Top Puffer Coats We've Tested: Our Recommendations

Top Choice Overall

While lululemon is renowned for its athleisure line, its winter outerwear collection is equally impressive. The Wunder Puff stands out as its flagship jacket, offered in three variations: regular, long, and cropped. After testing the cropped style, we were delighted by its coziness, adaptability, and thoughtful design elements.

The 600-fill-power down ensures the jacket is both lightweight and exceptionally warm, with a relaxed fit that allows for easy layering. For those preferring a snugger fit, the adjustable hem helps retain warmth. Despite being cropped, the length is just right—sitting at the waist—and we found it incredibly comfortable to wear. 

A standout feature is the detachable hood, adding versatility to the jacket. You can remove it to reduce bulk or reattach it for extra warmth on chilly days. The pockets are another highlight, with ample space in the exterior pocket for hand warmth and interior pockets for storing essentials. A hidden phone sleeve and secure buttons in the exterior pocket add practicality.

Maintaining this coat is a breeze. After four months of regular use, spills like coffee were easily wiped away with a damp paper towel. Despite frequent use on the NYC subway, even in a light color, it shows minimal signs of wear.

This jacket excels in casual, everyday settings but isn’t suited for formal events or extreme cold due to its shorter length. It’s perfect for quick errands or casual meetups, though you may need a different coat for more formal occasions. Note that the cropped version is currently only available in black, while other lengths offer more color options.

Material: Polyester | Fill: 80% goose down, 20% goose feathers | Size Range: 0–14 | Water Resistant: Yes

Additional Lululemon Puffer Jackets We Highly Recommend

Top Pick for Style

The Gold Rush Puffer from Alo Yoga stands out as a top choice for trendy, cropped puffer coats, also endorsed by Meister. Its shorter length and puffier design, without being overly bulky, make it perfect for a casual, athleisure-inspired aesthetic. Available in a variety of vibrant colors, it’s an excellent way to add flair to your winter wardrobe.

This jacket lacks a hood, making it lighter but less adaptable. However, it includes practical features like an adjustable hem, a high collar for added warmth, and zippered pockets for convenience. While surprisingly warm for its cropped style, it’s best suited for milder temperatures, ideally between 40°F and 50°F. 

After four months of regular use, this jacket has proven to be a durable and stylish staple in our winter collection. Its high-quality construction and trendy design consistently earn compliments. Ideal for transitional weather and outdoor activities like hiking, it offers versatility beyond peak winter. Pairing it with matching Alo Yoga pieces, such as sweatpants or sweatshirts, enhances the monochromatic athleisure vibe. 

Material: Nylon | Fill: Not listed | Size Range: XS–L (2–14) | Water Resistant: Yes

Additional Alo Puffers We Highly Recommend

Top Pick for Warmth

For those prioritizing warmth, a jacket with a high down content, such as The Super Puff from Aritzia, is ideal. This coat is a standout in Aritzia’s renowned outerwear line, available in various lengths and styles tailored for maximum warmth. We previously tested The Super Alps Puff₂O, featuring a belted design and waterproof build, though it’s no longer available. We now recommend The Super Puff₂O, which offers the same features minus the belt.

This coat is unique on our list for being fully waterproof and windproof, making it perfect for harsh winter conditions. With a 90% goose down fill and a 700 fill power, it provides exceptional insulation without added bulk. Its lightweight design is a standout feature, offering sufficient warmth without the need for heavy layering. 

Beyond its excellent insulation, this coat includes several features tailored for winter. Although the hood isn’t detachable, it can be adjusted for a snug fit and features a high collar to protect your neck without needing a scarf. The thumbholes in the cuffs and the warm, lined pockets even eliminate the need for gloves. Aritzia states this coat can handle temperatures as low as -22°F, and after enduring freezing conditions all winter, we can confidently confirm its effectiveness.

This coat is nearly flawless, surpassing our expectations in both warmth and style. The only slight drawback is the slightly shorter sleeves, and it’s among the pricier options on our list. However, we consider it a worthwhile investment due to its durability and longevity. It’s also available in various lengths: shorty, mid, and long. 

Material: Nylon | Fill: 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers | Size Range: 3XS–2XL | Water Resistant: Yes, waterproof

Additional Aritzia Puffers We Highly Recommend

Top-Rated Long

A long puffer jacket merges the best qualities of puffers and parkas, positioning it as a top choice for harsh winter climates. Quince’s version mirrors the construction of Artizia’s The Super Puff, featuring a 700-fill-power 90% goose down insulation, though it lacks full waterproofing. However, it boasts a water-resistant coating and a lengthy, snug design that ensures warmth throughout winter.

The extended length and voluminous design contribute to the coat’s bulkiness, which might not appeal to those favoring a sleeker style. The detachable hood can help reduce some of the visual bulk. Despite this, the coat excels in warmth, enhanced by features like an adjustable hood, fleece-lined pockets, and thumbhole cuffs. For added ventilation, side buttons allow airflow, though they are somewhat cumbersome and not particularly effective in practice.

One of the standout aspects of this coat is its affordability, especially given its length. It ranks among the most budget-friendly options available, offering exceptional value for those seeking a genuinely warm coat. The color range includes mostly neutral tones, with a few vibrant options like cherry red for those seeking a pop of color.

Material: Polyester | Fill: 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers | Size Range: XS–XL | Water Resistant: Yes

Additional Quince Puffers We Highly Recommend

Top Parka

A heavyweight parka is perfect for frigid conditions, and our top pick is the Halfdays Wheeler. Known for crafting authentic mountain gear for skiing and winter sports, Halfdays delivers a chic, puffy design with the Wheeler Parka that transitions seamlessly from the slopes to urban settings. What sets this coat apart is its standout style—unlike bulkier parkas, this one boasts defined front pockets and an ultra-thick hood and collar combination, ensuring both warmth and fashion-forward appeal.

The hood is the standout feature of this coat: it includes a collar overlay that sits atop the built-in coat collar, effectively replacing the need for a scarf. If you prefer less bulk, the hood is detachable, leaving you with a simpler collar. However, the hood’s design makes it prone to makeup stains, as the collar section covers the lower part of your face. This is particularly noticeable with lighter shades like oat milk (the color we tested), though stains can be removed with wipes. Note that this coat is not machine washable, but we were pleased with its appearance after four months of daily winter use.

We’re also big fans of the generously sized pockets, which effortlessly accommodate all your daily necessities. The fit is spacious and comfortable, allowing you to size down for a snugger silhouette. If you stick to your usual size, layering is a breeze, though the coat’s exceptional warmth might make extra layers unnecessary. While it lacks down insulation, it features PrimaLoft, a premium synthetic fill that’s both lightweight and highly effective at retaining heat. Our only wish is for a broader range of color options.

Material: Nylon | Fill: PrimaLoft polyester | Size Range: XS–2X | Water Resistant: Yes

Additional Halfdays Puffers We Highly Recommend

Top Lightweight Option

For those in regions with milder winters or seeking a jacket for transitional seasons, a lightweight puffer is ideal. We strongly recommend this L.L.Bean option, which offers impressive warmth relative to its weight—it’s most comfortable in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 55°F. With water- and wind-resistant features and an insulated hood, it’s excellent for outdoor activities such as dog walking, errands, or hiking.

The jacket features a slightly tailored fit, which limits the ability to layer thick sweaters underneath—it’s best suited for lighter layers. Its hip-length design and lightweight construction provide excellent mobility, making it a great choice for cold-weather physical activities. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in pricier or warmer jackets, it covers all the essentials effectively.

The pockets are spacious and comfortable, though we’d prefer zipper closures over buttons for better security. The absence of internal pockets is a drawback, especially during activities like hiking. Additionally, the limited color options (only two) are disappointing, though we appreciate the availability of regular, petite, and plus sizes to accommodate various body types. Overall, this jacket’s durability and versatility make it a standout choice for its price, offering excellent utility from fall through spring.

Material: Polyester | Fill: Polyester | Size Range: XXS–XL | Water Resistant: Yes

Additional L.L.Bean Puffers We Highly Recommend

Top Retro Pick

The North Face’s Nuptse Jacket has remained a fashion staple since 1996, proving its timeless appeal. Its iconic design, featuring a hip-length silhouette and a voluminous puff, has influenced modern puffer trends. Available in a wide array of colors, it allows for personal expression. The jacket fits true to size with a relaxed cut, ideal for layering. Despite its warmth and puffiness, it remains lightweight due to its 700-fill-power down insulation.

This jacket includes standard features like adjustable waist and cuffs, along with a unique hood design. Unlike detachable hoods, this one tucks neatly into the collar for added convenience. The entire jacket is packable—it can be folded into its right pocket and zipped up for travel. It retains its shape after packing and washing, showcasing its durability for long-term use.

Compared to other short puffers, the Nuptse stands out for its exceptional warmth, making it suitable for freezing temperatures. Its breathability is also impressive, as it prevents overheating during outdoor activities like dog walking. However, its bulky, casual appearance limits its suitability for formal occasions. Despite this, it’s versatile enough for nearly any other setting.

Material: Nylon | Fill: Goose down | Size Range: XXS–3XL | Water Resistant: Yes

Additional The North Face Puffers We Highly Recommend

Top Comfort Pick

Ugg is already renowned for its ultra-comfortable footwear and bedding, so it’s no surprise their puffer jacket is equally luxurious. The Ronney Jacket feels like a warm embrace, featuring Ugg’s signature fleece-lined hood and pockets, along with knitted cuffs and thumbholes. While it’s warm enough for winter, the cropped design makes it less ideal for freezing temperatures.

We found it comfortable in temperatures ranging from 25°F to 45°F, which was a pleasant surprise. However, the fleece lining and down alternative fill reduce breathability, making it less suitable for high-intensity outdoor activities. Its casual appearance also makes it best suited for relaxed outings like errands or casual meetups.

The side pockets are more spacious than those on other jackets we tested, and their fleece lining adds a cozy touch. However, they close with snaps instead of zippers, which makes them less secure. The hood, while plush, is non-removable, limiting customization for varying weather or activities. We also wish it came in more than two colors—currently, it’s only available in black and lupine, a vibrant purple-blue shade that’s sure to stand out.

Material: Nylon | Fill: Polyester | Size Range: XXS–XL | Water Resistant: Yes

Additional Ugg Puffers We Highly Recommend

Our Evaluation Process

We spent four weeks evaluating 26 different puffer coats to identify the best options. Our team, spread across various U.S. climates, provided diverse insights based on daily activities like errands, walks, travel, and hikes. We assessed each jacket's fit, warmth, breathability, and durability, noting their suitability for different weather conditions and activities. After examining wear and tear, we combined these findings with overall value to recommend the top puffer coats.

Expert Tips for Buying Puffer Coats

Fabric Choices

Puffer coats are usually crafted from synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, prized for their lightweight, durability, and water resistance. Many are enhanced with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish for added protection. For high-performance needs, Gore-Tex is a top choice, offering windproof, waterproof, and highly breathable features.

The filling of a puffer coat is crucial, with options typically being down or down alternative. Down, the soft underlayer from ducks or geese, provides superior warmth and breathability but at a higher cost. Many brands blend down with feathers to balance cost and quality. Down alternatives, while less breathable and bulkier, offer better water resistance and are more budget-friendly.

Key Attributes

Puffer jackets are packed with additional features, so prioritize what matters most to you. “When selecting a quality puffer coat, I focus on elements like secure pocket closures, inner pockets, and durable zippers,” Meister advises. Below are some standout features to consider:

• Weather protection: Certain puffers are enhanced with DWR coatings to provide water resistance or full waterproofing. While all jackets on our list offer some level of water repellency, only Aritzia’s The Super Puff₂O - Rainstop is completely waterproof and windproof. 
• Detachable hood: This feature adds versatility, particularly when reducing bulk is desired. Four of our recommended jackets, including the Lululemon Wunder Puff Cropped Jacket, our top choice, include this option. 
• Custom fit: Adjustable drawstrings at the hood and hem allow you to tighten areas prone to cold air exposure. 
• Compact design: Many puffers are engineered to fold neatly into luggage or bags without compromising their insulating properties. 

Design

“Puffer coats often carry an athleisure-inspired aesthetic,” Meister notes. While cropped styles are trendy, longer versions are also available (several options on our list come in multiple lengths). Puffers offer a playful alternative to classic parkas, with vibrant color options that encourage style experimentation.

Fit is a crucial factor when selecting a puffer coat. While puffers are inherently bulkier than other outerwear, this is part of their design. “Ensure there’s ample space in the arms and shoulders for ease of movement, particularly when layering,” Meister advises. “I always check that a puffer coat can comfortably zip or button over a light sweater. Although the style is meant to be voluminous, I avoid excessively bulky fits that compromise comfort.”

Common Questions

What are the advantages and disadvantages of puffer coats compared to other types? 

“Puffer coats are ideal for everyday use,” Meister explains. “Unlike heavier full-length coats or wool options, they are highly adaptable, comfortable, and practical. They suit a variety of activities, from work and exercise to travel.”

Puffer coats come in diverse styles, from lightweight versions for mild weather to heavily insulated designs for extreme cold or skiing. Their versatility surpasses traditional parkas, which are limited to frigid conditions. However, their casual aesthetic may not be suitable for formal or professional settings.

What is the typical price range for a puffer coat?

Puffer coat prices can vary widely, with higher costs associated with premium materials and down insulation. On average, expect to pay between $150 and $250. The Halfdays Wheeler Parka, priced at $395, is the most expensive option on our list, ideal for extended outdoor use. In contrast, the L.L.Bean Mountain Classic Puffer Hooded Jacket, at $119, is a budget-friendly choice designed for lighter, casual wear.

Trust Our Expertise

This guide was crafted by Nicole Lund, a seasoned writer and editor based in the Northeast with a personal collection of puffer coats (her top picks include the Lululemon Wunder Puff Jacket and the L.L.Bean Ultrawarm Coat, Three Quarter Length). With over six years of experience in product testing and research, including outerwear, she previously served as the shopping editorial director at Mytour and Southern Living. We also consulted Jana Meister, a stylist from Kansas City, for her expert insights on selecting the best puffer coats.