The right winter jacket should keep you warm and dry, even in the coldest weather conditions. It is important to look for a winter jacket that is not only stylish and comfortable, but also durable, and matches your personal preferences. A lot of insulated jackets can withstand extreme weather conditions. Some include features like the ability to wick moisture, and reflective details to ensure that you are seen on the slopes or while working.
While there are thousands of winter jackets on the market, some may not be as warm as they claim to be. That is why we’ve listed down some of the best winter jackets that will for sure keep you warm and cozy.
Best overall winter jacket
1. Arc’teryx Seyla
Click to view on amazon.com.
Exterior Material: 100% Arato Nylon (Machine Washable)
Weight: 1.9 lbs
Insulation: Down
The Arc’teryx Seyla is a lightweight winter jacket that is incredibly warm, simple, and stylish.
What we like about the Arc’teryx Seyla is that it is filled with 750 fill European grey goose down, which makes it suitable for very cold temperatures. It features Down Contour baffles to enhance loft for efficient insulation, a down insulated hood for more warmth and coverage, zippered hand pockets, internal security pocket with zipper closure, elasticated cuffs, and a two-way main zipper for ease of access and ventilation. The jacket’s oversized hood can fit a beanie underneath for a snugger fit. Although it is not detachable, it is light enough and insulated with adequate amounts of down. This jacket is also water-resistant thanks to the outer shell’s DWR coating, but it is not intended for heavy rain, although it holds up well in light rain and snow. The jacket’s design is simple and comes in different colors, which is great to match with your winter outfits. Plus, it maintains adequate warmth even in negative temperatures, and it is highly versatile, form-fitting, lightweight, and very flattering.
The Arc’teryx Seyla warmth to weight ratio is one of its main features. Indeed, it is warm, without adding weight. Finally, its two-way main zipper allows you to access it from both ends, which is nice when you need more airflow and mobility.
What we do not like about the Arc’teryx Seyla, on the other hand, is that its hood is not removable, and that it is not 100% waterproof. Therefore, it’s not suitable for very humid conditions. But all in all, this is an incredibly warm winter jacket with 750 fill down insulation. Plus, it is lightweight and very comfortable.
The snowy season is upon us! Make sure your loved ones’ stay warm and toasty with the perfect winter jacket. Check out our recommendations for the best winter jackets for men and best winter jackets for kids to find the perfect winter outer wear.
Best for extreme cold
2. Marmot Montreaux
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Exterior Material: 100% Polyester (Machine Washable)
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Insulation: Down
The Marmot Montreaux is one of the warmest winter jackets on the market, and it is also stylish and flattering.
What we like about the Marmot Montreaux is that it is insulated with 221g of high quality down, making it water-resistant, and it has a fill rating of 700. This water-repellent down insulation has been treated, so that it stays drier longer, and dries faster than untreated down. Plus, the jacket features a polyester shell fabric with a DWR finish to be able to shed snow and light rain. It also has a plush fleece-lined torso, microfleece-lined hand warmer zippered pockets, an internal zippered pocket, an internal drop pocket, and a zip-off hood that is down-insulated and has a removable fur ruff. Furthermore, it features soft microfleece inner cuffs to be able to seal in warmth. The Marmot Montreaux’s 700 fill-power down is also lofty and light, and gathers a lot of air to insulate you from the cold weather. It has a light and plush fleece liner that wraps around your core, and is able to block the cold wind while holding in more warmth. The hood is also insulated with light and fluffy down feathers to keep your head and ears toasty. Plus, the removable synthetic fur ruff is helpful to block the wind without obstructing your peripheral view. When the Montreaux’s down is compressed while you are sitting down, its fleece-lined torso, as well as its microfleece-lined exterior pockets, collar, and cuffs will still keep your back warm. Additionally, the DWR treatment and Down Defender treatment are the jacket’s two defenses against snow and rain, but are not intended for heavy rain.
What we do not like about the Marmot Montreaux is that it has no front snaps and it is not 100% waterproof. But all in all, this is a stylish jacket with high-quality insulation, and it is one of the warmest down jackets that suit the extreme cold. It also does not feel restrictive despite its knee-length design.
3. Canada Goose Shelburne
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Exterior Material: 85% polyester, 15% cotton (Dry Clean)
Weight: 4 lbs
Insulation: Down
The Canada Goose Shelburne is a parka jacket that is designed to be worn in dreadful cold conditions.
What we like about the Canada Goose Shelburne is that it is constructed with 625 fill duck down insulation. This jacket will keep you warm, even if temperatures drop to -15 °F, or even -5°F. It features a durable Arctic Tech outer layer, which does a great job at blocking the wind, with an overly large, adjustable hood to keep you even toastier. There is a fur ruff around the hood that helps in trapping heat and keeping the cold air out. This parka also features a chin guard that is lined with tricot fabric, two exterior hand warmer pockets that are lined with fleece, and it has snap closures and two interior pockets with zipper closures. It also has an adjustable two-way main zipper for ease of access and more mobility, and its kicked pleats on the back have snaps for security. Furthermore, it has thick ribbed cuffs at the wrist of the sleeves, which helps keep the cold air out and the heat in. Additionally, it has an adjustable cuff on the exterior to allow for a tighter fit. When it gets warmer out, or whenever you want to go hands-free, the jacket has an interior carrying straps, so that you won’t have to carry your jacket in your hands. Finally, the Canada Goose Shelburne gives a true winter parka feel and look. It reaches above the knee, and has a matte appearance that highlights its durability.
What we do not like about the Canada Goose Shelburne is that it is a bit heavy and the hood is not removable. Overall, this is a stylish, warm and highly water-resistant winter jacket constructed with good-quality materials that will surely keep you warm during extreme cold weather conditions.
4. Rab Deep Cover Parka
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Exterior Material: 100% Ripstop Nylon (Machine Washable)
Weight: 1.9 lbs
Insulation: Down
The Rab Deep Cover is also one of the best women’s winter jackets for extreme cold thanks to its high-quality insulation.
What we like about the Rab Deep Cover is that it is insulated with 650 R.D.S Certified Hydrophobic European Duck Down, which does not add any bulk nor weight. This jacket only weighs 1.9 lbs., and has a nice style to it. It features a removable hood with faux fur for additional warmth in windy and cold weather conditions, a two-way main zipper opening, two external zippered pockets with microfleece lining, an internal zippered pocket, and an elasticized inner cuff. Another nice detail is that the nylon cuffs have thumb holes for additional warmth and to keep the sleeves in place. The durable ripstop nylon exterior fabric performs well in light snow, but is not intended for heavy rain and snow. Overall, the Rab Deep Cover is stylish, form-fitting, and provides enough room to move around and fit another layer underneath. It is warm and comfy, without being heavy nor bulky. It will also allow for extra mobility due to its double-sided main zipper, which you can access from both ends. There is also a main flap behind this zipper to keep the cold air out.
What we do not like about the Rab Deep Cover is that it is not 100% waterproof, although it is water-resistant. And because it is made with nylon, it is vulnerable to snags. Overall, this is an undeniably warm winter jacket that is form-fitting and stylish, and does a good job at keeping you warm in extreme cold weather.
Best casual winter jackets
5. The North Face Arctic Parka II
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Exterior Material: 73% nylon, 27% cotton (Machine Washable)
Weight: 2.8 lbs
Insulation: Down
The North Face Arctic Parka II is a ruggedly classic winter jacket that will keep you warm in freezing temperatures.
What we like about the North Face Arctic Parka is that it is insulated with 550 fill goose down, and has a thick exterior fabric to keep the cold air out, and keep you warm even in windy weather and cold temperatures. It features nylon cuffs on the sleeves, which also helps keeping the cold air and precipitations out while keeping the heat in. Its detachable hood has an ample amount of insulation and a faux fur ruff, which adds even more warmth and coverage. Its outer fabric consists of a cotton and nylon twill with a waterproof DryVent layer to block wind and water, while remaining breathable and sturdy. It also has microfleece-lined pockets, a collar that you can zip all the way up, and an interior media zippered pocket. The main zipper is double-sided, so you can access it from both sides for ventilation or extra mobility. This jacket weighs 2.8 lbs. Although it is not the lightest jacket, it leaves room for an extra layer underneath. Overall, it has a nice look, a smooth exterior appearance with a subtle matte finish, and the faux fur ruff around its hood gives it an even better style.
What we do not like about the North Face Arctic Parka is that it has a stiff collar that needs a break-in period, and the sizing is awkward. All in all, this jacket is incredibly windproof and waterproof, which means it can handle cold temperatures and wet weather conditions well for a reasonable price.
6. Marmot Montreal
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Exterior Material: 100% Polyester (Machine Washable)
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Insulation: Down
The Marmot Montreal is a mid-weight down parka that is designed to keep you warm and fashionable.
What we like about the Marmot Montreal is that it is stuffed with 7.1 oz. of down insulation with a 700 fill power rating, meaning that it offers extreme warmth and good loft. This insulation is a water-repellent down that has been treated, so it can stay drier longer and dry faster. Plus, its polyester shell fabric is coated with a Durable Water Repellent treatment to be able to shed snow and light rain. It also features a plush fleece-lined torso that feels soft and warm, a hood that is removable via a zipper, and has a detachable faux fur ruff. Furthermore, it features microfleece-lined hand warmer zippered pockets, an internal zippered pocket, and an interior drop pocket. It also has a soft microfleece inner cuffs that seals in warmth, and a double-sided main zipper for ease of access, extra mobility and ventilation. The Marmot Montreal is a knee-length jacket, which is great for trapping in warmth. It is designed with a plush fleece liner all throughout its torso, and has a thin synthetic liner in the hood, and around the hips and legs for added defense against the cold air. This jacket is well-designed, its zippers operate smoothly, and the hood’s faux fur does not shed. Although it is not the lightest, it has a thin fabric, which makes it highly packable. And it is also one of the best insulated winter jackets for women.
What we do not like about the Marmot Montreal is that its baffled design takes away some of its weather protection. All in all, this is a trim-fitting jacket that is designed to follow the contours of a woman’s body. It is advisable to size up if you plan to wear layers underneath, to allow for more mobility and versatility.
7. Columbia Heavenly Long
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Exterior Material: 100% Polyester (Machine Washable)
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Insulation: Synthetic
The Columbia Heavenly is a sporty looking, lightweight winter jacket. It is also one of the top-rated jackets on the market.
What we like about the Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket is that it weighs only 1.5 lbs., which is light. Plus, it is stylish and available in straightforward colors that you can choose from. It features a water-resistant fabric that is able to shed moisture and resist stain, although it is not intended for heavy rains. It also has a long length and fleece-lined hood, which leaves enough room to wear a beanie underneath, and a collar for more coverage and added warmth. In addition, it has a two-way main front zipper that eases access and allows extra mobility. It has zippered hand pockets, an interior security pocket, and comfort cuffs. There is an 100% polyester Omni-Heat Reflective lining on the inside of the jacket, which adds warmth, as well as a 100% polyester Storm-Lite DP II exterior shell that is water-resistant. However, as stated above, it is not intended for heavy rain. The jacket reaches mid-thigh, and has an athletic vibe to it. There is also a baffling on the exterior, which is contoured and gives it a stylish look. Finally, the hood is incredibly cozy because of its very comfortable lining, and there are also thumb holes on the cuffs of the sleeves to provide you more warmth and for the sleeves to stay in place.
What we do not like about the Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket is that it is not 100% waterproof, and it is not the warmest. Thus, it is best to wear layers underneath in freezing temperatures. All in all, this jacket is lightweight, inexpensive, and suitable for casual activities, errands around towns, and even for just walking the dog outside.
Clothes and accessories that are appropriate for winter are not cheap which is why you need to make sure that you’re buying something that is of good quality. If you’re planning on updating your winter closet, check out our Winter Clothes and Accessories tab for our top winter wardrobe recommendations.
Best under $300
8. Columbia Women’s Bugaboo II
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Exterior Material: 100% Nylon
Weight: 2 lbs
Insulation: Synthetic
The Columbia Bugaboo II is one of the most versatile winter jackets. It is a 3-in-1 jacket that comes in a wide range of sizes.
What we like about the Columbia Bugaboo II is that each piece works well as an outer layer on its own, but they can also be worn together for full warmth and protection. It is made with an Omni-Tech fabric with critical seam sealing to provide air-permeable protection that is waterproof and breathable. To help regulate your body temperature, Columbia has also added Omni-Heat Reflective technology, which consists of little silver dots that reflect and retain the warmth that your body generates. This jacket features zippered hand pockets, a removable and adjustable storm hood, adjustable cuffs, and drawcord adjustable hem. The Columbia Bugaboo is a three-in-one type of jacket, which means it can act as three different jackets. Its outer layer features pit zips for ventilation, and its inner layer has moisture-wicking abilities, so that it stays dry when you’re sweating. This is also one of the best plus-size winter jackets for women.
What we do not like about the Columbia Bugaboo II is that it does not provide enough pockets for essentials, and the zippers are made of plastic, which doesn’t feel very sturdy. Overall, this is a comfortable jacket that you can wear in three different ways, meaning that you get to make most out of your money.
Best under $200
9. Orolay Thickened Down Jacket
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Exterior Material: 100% Polyester (Machine Washable)
Weight: 4 lbs
Insulation: Down
The Orolay Thickened Down Jacket is one of the best top rated jackets on the market.
What we like about the Orolay Thickened Down Jacket is that it is filled with 90% duck down and 10% duck feather for insulation. It is warm and obsessively stylish. And if you get your exact size, it will still provide you with enough room to wear layers underneath. It features six pockets in total — two of which are hand warmer pockets, and four of which are smaller pockets in which you can still fit your phone and some essentials. Although it is water-resistant, it is not intended for heavy rain. Additionally, it has a side zip that will enable the coat to expand its mobility. The jacket will keep you warm and cozy even in -8°F with a chilly wind that makes it feel like -19°F to -33°F. Furthermore, it features a fleece-lined hood, and the jacket can be folded down and compacted for when you want to add it to your pack. One of the many reasons why women love this jacket so much is that it is super warm and fashionable, with many colors to choose from. Plus, it fits true to size, while still providing you with enough space to wear layers.
What we do not like about this jacket is that its zipper pulls does not look sturdy, but you can always replace it. Also, the hood is not detachable and it has no adjustability options, like a drawstring to tighten it, for instance. All in all, this is a thigh-length jacket that has an excellent windproof ability. It will keep you warm and cozy, without being bulky.
10. Alpine North Vegan Down Long Parka
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Exterior Material: 82% Polyester, 18% Cotton (Machine Washable)
Weight: 3 lbs
Insulation: Vegan Down
The Alpine North Vegan Down Long Parka is one of the best eco-friendly and animal friendly winter jackets on the market.
What we like about the Alpine North Vegan Down Long Parka is that it is filled with down insulation alternative, which means its insulation is made with Vegan Down, as its name suggests. This Vegan Down is made from 100% polyester with a poly/cotton shell. Unlike goose down, this jacket will stay warm and retain heat, even when wet. It is a machine washable jacket, but you have to remove the vegan faux fur before washing to avoid damage. This comfortable jacket will keep you warm even between -22°F and -30°F. It has the ability to protect you from the harshest, coldest, and wettest weather conditions since its outer shell is made from a durable, water-repellent fabric that can resist precipitations to keep you dry in rain or snow. It also features multiple pockets to secure your accessories, has four front welt pockets, one patch pocket, one invisible zip pocket located on the cuff, and an interior lining pocket for securing your other essentials. In addition, it is stylish and it is available in a wide range of not-too-flashy colors. Finally, its slimming design makes it not too bulky, and comes with a generous faux fur for extra coverage and style.
What we do not like about the Alpine North Vegan Down Long Parka however is that it is a little heavy, and the pockets are short and small. All in all, this is a good option for someone looking for an inexpensive, eco-friendly, and animal-friendly winter jacket. It will keep you warm and cozy without being bulky, and it will give you a stylish, sleek, curved look.
Best Winter Jacket for Women Comparison Table
| Foto | Winter Jacket for Women | Exterior Material | Weight | Insulation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Arc'teryx Seyla  | 100% Arato Nylon (Machine Washable) | 1.9 lbs | Down |
| 2. Marmot Montreaux | Exterior Material: 100% Polyester (Machine Washable) | 2.2lbs | Down |
| 3. Canada Goose Shelburne | 85% polyester, 15% cotton (Dry Clean) | 4 lbs | Down |
| 4. Rab Deep Cover Parka | Exterior Material: 100% Ripstop Nylon (Machine Washable) | 1.9 lbs | Down |
| 5. The North Face Arctic Parka II | 73% nylon, 27% cotton (Machine Washable) | 2.8 lbs | Down |
| 6. Marmot Montreal | 100% Polyester (Machine Washable) | 2.2 lbs | Down |
| 7. Columbia Heavenly Long | 100% Polyester (Machine Washable) | 1.5 lbs | Synthetic |
| 8. Columbia Women's Bugaboo II | Exterior Material: 100% Nylon | 2 lbs | Synthetic |
| 9. Orolay Thickened Down Jacket | 100% Polyester (Machine Washable) | 4 lbs | Down |
| 10. Alpine North Vegan Down Long Parka | 82% Polyester, 18% Cotton (Machine Washable) | 3 lbs | Vegan Down |
No matter what kind of outdoor winter activity you want to enjoy, you will need insulated clothing. They are an investment which is why it is important to maintain them properly to make them last longer. To help you avoid making an expensive mistake, we wrote this helpful guide on how to care for and wash insulated clothing.
FAQs
Which type of jacket is best for winter?
The best type of jacket for winter depends on the activity that you are to partake in and on the weather conditions. If you are going to a place where it is cold and where it usually rains, it is best to have a waterproof and insulated winter jacket. If you need a jacket for working outside, an insulated, breathable, waterproof, and durable jacket will suffice. Some of these jackets also have added visibility, which is helpful when it gets dark. Each winter jacket has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is wise to check if the materials and features suit your needs.
When should you wear a winter coat?
A winter jacket is best worn when the temperature is below 25°F, and is worn in general between 25 and 44°F. However, weather conditions might change every year. That is why it is best to listen to your body, because some may feel colder than others, and some can still put up with dresses and light jackets during Fall breezes. You should wear a winter coat when you feel like your body feels cold, and should not just wait until it becomes a trend again.
Buying guide
Insulation types
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Down
This is an insulator from ducks and geese, and it is nature’s best insulator. It provides the most warmth without added weight nor bulk, as long as you do not get it wet. Down insulators are ultralight, packable, and warm. However, they do not insulate when wet, and they are not quick-drying. Overall, they are best used for low-intensity activities or casual occasions.
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Water-resistant down
Down can handle dampness with a polymer treatment, thus making it water-resistant. This insulator is as light as a regular down, and it is also warm and packable. However, it comes at a price.
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Synthetic insulation
This insulator performs well when damp, it is quick-drying, and is less expensive than down insulators. However, it is a bit heavier, thus less packable and less durable as well.
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Down/Synthetic insulation
This insulator offers a mix of down and synthetic insulation. Some manufactures blend both insulators together, and use it either throughout the jacket or just in other parts. This hybrid insulation is not very expensive, and provides the benefits of both down and synthetic insulation.
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Wool/Synthetic insulation
A few manufacturers also blend wool with synthetic insulation to create sheets of insulator. These have the ability to insulate even when damp, and resist odors.
Features
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Waterproof
Because water can hinder insulation performance, an insulated jacket’s outer shell should be water-resistant. Some manufacturers make insulated shells with waterproof and breathable exterior fabric, as well as taped seams. However, these are more expensive.
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3-in-1 design
This is a jacket with an integrated mid-layer and outer shell that attach via zippers or tabs. This design allows you to wear the pieces separately or together.
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Body mapped design
This is the construction of a garment that is based on the body’s feedback or response to an activity. A few examples of this are stretchy side panels, waterproof upper surfaces, windproof front panels, and less bulky insulation on the sides. This feature is added to a jacket for a more refined performance.
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Hood
Most people prefer a hoodless winter jacket because it reduces weight and is easily packable. Some jackets have a removable hood, or can be zipped inside the collar. Few hoods are insulated for additional warmth, and some are also helmet compatible.
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Vents
These are majorly found on rain jackets, but a few insulated jackets include vents on the underarm and/or core vents as well, which comes in handy for high-intensity activities. These vents are often found on jackets with breathable/waterproof jackets.
Adjustment features
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Hood adjustments
These are usually found on the sides, with another one in back. Some hoods use elasticized trim instead for a sleeker look.
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Drawcord
Found at the bottom hem, a drawcord has the ability to block wind and cold air. A few jackets have the drawcord at the waist for a more snug fit.
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Front zipper
Most have a chin guard on the top, and a storm flap in front. Some winter jackets have a water-resistant zipper instead of a storm flap to reduce weight and bulk, while others have a two-way front zip to allow you to adjust the jacket’s bottom opening for walking or sitting comfortably.
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Cuffs
Most winter jackets have Velcro tabs to make it easy to adjust wrist fit, and to be able to seal out wind and cold air. Meanwhile, others utilize an elasticized trim for less bother and bulk.
Pocket features
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Zipper protection
Exposed pockets on some jackets have flaps for rain protection, while other winter jackets have water-resistant zips to eliminate bulky flaps.
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Hipbelt compatibility
Pockets that are set slightly higher will allow you access while wearing a pack hipbelt.
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Music pockets
This feature is often found in urban jackets that have a port inside for headphone cords. Nowadays, some winter jackets do not need this feature due to the apparition and development of wireless headphones.
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Security pockets
This feature is often found in travel jackets. These are pockets (or a single pocket) located inside the jacket. It can be provided with or without a hidden zip opening under a flap or along a seam.
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Drop-in pockets
This feature comes in handy for quickly stashing a hat or gloves. Drop-in pockets are large open pockets located inside the jacket, directly behind the side pockets.
Final Thoughts
There are tons of winter jacket options out there to choose from, but not everything will be as good as they claim to be. Winter jackets are worn for protection, to keep your body warm in freezing temperatures, which is why it is important to get a jacket that is made of quality materials and is equipped with outstanding features.
The jackets that we listed in this article were handpicked from the vast sea of winter jackets that you can find in the market today. If you still haven’t decided which one to get for yourself, you won’t go wrong with picking one of our suggestions.
