We’ve tested upwards of 20 warm winter coats, but this option from Canada Goose took the winning spot. Why? It’s super stylish, has a versatile fit, and, most importantly, it keeps us super warm in freezing weather.
WH contributor Jennifer Nied spends the colder months in Colorado, and while the NYC cold is definitely bone-chilling, the snow-capped mountains of Colorado are on a whole different level. And, as an avid hiker, Nied really got to put Canada Goose to the test. Her overall consensus: This jacket can withstand super-cold temps without slacking on style.
For a super warm puffer/parka style jacket, this coat is super stylish. The sleek, close-to-body silhouette and mid-thigh length are flattering without sacrificing warmth. We also love the oversized snorkel hood—named for the way it wraps snugly around the face—because it’s incredibly cozy and super chic-looking. And, the color options are awesome, too—there’s more than just the black and brown if you’re like us and love a vivid pop of color in the colder months.
We also like this coat because it doesn’t make us feel like the Michelin Man (ha!), but still has ample room for layering underneath. It has a slightly snug fit, and is designed to be worn over light layers or under a bigger coat. But Nied says she could have sized down and still been comfortable, too.
What really sets this parka apart from others is the interior shoulder straps. “This little inside feature lets me easily slip my arms out of the sleeves without removing the whole jacket,” she says. “It’s handy for turning it into a makeshift backpack when I need to cool off on a crowded subway or in a store.” With other coats, she usually ends up awkwardly carrying them in a big bundle whenever she’s indoors, she says. There’s also a back vent with snap closures if you get overheated but don’t want to fully take the coat off.
Some additional features: The hood is just the right size—big enough to keep Nied’s head warm without causing a hair disaster. It has multiple closures, like buttons and zippers down the front. Nied is usually a size medium, and says this coat runs true-to-size. The sleeves come with a snug, sweater-like fabric at the end that she can pull over her hands to keep them warm, and the sleeves are also long enough to cover her arms comfortably.
As for warmth, this coat delivers. It’s super warm without even zipping it up—even in near-freezing temps and wind. Nied says it’s definitely the coat she’ll wear when the temps plunge to zero for holiday festivities. That’s because the outside is made from a blend of cotton and polyester, which is durable and water-repellent. It’s also made with a 625 fill power made from responsibly sourced down, meaning this jacket keeps you comfortable in temps ranging from fourteen to negative four degrees Fahrenheit. The length, which hits at mid-thigh, also helps keep the chill out.
The only con we have for this jacket is the main pockets. They are lined with fleece that is so cozy for hands, but they have button-up closures instead of zippers, so our things don’t feel as secure.
Read More: Best Fleece Jackets
