Best Winter Jackets of 2024-3

These heavyweight jackets are designed to provide all the warmth you need during the coldest winter months

By: Ari Schlesinger

Last Updated : 

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As the coldest winter months approach, a reliable jacket becomes essential. Our selection of the finest winter jackets and parkas in 2023 showcases the warmest options available, equipped with ample down fill (or synthetic alternatives) to brave freezing temperatures and gusty winds. This collection encompasses a wide range, from stylish everyday choices suitable for urban environments to high-performance options tailored for backcountry adventures. Certain jackets strike a perfect balance, excelling in both realms. To gain further insights, refer to our comprehensive winter jacket comparison table and purchasing guidance located below our recommendations.

Our Team’s Winter Jacket Picks

• Best Overall Winter Jacket Picks: The North Face McMurdo Parka ($400)
• Best Value in a Winter Jacket: REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid ($259)
• Most Versatile Jacket for Everyday Wear: Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka ($649)
• Best in Performance Use: Rab Neutrino Pro Jacket for Mountaineering ($385)
• Best Expedition Jacket for Extreme Cold: Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka ($679)

Best Overall Winter Jackets

1. The North Face McMurdo Parka ($400)

Category: Casual
Fill: 600-fill recycled waterfowl down
What we Like: Premium warmth, waterproof, and reasonably priced.
What we Don’t: Bulkier and less packable than other high-performance jackets

The McMurdo Parka from The North Face strikes an impressive balance between quality and value, making it an excellent option. This parka covers all of the important bases: it’s warm, waterproof, blocks the wind. It is also fairly breathable for a puffier-styled jacket, making it comfortable to wear in milder temperatures. The upper-thigh-length cut provides ample coverage while also allowing for plenty of mobility, which is a bonus. The North Face jacket has incorporated several sustainability measures into the latest version of the McMurdo, including the use of recycled down and fabrics and a PFC-free DWR treatment.

The McMurdo is not specifically designed for the backcountry and is more suited for casual wear. Which should not be a concern for those who are just looking for a jacket to stroll around your local town or any town for that matter! Additionally, it may not offer the same warmth for the weight or compressibility as some of the more expensive parkas that feature thinner shells and 800-fill-power down or higher. However, considering its reasonable price tag of $400, these limitations are minor when compared to its other outstanding features. The jacket is also quite stylish, and the faux fur along the hood is removable, which is a plus. The women’s version of the parka, the Arctic Parka, offers similar features and has a cozy interior and a removable faux fur lining on the hood, making it an excellent option for women.

See the Men’s The North Face McMurdo


See the Woman’s The North Face Arctic

Best Value in a Winter Jacket

2. REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid ($259)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 850-fill-power RDS goose down
What we Like: Proven warmth, waterproof, and reasonably priced.
What we Don’t: The combination of technical and casual features may not appeal to everyone.

REI’s Stormhenge 850 jacket caused quite a stir when it first arrived on the market a few years ago. It was a budget-friendly option that boasted top-notch technical capabilities, including 850-fill-power down and a waterproof shell. Since then, the Stormhenge has been updated to include synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas like the cuffs and hood, an extended cut for greater coverage, and more storage (the interior zippered pocket is particularly useful). The Stormhenge’s original core components, such as the 2-layer waterproof construction with full seam taping and pit zips, have been retained. At just $259, the latest iteration of the Stormhenge is an exceptional value.

Categorizing the Stormhenge and identifying its ideal user is a bit more challenging. Its waterproofness and technical features, such as pit zips, give it a similar feel to a belay jacket or ski shell, but its sleek appearance and elegant color options are also well-suited for city use. In addition, its warmth falls into an in-between spot: It’s insulated enough for temperatures into the low 20s Fahrenheit with only a light baselayer, but it can’t match a higher-end alternative like the Rab Neutrino Pro below. Despite these minor details, we believe that the REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid is an excellent choice that offers an unbeatable combination of features, performance, and affordability.

See the Men’s REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid


See the Women’s REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid

Most Versatile Parka for Everyday Wear

3. Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka ($649)

Category: Casual
Fill: 4.2 oz. of 700-fill-power down
What we Like: Clean styling, very versatile, excellent weather resistance and coverage.
What we Don’t: Pricey for a casual winter jacket.

When it comes to finding a winter jacket that combines warmth and everyday style, the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka strikes a perfect balance. This jacket boasts excellent insulation, remarkable comfort, complete waterproofing, and a sleek design that suits various occasions. Its versatile 3-in-1 construction allows you to wear the waterproof shell alone during rainy days or zip in the down inner layer for added warmth when temperatures plummet. While the Tres may not match the mobility of more performance-oriented jackets, it remains an excellent choice for city use and tackling cold spells in regions like the Midwest and East Coast of the United States.

In comparison to other casual models on the list, the Tres 3-in-1 stands out with its higher-quality 700-fill-power down, surpassing the 600-fill used in our top choice, The North Face McMurdo. Moreover, the parka-length design provides superior warmth and coverage, rivalling the likes of Canada Goose. Admittedly, the jacket comes with a higher price tag (as expected from Patagonia), and achieving the perfect fit for a parka can sometimes be a challenge. However, we appreciate the Tres’ exceptional design and full waterproof capabilities, making it an incredibly versatile option for navigating wet shoulder seasons and enduring freezing conditions in the heart of winter. If you prefer a non-waterproof alternative, consider exploring Patagonia’s Jackson Glacier Parka.

See the Men’s Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka


See the Women’s Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka

Best Winter Jacket for Performance Usage

4. Rab Neutrino Pro Jacket for Mountaineering ($385)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 7.5 oz. of 800-fill-power down
What we Like: Easily packable for any climbing or mountaineering. Great price for almost performance quality jacket.
What we Don’t: If you’re not looking for a performance style winter jacket there are other options on the market.

The North Face McMurdo, while popular for everyday use, faces tough competition from a range of winter jackets that prioritize performance. Among these options, our top pick for 2023 is the Rab Neutrino Pro, which excels in terms of warmth, backcountry-ready features, and value. One standout feature is the impressive 7.5 ounces of 800-fill hydrophobic down, surpassing the quantity found in comparable down jackets from brands such as Arc’teryx and Patagonia, despite being similarly priced. It’s worth noting that the down insulation in the Neutrino Pro is certified to the Responsible Down Standard, reinforcing its ethical appeal. Although the Rab jacket is not fully waterproof (we advise against exposing down insulation to wet conditions), its 100% recycled Pertex Quantum Pro shell effectively repels light moisture.

Now, let’s consider the drawbacks of the Neutrino Pro. Firstly, it boasts a somewhat technical appearance, but its clean design and availability in dark color options make it versatile for urban use too. Secondly, the 20-denier shell fabric strikes a good balance between performance, weight, and packability. However, compared to the more casual alternatives on our list, the Neutrino Pro is relatively fragile, requiring caution to prevent snags and tears, as is the case with most down jackets. Lastly, it’s worth noting that Rab is a U.K.-based company, so American consumers may need time to adjust to the European-style left-hand zipper. Nevertheless, given its exceptional warmth, feature set, and reasonable price point, the Neutrino Pro earns its place on this ranking.

See the Men’s Rab Neutrino Pro

Best For Extreme Cold

5. Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka ($679)

Category: Performance
Fill: 13.3 oz. of 900-fill-power down
Weight: 2 lbs. 1.8 oz.
What we Like: Warmest jacket of the list.
What we Don’t: If you’re not looking for a mountaineering style jacket then this isn’t for you.

Feathered Friends, a small company based in Seattle, specializes in crafting premium down products, with the majority of their manufacturing taking place in the United States. While we admire their lightweight Eos jacket for cooler weather, the heavyweight Khumbu Parka truly stands out as one of the warmest options available. What sets it apart is the abundance of high-quality down—specifically, a generous 13.3 ounces of 900-fill goose down. Additionally, the parka incorporates thoughtful features such as PrimaLoft Gold synthetic insulation around the collar, reinforced elbows, and a convenient two-way zipper.

However, the Khumbu Parka’s placement in this ranking is not higher due to its limited appeal for everyday use. While it is indeed possible to wear this jacket on the streets of Chicago or Boston during the harshest winter conditions, its true element lies on lofty mountain summits and in activities like high-altitude mountaineering. Ultimately, more casual alternatives such as the Outdoor Research Coldfront and Patagonia Fitz Roy below offer a cleaner aesthetic and broader appeal at a significantly lower cost. Nevertheless, when it comes to warmth and down fill, the Khumbu Parka undeniably emerges as the victor.

See the Men’s Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka


See the Women’s Feathered Friends Khumbu Parka

Best of The Rest

6. Arc’teryx Camosun Parka ($649)

Category: Casual
Fill: 2.6 oz. 750-fill-power down; 140g Coreloft
Weight: 2 lbs. 1.9 oz.
What we Like: Super durable, waterproof, and tailored fit.
What we Don’t: The Arc’teryx Therme is the warmer option for only $50 more.

The Camosun, positioned just below the Therme Parka in Arc’teryx’s winter jacket lineup, boasts similar features to its counterpart. It relies on a reliable 2-layer Gore-Tex shell to provide dependable protection against moisture and wind. By ingeniously combining 2.6 ounces of high-quality 750-fill down with 140-gram synthetic Coreloft in strategic areas such as the cuffs, detachable hood, and under the arms, this jacket achieves a harmonious balance between warmth in cold weather and enhanced assurance on particularly damp days in urban settings. Without a doubt, it is another impeccably crafted and visually appealing garment from the esteemed Canadian brand, perfectly suited for regions with wet winters.

When comparing the Camosun and Therme, several distinctions emerge. The former comes with a $50 lower price tag, sheds approximately 2.5 ounces in weight, and boasts a thicker outer fabric (150D as opposed to the Therme’s 75D). Conversely, the Therme offers superior warmth and coverage, thanks to an additional 1.1 ounces of down and a length extended by 2 inches. Furthermore, it features an extra pocket located on the outer chest. However, the ultimate deciding factor for many individuals will likely be the style: while the Therme showcases a generous “regular” cut with an elegant and protective flap over the front zipper, the Camosun leans towards the more technical side, presenting Arc’teryx’s beloved “trim” fit and a sleek WaterTight front zip. For those seeking an all-synthetic alternative from Arc’teryx, the new Ralle Parka is worth exploring.

See the Men’s Arc’teryx Camosun Parka

7. Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Hoodie ($229)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 7.8 oz. of 700-fill down; 150g VerticalX ECO
Weight: 1 lb. 4.7 oz.
What we Like: Very affordable and comfortable.
What we Don’t: Not a standout in warmth or coverage.

Similar to REI, Outdoor Research is renowned for delivering excellent value for your money, and their Coldfront Down Hoodie lives up to that reputation. Priced at $229, this hip-length jacket offers a compelling combination of protection and warmth. It features the weather-ready VerticalX ECO synthetic insulation on the shoulders and cuffs, along with high-quality 700-fill-power down throughout the rest of the garment. When we tried on the jacket for the first time, we were impressed by its soft-yet-sturdy shell and thoughtful details like fleece-lined hand pockets and snug-fitting cuff gaiters equipped with thumb loops. Overall, it’s a versatile choice that performs well in everyday scenarios and is suitable for most moderate winter conditions during outdoor adventures.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that the Coldfront contains less down insulation compared to some of our previously recommended options, such as the performance-oriented Neutrino Pro. It’s not an exact apples-to-apples comparison due to the variations in fill power, and although the Coldfront has a puffy appearance that suggests substantial warmth, it doesn’t provide the same level of protection for extreme Antarctic-like conditions. Additionally, it’s worth noting that while the jacket has a generous hip-length style (with a back length listed at 29 inches), it lacks coverage below the buttocks. This omission diminishes overall protection and means it won’t keep you as warm as the longer parkas featured on our list. However, when appropriately layered or if you intend to engage in activities like hiking or snowshoeing, the Coldfront remains a reliable and remarkably affordable choice for both everyday wear and backcountry use.

See the Men’s OR Coldfront Down Hoodie


See the Women’s OR Coldfront Down Hoodie

8. Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco ($385)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 10.4 oz. of 700-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 12.9 oz.
What we Like: Clean look and reasonably affordable.
What we Don’t: Not always available stock.

If you’re searching for an affordable yet incredibly warm down puffy jacket, the Lightline from Mountain Equipment deserves your attention. Recently updated to the “Eco” version, it features recycled fabrics approved by bluesign and a PFC-free DWR coating. Packed with an impressive 10.4 ounces of 700-fill down, this jacket provides exceptional protection from the elements with its windproof and water-resistant Drilite shell. The Lightline boasts a sleek and clean design, a sturdy exterior, and a variety of stylish, understated color options, making it suitable for both technical use and everyday wear in cold climates. Moreover, its price of $385 (often discounted further) makes it an outstanding value compared to other winter jackets that offer less down insulation at higher costs.

What makes this jacket so competitively priced? Mountain Equipment, a U.K.-based company, may not be as widely recognized in the U.S., and they don’t allocate significant resources to athlete endorsements or elaborate advertising campaigns. Additionally, the Lightline’s material quality, including its mid-range 700-fill down, is not on par with competitors like the Rab Neutrino Pro mentioned earlier. Consequently, it may not match the exceptional warmth and packability of the Rab jacket. However, the Lightline compensates with impressive durability, featuring a robust 50-denier shell that can withstand the rigors of everyday use (while the Rab jacket uses a 20D shell). In terms of value, it’s challenging to find another jacket that offers comparable insulation and comfort at such an affordable price.

See the Mountain Equipment Lightline Eco

9. Kuhl Arktik Down Parka ($499)

Category: Casual
Fill: 9.4 oz. of 800-fill-power down
Weight: 3 lbs. 4 oz.
What we Like: Very stylish and excellent coverage
What we Don’t: Not everyone will love the design

If you’re in search of a winter parka that offers a touch of fashion while maintaining functionality, the Kuhl Arktik is an excellent choice. Its standout feature lies in its exceptional warmth, thanks to its 9.4 ounces of 800-fill down insulation, coupled with a robust shell that effectively blocks out wind. To provide protection against snow and rain, the jacket is equipped with wax and polyurethane coatings, ensuring moisture rolls off effortlessly. Furthermore, this parka offers extensive coverage with its longer length and a substantial hood that features a removable faux-fur brim.

Undeniably, the design of the Kuhl Arktik Down Parka can be a matter of personal preference. Its prominent zippers, buttons, and shoulder panels are intended to make a statement, although it’s worth noting that Kuhl has moved away from the two-tone color schemes, opting for more subdued options like Blackout, Carbon, and Olive. While the materials used are decent, they don’t reach the high-end spectrum. It’s important to mention that the leather accents are of the “faux” variety, which may impact both durability and aesthetics over time. However, if you’ve had positive experiences with Kuhl products in the past, the Arktik Down Parka presents itself as an attractive choice for cold weather conditions.

See the Men’s Kuhl Arktik Down Parka


See the Women’s Kuhl Arktik Down Parka

10. Canada Goose Langford Parka ($1,495)

Category: Casual/performance
Fill: 625-fill-power down
Weight: 3 lbs. 5 oz.
What we Like: Proven warmth and style
What we Don’t: Very expensive

Canada Goose, based in Toronto, occupies the upper echelon of the winter jacket market. Renowned for their exceptional warmth, impeccable craftsmanship, and stylish appeal, Canada Goose jackets are a top choice for those seeking both functionality and a sleek aesthetic. Among their impressive lineup, our standout selection is the Langford Parka, striking a perfect balance between Arctic exploration and urban living. Filled with 625-fill duck down (despite the brand’s name, ducks are primarily used) and encased in a robust Arctic Tech shell, the Langford boasts the ability to withstand freezing temperatures as low as -15°F—a testament to its superior insulation. Notably, this parka falls into Canada Goose’s second-warmest tier, with the renowned Expedition Parka being their pinnacle, suitable for braving bone-chilling -25°F temperatures.

While Canada Goose undeniably delivers exceptional warmth, craftsmanship, and style, the aspect that gives us pause is the price point. The Langford Parka carries a hefty price tag of $1,495 (and the expedition-ready Expedition Parka reaches a staggering $1,695), despite not employing premium down like Arc’teryx or other high-end brands. In truth, the Langford only represents a modest upgrade in down quality compared to The North Face McMurdo, which costs around $400, yet it does offer increased fill and noticeable warmth. However, for those who tend to feel the cold more acutely, require additional insulation, or simply appreciate the brand’s distinctive style, Canada Goose remains a valuable player in the market.

See the Men’s Canada Goose Langford Parka


See the Women’s Canada Goose Abbott Hoodie

11. Patagonia Fitz Roy Down Hoody ($399)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 5.6 oz. of 800-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 1.1 oz.
What we Like: Versatile and cozy with a clean look
What we Don’t: You can find warmer options at this price point

The Fitz Roy by Patagonia stands out among down jackets for its exceptional coziness. With its luxuriously soft lining and form-fitting design, it offers a snugness reminiscent of a down sleeping bag. Despite a reduction in fill quantity compared to its previous Parka version, the Fitz Roy does not disappoint in terms of warmth. It remains a versatile and warm jacket, enhanced by its high collar for added protection. Its helmet-compatible hood makes it suitable for both backcountry adventures and urban use.

However, the revamped Fitz Roy’s price is its main drawback. Priced at approximately $400, it offers less down insulation compared to other jackets like the Rab Neutrino Pro, which provides more fill for the same cost. Nevertheless, it is challenging to surpass Patagonia’s impeccable craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. The Fitz Roy possesses widespread appeal and stands as one of the most comfortable choices available. Furthermore, its optimal level of warmth is ideal for milder winter weather and the transitional seasons, although layering may be necessary for extremely cold conditions.

See the Men’s Fritz Roy Down Hoody


See the Women’s Down Sweater Hoody

12. Marmot Fordham Jacket ($325)

Category: Casual
Fill: 700-fill-power down
Weight: 2 lbs. 12 oz.
What we Like: Durable, stylish, and warm.
What we Don’t: More slim fitted than expected.

Similar to The North Face’s McMurdo, Marmot’s Fordham is an affordable winter jacket primarily designed for casual use. It serves as a versatile choice, boasting a generous amount of 700-fill down insulation (of higher quality than the McMurdo), a sturdy 2-layer waterproof shell, and a detachable hood for added convenience when extra protection isn’t necessary. The Fordham’s aesthetic appeal lies in its practical urban look, featuring robust fabrics and ample pocket space.

However, there are a few factors that prevent the Fordham from ranking higher on our list. Firstly, its fit tends to be a bit snug, which may pose challenges when layering for cold weather, particularly around the collar area when trying to accommodate additional warmth like a scarf. Additionally, the jacket feels bulkier and puffier compared to the aforementioned McMurdo, especially around the shoulders and arms. Nonetheless, on exceptionally frigid days, the Fordham provides superior warmth (although its shorter cut falls short in coverage when compared to the McMurdo). All things considered, the Fordham presents itself as a strong contender among the casual options on our list due to its combination of comfort, durability, and affordability.

See the Men’s Marmot Fordham Jacket

13. Arc’teryx Macai Jacket ($799)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 2.4 oz. of 750-fill-power down; 60g & 100g synthetic
Weight: 2 lbs. 4 oz.
What we Like: Warm and waterproof jacket that can also be used for resort skiing.
What we Don’t: Pricey

The Arc’teryx Macai stands out as a distinctive addition to this collection, initially designed as a ski jacket for resort use but arguably just as suitable, if not more so, for everyday wear. Firstly, it boasts impressive waterproof capabilities and offers exceptional warmth, thanks to its blend of 750-fill down and synthetic insulation strategically placed in moisture-prone areas. The sleek design is complemented by thoughtful features such as pocket zipper flaps, ensuring a clean aesthetic. Notably, the interior of the jacket provides a smooth and cozy feel reminiscent of luxurious down puffies. While the Macai is certainly suitable for skiing, it offers the flexibility of a removable hood and powder skirt, making it an excellent choice for dual-purpose wear.

In comparison to the more casual winter parkas mentioned in the list, the Macai does have a few drawbacks. Firstly, its shorter cut provides less coverage when compared to models like Arc’teryx’s own Camosun (priced at $649) and Therme (priced at $700), both of which offer more extensive protection and are also more budget-friendly. Secondly, the Macai possesses a robust and fortress-like build, which is advantageous for individuals who easily feel the cold but may prove excessive for milder winter conditions (we’ve experienced a tendency to overheat during intense skiing sessions). Nevertheless, the Macai’s versatility is truly admirable, and its dual-purpose nature helps justify the cost. If you’re searching for a premium winter/ski jacket, the Arc’teryx Macai is undoubtedly an excellent option.

See the Men’s Arc’teryx Macai Jacket


See the Women’s Arc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie

14. Fjallraven Nuuk Parka ($500)

Category: Casual
Fill: 8.8 oz. of Supreme Microloft synthetic
Weight: 4 lbs. 0.2 oz.
What we Like: Nicely designed and well-built parka.
What we Don’t: Warmer options are available for less.

Similar to Canada Goose, Fjallraven offers a range of attractive outdoor gear that strikes a balance between casual style and moderate performance. The Nuuk Parka, embodying the company’s Scandinavian heritage, is a sturdy garment designed to provide reliable warmth and protection against the elements. With 8.8 ounces of Supreme Microloft synthetic insulation, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, and clean, sleek lines, it combines durability with functionality. Additionally, the parka boasts convenient features such as a detachable hood lined with fleece and adorned with a fur brim, a generous selection of 10 pockets, and ribbed knitting around the neck to ward off drafts. Overall, it is a meticulously crafted winter parka prepared to tackle inclement weather conditions.

If you appreciate Fjallraven’s distinctive styling (which we certainly do) and do not require the lightweight and compressible nature of down insulation, the Nuuk Parka is an excellent choice. However, it is important to note that due to its weight and bulkiness, it is not suitable for backcountry excursions. Moreover, it lacks the lofty and cozy sensation provided by down-filled alternatives like the Rab Neutrino Pro or Patagonia Fitz Roy mentioned earlier. Considering its price tag of approximately $500, there are several other casual options available that offer better value, including the lighter and warmer Kuhl Arktik (although the Nuuk does provide approximately 2.5 inches more coverage). For those seeking a slightly more performance-oriented option from Fjallraven, the Singi Down Jacket shares a similar design but utilizes 10.4 ounces of 600-fill-power down for an additional $100.

See the Men’s Fjallraven Nuuk Parka ($500)


See the Women’s Fjallraven Nuuk Parka

15. Arc’teryx Therme Parka ($700)

Category: Casual
Fill: 3.7 oz. 750-fill-power down; 100g & 140g Coreloft
Weight: 2 lbs. 4.5 oz.
What we Like: A truly waterproof winter jacket.
What we Don’t: Slightly over-size build and rather pricey.

The Therme Parka by Arc’teryx stands out from their typically technical jackets with its urban design, providing a refreshing change. One of the key advantages of this parka is its utilization of a premium Gore-Tex waterproof membrane and fully taped seams. Unlike many jackets in this category that employ lower-quality, proprietary designs, the Therme Parka offers superior breathability and durability. Furthermore, it combines 750-fill goose down around the core with high-quality synthetic insulation in other crucial areas, resulting in a remarkably warm parka ideal for winter conditions characterized by wet snow, such as the Northwest and Northeast regions of the United States.

Consistent with Arc’teryx’s reputation, the Therme Parka boasts exceptional construction quality and aesthetics. However, some users have raised concerns about its sizing. In contrast to the company’s usual athletic fit seen in the aforementioned Camosun model, the Therme Parka has a noticeably roomier fit, and a few individuals find the hood to be slightly oversized. Nevertheless, the parka’s exceptional warmth, weather protection, and stylish appearance continue to make it a popular choice for urban settings year after year. For those seeking even greater warmth and willing to invest a higher price, Arc’teryx offers the top-of-the-line Therme SV ($800), which features waterproofing capabilities and a similar combination of down and synthetic insulation, while also offering a longer cut.

See the Men’s Arc’teryx Therme Parka


See the Women’s Arc’teryx Patera Parka

16. Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka ($700)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 700-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 9.6 oz.
What we Like: Versatile and the outer shell fabric is strechy and durable.
What we Don’t: Somewhat of a boxier fir than most parkas.

At first glance, the Stretchdown Parka stands out with its distinctive appearance, setting it apart from your typical down jacket. Instead of the usual glossy fabric and horizontal baffles, Mountain Hardwear has opted for welded seams and a stretchy material, hence the name “Stretchdown,” which bears resemblance to a softshell fabric. This innovative approach results in a down-insulated garment that offers exceptional comfort, unrestricted movement, impressive durability, and avoids the bulky appearance often associated with down jackets. The Stretchdown collection offers a variety of styles, but the Parka, in particular, provides the most extensive coverage and warmth, ideal for enduring winter conditions.

Having extensively worn the Stretchdown Parka throughout the winter season, we strongly support this jacket, although with a few minor considerations. Firstly, its shape: We acquired the parka in our usual size medium, but found the boxy fit to be quite generous. It is slightly longer than our other jackets, measuring 30 inches in the center back length, and notably more spacious around the chest. For comparison, the jacket version of the Stretchdown is 28 inches long in the back and weighs a considerable 9.6 ounces less than the parka. This simple and roomy fit makes us somewhat hesitant to recommend the Stretchdown as a fashionable choice for casual wear. On the other hand, it is a touch too heavy for dedicated performance activities. Nevertheless, the versatile design proves suitable for individuals who venture into both realms, and the soft and stretchy shell undeniably offers remarkable durability and a pleasant tactile experience.

See the Men’s Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Parka


See the Women’s Mountain Hardwear Parka

17. Patagonia Silent Down Parka ($429)

Category: Performance/casual
Fill: 700-fill-power down
Weight: 1 lb. 9.6 oz.
What we Like: Versatile and the outer shell fabric is strechy and durable.
What we Don’t: Somewhat of a boxier fir than most parkas.

The Patagonia Silent Down Jacket strikes a comfortable balance when it comes to warmth, making it suitable for various weather conditions, from mildly cool shoulder-season days to brief outdoor excursions during the heart of winter, especially in milder regions. Its insulation features a generous 3.9 ounces of 700-fill-power down in a men’s medium size, giving the jacket a pleasantly puffy appearance. However, it maintains a more streamlined profile compared to heavyweight winter jackets. To provide a frame of reference, it falls between the immensely popular Down Sweater Hoody (3.7 oz. of 800-fill down in the same size) and the winter-ready Jackson Glacier (5 oz. of the same 700-fill down). The Silent Down jacket excels at maximizing warmth with features such as a wind-blocking shell, soft and flexible cuffs that create a secure seal around the wrists, dual adjustments at the hem, and an insulated, adjustable hood.

During practical use, the Silent Down Jacket offers ample insulation for everyday activities in temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to high 40s Fahrenheit. It’s important to note that I wouldn’t solely rely on this jacket for insulation in sub-freezing conditions. For instance, during an early-season backpacking trip with temperatures in the high 20s, I found it necessary to add a fleece midlayer to remain comfortably warm while at camp. However, overall, the Silent Down Jacket falls into the desirable and versatile range between a lightweight and midweight puffy jacket, making it highly sought-after in the market.

See the Men’s Patagonia Silent Down Parka


See the Women’s Patagonia DAS Parka