With more than 1,500 different winter jacket options available at REI Co-op, it's easy to become overwhelmed. Do you want down, synthetic or wool insulation in your coat? Or maybe no insulation at all? How important are features like breathability, waterproofing and body mapping? And so on.
To help simplify your selection, we polled REI staff, members and customers for their category favorites and narrowed them down to the 11 best-in-class coats for exploring your personal winter wonderland.
Staff Picks
Find quick recommendations below or scroll down for in-depth reviews.
Just like your favorite rom-com star, the Stormhenge Down Hybrid Jacket from REI Co-op features a gruff exterior but is a total softy inside. Its durable water repellent (DWR)-treated, double-layer HydroWall shell repels even the wettest flakes, and 850-fill-power goose down insulation in the body and lower arms help keep it über warm while staying compressible and lightweight (under 2 pounds).
When snowshoeing, we're more likely to sweat under our arms and on our backs (especially while wearing a pack), so it makes sense to look for a jacket featuring relatively lightweight, breathable fabrics in these areas. The Stormhenge features 180-gram recycled-fiber synthetic insulation that's mapped to the upper and lower body as well as side panels that retain warmth when wet and dry quickly. The jacket's down baffles are welded to the shell to better hold in warmth and prevent cold spots. A draft tube in the collar (similar to what you find in many sleeping bags) further deters heat loss.
What does that look like in action? "The Stormhenge moves beautifully, is well-insulated without being bulky and doesn't get soaked through when I'm shoveling," says Ever Meister, hike editor for Expert Advice, adding that the jacket wasn't fazed by Minnesota's -60°F windchill last December. "Another bonus for that shoveling: pit zips! I always overheat when I'm taking care of the sidewalk, but the easy ventilation on this little number keeps me going comfortably." A three-way adjustable hood fits over a helmet in case you want to take the Stormhenge skiing. Buy here.
Just like your favorite rom-com star, the Stormhenge Down Hybrid Jacket from REI Co-op features a gruff exterior but is a total softy inside. Its durable water repellent (DWR)-treated, double-layer HydroWall shell repels even the wettest flakes, and 850-fill-power goose down insulation in the body and lower arms help keep it über warm while staying compressible and lightweight (under 2 pounds).
When snowshoeing, we're more likely to sweat under our arms and on our backs (especially while wearing a pack), so it makes sense to look for a jacket featuring relatively lightweight, breathable fabrics in these areas. The Stormhenge features 180-gram recycled-fiber synthetic insulation that's mapped to the upper and lower body as well as side panels that retain warmth when wet and dry quickly. The jacket's down baffles are welded to the shell to better hold in warmth and prevent cold spots. A draft tube in the collar (similar to what you find in many sleeping bags) further deters heat loss.
What does that look like in action? "The Stormhenge moves beautifully, is well-insulated without being bulky and doesn't get soaked through when I'm shoveling," says Ever Meister, hike editor for Expert Advice, adding that the jacket wasn't fazed by Minnesota's -60°F windchill last December. "Another bonus for that shoveling: pit zips! I always overheat when I'm taking care of the sidewalk, but the easy ventilation on this little number keeps me going comfortably." A three-way adjustable hood fits over a helmet in case you want to take the Stormhenge skiing. Buy here.
Not only did the chairlift revolutionize skiing, but it also spurred the evolution of the ski jacket, accoding to Dana Mathios, curator and director of collections at the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame. "You're moving faster on a lift," she says, as opposed to "putting in the body power [of hiking uphill]." So, if you'd rather hitch a ride than huff and puff, you might want a warmer layer like the Roswell or Sarah Insulated Jacket from Flylow.
Both powder-ready coats feature 80 grams of warm synthetic insulation, and if things get spicy on a mogul run, you can open the generous underarm vents for airflow. Wrist gaskets and a helmet-compatible hood for lift-accessed ski days offer extra protection when the wind is howling. If the flakes start flying (and we hope they do), button up the powder skirt and relish the deep white without suffering a cold derriere. The durable, double-layered hard-shell exterior allows unrestricted movement with fully taped seams and a DWR finish for bonus water-resistance. Four exterior pockets plus additional interior stash spots ensure you have a place for essentials like your wallet, keys and resort pass with room to spare for your pocket PB&J (or burrito). Buy here.
Not only did the chairlift revolutionize skiing, but it also spurred the evolution of the ski jacket, accoding to Dana Mathios, curator and director of collections at the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame. "You're moving faster on a lift," she says, as opposed to "putting in the body power [of hiking uphill]." So, if you'd rather hitch a ride than huff and puff, you might want a warmer layer like the Roswell or Sarah Insulated Jacket from Flylow.
Both powder-ready coats feature 80 grams of warm synthetic insulation, and if things get spicy on a mogul run, you can open the generous underarm vents for airflow. Wrist gaskets and a helmet-compatible hood for lift-accessed ski days offer extra protection when the wind is howling. If the flakes start flying (and we hope they do), button up the powder skirt and relish the deep white without suffering a cold derriere. The durable, double-layered hard-shell exterior allows unrestricted movement with fully taped seams and a DWR finish for bonus water-resistance. Four exterior pockets plus additional interior stash spots ensure you have a place for essentials like your wallet, keys and resort pass with room to spare for your pocket PB&J (or burrito). Buy here.
Seattle-based performance brand Outdoor Research focuses so heavily on innovation that it's included in the name. The Skytour AscentShell Jacket is a prime example: It's designed specifically for backcountry skiing and splitboarding, providing all the water protection of a hard shell combined with the easy-fitting comfort and breathable stretch of a soft shell.
The lightweight, air-permeable and waterproof AscentShell™ membrane exterior features a 3-layer, laminated construction that efficiently dumps the heat your body creates on backcountry ascents. (Uphillers can open the pit zips to shed even more.) Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, the brand knows damp conditions and doesn't skimp on further protection against the wet, with fully taped seams and YKK® Aquaguard® zippers on the exterior hand pockets. A wire brim in the helmet-compatible halo hood helps keep drips off your face.
That feature set, plus great aesthetics, made the Skytour a go-to for one skiier on days she's not punching the clock. "When I am not patrolling I always go for a bright jacket, makes me easy to find," says the reviewer from Snoqualmie who loves the color options for the women's version. In addition to helping you stand out in the lift line, the same reviewer confirms that the internal mesh pocket is large enough to stash a pair of skins. Buy here.
Seattle-based performance brand Outdoor Research focuses so heavily on innovation that it's included in the name. The Skytour AscentShell Jacket is a prime example: It's designed specifically for backcountry skiing and splitboarding, providing all the water protection of a hard shell combined with the easy-fitting comfort and breathable stretch of a soft shell.
The lightweight, air-permeable and waterproof AscentShell™ membrane exterior features a 3-layer, laminated construction that efficiently dumps the heat your body creates on backcountry ascents. (Uphillers can open the pit zips to shed even more.) Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, the brand knows damp conditions and doesn't skimp on further protection against the wet, with fully taped seams and YKK® Aquaguard® zippers on the exterior hand pockets. A wire brim in the helmet-compatible halo hood helps keep drips off your face.
That feature set, plus great aesthetics, made the Skytour a go-to for one skiier on days she's not punching the clock. "When I am not patrolling I always go for a bright jacket, makes me easy to find," says the reviewer from Snoqualmie who loves the color options for the women's version. In addition to helping you stand out in the lift line, the same reviewer confirms that the internal mesh pocket is large enough to stash a pair of skins. Buy here.
Made specifically for cross-country skiing (but versatile enough for any high-intensity cold-weather cardio), the aptly named Dynamic Hybrid from Swix features body-mapped stretch and flex zones to support the dynamic motion of poling along cross-country ski trails and tracks. Moisture-wicking, 75% recycled PrimaLoft Silver insulation traps warmth where it matters most (through the chest), and lighter panels in the back enhance breathability. Wind- and water-resistant front panels help you stay out longer, and zippered hand pockets and an outer chest pocket keep hands warm and/or keys, phone and wallet secure. The jacket's Goldilocks fit is neither too tight nor too loose.
Planning to kick and glide in the early morning or after dark? Then you'll appreciate the jacket's reflective hits on the center back and upper sleeves, which provide a safety-enhancing visibility boost. Buy here.
Made specifically for cross-country skiing (but versatile enough for any high-intensity cold-weather cardio), the aptly named Dynamic Hybrid from Swix features body-mapped stretch and flex zones to support the dynamic motion of poling along cross-country ski trails and tracks. Moisture-wicking, 75% recycled PrimaLoft Silver insulation traps warmth where it matters most (through the chest), and lighter panels in the back enhance breathability. Wind- and water-resistant front panels help you stay out longer, and zippered hand pockets and an outer chest pocket keep hands warm and/or keys, phone and wallet secure. The jacket's Goldilocks fit is neither too tight nor too loose.
Planning to kick and glide in the early morning or after dark? Then you'll appreciate the jacket's reflective hits on the center back and upper sleeves, which provide a safety-enhancing visibility boost. Buy here.
[Cue the "Movie Trailer Guy"] From the outdoor apparel brand that brought you revolutionary waterproof and wind-stopping technology comes a cycling jacket that's so lightweight, so windproof and so water-impenetrable it could only come from GOREWEAR. Introducing the Tempest Thermal Cycling Jacket, a highly breathable and cycling-specific winter wrap that features a nonfluorinated DWR. This highly visible number has a dropped-tail cut and a traditional three-compartment, zippered back pocket. A close-fitting, fleece-lined collar protects against windy, two-wheeled descents, while a touch of grippy elastic at the inner back hem prevents unwanted movement even in the most aggressive cycling stance. Coming to a bike trail near you, this winter.
One happy user reports: "Great cycling jacket and definitely windproof. I have worn this in 40-degree temps with a fleece layer underneath and stayed warm." Buy here.
[Cue the "Movie Trailer Guy"] From the outdoor apparel brand that brought you revolutionary waterproof and wind-stopping technology comes a cycling jacket that's so lightweight, so windproof and so water-impenetrable it could only come from GOREWEAR. Introducing the Tempest Thermal Cycling Jacket, a highly breathable and cycling-specific winter wrap that features a nonfluorinated DWR. This highly visible number has a dropped-tail cut and a traditional three-compartment, zippered back pocket. A close-fitting, fleece-lined collar protects against windy, two-wheeled descents, while a touch of grippy elastic at the inner back hem prevents unwanted movement even in the most aggressive cycling stance. Coming to a bike trail near you, this winter.
One happy user reports: "Great cycling jacket and definitely windproof. I have worn this in 40-degree temps with a fleece layer underneath and stayed warm." Buy here.
Merino wool is the MVP material of winter running, thanks to the way it wicks moisture, helps regulate body temperature, resists odor and stretches with ease. The experts at Smartwool utilize those attributes to your advantage with the Smartloft Jacket, which features a delightfully soft merino interior, where it's most likely to brush against skin. Light, recycled wool insulation throughout the jacket's front adds a boost of packable warmth that breathes even if it gets wet, though it's covered by a wind- and water-resistant recycled nylon shell as an extra barrier against the elements.
"Coming from the Midwest, this is a strong personal recommend for our late January, February and March runners," says Carlos Rodriguez, a senior sales specialist and avid trail runner from the REI store in Wichita, Kansas. "The core is protected for warmth, allowing really solid mobility in the arms, [and] the thumb holes are nice and not too tight. The zippered pocket is about right for a key and doesn't bounce when you gallop." Note that several reviewers recommend sizing up, as the jacket runs small. Buy here.
Merino wool is the MVP material of winter running, thanks to the way it wicks moisture, helps regulate body temperature, resists odor and stretches with ease. The experts at Smartwool utilize those attributes to your advantage with the Smartloft Jacket, which features a delightfully soft merino interior, where it's most likely to brush against skin. Light, recycled wool insulation throughout the jacket's front adds a boost of packable warmth that breathes even if it gets wet, though it's covered by a wind- and water-resistant recycled nylon shell as an extra barrier against the elements.
"Coming from the Midwest, this is a strong personal recommend for our late January, February and March runners," says Carlos Rodriguez, a senior sales specialist and avid trail runner from the REI store in Wichita, Kansas. "The core is protected for warmth, allowing really solid mobility in the arms, [and] the thumb holes are nice and not too tight. The zippered pocket is about right for a key and doesn't bounce when you gallop." Note that several reviewers recommend sizing up, as the jacket runs small. Buy here.
More than 1,000 REI customers have taken the time to fire off comments about the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, and they give this 800-fill-power goose down coat a nearly five-star rating. "Great minimal jacket for an alpine or backpacking layer system," says a reviewer from Ohio. Another says, "I wanted a nice warm jacket so I didn't have to layer all the time. This jacket is great for the fall in Utah it keeps you warm at 40°F. It's super lightweight and comfy you'll forget you're even wearing it." In fact, the entire Fuego line—including a 600-fill-power hooded down jacket for younger campers as well as a vest, parka and the ridiculously awesome down overalls—is top-rated at the co-op.
Of course, the Fuego is eye-catching—as are most other products from this certified B Corporation dedicated to "gear for good." But the Fuego is much more than a pretty face. It's made with a durable 20-denier ripstop nylon exterior lining to resist scratches from errant branches and unwieldy tent poles. The water-resistant goose down insulation keeps your trunk and arms toasty, and a drawcord hem and elastic bindings at the hood and cuffs prevent drafts from wafting in. A scuba hood protects ya neck from the chill. Zippered hand pockets offer more protection from the cold, and a stash pocket is perfect for a trail snack; the whole coat stuffs into that interior pocket for easy packing and quick layering. One note: The coat itself isn't waterproof or windproof. If there's rain or snow in the forecast, bring a hard shell to wear over this puffy. Also available in kids' sizes with 600-fill-power goose down insulation. Buy here.
More than 1,000 REI customers have taken the time to fire off comments about the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, and they give this 800-fill-power goose down coat a nearly five-star rating. "Great minimal jacket for an alpine or backpacking layer system," says a reviewer from Ohio. Another says, "I wanted a nice warm jacket so I didn't have to layer all the time. This jacket is great for the fall in Utah it keeps you warm at 40°F. It's super lightweight and comfy you'll forget you're even wearing it." In fact, the entire Fuego line—including a 600-fill-power hooded down jacket for younger campers as well as a vest, parka and the ridiculously awesome down overalls—is top-rated at the co-op.
Of course, the Fuego is eye-catching—as are most other products from this certified B Corporation dedicated to "gear for good." But the Fuego is much more than a pretty face. It's made with a durable 20-denier ripstop nylon exterior lining to resist scratches from errant branches and unwieldy tent poles. The water-resistant goose down insulation keeps your trunk and arms toasty, and a drawcord hem and elastic bindings at the hood and cuffs prevent drafts from wafting in. A scuba hood protects ya neck from the chill. Zippered hand pockets offer more protection from the cold, and a stash pocket is perfect for a trail snack; the whole coat stuffs into that interior pocket for easy packing and quick layering. One note: The coat itself isn't waterproof or windproof. If there's rain or snow in the forecast, bring a hard shell to wear over this puffy. Also available in kids' sizes with 600-fill-power goose down insulation. Buy here.
Back in the era when Nirvana dominated the radio waves and Saved By the Bell ruled Saturday morning TV, The North Face dropped what's since become a staple in winter wardrobes across the nation. First introduced in 1992 and updated in 1996, the Nuptse Down Jacket featured oversize baffles, a shiny ripstop fabric and iconic brand logo: The rerelease has several of those same attributes, plussed-up with 700-fill-power goose down that meets the Responsible Down Standard, and compresses so the jacket packs down into its own right pocket. For extra warmth, the collar baffle serves as a secret compartment for an attached hood. The Nuptse deflects light rain but won't be a top pick on windy days.
The jacket stands the test of time. Cassie da Costa, Run editor for Expert Advice, owns an original Nuptse and still loves it. "It's cozy, stylish and works well both sitting by the campfire and when walking around in below-freezing temps," she says. "You'll find many a New Yorker in this puffy—of course, in black." The original boxy silhouette and shorter overall length works well for folks with smaller torsos, da Costa adds. Buy here.
Back in the era when Nirvana dominated the radio waves and Saved By the Bell ruled Saturday morning TV, The North Face dropped what's since become a staple in winter wardrobes across the nation. First introduced in 1992 and updated in 1996, the Nuptse Down Jacket featured oversize baffles, a shiny ripstop fabric and iconic brand logo: The rerelease has several of those same attributes, plussed-up with 700-fill-power goose down that meets the Responsible Down Standard, and compresses so the jacket packs down into its own right pocket. For extra warmth, the collar baffle serves as a secret compartment for an attached hood. The Nuptse deflects light rain but won't be a top pick on windy days.
The jacket stands the test of time. Cassie da Costa, Run editor for Expert Advice, owns an original Nuptse and still loves it. "It's cozy, stylish and works well both sitting by the campfire and when walking around in below-freezing temps," she says. "You'll find many a New Yorker in this puffy—of course, in black." The original boxy silhouette and shorter overall length works well for folks with smaller torsos, da Costa adds. Buy here.
The REI staff just can't get enough of the windproof Nano Puff Jacket from Patagonia, thanks to its 60 grams of PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Eco postconsumer recycled polyester. This filler is water-repellent and retains an impressive 98% of its insulating ability even when wet. A brick quilting pattern ensures the insulation stays put when washed, rather than bunching uncomfortably.
"Everyone in our family owns Nano Puff jackets that have lasted us for years," says Phuong Le, Expert Advice managing editor who's based in wet and chilly Seattle. She adds that they use the jacket for all seasons and multiple activities (but they don't wear matching colors). "It's our base layer of choice when we don't want the thickness of fleece, and though it's not waterproof, it has surprisingly kept us all warm through some unexpected rainy adventures."
Emma Cullen, who works at REI on the paid-media team and lives in snowy Idaho, adds that the Nano Puff lives up to its name. "I barely remember that I am wearing a jacket when in the Nano Puff," she says. "It's so lightweight and moves with me whether I'm ripping skins, using hiking poles or just out for a dog walk. This is the perfect jacket to keep as a 'just in case' layer in a bag since it is so small but can be so warm."
Know who else loves the Nano Puff? Your Mother (Earth, that is). The jacket's recycled insulation comprises 100% post-consumer material, and its fully recycled polyester ripstop shell features a moisture-shedding DWR finish that's free from perfluorinated chemicals. (Other Nano Puff products include a parka, hoodie and mittens.) Also available in girls', boys' and infants'/toddlers'.Buy here.
The REI staff just can't get enough of the windproof Nano Puff Jacket from Patagonia, thanks to its 60 grams of PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Eco postconsumer recycled polyester. This filler is water-repellent and retains an impressive 98% of its insulating ability even when wet. A brick quilting pattern ensures the insulation stays put when washed, rather than bunching uncomfortably.
"Everyone in our family owns Nano Puff jackets that have lasted us for years," says Phuong Le, Expert Advice managing editor who's based in wet and chilly Seattle. She adds that they use the jacket for all seasons and multiple activities (but they don't wear matching colors). "It's our base layer of choice when we don't want the thickness of fleece, and though it's not waterproof, it has surprisingly kept us all warm through some unexpected rainy adventures."
Emma Cullen, who works at REI on the paid-media team and lives in snowy Idaho, adds that the Nano Puff lives up to its name. "I barely remember that I am wearing a jacket when in the Nano Puff," she says. "It's so lightweight and moves with me whether I'm ripping skins, using hiking poles or just out for a dog walk. This is the perfect jacket to keep as a 'just in case' layer in a bag since it is so small but can be so warm."
Know who else loves the Nano Puff? Your Mother (Earth, that is). The jacket's recycled insulation comprises 100% post-consumer material, and its fully recycled polyester ripstop shell features a moisture-shedding DWR finish that's free from perfluorinated chemicals. (Other Nano Puff products include a parka, hoodie and mittens.) Also available in girls', boys' and infants'/toddlers'.Buy here.
Back in January 2014, the author of this story endured a Chicago storm so cold the Lincoln Park Zoo moved its resident polar bears inside. This is the coat she wishes she'd had with her: the Nuuk Insulated Parka from Fjallraven. This winter heavyweight parka contains a whopping 250 grams of synthetic insulation, and drapes below the rear and thighs for exceptional coverage and heat. The Supreme Microloft insulation is designed to mimic the warmth-trapping power of feathers without their downsides: Though th synthetic filler isn't as compressible as down, it retains its loftiness over time, stays warm even when wet and proves easier to clean. (Related reading: Down vs. Synthetic: Which Insulation Is Right for You?)
The Nuuk's exterior fabric is a durable recycled polyamide and includes a waterproof breathable membrane. Don the fleece-lined storm hood to block frigid winds, and either embrace the faux fur look or remove it (the edging is detachable). Eight pockets offer a place to warm chilly hands and house far more than the essentials. Finally, an adjustable drawcord at the waist creates a flattering silhouette. So, while the Nuuk might feel like you're wearing a sleeping bag (it's hefty at more than 3 pounds), it doesn't look like it. Note that some reviewers find the size runs large; consider sizing down in this burly coat. Buy here.
Back in January 2014, the author of this story endured a Chicago storm so cold the Lincoln Park Zoo moved its resident polar bears inside. This is the coat she wishes she'd had with her: the Nuuk Insulated Parka from Fjallraven. This winter heavyweight parka contains a whopping 250 grams of synthetic insulation, and drapes below the rear and thighs for exceptional coverage and heat. The Supreme Microloft insulation is designed to mimic the warmth-trapping power of feathers without their downsides: Though th synthetic filler isn't as compressible as down, it retains its loftiness over time, stays warm even when wet and proves easier to clean. (Related reading: Down vs. Synthetic: Which Insulation Is Right for You?)
The Nuuk's exterior fabric is a durable recycled polyamide and includes a waterproof breathable membrane. Don the fleece-lined storm hood to block frigid winds, and either embrace the faux fur look or remove it (the edging is detachable). Eight pockets offer a place to warm chilly hands and house far more than the essentials. Finally, an adjustable drawcord at the waist creates a flattering silhouette. So, while the Nuuk might feel like you're wearing a sleeping bag (it's hefty at more than 3 pounds), it doesn't look like it. Note that some reviewers find the size runs large; consider sizing down in this burly coat. Buy here.
Before purchasing a new winter coat, consider how you plan to use it. High-intensity activities like running and cross-country or backcountry skiing, will typically demand not only less insulation in an over layer (as your body temperature will rise with activity), but also maximum flexibility to allow you to move freely. On the other hand, a lower-intensity cold-weather activity, like camping, will call for maximum insulation, and winter cycling requires windproofness. Factors such as the coat's length, whether or not it has a hood, and its weight will also come into play.
Weather Protection vs. Breathability
In general, weather protection comes at the expense of breathability—preventing water or wind from entering a garment also tends to prevent sweat vapor from exiting the same garment. Weather protection also tends to add to the overall price of a jacket.
For these reasons, we often recommend weather-resistant soft shells for cold-but-not-wet activities like hiking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Such soft shells provide some insulation from the cold along with light weather protection, but breathability is where they really shine, making them great for high-output days in cold weather. In this lineup, our softshell picks are the Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell, GOREWEAR Tempest Thermal, Smartwool Smartloft, Cotopaxi Fuego and Patagonia Nano Puff jackets.
Body mapping is a garment-construction method that focuses on how the wearer's body responds to activity. For example, when snowshoeing or winter hiking, we're more likely to sweat under our arms and on our backs—especially when wearing a pack—and body-mapped apparel is designed to address that by retaining or releasing heat strategically. This might mean a garment is made from multiple materials, has seamless construction or is thicker or thinner in places. If you are looking for a jacket to wear while participating in strenuous activity, it makes sense to look for a jacket featuring lightweight, breathable fabrics in key areas based on the movements you'll be doing and the environment where you'll be recreating. The body mapped jackets in this lineup are the REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid, Flylow Sarah and Roswell, Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell, Swix Dynamic Hybrid and Smartwool Smartloft jackets.
Insulation
Ah, the art of layering. If you're looking to purchase a winter jacket for any remotely aerobic activity, your best bet is to learn how your layers work together and then plop a soft or hard shell (above) on top. It's always easy to remove a layer if you overheat.
In general, features like pockets and adjustment tabs make a jacket heavier and less packable. If you're using your winter coat for casual use, then go all out in identifying the extras that matter to you. If, however, you plan to take your jacket on the trail or into the backcountry, scrutinize those add-ons because you'll be carrying the jacket the whole time, whether it's on your back or in your pack. Also, pay attention to activity-specific features: Skiers may want a hood that fits over a helmet, while climbers may want a hood that fits under a helmet. Things like pit zips and stretchy fabric can be worth their weight on more technical pursuits, while pocket placement matters if you plan to wear a pack.
Methodology
We polled REI staff, members and customers for their favorite winter jackets based on their comfort, warmth, weatherproofness, durability, packability and style. These are their favorites for a wide range of activities, including hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, climbing, fat-tire biking, running, winter camping and everyday wear.
