These Winter Coats Are Worth Every Penny, And Shoppers Say They’ll Last Forever

Winter coats and jackets by A New Day, Amazon Essentials, Columbia and The North Face.
Target, Amazon, Columbia, REI
Winter coats and jackets by A New Day, Amazon Essentials, Columbia and The North Face.

If you’ve been thinking of buying a new winter coat, it’s always a good idea to do some research first. Winter gear can have a pretty high ticket price, and if you live in a colder climate, it’s an essential you’ll be reaching for every day for part of the year. It’s worth taking the time to make sure your chosen coat or jacket will hold up for several years and be worth the money.

To find the best options for both men and women, we scoped out reviews for warm winter coats across the Internet to find the ones that will actually last. Whether you’re in the market for a peacoat, parka or puffer, these winter coats are a great investment — and we have the reviews to prove it.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
Amazon
A waterproof women’s ski jacket with over 26,000 5-star ratings

With adjustable cuffs, a waterproof shell and a fluffy inner lining, this popular ski jacket is ready to combat rain and snow. Reviewers say it’s “warm and not too bulky,” if you prefer a slimmer silhouette to a thicker parka or puffer. The jacket also has a hood and zipper closure. It’s available in 14 colors and patterns, and women’s sizes S-XXL.

Promising review: This coat has survived with all zippers in tact for two years+ and has a lot of life left. We have had one of the longest, harshest winters on record and this coat has been a true life saver. It is warm in subzero temps and high wind. I wear it every morning when I walk my dogs and it is incredibly sturdy with large pockets for dog treats, gloves, phones, even water bottles. I’ve X-country skied, snow shoed, ice fished and, every morning, walk two large labs. It’s hard to find one coat that covers all of those activities in both comfort and warmth, but this is the one! For the price of this coat, you get a lot more than you pay for. It is also waterproof and washes up beautifully in the machine.” — Amazon Customer

2
Amazon
One of the most popular men’s jackets on Amazon

For a men’s option, try this water-resistant ski jacket. It too has adjustable cuffs, a zipper closure and a hood, in addition to four pockets, a fleece lining and an internal drawcord hem to keep even more cold air out. The hood is detachable for days when you don’t need it. This jacket is machine-washable. Grab it in a ton of colors and sizes S-XXL.

Promising review:Two years later and this jacket is still in perfect shape. Even used on cold weather motorcycle rides. I’m talking well below 50 F/10 C.

I used it daily during the New York winters to ride my bike to work. This jacket in combination with the fleece waterproof pants this brand offers are great. Kept me warm even on windy winter mornings. Definitely getting another but in a smaller size. They are super puffy and look funny if your short like I am.” — Valerie Milian

3
Amazon
This chic bestselling women’s single-breasted peacoat

Prefer a more tailored look? This Hooever coat is the No. 1 bestseller among women’s wool and peacoats on Amazon, and it looks more expensive than it is. The polyester-wool blend will keep you cozy, and the notched lapel, knee length and single-breasted closure will keep you looking stylish. There are two side pockets to hold your belongings. Grab this coat in 11 colors and sizes XS-XXL.

Promising review: “I am 5’7 and 135 lbs and I bought a medium and it fits me perfectly. The material is thick and it keeps me very warm. I love the length of it. It’s super comfortable to wear! The fabric is a good quality. I can tell it will last a long time. It does have pockets.” — Taylor

4
Amazon
An Amazon Essentials hooded puffer zip-up coat

You can never go wrong with the warmth and function of a long hooded puffer, and this Amazon Essentials take on the classic coat design is affordable and beloved, with over 13,000 5-star ratings. The jacket has a two-way zipper, pockets with zipper closures and elastic cuffs for maximum convenience. The jacket is simple with its quilted design, and comes in a bunch of colors so you can choose your favorite. You can get it in sizes XS-XXL.

Promising review: “This coat is surprisingly warm and not bulky. I got a burgundy one 2 years ago and like it so much that I just got it in navy. My first one shows no signs of wear and I’ve washed it several times.” — JudyP

5
Amazon
A sophisticated Nautica wool men’s peacoat

This Nautica peacoat is sophisticated without sacrificing warmth, thanks to the thick wool blend and tailored fit of the double-breasted closure. (Just note that it’s dry clean only.) This coat can also help dress up a more casual look, and is perfect for the office or a day or night out. Get it in five colors and sizes XS-XXL.

Promising review: “I love it. I wore one for four years.” — Orville G.

“I was worried that it may have been a bit rough, they can be if not made with care. No need to worry, fits well, nicely lined and the double breasted makes me feel comfortable, especially if I gain a few lbs over the winter, and slim down in spring! I felt comfortable, and stylish wearing it out.” — Jarlath McNee

6
Amazon
A warm, hooded Orolay down jacket

How cozy does this Orolay jacket look? Made with eiderdown and a high-density, windproof polyester shell, this thick, warm jacket is built to last and features a fleece-lined hood, side zippers and the ability to extend the sides for more room. There are also six pockets. Grab this coat in 12 colors and sizes XXS-5XL.

Promising review: “THIS JACKET is amazing! I’ve had it for almost 10 years and it still does its job living in Montana. I’ve washed it several times (on delicate) and the down inside will shift and clump but just keep re-fluffing and it goes back. You take care of this jacket and it will take care of you. I will definitely buy another one whenever mine becomes unusable.” — Aimee Smith

7
Columbia
An insulated men’s jacket with big and tall sizing options

Of course trusted outerwear brand Columbia has a great selection of winter gear. We like the Tipton Peak III insulated jacket, which has thermal-reflective lining, synthetic insulation and the maximum warmth level offered while still looking slim and streamlined. Other highlights include an adjustable hood, cuffs and hem, zippered pockets and a droptail hem to help you face the elements. There are five colorways available for this jacket. You can get it in standard sizes S-XXL, 1X-6X in Big and LT-5XT in Tall.

Promising reivew: “The jacket replaced a Columbia I had been wearing for 20 years. This one seems to be as well made as the previous one. Fits well and wears well.” — GBGJr

8
Zappos
The North Face’s classic Arctic Parka with faux fur trim

What is a winter coat roundup without The North Face? If their Arctic Parka isn’t basically what you see when you close your eyes and imagine a winter coat, I don’t know what is. The recycled down will keep you toasty, as will the faux fur trim on the hood (though you can remove it). This coat has a drawcord waist, thumbhole cuffs, a front zip closure and snap storm placket, and water-repellent, breathable fabric that’s machine-washable. It’s available in sizes XS-3XL and a bunch of colors, depending on which store you check out below.

Promising Nordstrom review:I have owned this jacket for 7 years, and it is fantastic. It keeps me warm in windy, below-freezing winters (still warm in -6 degrees F with windchill -20). I especially like the fitted inner sleeves, which keep snow and cold air away from the arms; the sturdy, double zipper, which lets me open the jacket from the bottom – perfect for driving and hiking; the flattering, cinched waist; the ability to easily wash; the detachability of the hood and fur trim; and its water-resistance, which makes it perfect for snow days. My jacket is starting to show signs of love and needs to be replaced, and I plan to replace it with the same jacket, perhaps just in a new color.” — AG

9
REI
Or a cool retro North Face puffer down jacket

For a slightly different option from The North Face, this 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket is just as warm with a boxier, shorter silhouette and a stand collar. It’s water-repellant, has zippered pockets and an adjustable hem, and still has a hood. The men’s comes in eight colors and sizes L-XXXL, while the women’s comes in five colors and sizes XS-3X.

Promising review: “love this coat so much! it is very puffy and warm but it doesn’t feel like i’m drowning in the coat. the color is one i like a lot because i feel that purple is a little less popular than the black one. the coat itself has big pockets which i appreciate and has one on the inside which is always great. my last north face lasted me 5 years so i think it is worth a higher price.” — Sydney

10
L.L. Bean
A tried-and-true L.L. Bean parka

Want a parka that will last forever? Look no further than L.L. Bean’s Rugged Ridge Parka, which is made with a two-layer, breathable, waterproof shell. This is built to withstand the cold, with a zip-off hood, two-way zipper and Velcro storm flap and an insulated, windproof design. There are five pockets in total, including a pocket with a wipe for ski goggles. The men’s is available in four colors and standard sizes S-XXXL, as well as M-XXXL in Tall. The women’s comes in four colors and standard sizes XS-XL, petite sizes XS-XL and plus sizes 1X-3X.

Promising review: “I bought an earlier version of this parka at the beginning of winter of 2015. I have worn it in upstate New York every day in winter for almost a full nine winters. … Note to LL Bean. Please never stop manufacturing this coat. Mine will still probably last another ten years or so and then I will want to buy a replacement in about 2033. Keep the drab color option (mine is olive, I bought my husband the gray).” — Upstate New York customer (This review has been edited for length and clarity. Read the full review here.)

11
Uniqlo
Or a Uniqlo down parka with a seamless design

Shoppers love Uniqlo for its reliable basics, and this down parka is no exception. It’s made with 750-fill power down, a cushion collar and hood, and a seamless design, all of which keep the cold out. Despite being a down jacket, reviewers agree that the coat is pretty lightweight. You can get the men’s version in five colors and sizes XXS-3XL, or the women’s in six colors and sizes XXS-XXL.

Promising review:I’ve been wearing this Parka for years. It’s literally the best! It’s warm and fashionable and I love that it has a hood.

It’s so warm but has a light feel to it.

Run don’t walk to get this Parka!!

The ultimate best!!!” — Nicky

12
Patagonia
The durable Patagonia Downdrift Jacket

Another outerwear mainstay, Patagonia has garnered praise over the years for their products’ durability, and this jacket is no exception. Enjoy the warmth of 600-fill power recycled down, a removable hood, elastic cuffs and a drawcord hem in this jacket, not to mention the convenience of having three pockets. Both the men’s and the women’s versions come in six colors and sizes XS-XXL.

Promising review: “You have to love the sustainable, environmentally responsible way this cost is made. One of the key features for me is the double zipper pull as it allows the bottom of the coat to open up when sitting in a car. The cost is warm enough for the winter weather in the Northeast. The double pockets keep things safe while able to keep your hands warm. I have owned Patagonia clothing for 40+ years and they last forever it seems. Highly recommended!” — Jeffrey

13
Target
A faux wool women’s coat for an affordable price

Getting back to more fashion-forward coat options, you may not have known that you can get an expensive-looking topcoat somewhere as affordable as Target. Though this coat is faux wool, it still has a full lining. You might not be quite as warm as you would with a real wool coat or down jacket, though this would be a great option if you live somewhere that gets chilly but not freezing. The coat has a single-breasted button closure, a notched lapel collar and a back slit. It falls below the knee. Reviewers recommend sizing down here, and cutting open the two front pockets, which are functional but are temporarily sewn shut.

Grab this coat in eight colors and patterns, and sizes XS-4X.

Promising review: “Oh my goodness, this coat is a beauty! I absolutely love it! The quality is exceptional—it feels heavy, durable, and well-made. For sizing, I typically wear a large, but I sized down to a medium for a better fit. While the coat is slightly boxy in shape, which is great if you’re prioritizing warmth and quality, I personally prefer a more tailored silhouette. I plan to have the waist tailored for a more flattering fit. And yes, I love it so much that I bought it in additional colors! If you’re on the fence, just go for it—you need this coat in your life!” — Journey

14
Banana Republic Factory
A sleek, soft and warm men’s wool blend topcoat

This wool blend topcoat by Banana Republic Factory looks so stylish, you might be excited to get out of the house just to have an excuse to wear it. The coat has a button-front closure, is fully lined and has front pockets as well as interior pockets to hold everything you need it to. It comes in three colors and sizes XS-XXL.

This coat comes with an extra 20% off applied at checkout.

Promising review: “I have a wool topcoat I bought from BR years ago and was always hesitant to buy other topcoats because I knew the quality wouldn’t live up to what I already own – THIS DOES. I was shocked by how soft the fabric, the sizing is spot on with other BR coats, and overall warm for these Chicago winters. Highly Recommend.” — anonymous

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