Which jacket is warmer?

When the weather starts to get chilly, one of the most important things you can do to stay comfortable is to wear a warm jacket. But with so many styles and materials to choose from, how do you know which jacket is the warmest?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when looking for a warm winter jacket.

What Makes a Jacket Warm?

A jacket’s warmth comes primarily from two factors – insulation and wind resistance. Insulation traps body heat, while wind resistance prevents cold air from penetrating the jacket. The amount of insulation and wind resistance a jacket offers depends on:

• Thickness – The thicker the jacket, the more insulation it provides. Down jackets are often warmer than synthetic jackets of the same thickness because down clusters trap more air.
• Fill Power – For down jackets, fill power measures the quality of the down. A higher fill power down is more efficient at trapping heat.
• Tightly Woven Fabric – Tightly woven outer fabrics help block wind from penetrating the jacket’s insulation. A higher thread count indicates a more wind-resistant material.
• Lining – Fleece or quilted linings provide additional insulation and wind resistance.
• Cuffs, Collar, and Hem – Snug cuffs, a high collar, and elastic or adjustable hem help seal out cold air.

Types of Insulation

When it comes to insulation, the two main options are down and synthetic:

Down Insulation

Down refers to the soft, fluffy clusters that make up the underside of waterfowl feathers. It’s highly compressible and efficient at trapping air, creating a loft that holds in body heat.

Advantages:

• Very warm for its weight
• Compresses down to a small size
• Soft and comfortable

Disadvantages:

• Loses insulating ability when wet
• More expensive
• Some ethical concerns around sourcing

Look for a higher fill power (600-900) for maximum warmth in a down jacket. Popular down jacket styles include the parka, puffer coat, and vest.

Synthetic Insulation

Synthetic insulation is made from polyester fibers designed to mimic down clusters. It’s not as lightweight or compressible as Down, but has some key advantages.

Advantages:

• Maintains insulating ability when wet
• Less expensive
• Wide range of styles
• Hypoallergenic

Disadvantages:

• Not as warm or compressible as down
• Not as durable over time

Popular synthetic fills include PrimaLoft, Thinsulate, and Thermoball. These are available in many jacket styles including lightweight puffers, fleece jackets, and insulated ski jackets. For maximum warmth, look for a higher fill weight.

Shell Materials

The outer fabric or shell of your jacket plays an important role in blocking wind and sealing in warmth. Here are some top shell fabric options:

• Nylon – Tough and durable, high-denier nylon is wind and water-resistant. It’s a good choice for active jackets.
• Polyester – Provides wind protection and some water resistance. Polyester microfiber shells are more compact.
• Cotton – Natural fiber that’s soft but absorbs moisture. Best for casual jackets.
• Wool – Naturally insulating and moisture-wicking. A warm choice for winter coats.
• Leather/Suede – Stylish natural materials that resist wind. Best for form over function.

For a warm winter jacket, nylon or polyester shells are best. Aim for a tightly woven fabric with a high thread count. Some jackets also have a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to improve weather protection.

Lining Materials

Lining plays a secondary insulating role while also improving comfort. Common lining materials include:

• Fleece – Soft, fuzzy fabric that adds warmth without extra weight.
• Quilted – Lightweight batting between two fabric layers creates air pockets that insulate.
• Flannel – Brushed fabric helps retain heat and provides cozy softness.
• Faux Fur – Adds stylish warmth to hoods and collars.
• Shearling – Sheepskin with one side suede gives heavyweight warmth.

For a warm winter jacket, fleece and quilted linings help take the chill off. Flannel adds extra coziness to casual jackets.

Fit and Features

An articulated, layer-friendly fit along with features to seal out the elements will enhance any jacket’s warmth:

• Hood – Having an insulated hood adds warmth and protects your head from the elements. Look for one that fits snugly over a hat.
• Cinch Cord – A cord at the waist or hem lets you cinch the jacket for a closer fit to keep the wind out. Elastic hems also help.
• Cuffs – Ribbed cuffs at the wrist prevent warmth from escaping. Inner storm cuffs add an extra seal.
• Length – A longer cut provides more coverage and warmth. Parkas and thigh-length coats are good choices.
• Pockets – Hand warmer pockets keep fingers toasty. Internal chest pockets hold heat packs.
• Zipper – A dual zipper allows venting from the bottom while the top stays fastened. Look for wind flaps behind the zipper.
• Drawcord – Adjustable cords at the collar, hood, and hem seal out cold air.

The Best Materials for Warmth

Now that you know what to look for, here are the jackets that offer the most warmth for frigid winter weather:

• Down Parka – The gold standard. High-fill power down with a durable, weatherproof shell.
• Down Puffer – Lightweight and toasty. Great for dry, cold climates.
• Wool Coat – Natural warmth and weather resistance. Stylish for both casual and dressy occasions
• Fleece Jacket – Plush polyester fleece provides lightweight insulation. Low bulk but not windproof.
• Ski Jacket – Durable waterproof shell with synthetic insulation. Designed for high activity in the snow.
• Leather/Shearling Coat – Luxurious natural materials give wind and moisture protection. Heavy and expensive.
• Pea Coat – A short wool coat offers natural insulation against winter winds. Not as warm as a parka or puffer.
• Bomber Jacket – Nylon shell with synthetic fill. Weather resistant for milder climates.

While down is the warmest overall, wool and fleece also have excellent insulating properties. Synthetic fills make a good lower-cost option. Focus on choosing a jacket with plenty of insulation that fits snugly to lock in body heat.

Men’s vs. Women’s Jackets

When looking at men’s and women’s jackets, the main differences come down to fit and style:

• Fit – Women’s jackets have a tapered waist and shorter sleeves. Men’s have a looser fit with longer sleeves.
• Length – Women’s coats tend to be hip or thigh length. Men’s are longer, falling below the hip.
• Hood Size – Women’s hoods are smaller to fit a woman’s head and allow room for a ponytail.
• Closures – Women’s jackets favor stylish double-breasted closures. Men have single-breasted fronts.
• Pockets – Women’s pockets are shorter with neat seam lines. Men’s pockets are larger and more rugged.
• Materials – Women’s jackets utilize softer fabrics like faux fur or fleece for linings. Men stick to rugged, weatherproof materials.
• Style – Women’s coats have shaped seams for a feminine silhouette. Men have straight seams and minimal shaping.

The differences are largely aesthetic. For maximum warmth, both men and women should look for a hip or thigh-length parka with plenty of down or synthetic fill. Hand and chest pockets along with a snug-fitting hood add extra insulation.

How to Layer for Maximum Warmth

Wearing the right layers underneath your jacket is key to keeping the cold out. Follow these tips:

Against the Skin:

• Thermal underwear – Provides a close base layer of warmth. Look for merino wool or polyester.
• Long sleeve shirt – Lightweight for layering.

Middle Layer:

• Fleece jacket – Plush lining traps heat without too much weight.
• Sweater – Wool is naturally warm and wicks moisture.

Outer Layer:

• Insulated jacket – Down or synthetic fill. A longer length covers more.
• Windproof shell – Stops cold gusts from cutting through other layers.

On Bottom:

• Long underwear – Thermal leggings hold warmth close to the skin.
• Insulated ski pants – Quilted construction seals out cold.
• Waterproof pants – Prevent moisture from soaking through to inner layers.

Hands and Head:

• Hat – Seals heat in through your head. Look for fleece-lined or cuffed.
• Gloves – Essential for keeping hands warm and functional. Waterproof exterior with insulated lining.
• Scarf – Adds a layer of warmth to the face and neck. Look for cashmere or wool.

Feet:

• Wool socks – Insulate feet and wick moisture.
• Winter boots – Waterproof with insulation. Height at or above ankle.

By layering garments that each provide specific insulation properties, you can customize your level of warmth and comfort in harsh winter weather. Start next to the skin and work your way outward with the outer jacket being your armor against the cold.

Women’s Winter Jacket Recommendations

Here are some top-rated winter jacket picks for women:

• Canada Goose Shelburne Parka – Slim fit nylon shell filled with 625-fill power white duck down. Removable coyote fur ruff on the hood. Waterproof and rated to -4°F/-20°C.
• Marmot Montreal Coat – Hip-length parka with a waterproof shell. Filled with 700 fill power down for serious warmth even in wind and snow. Removable faux fur trim.
• Patagonia Down With It Parka – Knee-length recycled polyester shell with 600-fill power down. DWR finish sheds moisture. Zip out faux fur collar.
• The North Face Gotham Jacket – 550 fill power down insulation stops cold and heat loss. Water-repellent finish. Fixed hood with faux fur trim.
• Columbia Heatzone 1000 Turbodown Jacket – Omni-Heat reflective lining reflects body heat. Water resistant and breathable. Lightweight with a packable hood.
• Lands’ End Expedition Winter Parka – Durable nylon shell with PrimaLoft insulation. Fleece lined hood. Adjustable waist, cuffs, and hem. Front zipper and snap storm flap.

Any of these jackets will keep you toasty without excess bulk. Look for an insulated parka or coat that hits at least hip length. Don’t forget to layer up underneath.

Men’s Winter Jacket Recommendations

Here are some excellent cold-weather jacket options for men:

• Canada Goose Expedition Parka – Burly Arctic tech shell with 625 fill white duck down. Heavy duty for temperatures below 0°F. Insulated hood with fur trim.
• Marmot Guide Down Jacket – 700 fill power down. Micro fleece lined pockets. Draw cord hem and removable hood. Rugged polyester ripstop shell.
• The North Face McMurdo Parka III – 600 fill-down parka with zip-off faux fur hood trim. Insulated bomber jackets can be worn separately. Windproof.
• Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket – Lightweight with 600 fill Traceable down. Durable and water-repellent shell. Packs down easily.
• Woolrich Arctic Parka – 60% down/40% feather insulation. Durable water-resistant cotton shell with insulation. Removable genuine coyote fur hood trim.
• Carhartt Yukon Extremes Active Jacket- Nylon shell lined with 3M Thinsulate insulation. Heavy duty zippered front with inner storm flap. Attached are hood and rib knit cuffs.

For men, a durable, insulated parka-length jacket will provide the most warmth. Look for quality down or synthetic fill paired with a tough wind and water-resistant shell. Don’t skimp on hood insulation.

Kid’s Jackets for Winter

Dressing kids for the outdoors requires some key considerations:

Warmth:

• Opt for 650+ fill power down or heavyweight synthetic insulation like PrimaLoft.
• Look for a close-fitting hood, rib knit cuffs, elastic waistband, and wrist gaiters. These seal out cold air.
• Choose a length that covers their upper thighs.

Comfort:

• Make sure you allow room for layers underneath. Oversized is better than too snug.
• Consider a jacket with zip-off sleeves to adapt to temperatures.
• Don’t forget warmth features like fleece-lined pockets.

Convenience:

• Easy closures They can handle themselves like zippers and velcro.
• Larger, easy-to-access pockets sized for kid’s gloves and other gear.
• Look for adjustable wrist gaiters and hem drawcords to seal out the wind as they grow.

Durability:

• Opt for abrasion-resistant shell fabrics like nylon or polyester.
• Reinforced seams and stitching will last through childhood adventures.
• DWR treatment helps shed rain and snow.

Style:

• Kids love colorful jackets! Bold primaries and playful patterns make cold weather fun.
• Let them pick features like fur ruff hoods, handwarmer pockets, and underarm vents.

Great kid’s jacket brands like The North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, and Obermeyer offer all the above. Keep them cozy from the playground to the slopes!

How to Clean and Care for Your Jacket

Caring properly for your winter jacket will keep it looking and performing its best:

• Follow the care label – Symbols indicate the proper washing method or if dry cleaning is required.
• Wash in cold water – Hot water can degrade fabric and insulation. Use a front-loading washer on a gentle cycle.
• Use a mild detergent – Skip the fabric softener or bleach. Nikwax Tech Wash is a good choice for technical fabrics.
• Air dry only – Tumble drying can damage the fabric and down insulation. Dry flat away from direct heat.
• Spot treat stains – Use a delicate stain removal spray before washing. Soak tougher oil-based stains in dish soap.
• Freshen with tennis balls – Throw a few clean tennis balls in the dryer to fluff down insulation after air drying.
• Store properly – Fold flat or hang on a wide hanger. Store in a breathable garment bag during the summer.
• Re-waterproof periodically – Reapply a DWR treatment like Nikwax TX Direct to improve water beading if it starts to wet out.
• Repair when needed – Fix tears right away by hand or take them to a seamstress. Have zippers been replaced by a professional when broken?

With proper care, a quality winter jacket should last for many years and keep you toasty season after season. Follow these tips and you’ll get the most out of your investment.

Conclusion

Staying warm during cold weather starts with choosing the right jacket. Look for a coat with plenty of down or synthetic insulation paired with wind and water-resistant shell fabrics. Parkas and long coats provide maximum coverage and sealing features like adjustable hoods, cuffs, and hems lock in warmth. Remember to layer garments underneath too. With so many excellent brands and technologies available today, finding a winter jacket that keeps you comfortable even when the thermometer plunges is easier than ever. Just be sure to select the right combination of insulation, coverage, and weather protection and you’ll be ready to enjoy the great outdoors in any kind of winter weather.