockets can be fur-trimmed or just plain, so long as the interior is capable of keeping your hands warm.
Wrist and Cuffs
Cuff closure systems are important when looking for a quality winter jacket. They keep the warmth in and snow and moisture out.
Rib-knit cuffs are ideal but may restrict the type of gloves you wear. Loose cuffs may be stylish but will definitely let the cold in easily into the coat.
Waterproof Zippers/Closure
It is important to make sure you look for zippers that are waterproof. These closures may also be protected by storm flaps for additional protection in keeping the rain and wind out.
Things To Avoid In A Mens Winter Coat
So now that we’ve gone through the must-haves, let’s consider the must not’s. Lightweight waterproof jackets with zero or little filling will not give you the warmth you need, so keep these for the spring or the fall when the temperatures are higher. You also want a jacket that’s washable, as those dry cleaning bills will soon rack up. With all this in mind; here are 11 top-quality men’s winter jackets that we feel tick all the boxes.
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Now that you’re more knowledgeable on winter jackets, here’s a tip to serve your shopping needs: the warmest winter coats come from the top brands, those that have made a name for themselves in the apparel industry over the years. Here are my top winter coat brands to get you through the winter.
11 Of The Best Men’s Winter Coat Brands
The are millions of men’s winter coat brands. But we’ve gathered some of our favorites here. You’ll be happy with any purchase from one of these manufacturers. They are highly reputable and have delivered amazing products over an extended period of time. Some of these companies have been in business for over a century.
Moncler | Canada Goose | North Face | Woolrich | Patagonia | Feathered Friends | Rab Neutrino | Mountain Hardwear | Brooks Range | Arc’Teryx
