20 Best Jackets for Winter Hiking of 2024

One of the biggest challenges for hiking in the winter is the low temperature among other difficulties. However, nothing should get in your way and stop you from winter hiking, and the best jacket for winter hiking will be an amazing solution.

Here are the best jackets for winter hiking (Nov 2024 Update):

• Best For Windy Days (Men’s Down Jackets): ZSHOW Men's Coat Outerwear
• Best For Wet Weather (Men’s Down Jackets): Wantdo Men's Jacket with Removable Hood
• (Men’s Down Jackets): Marmot Men's Jacket
• (Men’s Down Jackets): HARD LAND Men’s Packable Down Jacket
• (Men’s Down Jackets): Eddie Bauer Men's MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket
• Ultra-Lightweight (Women’s Down Jackets): Wantdo Women's Packable Ultra-Light Weight Short Down Jacket
• Best For Small-Framed People (Women’s Down Jackets): CIOR Women's Packable Down Jacket
• (Women’s Down Jackets): Lock and Love Women's Down Jacket
• (Women’s Down Jackets): CAMEL CROWN Women’s Puffer Insulated Coats
• (Women’s Down Jackets): Universo Women's Down Coat
• Best For Misty Weather (Men’s Synthetic Jackets): MOERDENG Men's Snow Coat
• Best For Snowy Days (Men’s Synthetic Jackets): PUREMSX Men's Down Alternative Jacket
• (Men’s Synthetic Jackets): The North Face Men's Thermoball Eco Jacket
• (Men’s Synthetic Jackets): Rdruko Men's Outdoor Ski Snow Jacket
• (Men’s Synthetic Jackets): Gopune Men's Softshell Jacket
• Best For Windy Days (Women’s Synthetic Jackets): MAGCOMSEN Women's Snow Jacket
• Best For Heavy Fog (Women’s Synthetic Jackets): CAMEL CROWN Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket
• (Women’s Synthetic Jackets): Little Donkey Andy Women’s Softshell Jacket
• (Women’s Synthetic Jackets): OutdoorMaster Fleece Jacket
• (Women’s Synthetic Jackets): The North Face Women's Carto Triclimate Jacket

Down Jackets

There are two different types of down jackets:

• Goose filling down jackets – made of goose down or goose feathers
• Duck down jackets

The second option is a bit cheaper than the other, equivalent to the fact that it has lower fill power so, in terms of warmth and lightness, goose filling down jackets are the winner.

People choose this type of winter hiking jacket for many good reasons. First, it has decent compressibility, meaning that it can be compressed to a very small size for packing.

Secondly, it is too lightweight to feel like you’re wearing nothing yet still provides superb warmth. If you almost fall for this type of jackets, remember that it’s quite expensive, especially when talking about the lighter-weight, higher-fill designs,

And it isn’t hypoallergenic, obviously.

But the biggest cons of down jackets is it loses its loft down once getting wet.

Best For Windy Days (Men’s Down Jackets): ZSHOW Men's Coat Outerwear

ZSHOW Men's Coat Outerwear

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First up on our list is the ZSHOW Men's Coat Outerwear.

The shell is completely made from water-repellent and stain-resistant 20D 400T nylon, and the filling includes 20% feather and 80% high-quality white duck down.

It also has two SBS zippered pockets and two deep internal ones for your essentials. The collar, cuffs, and hem have elastic parts to optimize wind blockage and heat retention.

What we love the most about this jacket are its incredible lightness and compact packed size. It only takes up the volume of a glass after bagging, which is so convenient! Besides, it fits great and feels cool instead of the super baggy fat puffa jackets.

Considering its warm rating, this jacket is perfect to hold up cold weather, like windy days, but not for ski slopes.

Best For Wet Weather (Men’s Down Jackets): Wantdo Men's Jacket with Removable Hood

Wantdo Men's Jacket with Removable Hood

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Wantdo Men's Jacket is well-loved by loots of winter hikers because of its toasty warmth and weather resistance with no compromise of styling.

It is made of 3000mm H20 WOE-TEX encryption Oxford fabric, known for top-notch abrasion resistance, durability, windproof, and water-repellent properties. So if exposed to mist, light rain, or other wet conditions for up to 3 hours, it is no problem.

The filling is 440g hand-plus synthetic insulation. Combined with high-density triple stitching, covered snap placket, and front zipper closure, it keeps warmth pretty well.

We like the added detachable hood for extra protection to your head and hair if wanted. It has a drawcord to keep cold air outside while offering a custom fit.

(Men’s Down Jackets): Marmot Men's Jacket

Marmot Men's Jacket

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Some guys are willing to invest more in exchange for a truly warm and functional winter jacket. Marmot’s bestselling 700 fill power down jacket has hundreds of 5-star reviews for its toasty warmth even in wet conditions plus custom-fit, optimal temp control, and convenient storage.

(Men’s Down Jackets): HARD LAND Men’s Packable Down Jacket

HARD LAND Men’s Packable Down Jacket

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This brand has developed a cult-like following for their extremely warm winter jacket that features a filling blend of 90% down with RDS-certified 650 fill power.

Another thing that plays a huge role in keeping you cozy at under freezing temperature ranges (merely 15 to 45 degrees F) is the elastic hem and adjustable drawcord hood.

Meanwhile, its shell is crafted entirely from baffle-woven nylon, which highlights no stitches or threads to ensure there’s no feather pilling. We really like the fact that it is very compactable that you can fold it down for packing or layering underneath other jackets.

(Men’s Down Jackets): Eddie Bauer Men's MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket

Eddie Bauer Men's MicroTherm 2.0 Down Jacket

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For a price range at around $130 to $230, you’ve got a high-quality down jacket from Eddie Bauer with an emphasis on RDS-certified 800 fill StormDown. What you’ll receive from this interior construction is a decent insulating loft no matter of the conditions.

Ultra-Lightweight (Women’s Down Jackets): Wantdo Women's Packable Ultra-Light Weight Short Down Jacket

Wantdo Women's Packable Ultra-Light Weight Short Down Jacket

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This Wantdo jacket is the most sought-after option for female hikers who want to hike light.

It features a 100% 20D 400T Nylon Taffeta shell with a DWR finish while the inner padding is mainly from duck down with feathers, so the total weight is just around 200 to 300 grams.

The puffiness is moderate combined with great ventilation that you can layer more above it on those extremely cold days.

It is also good at windproof, shown through the elastic hem seal, and nylon-bound cuffs. Don’t worry about packing, it is able to be packed down into a small pouch of 13 x 11.7 x 3.1 inches.

The best part is a petite loop on the left shoulder to fasten and support your headphone cords as well as an opening media port for earphone wiring.

Best For Small-Framed People (Women’s Down Jackets): CIOR Women's Packable Down Jacket

CIOR Women's Packable Down Jacket

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For petite female hikers, we assure you this will give a perfect customized fit with good length to not show your belly or back during movements.

Like most other counterparts, it is built to be lightweight, easy to pack, and functional. The shell provides superb windproof and waterproof performance while the down interior is toasty warm.

It also has four pockets (two zippered hand ones and two large, deep ones on the inside), a removable hood, and a carrying pouch.

For the price, you hardly beat it!

(Women’s Down Jackets): Lock and Love Women's Down Jacket

Lock and Love Women's Down Jacket

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Featuring an insulation rating of around +7 to -15 degrees C, this is our confident recommendation for extremely cold weather.

The construction is worth talking about, including a DWR nylon shell and duck + feather down filling, which delivers unmatched warmth with no compromise of heft. The added hem seal plus nylon-bound elastic cuffs add to it extra wind protection and temp control.

(Women’s Down Jackets): CAMEL CROWN Women’s Puffer Insulated Coats

CAMEL CROWN Women’s Puffer Insulated Coats

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If the climate in your living area just has chilly winter, this is a flawless option.

It has a skin-friendly humanely sourced natural fiber filling (comprised of 20% feather and 80% duck down) wrapped around by a 100% nylon shell with stain and water resistance. Long story shorts, it is incredibly comfortable and warm on cold days.

For enhanced warmth, it features adjustable drawstring hem, elastic cuffs, and easy-pull front zippered hood with windproof properties.

(Women’s Down Jackets): Universo Women's Down Coat

Universo Women's Down Coat

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Compared to the two above, this is added with 10% more duck down while the outer shell is made from 100% windproof nylon, making it warmer and more protective.

But what truly sets it apart is the full-zip front design for a stand-up collar to provide extra neck coverage, the low-profile quilt pattern to offer higher warmth level, and the expertly crafted sewn-through construction to make it lighter.

We also like the hidden opening designed for earphone cords so that you can listen to music, podcast, or answer phone calls while running/hiking/exercising and more.

Synthetic Jackets

Now, if you’re a vegan or allergic to goose/duck feathers or in a tight budget, synthetic jackets are a better choice.

This type doesn’t lose its warmth if getting wet just like the down ones, however, take note that it would be heavier to reach the same warm rating as a down jacket.

And it can’t be shrunk down such compact size for packing. In other words, it would take more space and weigh heftier in your backpack. If those flaws are just minor to your concerns, try this.

Best For Misty Weather (Men’s Synthetic Jackets): MOERDENG Men's Snow Coat

MOERDENG Men's Snow Coat

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This relaxed-fit men’s jacket made of quick-dry material is our favorite pick for misty weather conditions.

Aside from the windbreak and wear-resistant shell material, it is coated with an extra layer of superficial Pu transparent film with a water-repellent rating of 2000mm. Inside is 2400 needle cotton combined with light, soft, and plush shears for good heat retention.

Yet, its fiber-like micro-pore structure still ensures a good amount of airflow in and out of the jacket to keep you from sweating during movements.

Best For Snowy Days (Men’s Synthetic Jackets): PUREMSX Men's Down Alternative Jacket

PUREMSX Men's Down Alternative Jacket

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Aside from the great performance of this jacket, the hood makes it perfect for rain and snow.

Compared this to other counterparts at the same price point, it stands out for double-thickened shell and lining, meaning for extra protection and warmth in chilly days. Plus, the two zippered hand pockets have an additional soft lining to keep your hands warm.

It is also durable enough to bear hardwearing abuse and last longer, all thanks to the high-density polyester fabric and tightly-sewn small stitches.

Besides, the windproof levels of its cuffs are superior to others, as they’re made with tightened elastic rib-knit hidden storm design. It means your body heat loss is minimized while the cold wind is blocked efficiently outsides. Ah, it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

(Men’s Synthetic Jackets): The North Face Men's Thermoball Eco Jacket

The North Face Men's Thermoball Eco Jacket

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We all know The North Face knows how to make a great winter jacket but our top pick would be the Men's Thermoball with an eco-insulation design and quality construction.

The brand has incorporated with PrimaLoft to apply ThermoBall technology to its synthetic insulation, along with recycled shell to make it a great alternative for down jackets. The warmth level of this model is really no joke when it works phenomenally well on all weather conditions.

And we’re glad that it comes with a package size for travel-light.

(Men’s Synthetic Jackets): Rdruko Men's Outdoor Ski Snow Jacket

Rdruko Men's Outdoor Ski Snow Jacket

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If your budget is not really loose, this is a nice try without flattening your wallet. It is priced around $50 to $60, featuring a windproof polyester outer shell with Velcro, elastic cuffs, and a hood with drawstring.

On the inside, the lining is 100% from skin-friendly, soft, warm fleece with decent breathability.

(Men’s Synthetic Jackets): Gopune Men's Softshell Jacket

Gopune Men's Softshell Jacket

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The Gopune Men's Softshell Jacket is designed with a 100% waterproof softshell while the inner lining is heat-resistant, warm micro-polar fleece. So compared to other counterparts, it gives you a higher level of skin comfort and ensures that you’re always dry when going outside.

Best For Windy Days (Women’s Synthetic Jackets): MAGCOMSEN Women's Snow Jacket

MAGCOMSEN Women's Snow Jacket

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The MAGCOMSEN Women's Snow Jacket is truly a great deal when you’ve got two pieces for a price point of under $60.

That “two pieces” thing includes an inner fleece coat and an outer shell waterproof polyester coat so you can flexibly layer for specific weather conditions.

A notable thing about its removable fleece lining is you can convert a zippered windproof hood into it and wear on windy days.

Best For Heavy Fog (Women’s Synthetic Jackets): CAMEL CROWN Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket

CAMEL CROWN Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket

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Highlighting a waterproof rating of 5000mm plus American military-grade Teflon shell material and zippered seamless construction, this CAMEL CROWN jacket is a solid choice for inclement weather like a heavy fog.

Similar to the previous option, it is a two-piece jacket for three different stylings based on specific climates.

We also find a small yet effective improvement on its zippers, which is YKK dual-sided type and the buttons are all wear-resistant.

(Women’s Synthetic Jackets): Little Donkey Andy Women’s Softshell Jacket

Little Donkey Andy Women’s Softshell Jacket

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While the hood is commonly underestimated by many winter jacket manufacturers, Little Donkey Andy doesn’t think you. That is proved through the 114F microfleece lining added to their jackets’ hoods, enhancing its heat retention in chilly, windy conditions.

Moreover, this hood is adjustable through a peripheral cord and removable if wanted.

(Women’s Synthetic Jackets): OutdoorMaster Fleece Jacket

OutdoorMaster Fleece Jacket

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For a stylish winter jacket that can go well with all kinds of leggings or jeans, this is the one. The simple design with a small, stylized logo on the left chest and matching full-zipper make it never out of style.

Meanwhile, its lining appears to be plusher, softer, and thicker compared to other counterparts at the same pricing.

(Women’s Synthetic Jackets): The North Face Women's Carto Triclimate Jacket

The North Face Women's Carto Triclimate Jacket

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If it’s usually rain during the winter in your area, this jacket is worth a try.

As constructed with a DryVent shell with DWR finish, it holds up well against foggy, rainy, or snowy conditions while keeping you comfortably dry. It also keeps you toasty warm thanks to the PrimaLoft Black insulation made of 100% recycled materials. Don’t worry, it’s lightweight!

How To Choose The Best Jacket For Winter Hiking?

Types

When it comes to winter jackets, there are several types available out there, but you need to choose the suitable type for hiking. Here are the best options:

Technical jackets

It’s the best for outdoor activities in the winter since it’s lightweight and compatible with various actions.

This type often comes with additional features such as a helmet-compatible hood as well as pit-zips to allow for airflow.

Technical jackets are also waterproof, packable, more compressible, and big enough to wear over other layers.

Do-it-all jackets

If you want to hike freely but still look stylish, this is the one for you. This type of winter jacket is functional and versatile to allow for outdoor different activities like hiking and skiing.

Insulation

The next factor you should look into is insulation, particularly synthetic or goose down or fleece. It all comes down to your own preference, but here’s the difference.

• Synthetic: made of polyester fibers, barely absorbs moisture and traps body heat. It’s suitable for extremely cold days with snow or rain.
• Goose down: warm and extremely lightweight but easy to get wet if there’s wet snow.
• Fleece: it’s a good material that easily repels water and it’s lightweight. It also keeps you warm, but not as well-insulated as synthetic or goose down.

Face Fabric

You should choose nylon that’s DWR-treated for the face fabric since it’s abrasion-resistant, windproof, and waterproof. This material can come in different denier values, higher numbers mean more durability and more weight.

At the same time, some winter hiking jackets have a waterproof or wind-blocking membrane on the face baric to better protect the wearer from cold weather.

Weatherproof

When you hike in the winter, you will likely encounter strong winds, snow, and even rain. Therefore, make sure your jacket is weatherproof.

Nowadays, Gore-Tex is a very popular technique used in jackets and other outdoor gears for its weatherproofing ability. While it lets your sweat evaporate, it stops water from getting in.

Pockets & Hood

Depending on the items you carry when hiking, choose a suitable number of pockets.

However, try to keep the list short because the more items you carry, the more weight you add to the pockets.

On the other hand, a hood is a great way to protect yourself from snow and rain. It also helps with insulation and warmth when you’re outside in the winter. Most winter jackets come with a detachable hood, so you can leave it home when you don’t need it.

Fit

And lastly, regardless of the activity, a jacket that fits is always better than if it’s too small or too large.

Make sure it’s big enough for you to wear under layers but not too large that becomes bulky.

Which Brands Make The Best Jacket For Winter Hiking?

ZSHOW

This brand is professional in making outdoor gears. If you are looking for a high-quality jacket at a reasonable price, this is your go-to brand.

Wantdo

With nearly 10 years of experience in the industry, this company produces outdoor items with comfort in mind. It excels in making jackets that will absolutely fit your body.

CAMEL CROWN

This brand has been offering quality clothing items for outdoor activities since 2005. Not matter if you’re a newbie or an experienced hiker, you will find a perfect fit here.

FAQs

Conclusion

We hope that you have now figured out how to get the best jacket for winter hiking among countless models out there.

Remember that the most important factors are insulation and weatherproof features before considering other things when shopping for a hiking jacket for this winter.