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Alongside a good pair of boots and gloves, a down parka is one of winter’s true essentials. Less fussy than wool coats yet more protective than cropped puffer jackets, parkas are effective against rain, snow, wind, and cold. They’re usually packed with duck or goose down (both of which are similarly warm), although synthetic insulators can also be highly effective. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight everyday parka or a heavy-duty one that’ll hold its own against New York City snowstorms (when they finally arrive), here are the best ones — as recommended and tested by myself, fellow Strategist staffers, outerwear designers, outdoors people, and stylish types. A winter coat is one of the biggest wardrobe investments you can make, but experts assured me that you don’t need to spend a fortune to stay warm and dry each season. If you can splurge, though — and it’s a great idea to shop around for deals during the off-season — then it’s often worth it: “Good-quality fabric and other special features cost money,” says outerwear designer Terez Havancsak. The result is a “purposeful, well-built parka” that will last multiple seasons.
What we’re looking for
Insulation
With parkas and other winter coats, “puffiness does not always equal warmth,” says Dr. Susan Sokolowski, founding director of the University of Oregon’s sports products design program. All down jackets receive a fill-power rating indicative of how many cubic inches each ounce of feathers occupies. If a parka has a 950 rating, that means its down will “fill 950 cubic inches and weigh just one ounce,” explains Eric Goodwin, outerwear designer and founder of Lathley. Which makes for a lightweight yet very warm coat.
Fill power usually changes according to how much actual down, as opposed to larger and longer duck or goose feathers, is in the mix. “A feather pillow would have terrible fill power because it’s mostly feathers, but a high-end 950 fill power jacket will have almost all down and no feathers in its insulation,” as Goodwin elaborates. Still, fill power isn’t everything. “Parkas are usually heavy, bulky, and not very compressible” anyway, he adds. “So it doesn’t apply as much as you might think.” As a general rule, Havancsak advises that you want to be looking for a rating of 550 and above when buying a down coat.
While most of the parkas recommended here are packed with duck or goose down, I also found some vegan options. Synthetic stuffing like PrimaLoft and Thinsulate closely mimic the insulating properties of feathers, although down is still lighter and warmer on average. One major advantage of synthetic fill is that it can retain warmth when wet; it’s also easier to wash and dries out faster than feathers will. If you are parka shopping in a rainier climate like the Pacific Northwest, Goodwin suggests you either buy a synthetic parka or a down one with very advanced waterproofing.
Wind and water resistance
Speaking of rain, parkas with nylon exteriors will provide lightweight yet effective protection against wind and wet. Down parkas especially should be treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating to protect their precious insulation, and the very best ones will go above and beyond this standard, using materials such as Gore-Tex and other synthetic membranes to wick sweat and other moisture. In terms of wind resistance, fur-trimmed hoods are a design feature that’s worth considering, according to Goodwin. These “will block the wind in the same way a furry microphone cover will block wind noise.” In this context, “faux fur will perform the same as real fur.”
Comfort
The best parkas come with additional design features that make dreary days cozier: fleece-lined pockets, insulated hoods, and high collars. Havancsak also advises prioritizing an inner zip pocket for storing your phone, as well as “tight and warm cuffs” to lock in heat. For maximum comfort, Sokolowski says that sizing is important. “Make sure the parka fits appropriately, covers your body over the areas you want protected, and allows your body to move freely,” she says. “Not too tight to restrict motion, but also not too big where the hood would get in the way of your peripheral vision, or the hem could trip you when walking.”
Best women’s parka overall
Insulation: 640 fill power duck down | Wind and water resistance: DWR shell | Comfort: Anti-static lining, packable, knee length, removable hood
For a minimalist parka that won’t break the bank, Uniqlo is an eternally safe bet. A longtime Strategist staffer favorite, this anonymous-looking coat is perfect for commuters in cities where winter temperatures tend to hover a little above freezing and rain isn’t an everyday occurrence. Trying it on for myself, I was immediately struck by how lightweight and packable this parka is, making it ideal for winter travel. Stylist Rasheena Liberté loves the versatility of its removable hood: “It lets you go for a chic hoodless puffer on lighter-weather days, with the option to pocket the lightweight hood until needed,” she says. In fact, the entire jacket packs down into an included storage pouch for when the weather switches up. If you’re forced to keep it on all day, though, Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell attests that hers has proven warm enough for waiting outside in long COVID-testing lines and bundling up while outdoor dining. The coat was updated last year to have an anti-static lining (especially useful when you’re wearing a beret or beanie), a slightly longer length, and a gradient quilting for a more flattering shape in the back.
Best puffy parka
Insulation: 700 fill duck down | Wind and water resistance: DWR shell | Comfort: Fleece-lined hand pockets, thumbholes, inner zip pocket
With their array of colorways and fabric finishes, Aritzia’s Super Puff jackets have become enormously popular in recent years. Though multiple Strategist staffers are fans, I was a skeptic until the brand sent me one to try last winter. Sure enough, I ended up wearing this truly warm and waterproof parka most days. Fleece-lined pockets and stretchy thumbholes make an unexpectedly huge difference when walking to the subway, and the hood is perfectly sized to fit a beanie beneath. One final aspect of the Super Puff’s appeal is its anonymity. Apart from a small logo on the back of the hood, the exterior is unbranded and minimal-looking. Unlike a North Face Nuptse puffer or some of the other options listed here, it will disappear against any outfit.
Best (less-expensive) puffy parka
Insulation: 700 fill duck down | Wind and water resistance: DWR shell | Comfort: Fleece-lined hand pockets, thumbholes, inner zip pocket, removable hood
Quince, the DTC brand best known for its affordable linen bedsheets and washable silk slip skirts, ventured into outerwear for the first time in 2022. After switching between Aritzia and Quince last winter (my Quince parka is actually the shorter version recommended a few spots further down on this list), I’m happy to report that the latter brand’s down parka is an almost-identical Super Puff dupe, albeit available in far fewer colorways. There are those same thumbholes and fuzzy pockets, and the minimalist silhouette is extremely similar. One difference is that Quince’s parka has a removable hood, which might actually be an improvement on the Super Puff’s design. It’s $170 cheaper, with free shipping, and completely logoless.
Best even puffier parka
Insulation: 750 fill power | Wind and waterproofing: DWR shell | Comfort: Insulated, detachable hood, two-way zipper, fleece-lined pockets, waist drawcord
A worthwhile upgrade is this down North Face parka that also comes recommended by Havancsak. She likes it for cold, dry climates — those who are likely to get caught in the rain with any regularity are better off with the more waterproof Arctic parka, above. The long and relaxed fit makes room for multiple layers underneath while also creating a streetwear-inspired look. The two-way front zip increases versatility, and multiple zippered pockets are great for stashing stuff on the go.
Best non-puffy parka
Insulation: 750 fill power core and sleeves, synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas | Wind and waterproofing: Gore-Tex shell, waterproof zippers | Comfort: Hand and interior pockets, insulated hood, streamlined look
For those living through endless stretches of wet and freezing days each winter, Arc’teryx offers this impressively designed wind-and-water-resistant parka that’s super-warm yet very streamlined. Every expert I spoke with recommended this parka, which is also Strategist editor Maxine Builder’s go-to winter coat. It was mentioned very favorably when we interviewed Canadians about their favorite Canada-Goose alternatives, too. The hardy Gore-Tex exterior is designed for the worst of days, and the parka has an insulated hood and two-way zippers, with the latter allowing for more mobility even with the extra length.
Best (less-expensive) non-puffy parka
Insulation: 550 fill goose down | Wind and water resistance: DWR, wind-resistant shell with breathable membrane | Comfort: Internal zip pocket, ribbed cuffs, faux-fur hood
Several experts I spoke with mentioned the North Face as a tried-and-true outerwear brand that makes thoughtful and reliable products for non-outrageous prices. Havancsak calls this parka in particular an example of “classic design” that’s warm and well made. Packed with plenty of down and synthetic fill, it has a smooth and streamlined silhouette that mimics more expensive coats from Canada Goose and Arc’teryx. A faux fur–lined hood helps keep wind out, while the parka’s subtly cinched waist keeps warmth in while creating a flattering shape. Its DWR shell also boasts a breathable membrane for when you find yourself suddenly sweaty and overdressed in a heated subway car.
Best stylish yet inexpensive parka
Insulation: Synthetic fill core, 650 fill-power down sleeves | Wind and water resistance: Wind-resistant shell | Comfort: Flattering draping style, exterior pockets
The viral phenomenon that is “the Amazon coat” has been a Strategist favorite for wintertime ever since we wrote about its slightly Balenciaga-esque silhouette taking over the Upper East Side in 2018. The coat is fairly plain: paneled, olive green, and made by a company called Orolay, a Chinese brand that also, curiously, makes folding chairs, storage cabinets, and wall-mounted tables. It is sold on Amazon for $150 and a favorite among stylish uptown women. Other things we like about this best-selling parka: its generous size range, fleece-lined hood, and big, practical pockets. It isn’t suitable for Arctic conditions, but it will keep you cozy on the way to SoulCycle.
Best synthetic parka
Insulation: Polyester fill | Wind and water resistance: Waterproof polyamide shell | Comfort: Drawcords, lined hand-warmer pockets, lined hood, chest pockets, side pockets, phone pocket
If you prefer not to wear down, this durable parka (which matches one of our favorite laptop-toting backpacks) uses an advanced synthetic fill “that’s really good at trapping heat and has a polyurethane membrane that’s excellent at resisting moisture,” according to Sarah Savala, a former gear expert at Backcountry. Goodwin, too, praises Fjallraven’s “classic style and solid performance.” The parka has drawcords that cinch it into a flattering shape while trapping heat and comes with a fleece-lined hood and detachable faux-fur collar, as well as two all-important hand-warmer pockets.
Best sustainable parka
Insulation: 700 fill power recycled down | Wind and water resistance: DWR shell, breathable membrane | Comfort: Three-in-one adaptable design, handwarmer pockets
Patagonia is a sustainably minded outdoor brand that needs “no introduction,” as Goodwin puts it. Adds Sokolowski: “Many companies are now using recycled shell and insulation materials, and providing repairs to improve their impact on the environment — the leader in this space is Patagonia.” This three-in-one transforming design that Sokolowski has been eyeing for next season helps the buyer avoid shopping for multiple winter coats. Wear it as a puffer jacket in dry conditions or a full-length raincoat in wet ones. In truly miserable weather, attach the two together to create a warm and waterproof parka. It’s made from mostly recycled materials.
Best cocoon-shaped parka
Insulation: 650 fill power down | Wind and waterproofing: DWR shell | Comfort: Oversize fit, elasticated cuffs, adjustable waist, microthermal polyester-lined pockets
While not cheap, this parka will please the more minimalist and ecoconscious wearer, and its clean lines will never go out of style. Montreal-based Quartz Co. debuted in 2015 as the relaunch of an older brand, Quartz Nature, which was founded in 1997 and outfitted expedition teams and the Canadian Police Corp. Gabrielle, a customer-service specialist at the Montreal-based retailer Altitude Sports who requested that she go by her first name only, says it has quickly built a reputation for “designing performance outerwear with the planet in mind by using recycled textile fibers made from plastic bottles.” Quartz Co.’s coats come with a lifetime warranty that includes free repairs or replacements for any sort of material or manufacturing defect. Its parkas lack any obvious logos save for a small insignia on the shoulder, which is easily spotted on walks through Mile End and the Plateau — the Williamsburg and West Village of Montreal. The coat is made from 43 percent recycled materials, and it is insulated with ethically sourced Canadian white-duck down. I also love that it’s machine washable.
Best vintage-style parka
Insulation: Polyester fill | Wind and water resistance: Wind-resistant DWR shell | Comfort: Adjustable hood and waist, sherpa-lined collar
Kanuk is the brainchild of a textile family looking to develop warmer coats to withstand the Canadian cold, and its products have been designed and made in Montreal for 50 years and come with a lifetime guarantee. “Kanuk is a standard here for a very warm winter coat,” Gabrielle says. “A lot of people in Montreal have vintage Kanuk coats because they are still amazing even years after.” She’s one of those people and says about the coat she’s had for many years: “The brand’s excellent quality practically guarantees that its old models are just as warm as the new ones.” The parkas — which Kanuk says will keep you warm in temps as low as minus-13 degrees Fahrenheit — have synthetic insulation that holds up well to frequent washing.
Best short parka
Insulation: 700 fill duck down | Wind and water resistance: DWR shell | Comfort: Fleece-lined hand pockets, thumbholes, inner zip pocket
A full-length puffy parka can be a lot sometimes, which is why it’s nice to keep a shorter coat in your closet that can be thrown on with ease. As with the long Super Puff above, this jacket is very warm and thoughtfully designed. Its waist length is neither too cropped nor long enough to restrict movement, while providing all-important butt coverage.
Best less-expensive short parka
Insulation: 700 fill duck down | Wind and water resistance: DWR shell | Comfort: Fleece-lined hand pockets, thumbholes, inner zip pocket, removable hood
And here’s the significantly more affordable Quince dupe, which I’ve found looks and feels almost exactly the same as the coat above, with perhaps a smidge more puffiness over the chest. It is also available in just eight colorways, as opposed to the vast array of Super Puff options.
Best non-puffy short parka
Insulation: 625 fill power down | Wind and waterproofing: DWR shell | Comfort: Heat reflective paneling, zip pockets, adjustable waist, removable hood
I was surprised how many outerwear designers I spoke with recommended Canada Goose’s parkas, which are perhaps more famous for their fashion status than functionality at this point. (Although, having said that, I’ve worn a few over the years and found them to be plenty warm as well as unusually comfortable.) Goodwin says that the brand’s Arctic explorer branding isn’t just for show: “If you’re actually going to the South Pole, you wear Canada Goose.” For hanging out in the city, Havancsak likes this shorter style with a monochromatic sleeve patch. It’s classic-looking with modern details, she says, including a highly adjustable fit, down-lined collar, and fleece-lined chin guard for added comfort. She adds that Canada Goose’s iconic interior backpack straps (that allow the wearer to show off their expensive coat indoors) are a technically inessential feature that’s “in my opinion very fun and useful.” I like the pastel colorways, too. As with all Canada Goose jackets, this one has a lifetime warranty.
Some more women’s winter essentials we’ve written about
Our experts
• Liza Corsillo, senior writer, the Strategist
• Gabrielle, customer-service specialist, Altitude Sports
• Eric Goodwin, outerwear designer and founder of Lathley
• Terez Havancsak, award-winning outerwear and apparel designer
• Rasheena Liberté, stylist
• Jenna Milliner-Waddell, associate editor, the Strategist
• Dominique Pariso, writer, the Strategist
• Sarah Savala, former sales assistant, Backcountry
• Dr. Susan Sokolowski, founding director, sports product design, University of Oregon
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