I’m a Stylist Who Lives in New York & These Are the 15 Best Women’s Winter Coats, Hands Down
I've battled cold winters my whole life, and I swear these picks are worth every penny.
IMAGES: ARITZIA; ALO YOGA; CANADA GOOSE; ADOBE. DESIGN: STEPHANIE CUI/STYLECASTER.
I’ve never been willing to risk being cold. I admittedly carry an emergency sweater around during the summer, and even in my early twenties, I wore full winter gear to the club. Having lived in New York my whole life, I’d like to think I’ve become an expert at staying warm—and that includes finding the warmest winter coats for women. But it’s not just my location that makes me a pro on this topic. I’ve also worked in fashion for over 10 years, and have written and styled multiple stories involving quality outerwear. I’ve touched and tried on a million options, and know a good coat when I see one.
The Best Women’s Winter Coats at a Glance
- Best Overall: Canada Goose Cypress Puffer, $1,125
- Best Water-repellent: Nike Therma-FIT Oversized Down Puffer Jacket, $207 (originally $275)
- Best Athletic: Nike Sportswear Classic Puffer, $83 (originally $140)
- Best Waterproof: Aritzia The Super Puff₂O Rainstop, $245 (originally $350)
- Best on Amazon: Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket , $100 (originally $165)
- Best Packable Puffer: The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket, $330
- Best Trench Coat: Michael Kors Long Faux Leather Trench Coat, $140 (originally $215)
- Best Faux Fur Coat: J.Crew Faux Fur Coat, $270 (originally $450)
- Best for Trekking: Fjallraven Expedition Down Lite Jacket, $600
My own winter coat collection is constantly growing. Each year, I add around three different styles to my closet, having been tempted by sales and gift cards or gifted Arctic-approved options from my parents (my dad is also obsessed with finding the warmest winter coats). It’s admittedly become my thing, and while I tell myself I don’t need another insulated puffer or faux fur trench, I can’t help but hand over my credit card.
Throughout the years, I’ve put plenty of those so-called best winter coats through literal tests. I’ve reviewed different designs for stories—both affordable options and luxury picks—and once styled a coat story featuring women who work outside. It’s allowed me to really weigh the pros and cons of what’s worth buying, and also compile an extensive list of my favorites. Check out the best winter coats for women—according to a lifelong New Yorker and a stylist—ahead.
What to look for in a winter coat
When it comes to what to look for in a winter coat, you should probably consider your location before shopping. Do you live in a place that gets so cold, a bulky, down-filled design is pretty much a necessity? Or can you get away with something lighter that’s lined with fleece? If snow is a concern, you might want to opt for a hood. Also, it doesn’t hurt to consider what you’ll wear it with—a sleek peacoat might pair better with dresses or office attire (although no one’s judging you put warmth above fashion and layer with a puffer).
What is the best brand of winter coat?
The best brand of winter coat really depends on personal preference. Some classics include Lands’ End, Canada Goose, and The North Face, but in recent years, Aritzia and even Amazon have become go-tos for shopping warm winter coats for women.
Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Nike and QVC are STYLECASTER sponsors, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
Canada Goose Cypress Puffer
No brand does winter gear quite like Canada Goose, and while its pieces tend to cost a pretty penny, you’ll be able to reach for them for years to come. This packable puffer is made from an ultra-lightweight fabric and has a water-repellent finish to go up against all the elements. It will keep you warm all season long; its down-filled adjustable hood with cordlock keeps the winter chill out.
Sizing available: 2XS-2XL
Colors available: 2
Material: 100% Recycled Nylon
Fill: 90% Down, 10% Feathers
Waterproof: Water-repellent
Length: Hip-length
Hood: Yes
Best for: Everyday wear
Sizing available: 2XS-2XL
Colors available: 2
Material: 100% Recycled Nylon
Fill: 90% Down, 10% Feathers
Waterproof: Water-repellent
Length: Hip-length
Hood: Yes
Best for: Everyday wear
On Sale
Nike Sportswear Classic Puffer
On Sale 41% off
Not everyone needs a heavy-duty winter coat that can endure the extreme cold. If you’re lucky enough to only need a light puffer jacket during the cold months, Nike’s got what you need. The Sportswear Classic Puffer is simple yet effective for staying warm while still looking put-together. The fit is already a tad oversized, so size down if you want a sleeker look or up if you like to layer a ton.
Sizing available: XS-2XL (also comes in Plus sizing)
Colors available: 7
Material: 100% polyester
Fill:100% polyester
Waterproof: Water-repellent finish
Length: Short
Hood: Yes
Best for: Warmer winter temperatures and a sporty look
Sizing available: XS-2XL (also comes in Plus sizing)
Colors available: 7
Material: 100% polyester
Fill:100% polyester
Waterproof: Water-repellent finish
Length: Short
Hood: Yes
Best for: Warmer winter temperatures and a sporty look
Courtesy of Orolay.
Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket
On Sale 39% off
This viral pick was once labeled “The Amazon Coat
,” since it’s conveniently shoppable through the site. When I first tried it on for a photo shoot, I was super impressed by how warm it felt, thanks to the fleece lining, and I love the cool zipper details. While it’s definitely a deal (especially as far as winter coats are concerned), it isn’t exactly cheap, so it’s still more of an investment piece. It’s also made for more moderate winter temps, so you’ll likely be shivering if you rock it during a snowstorm.
Sizing available: XXS-5XL
Colors available: 13
Material: 100% polyester
Insulation: 90% duck down, 10% duck feather
Waterproof: Yes
Length: Mid-length
Hood: Yes
Lining: Fleece-lined hood
Best for: Finding the perfect size, and having it delivered it record time
Sizing available: XXS-5XL
Colors available: 13
Material: 100% polyester
Insulation: 90% duck down, 10% duck feather
Waterproof: Yes
Length: Mid-length
Hood: Yes
Lining: Fleece-lined hood
Best for: Finding the perfect size, and having it delivered it record time
Editor-Approved
Aritzia The Super Puff₂O Rainstop
On Sale 30% off
I spend a lot of time in Canada, especially during the winter months, so a good winter coat is a must. I bought the Aritzia Super Puff with Rainstop and was blown away by the quality. In addition to being well-made, it’s ultra-warm and comfortable (it’s honestly one of the best jackets I have ever tried), and the added Rainstop feature means it’s completely waterproof. I have tested this jacket in everything from rain and snow, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best purchases I’ve ever made.
Sizing available: 3XS-XL
Colors available: 9
Material: 100% nylon, 100% polyurethane (back coating)
Insulation: 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers
Waterproof: Yes
Length: Hip length (also available in short, long, and mid-length styles)
Hood: Yes
Lining: Nylon
Best for: Staying warm in rainy winter weather
Sizing available: 3XS-XL
Colors available: 9
Material: 100% nylon, 100% polyurethane (back coating)
Insulation: 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers
Waterproof: Yes
Length: Hip length (also available in short, long, and mid-length styles)
Hood: Yes
Lining: Nylon
Best for: Staying warm in rainy winter weather
Quince
Quince Responsible Down Long Puffer Jacket
If you don’t have $350 to shell out on a long Aritzia Super Puff, Quince has an amazing alternative. I own both and love the latter’s warmth (endures temps as low as -48°F/-44°C), water-repellent fabric, soft knit storm cuffs with thumbholes, and removable hood with adjustable bungee drawcord. It has all the makings of a Super Puff but at $150 less (that’s 43% in savings!). Quince even compares the two side by side if you scroll down a bit on the product page. Read our full Quince review for commerce editor Katie Decker-Jacoby‘s honest thoughts on the long puffer (how she wears the coat, pictured here).
Sizing available: XS-XL
Colors available: 9
Material: Shell and Lining: 100% recycled polyester; Cuffs: 90% nylon, 10% elastane
Fill: 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers
Waterproof: No (though it is water-repellent and wind-resistant)
Length: Knee length
Hood: Yes
Best for: Everyday wear
Sizing available: XS-XL
Colors available: 9
Material: Shell and Lining: 100% recycled polyester; Cuffs: 90% nylon, 10% elastane
Fill: 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers
Waterproof: No (though it is water-repellent and wind-resistant)
Length: Knee length
Hood: Yes
Best for: Everyday wear
Canada Goose Montgomery Coat Tonal Label
Want a big winter jacket without the bulk? Canada Goose’s Montgomery Coat is made from a super lightweight fabric that’s 100% recycled, soft to the touch, and slightly shiny upon first glance. On the inside, you’ll notice a drawcord at the waist for a custom fit, but even more, there are interior backpack straps for hands-free carrying (a huge bonus for those who love functional features!).
Sizing available: XS-XXL
Colors available: 4
Material: 100% Recycled Polyamide
Fill: 750 Fill Power Responsibly Sourced Down, 90% Down, 10% Feathers
Waterproof: N/A
Length: Above the knee
Hood: Yes
Best for: Extreme cold weather (can endure 14°F to -4°F)
Sizing available: XS-XXL
Colors available: 4
Material: 100% Recycled Polyamide
Fill: 750 Fill Power Responsibly Sourced Down, 90% Down, 10% Feathers
Waterproof: N/A
Length: Above the knee
Hood: Yes
Best for: Extreme cold weather (can endure 14°F to -4°F)
On Sale
Aritzia The Super Puff™ Long – cliMATTE™
On Sale 30% off
Speaking of Aritzia’s iconic Super Puff, our commerce editor, Katie Decker-Jacoby, thinks it’s well worth the hype. “The brand kindly sent me a sample to test, and although winter has only just begun in New York City, I’ve worn my long Super Puff almost every day. It was a lifesaver during the most recent big chill and snowstorm, shielding me from a sub 10-degree lows, wind, and snow. You can tell there’s a slight difference in material and fill between the Super Puff and the Quince alternative. The OG feels and looks more plush and poofy and keeps you warm in even colder temps (-40°C/-40°F). I find myself reaching for my Aritzia jacket because it makes me feel like I’m wrapped in a cocoon. If it’s not 30 degrees or colder, I can also skip a base layer because the Super Puff provides that much warmth (which I’m not sure I can say of my Quince coat). My mocha brown Aritzia puffer additionally has a slight edge in appearance, too. It just looks so cushiony and chic!” says Decker-Jacoby.
Sizing available: 3XS-2XL
Colors available: 9
Material: Content: 100% nylon; Cuffs: 80% nylon, 20% elastane; Trim Filling: 100% polyester
Fill: 90% down, 10% waterfowl feathers
Waterproof: No (though it is water-repellent and wind-resistant)
Length: Long (hits at your shins, depending on your height)
Hood: Yes
Best for: Everyday wear
Sizing available: 3XS-2XL
Colors available: 9
Material: Content: 100% nylon; Cuffs: 80% nylon, 20% elastane; Trim Filling: 100% polyester
Fill: 90% down, 10% waterfowl feathers
Waterproof: No (though it is water-repellent and wind-resistant)
Length: Long (hits at your shins, depending on your height)
Hood: Yes
Best for: Everyday wear
Fjallraven Expedition Down Lite Jacket
A short jacket is a smart choice for outdoor winter adventures that involve more movement (waddling, be gone!). Fjallraven’s Expedition Down Lite Jacket is a lighter version of the brand’s beloved Expedition Down Jacket, and is best for trekking in milder winter climates. The insulating garment is filled with ethically sourced down, while shoulder padding resists moisture and ensures your backpack doesn’t dig in. You’re not going to want to reach for any other coat when you suit up for your next cold-weather expedition.
Sizing available: XXS-XL
Colors available: 7
Material: 100% polyamide (recycled)
Fill: Supreme Microloft: 100% polyester; 90% goose down, 10% feather; 100% polyester
Lining: 100% polyamide (recycled)
Waterproof: No (though it is water-resistant and wind-resistant)
Length: Long (hits at your shins, depending on your height)
Hood: Yes
Best for: Trekking
Sizing available: XXS-XL
Colors available: 7
Material: 100% polyamide (recycled)
Fill: Supreme Microloft: 100% polyester; 90% goose down, 10% feather; 100% polyester
Lining: 100% polyamide (recycled)
Waterproof: No (though it is water-resistant and wind-resistant)
Length: Long (hits at your shins, depending on your height)
Hood: Yes
Best for: Trekking
Low Stock
Bernardo Hooded Water Resistant Puffer Jacket
This jacket fights off the cold well below 40 degrees, is waterproof, and can be thrown in the washing machine. Plus, the recycled-polyester insulation is GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certified and bluesign approved, so you can feel good about your purchase, too. It’s also relatively budget-friendly (for a good winter coat, that is) and is so warm that you might actually end up sweating on more mild winter days.
Sizing available: XS-3XL (though only XS and S are currently in stock)
Colors available: 2
Material: 100% polyester
Insulation: It’s filled with EcoPlume, a recycled-polyester insulation made from 100% recycled plastic bottles
Waterproof: Yes
Length: Mid-thigh
Hood: Yes
Lining: Polyester
Best for: Adding some color to your winter wardrobe—and feeling good about it, too
Sizing available: XS-3XL (though only XS and S are currently in stock)
Colors available: 2
Material: 100% polyester
Insulation: It’s filled with EcoPlume, a recycled-polyester insulation made from 100% recycled plastic bottles
Waterproof: Yes
Length: Mid-thigh
Hood: Yes
Lining: Polyester
Best for: Adding some color to your winter wardrobe—and feeling good about it, too
The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
Despite being a simple black puffer, it still feels unique and cool—probably because this style was the “It” item from a few decades ago (I’m a millennial and had one in high school). Its simple design also makes it super easy to style with virtually any look, and you can even get away with wearing it with athleisure pieces like leggings and a chunky sneaker. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Emily Ratajkowski both enjoy this pick from The North Face, so you’ll be able to nail the Hollywood look for under $500.
Sizing available: XS-3XL (also comes in Plus sizing)
Colors available: 8
Material: 100% recycled nylon or 100% polyester
Insulation: 700-fill-power down
Waterproof: No
Length: Short
Hood: Hidden zip-out hood
Lining: 100% nylon insulation
Best for: Those who are nostalgic and/or enjoy ’90s style
Sizing available: XS-3XL (also comes in Plus sizing)
Colors available: 8
Material: 100% recycled nylon or 100% polyester
Insulation: 700-fill-power down
Waterproof: No
Length: Short
Hood: Hidden zip-out hood
Lining: 100% nylon insulation
Best for: Those who are nostalgic and/or enjoy ’90s style
Alo Yoga Oversized Sherpa Trench
Reviewers claim this winter coat feels like “wearing a cozy blanket” and “makes a statement.” It’s super plush and cozy, and I would definitely be tempted to wear it around the house with my pajamas. Shoppers note that this coat runs large, so size down if you want a more form-fitting silhouette—and even then, it may still be oversized. You also won’t be able to find any zippers, buttons, or belts included. It’s meant to be worn open.
Sizing available: XXS-XL
Colors available: 1
Material: 100% polyester
Insulation: None
Waterproof: No
Length: Full length, mid-calf
Hood: None
Best for: Someone who enjoys the look of a luxe fur coat, but doesn’t want to spend thousands of dollars
Sizing available: XXS-XL
Colors available: 1
Material: 100% polyester
Insulation: None
Waterproof: No
Length: Full length, mid-calf
Hood: None
Best for: Someone who enjoys the look of a luxe fur coat, but doesn’t want to spend thousands of dollars
On Sale
Nike Therma-FIT Oversized Down Puffer Jacket
On Sale 25% off
When it comes to athletic looks, Nike is one of the best places to find functional, comfortable, and stylish pieces—including winter coats. If you have your heart set on something a bit more casual for everyday wear (or tossing on over athleisure looks), consider the Therma-FIT Oversized Down Puffer Jacket. This short puffer coat features the brand’s Therma-FIT technology to naturally regulate heat, has a water-repellent outer shell, and includes bungees at the hem to keep the cold out.
Sizing available: XS-XXL
Colors available: 1
Material: Face of body fabric: 100% nylon; Back of body fabric: 100% polyethylene
Fill: Fill: Grey duck down (Minimum 75% down)/(APA Version: 75% grey duck down/25% feathers)
Waterproof: Water-repellent
Length: Short
Hood: Yes
Lining: 100% polyester
Best for: Comfortable athleisure looks and everyday wear
Sizing available: XS-XXL
Colors available: 1
Material: Face of body fabric: 100% nylon; Back of body fabric: 100% polyethylene
Fill: Fill: Grey duck down (Minimum 75% down)/(APA Version: 75% grey duck down/25% feathers)
Waterproof: Water-repellent
Length: Short
Hood: Yes
Lining: 100% polyester
Best for: Comfortable athleisure looks and everyday wear
Low Stock
J.Crew Faux Fur Coat
On Sale 40% off
If you’re after that Kar-Jenner, Aspen, mob wife aesthetic, a fur coat like this one is the obvious way to go. While it might not be the warmest option (because there’s no insulation/fill), you can easily layer underneath. Another reason to shop from J.Crew is its wide size range (this coat comes in sizes 3XS through 3XL).
Sizing available: 3XS-3XL
Colors available: 2
Material: Faux fur
Waterproof: No
Length: Below the hips
Hood: None
Best for: a more stylish option
Sizing available: 3XS-3XL
Colors available: 2
Material: Faux fur
Waterproof: No
Length: Below the hips
Hood: None
Best for: a more stylish option
Low Stock
Topshop Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket
Similar styles may cost you upwards of $1,000, but this faux shearling alternative is just as chic while ringing in at less than $200 (!!). I love the big collar and fuzzy material. It’s rugged yet polished, all at the same time. With that said, it’s definitely on the heavy side of the spectrum, so if you’re looking for something more lightweight, you might want to look elsewhere.
Sizing available: XS-L (though only M and L are available right now)
Colors available: 1
Material: 100% polyester faux shearling with 100% polyurethane trim
Insulation: None
Waterproof: No
Length: Below the hips
Hood: None
Best for: A stylish yet cozy layer
Sizing available: XS-L (though only M and L are available right now)
Colors available: 1
Material: 100% polyester faux shearling with 100% polyurethane trim
Insulation: None
Waterproof: No
Length: Below the hips
Hood: None
Best for: A stylish yet cozy layer
On Sale
Michael Kors Long Faux Leather Trench Coat
On Sale 35% off
Not every winter day calls for fully-lined outerwear. This faux leather trench is just warm enough to keep your teeth from chattering on 50° F days, and is similar to styles beloved by the Jenners and Hailey Bieber—for a fraction of the price.
Sizing available: S-XL (though only L and XL are in stock)
Colors available: 1
Material: 100% polyurethane with 99% polyester, 1% viscose back
Insulation: None
Waterproof: No
Length: Mid-length
Hood: None
Best for: Not-too-cold, in-between winter days
Sizing available: S-XL (though only L and XL are in stock)
Colors available: 1
Material: 100% polyurethane with 99% polyester, 1% viscose back
Insulation: None
Waterproof: No
Length: Mid-length
Hood: None
Best for: Not-too-cold, in-between winter days
More Women’s Winter Coats We’re Eyeing
- Lauren Ralph Lauren Pillow Hood Longline Down & Feather Jacket, $220 (originally $340)
- Levi’s Water Resistant Mid Length Hooded Puffer Jacket, $120 (originally $200)
- BCBGMAXAZRIA Long Puffer Coat, $180 (originally $278)
- Canada Goose Elie Blanket Coat, $1,675
- Patagonia Downdrift Parka, $399
- Columbia Amaze Puff™ Hooded Jacket, $200
- Canada Goose Marlow Parka, $1,525
- My Mum Made It Rosette Puffer Jacket, $280
- AFRM Lisbon Maxi Faux Fur Coat, $308
- Wild Fable Bow Puffer Jacket, $34 (originally $45)
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