Warm-up: Our winter jacket guide
Shortly:
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Thermal insulation: Down jackets with high fill power (700+ cuin) offer the most warmth; synthetic jackets, on the other hand, are ideal in wet conditions.
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Waterproof & windproof: Look for water-repellent materials like Gore-Tex to protect you from rain and snow.
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Breathability: For physical activities, breathable materials are important to regulate sweat and moisture.
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Fit: The jacket should allow freedom of movement, but be tight enough to retain warmth and keep out cold air.
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Trend 2024: Oversized cuts, color blocking and functional details such as pockets and adjustable hoods.
Top brands for winter jackets: The North Face, Carhartt, Patagonia and Woolrich offer stylish, functional and high-quality jackets.
Winter is (unfortunately) just around the corner, and it's time to get ready. A good winter jacket is not only your best protection against the winter, but can also make a statement. From everyday work in the city to excursions in the mountains: the right winter jacket will keep you warm, dry, and look good too.
In our guide, you'll learn everything you need to know to find the perfect winter jacket. No matter your brand or material, we'll show you what's important. We'll also cover the latest trends and key features to ensure you're perfectly equipped this winter season.
The most important features of a winter jacket
When purchasing a new winter jacket, you should look for certain features that offer comfort, warmth, and functionality. Because a winter jacket has to do more than just look good.
The type of insulation is the heart of any winter jacket. It determines how warm you stay and how well the jacket performs at different temperatures. For protection from snow and rain, a water-repellent or waterproof layer is necessary. If you're physically active, the jacket should be breathable to wick away sweat and regulate your body temperature. To keep out the wind, jackets should contain windproof membranes.
Which material is best for my winter jacket?
A winter jacket should keep you warm and dry. For everyday wear, jackets from brands like Carhartt WIP or Polo Ralph Lauren are warm enough and look good. If you're hiking or skiing, functional jackets like those from The North Face are ideal. They offer robust insulation and weather protection. For extreme cold, choose down jackets with high fill power (700+ cuin). So, every material has its place.
Down jackets
Down jackets are known for being incredibly warm. Down has a high loft, meaning it traps a lot of air and therefore insulates well. This natural insulation is ideal for cold, dry days. And they're generally light. Brands like The North Face offer down jackets that, with their high fill power (often over 700 fill power), keep you warm even in extremely sub-zero temperatures.
Synthetic fiber jackets
If you're looking for a winter jacket that provides good insulation even in wet conditions, jackets with synthetic fiber fill (e.g., PrimaLoft, Thinsulate) are a great choice. These are more water-resistant and dry quickly. Synthetic fibers offer solid warmth but are often a bit heavier than down jackets. They're also simply the vegan alternative to down jackets.
Wool coatsL
Wool coats provide natural warmth and perfectly regulate moisture. However, they don't necessarily keep you dry and are generally not 100 percent windproof. However, wool coats are well-suited for everyday wear in the city or for a more chic evening look.
Gore-Tex jackets
If you need a completely waterproof winter jacket, you should look for Gore-Tex.
Checklist for buying the right winter jacket
Buying a winter jacket is usually a major investment, so you want to make sure it meets your needs. That's why we're giving you the best tips here.
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Make sure that the down filling is evenly distributed
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Check if the jacket is light and voluminous at the same time
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Test whether the down returns to its original shape after prolonged pressing, then it has a good loft
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Is the hood adjustable and does it provide protection from rain and wind?
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Are there high-quality zippers that run smoothly, are windproof and, ideally, waterproof?
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Are there enough pockets for your cell phone, keys and other everyday items?
What does fill power actually mean? It describes how well down expands and returns to its original shape after being compressed. The higher the "cuin" number, the higher the fill power.
What do I need to consider when trying on?
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Try on several layers under the jacket (undershirt, shirt, fleece/sweater)
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Make sure that you can move your arms freely without the jacket being tight.
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Is the jacket long enough? It should cover your lower back and hips.
Care and storage of your winter jacket
Proper care is, of course, important to ensure your jacket lasts a long time. Down jackets are best professionally cleaned to maintain their loft. Synthetic jackets are generally easier to care for and can often be machine washed, but be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions.
Always store your winter jacket in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth. Make sure you air it out occasionally during the winter and don't compress it to maintain its insulating properties.
Our favorite brands for high-quality winter jackets
There are numerous brands known for their high-quality winter jackets. Here are some of the most popular and why they're a good choice.
The North Face
One brand that inevitably springs to mind when considering this topic is The North Face . Named after the cold, unforgiving side of a mountain, the San Francisco-based brand makes it crystal clear that it specializes in clothing with a functional approach. The North Face is considered the global market leader for outdoor wear and has its roots in the hiking and mountaineering scene—an area where warm clothing is essential for survival. Its down jackets, such as the Nuptse and Lhotse models, are particularly notable for their excellent insulation and water-repellent properties.
Patagonia
As an outdoor brand that also originated in the mountaineering scene, Patagonia is naturally a hot candidate when it comes to winter jackets. The "Fitz Roy Down Parka" features 800 fill power goose down and leaves nothing to be desired in terms of quality. The 100% nylon outer shell is water-repellent and is the most sustainable option.
Woolrich
Since its founding in 1830 in Pennsylvania, USA, Woolrich has undergone an impressive evolution into a globally renowned icon of outdoor clothing and fashion. The brand combines a spirit of adventure and discovery with the ability to brave the elements without sacrificing style. Woolrich is expensive, but very classy, and is sure to stay in your closet for a long time.
Carhartt
Carhartt is known for its rugged and durable jackets that are functional and look great. Their winter jackets often feature waterproof materials and warm synthetic fiber fill, making them ideal for everyday wear in the city or outdoor activities.
Gramicci
Gramicci originates from the climbing scene and combines streetwear with functionality. Their jackets are stylish yet functional, offering protection from cold and wind – perfect for the city and your next climbing tour.
Polo Ralph Lauren
For those who value classic style and luxury, Polo Ralph Lauren jackets are a great choice. They combine timeless design with high-quality craftsmanship, offering warmth and comfort.
We also recommend Daily Paper, Hiking Patrol , Axel Arigato , and Helly Hansen. You can findall of these jackets in the Asphaltgold Shop .
Winter jacket trends
Winter jackets aren't immune to trends either. That's why we recommend buying a jacket that will not only last for years but also fits your style. This isn't only a good investment given the higher prices, but also a sustainable approach to protecting the environment.
But if you're interested in the trends of 2024 and 2025, we have some information for you. Color blocking (like The North Face) and oversized and cropped cuts will continue to be on trend. The good news is: the fit plays a crucial role in how warm your jacket is. Oversized jackets not only offer plenty of freedom of movement but also allow for layering underneath.
You can still opt for bold colors, but you can also wear black and light tones just as well. Functional details, such as lots of pockets, adjustable hoods, and high-quality zippers, are not only practical but also incredibly trendy. You can also continue to wear quilted jackets; they often combine down or synthetic fibers with a quilted design that distributes the fill evenly. These jackets are not only warm but also still trendy. To combine bold colors with a minimalist black jacket, we recommend the reversible puffer jackets from Helly Hansen; they kill two birds with one stone.
FAQ
What are the warmest winter jackets?
The warmest winter jackets are usually those with a high down fill or high-quality synthetic insulation. Down jackets with 800+ fill power, such as those from The North Face or Patagonia, offer first-class warmth. Synthetic insulation: Jackets with PrimaLoft or Thinsulate provide good warmth in wet conditions.
How should a winter jacket fit and what fit is recommended?
Your winter jacket should fit comfortably, allowing you to layer it without being too tight. At the same time, it shouldn't be too loose to prevent cold winds from getting in. Choose a fit that doesn't restrict your freedom of movement.
How can I make sure that a winter jacket is sufficiently weatherproof when I try it on?
Check the jacket's label. Terms like "waterproof" or "water-repellent" are crucial. Opt for materials like Gore-Tex, which offer reliable protection.
What special features should you consider when choosing a winter jacket for extremely low temperatures?
In extreme cold, fill power is crucial. A down jacket with a fill power of at least 700 cuin offers good protection. A windproof outer shell and water-repellent properties are also important.
Are there any special tips for trying on a winter jacket?
Make sure the down filling is evenly distributed and has no gaps. Check whether the jacket is lightweight yet voluminous—this indicates high fill power. Test whether the down returns to its original shape after prolonged compression.
Can you wash winter jackets?
Yes, most winter jackets can be washed. But be sure to check the care label! Down jackets should usually be dry-cleaned, while synthetic jackets can often be machine washed at low temperatures. Down jackets can be tumble-dried at low temperatures along with tennis balls; this will help fluff up the down.
Author: Asphaltgold |