Buzz
Few things are more frustrating than lugging around a bulky winter coat after you’ve started to overheat. While the idea alone is enough to annoy anyone, the opposite scenario — skipping a coat and ending up freezing — is equally unappealing. Striking the perfect balance is essential for both comfort and practicality. A lightweight yet incredibly warm jacket offers the ideal solution to this seasonal dilemma.
While numerous clothing brands claim to offer such jackets, not all deliver on their promises. To identify the top contenders, we meticulously combed through customer reviews to confirm these claims.
Below, we’ve curated a selection of the finest lightweight, thin, and portable jackets that reviewers swear are surprisingly warm. Browse through the options and find one that suits your needs. Available in various price ranges, styles, and colors, these jackets are perfect for cold weather without the added bulk.
1. Amazon Essentials lightweight puffer jacket
2. L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 down sweater
L.L. Bean rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
This iconic down "sweater" from L.L. Bean is a fail-safe choice. The jacket is incredibly lightweight yet packed with premium down filling, ensuring exceptional warmth without the bulk. It comes in four versatile colors, with women's sizes available in regular and petite fits (XXS–XL) and men's sizes in regular and tall fits (S–XXXL).
Promising review: "I’ve only had this jacket for a few weeks, but it’s already become my go-to outerwear. Living in Vermont, where winters are harsh, I’ve worn it in temperatures as low as the teens, and it’s kept me perfectly cozy. I’m eager to test it in sub-zero conditions. The fit is excellent, and I adore the unique ribbing and smooth liner, which prevents snagging on sweaters. The dark green shade is absolutely stunning!" — George T.
Available at L.L. Bean for $219 in women's or men's sizes.
3. Athleta Whisper Featherless puffer jacket
Athleta rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
This sought-after Athleta jacket comes in three colors and women's sizes XXS–3X, ticking all the boxes for style and functionality. Crafted from lightweight recycled materials, it offers warmth, comfort, and a sleek look. Features include a high-low hem for added coverage, practical pockets, and an adjustable bungee hem for a personalized fit.
Promising review: "This jacket is stylish and incredibly lightweight, yet it provides enough warmth for winter strolls. It’s effortless to throw on over any outfit and head out the door!" — anonymous
Available at Athleta for $199.
4. Columbia Labyrinth Loop insulated jacket
Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just enjoy the outdoors, this Columbia jacket is a fantastic choice. It features recycled synthetic down insulation that locks in warmth while remaining breathable and packable. The water-resistant exterior and thermal-reflective gold dots inside ensure extra coziness. Available in five colors, it comes in men's standard, big, and tall sizes (S–XXL) and women's sizes (XS–3X). (Select sizes and colors are currently on sale.)
Promising review: "This jacket is perfect for my needs. I needed something lightweight yet warm enough for freezing temperatures, and this delivers. It’s incredibly light, not bulky, and provides exceptional warmth." — Keith
Purchase it from Columbia for $82.50+ in men's or women's sizes.
5. Vuori Canyon insulated jacket
Vuori rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
This effortlessly chic insulated jacket, available in women's sizes XS–XL, is a hot commodity, so act fast before it sells out. Perfect for chilly days or outdoor adventures like camping, it offers both warmth and style. Designed with a slightly boxy, oversized fit, reviewers suggest sizing down for a snugger look. Made from recycled materials, it’s as eco-friendly as it is fashionable.
Promising review: "This jacket is now my absolute favorite! The color is stunning, and the fit is just right. I went with a smaller size for a more tailored look, and it’s ideal. It’s so lightweight that it feels like you’re barely wearing anything, yet it keeps you warm." — Tracey M.
Available at Vuori for $150 (women's sizes).
6. Carhartt Rain Defender insulated rain jacket
7. Quince Featherless quilted long puffer jacket
Quince rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Looking for a jacket that offers warmth without the heaviness? Quince delivers with this chic quilted design that combines comfort and style effortlessly. The high collar ensures your neck stays warm, while the discreet two-way zipper provides adjustable coverage. Available in two elegant colors and sizes XS–XL, this jacket is a must-have for any wardrobe.
Promising review: "Absolutely adore this jacket. I chose it for a winter getaway to Italy, seeking something lightweight yet warm. It exceeded my expectations—no bulk, just pure comfort. Initially, I ordered a medium but found the small to be a better fit. At 5'-5" and 125 lbs, I highly recommend it." — Kelly
Available at Quince for $99.90 (women's sizes).
8. A lightweight quilted jacket at Amazon
