‘I Live Where It’s Literally Always Freezing, and These Are the Best Winter Coats for Extreme Cold’
When you either live a really cold place, or are vacationing in a really cold place, women's winter coats for extreme cold are essential. There's cold places and then there's really cold places. I, for one, live in a really cold place. Lake Placid, New York is a small tourist town tucked away in upstate New York. Not, like, the Castkills upstate. Like, Canadian border upstate. Come winter, temps regularly hit below freezing. The icy, snowy weather mixed with the access to mountains (hello, skiing!) have landed it not one, but two winter Olympic games. Simply put, the place is freakin' cold and having the right cold winter gear is pretty much mandatory.
Best winter coats at a glance
- Best overall: Patagonia, Down With It Parka ($349)
- Best short puffer: Norden, Mia Cire Puffer ($198)
- Best splurge: Canada Goose, Shelburne Water Resistant Down Parka ($1,395)
- Best under $200: L.L. Bean, Women's Mountain Classic Down Parka ($199)
- Best with faux fur hood: WenVen, Women's Winter Thicken Puffer Coat ($106)
- Best on Amazon: Orolay, Thickened Down Jacket ($152)
- Best full-length: Arc'teryx, Thorium Parka ($700)
- Best down alternative: Columbia, Women's Suttle Mountain Long Jacket ($230)
- Best insulated for snow sports: Helly Hansen, Powchaser Lifaloft Insulated Jacket ($350)
- Best shell jacket for snow sports: Stio, Environ Jacket ($465)
- Best retro: The North Face, 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket ($330)
- Best quilted: Athleta, Whisper Featherless Parka ($229)
- Best waterproof: Outdoor Research, Women's Carbide Jacket ($329)
- Best packable: Mountain Hardwear, Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded Down Jacket ($265)
- Best for running: On, Insulator Jacket ($180)
- Best mid-length: Noize, Addie Mid Length Parka ($250)
- Best sustainable: Cotopaxi, Fuego Hooded Down Jacket ($295)
- Best casual: Everlane, The ReNew Long Puffer ($278)
- Best relaxed fit: lululemon, Wunder Puff Jacket ($298)
- Best wool: J.Crew, Cocoon Coat ($365)
Living in what is effectively the tundra, I have learned to dress for such volatile weather. And while things like snow boots and fleece-lined leggings are very-much needed, the one essential I recommend for keeping out the chill is a winter coat for the extreme cold. It's a non-negotiable. And not just any old winter coat but the right winter coat—these are the pieces that keep you warm when the temps hit the negatives or keep you dry when a snow squall blows through during your casual evening stroll.
If you're gearing up for a long, chilly winter and are in the market for a new coat, you've come to the right place. Take it from someone who lives in a cold place—these are the best women's winter coats for the extreme cold.
Shop the best women's winter coats for extreme cold
Sizes available: XS-2XL
This is my go-to parka that I’ll toss on for running errands, walking the dog, weekend getaways—just about anything. It comes down to your knees, which, IMO, is perfect parka length. As for the specs: It’s filled with a recycled 600-fill down that’s warm without being stuffy or chunky, so you can layer in comfort. It also has a water repellent finish on the recycled polyester exterior, which helps keep snowy moisture at bay. If you’re looking for a solid overall pick, this is a solid bet.
Colors available: 6
Materials: Recycled polyester shell, recycled down fill
Pros:
- Fitted silhouette in a wide size range
- Warm pockets (with an interior zip pocket)
- Detachable hood
Cons:
- Water repellent, but not waterproof
Sizes available: XS-2XL
This short puffer from Norden is super warm and the right length to so you can move around easily. It’s lined and insulated and has an adjustable hem so you can cinch it to keep the warmth in. The pockets are micro-polar lined, and there’s a lined inner pocket to store your phone, too. The jacket is designed to withstand temperatures down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit.
But it’s also sustainable—the brand uses repurposed and recycled materials with manufactured in partnership with eco-friendly organizations, then packs them in biodegradable shipping materials. It’s warm and good for the planet, making it well worth the money.
Colors available: 6
Materials: Recycled polyester
Pros:
- Rated for temps down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit
- Lined pockets for added warmth
Cons:
- No hooded options
Sizes available: 2XS-XL
This water-resistant Canada Goose parka may be pricey, but is loaded with features to keep you warm. It has a 625-fill-power down insulation, a removable extended hood trim, and snap closures on the cuffs and the back to lock in heat. It has interior and exterior pockets, as well as handy backpack straps inside that let you carry your jacket hands-free.
Colors available: 2
Materials: Down insulation, recycled nylon lining, polyester and cotton outer
Pros:
- Lots of pockets
- Backpack straps for hands-free carrying
Cons:
- Priciest coat on this list
- Not many color options
Sizes available: XXS-XL, Petite, Regular, and Plus options
You can’t beat L.L.Bean for affordable, high-quality winter coats. The Mountain Classic Down Parka is filled with 650-fill DownTek down insulation (which is coated to stay dry and prevent clumping) and is rated for temps down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The recycled shell repels moisture and stops the wind chill, too, without clumping the down or getting it wet. It has a detachable hood, too. For less than $200, this jacket is a winner.
Colors available: 4 options
Materials: Recycled polyester shell, DownTek insulation
Pros:
- Available in petite, regular, and plus sizes
- DownTek insulation doesn’t clump or get soggy
- One of the more affordable options on this list
Cons:
- May run large
Sizes available: S-4XL
This jacket has a snuggly fill, thigh-length design, and added fur-trim parka. It’s crafted to be totally sealed against cold temps and has a thick layer of insulation for protection and warmth, plus a double enclosure and windproof ribbed cuffs to keep the chill out. It’s also waterproof.
Colors available: 10+
Materials: Polyester outer, synthetic fill
Pros:
- Budget-friendly pick
- Lots of color options
- Waterproof shell
Cons:
- No recycled materials
- May run small
Sizes available: 2XL-5XL
This jacket, nicknamed “the Amazon coat,” has been the star of many an Instagram feed. It’s affordable, stylish, and warm. It has a fleece-lined hood, side zippers to let you wear it looser, and so many roomy pockets (six) that you’ll almost never need to carry a bag again. Best of all, it’s relatively affordable and comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes. You can also find styles with a fur-lined hood if that’s your jam.
Colors available: 10+
Materials: Polyester shell, duck down insulation
Pros:
- Wide range of sizes and colors
- Six large pockets
- Fleece-lined hood with optional fur lining
Cons:
- No recycled materials
Sizes available: 2XS-2XL
If you do live in a place where temps frequent below zero, I would recommend investing in an Arc’teryx jacket. The brand is beloved for all-things cold-weather, and while expensive, their products are worth it. The Thorium is a full-length parka with an insulated hood and the whole coat is insulated (a whopping 750-fill to be exact) with responsibly-sourced goose down to keep you warm from head to toes. It’s lightweight and has a water-resistant nylon exterior, too.
Colors available: 3
Materials: Responsibly-sourced goose down fill, synthetic insulation (in the areas where moisture-resistance is important), nylon shell
Pros:
- 750-fill down for serious warmth
- Super long
- Water resistant exterior
Cons:
- Pricier option
- Only 3 colors
Sizes available: XS-2XL, with Plus sizes available
The Columbia’s Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket has a heat-reflective lining and a synthetic down lining. For light snow, rain, and wind, this toasty coat is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s feature-friendly, with extras like a sherpa-lined hood (to keep your ears snug) and a 2-way zipper that can allow for better mobility.
Colors available: 10
Materials: Synthetic polyester down, faux fur, polyester shell
Pros:
- Omni-Heat reflective material helps trap warmth
- Completely vegan
Cons:
- Not all colors available in Plus sizes
Sizes available: XS-XL
This jacket has everything you want out of a resort or backcountry jacket—lightweight, yet reliable insulation that doesn’t compromise movement, an exterior that actually stops moisture in its tracks, a helmet-compatible hood, underarm vents, pockets for hands-free storage, and more.
Colors available: 6
Materials: Polyester
Pros:
- Waterproof exterior
- Insulated, but also includes vents
- Great for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, etc.
Cons:
- Less sizing variety than other picks on this list
Sizes available: 2XS-2XL
Waterproof and breathable, the Stio Environ jacket is made with recycled fabric that will keep you dry and warm on the mountain. It has a removable hood, underarm vents, pockets inside and out, and a snow skirt for those long days on the slopes or tubing hills. Plus, Stio is Carbon Neutral Certified, making this one of the more sustainable picks on our list.
Colors available: 6
Materials: Recycled polyester
Pros:
- Durable, waterproof fabric for snow sports
- Carbon Neutral Certified
- Wide range of sizes and colors
Cons:
- Not insulated
Sizes available: 2XS-3XL (Plus sizes available)
Throw it back to the ’90s, 1996 to be exact, which is when the original version of this puffer was introduced. This version still has that retro look, but with modern touches. It’s made of recycled fabrics, and has 700-fill down, a water-repellent exterior, and a stowable hood. The jacket also packs itself into the right hand pocket, which is super handy for travel.
Colors available: 8
Materials: Recycled nylon outer, 700-fill goose down insulation
Pros:
- Water-repellent exterior
- Stowable hood and self-packing pocket
- Responsible Down Standard certified
Cons:
- May run short on longer torsos
Sizes available: 2XS-3X
Not everyone likes the Jet Puff fluffernutter look of a down jacket. That’s okay—you can get something slim that still stays warm, like this parka from Athleta. Instead of down, it’s filled with a lightweight alternative to traditional feather fluff. The exterior is made of recycled, water-repellent nylon, leaving you with a featherlight coat that is quietly cozy—without overdoing it.
Colors available: 3
Materials: Recycled nylon, 3M Thinsulate™ down alternative insulation
Pros:
- Lightweight design that still covers your bum
- Recycled nylon and down alternative
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Less color options than other coats on this list
- May not be warm enough for super cold temps
Sizes available: XS-XL
This award-winning jacket is built for the slopes but can be worn just well off them, too. It’s made with three sturdy layers of waterproof protection that keep you dry and warm (but never sweaty or sticky). Just note, It’s technically a shell which means it’s made for layering and keeping your clothes dry from wind, rain, and snow (aka, layer up).
Colors available: 3
Materials: Nylon, waterproof Pertex shield
Pros:
- Helmet compatible
- Waterproof exterior
- Built in ventilation
Cons:
- Not insulated
- No solid color options
Sizes available: XS-XL
Like its name suggests, the Ghost Whisperer down puffy from Mountain Hardwear packs down in a pinch, so you’ll forget anything’s there. Seriously—it weights under 8 ounces, meaning it’s perfect for indoor and outdoor adventures alike. Still, this coat packs a lot of heat: with 800-fill goose down insulation and an elastic draw-cord hem, you’ll have no problem fending off the cold winter air.
Colors available: 10
Materials: Recycled nylon shell, 800-fill goose down insulation
Pros:
- Super lightweight and easy to stow
- Recycled, water-resistant nylon ripstop shell
Cons:
- Only standard sizes available (no plus or petites)
Sizes available: XS-XL
The outside of this jacket is a weather-resistant material that sloughs off rain, sleet, and snow. But the inside features a wool insulator designed to keep you snug as a bug whether you’re running up a mountain or down the road. It’s airy and durable, built to stay to warm stride after stride.
Colors available: 4
Materials: Synthetic polyamide exterior, wool insulation padding
Pros:
- Wool provides temperature-regulating warmth
- Zippered pockets
- Durable, water-repellent outer
Cons:
- May run small
Sizes available: XS-2XL
Noize is a one-stop shop for all things cruelty free, eco-friendly, and sustainably-made. This mid-length heavyweight parka does a darn good job keeping the cold out when the temps drop. In true Noize fashion, there’s no bird feathers or animal fur—everything is vegan, so you can look good and feel good, too.
Colors available: 4
Materials: 100% polyester shell and insulation
Pros:
- Completely vegan
- Mid-length helps contain body heat
- Removable faux fur hood and plenty of pockets
Cons:
- No plus or petite sizes
Sizes available: 2XS-3X
Cotopaxi is a certified B Corp, which means ethical sustainability is built into all of their products. This jacket is not only warm, water-resistant, and lightweight, but it’s also made with responsibly-sourced down. It has elastic binding at the hood and cuffs to keep heat inside, and it comes in a ton of colorful patterns. One percent of company revenues also goes to the Cotopaxi Foundation to help alleviate poverty.
Colors available: 10+
Materials: Responsibly-sourced 800-fill down, water-resistant nylon shell
Pros:
- Strong focus on sustainability
- Wide range of colors and sizes
- Warm 800-fill down insulation
Cons:
- Scuba hood is not removable or adjustable
Sizes available: 2XS-XL
This long puffer is versatile and casual enough to pair of jeans or joggers, so you’ll want to wear it all season long. It has a drawstring hood and drawstring waist, and oversized front pockets for convenience. Bonus: It’s also made of recycled fabric and filled with recycled Primaloft insulation.
Colors available: 3
Materials: 100% recycled polyester (uses 60 recycled plastic water bottles!)
Pros:
- Casual design makes this pick easier to dress up (or down)
- Uses all recycled materials
- Deep front pockets
Cons:
- No interior pockets
- Hood is not removable
Sizes available: 0-14
This puffer has a cinchable waist so you can pull it in tight, or leave extra room to layer underneath. The 600-fill goose down insulation will help keep your torso toasty, while the recycled polyester exterior helps keep wind and water at bay. Plus, it has a removable hood and it comes in a variety of fun colors so you’re sure to find something to match your wardrobe.
Colors available: 7
Materials: Polyester (both recycled and new), 600-fill goose down insulation
Pros:
- Adjustable fit for a relaxed feel
- Interior and exterior pockets
- Removable hood
Cons:
- No Plus or Petite sizes
Sizes available: 00-24 (Classic, Petite, and Tall sizes)
A classic wool coat is a closet essential. This one from J.Crew is made with wool/nylon blend and has a cocoon style that will wrap you in cozy warmth. It’s lined, has a standing collar, and flat welt pockets for a sleek, stylish look.
Colors available: 4
Materials: Italian wool, nylon
Pros:
- Elevated design
- Durable and warm Italian wool
- Exterior and interior pockets
Cons:
- Not water-resistant
How to chose a winter coat for extreme cold
How much insulation do you need?
When it comes to insulated winter coats, you'll want to take stock of the "fill power," which indicates how warm the jacket will be. If you're hoping to stay toasty with a down or down-alternative jacket, look for insulation that's 600-fill or higher. Additionally, think about how you'll be using your coat: if you're looking to stay warm while skiing or snowboarding, prioritize water-resistant or waterproof materials.
How much coverage do you need?
Coverage is a matter of personal preference (and your personal style), but keeping your legs and bum warm with a long puffy coat can be extremely helpful when the temperature plummets. Still, there are plenty of warm waist-length jackets on this list if a longer fit isn't for you.
What features are important to you in a winter coat?
The coats on our list have a variety of added bells and whistles. Whether you're looking for deep pockets, a removable hood, interior shoulder straps, or built-in hand cuffs, you'll find a coat with your desired features on this list. Just note that they sometimes come at a higher price (as with the Canada Goose pick, above).
What's your budget?
As our list proves, you can certainly find a quality winter coat at a wide variety of prices. There are plenty of lower-priced coats on our list (as far as winter coats go, that is), but some of the more reputable brands above come with a higher price tag—they also may be more durable and even help out with repairs (as with Patagonia) down the line.
Frequently asked questions about winter coats for extreme cold
What coats are as warm as Canada Goose?
Canada Goose coats are revered for being some of the warmest jackets around, thanks to their higher fill count. Still, there are a handful of other coats on our list that have the same 600-and-up fill count, if not higher. Look for brands that offer 600-800-fill warmth and wind-resistant outers for maximum toastiness. The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, and Cotopaxi coats we reviewed all meet that criteria.
What is a warm winter coat that is not bulky?
Puffer coats tend to be on the bulky side (all that insulation has to go somewhere!), but you can find plenty of warm jackets that have keep a low profile. As mentioned above, the Athleta Whisper Featherless Parka and the J.Crew Cocoon Coat both offer a slimmer profile without compromising too much in the warmth department.
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