The 11 Best Puffer Jackets, Tested by Style Editors

Patagonia’s hardcore outerwear rarely disappoints. So, it’s not surprising that the brand’s Nano Puff Hooded Insulated Puffer Jacket has been a fan-favorite and regular go-to of ours here at Men’s Health for years. It features 60g of patented PrimaLoft Gold Eco fill that’s ultra-lightweight and warm, even when wet, making it arguably better and more sustainable than genuine down. The exterior is made from 100% recycled polyester ripstop with a DWR finish, so it’s windproof and water-repellent against rain, sleet, and flurries. Elastic cuffs and a cinch-able hem help keep drafts out. When you’re ready to travel, this compact puffer stuffs neatly into its own pocket.

We love that it’s beefy enough to wear as an insulating mid-layer for snow sports and travel. If you’re looking for a “crossover” design that makes it friendly for both street and trail wear, this is a winner. Besides adding a hood (which is an option), there’s not much we would change about this men’s puffer jacket. It sits at a solid value given the brand name, reliability, and list of essential features. Frankly, it’s damn-near-perfect.

Read More: Patagonia Nano Puff Review

Eddie Bauer’s take is a reissue that borrows features from the iconic 1936 Skyliner Jacket, blending vintage inspiration with modern performance. The resulting mashup of a bomber jacket and puffer jacket is packed with 650-fill premium down insulation, providing serious warmth when the temps really plummet. We found that it’s easy to dial in the fit and cuffs to seal out drafts of winds with the help of the functional adjustable hem and ribbed cuffs. Plus, the StormRepel DWR finish makes sure you stay dry in the event you get caught in a drizzle.

We’d be remiss to admit the fit is a bit bulkier than others, however, the oversized feel doesn’t weigh you down. Believe it or not, it’s super breathable and kept us toasty more than others we’ve worn during freezing temps and harsh blizzards. The bronze color is also a beauty, standing out against the usual neutrals. Bonus: It’s loaded with pockets inside and out to keep your stuff handy.

Cotopaxi’s puffer jacket redefines adventure wear with vibrant colorblock stripping and a sleek taffeta design. Known for innovation, the Utah-founded brand offers the perfect balance of retro and modern—like a throwback vibe mixed with today’s fit and technology. From the durable water-resistant finish to the 800-fill-power down and scuba hood, this bad boy will keep you super warm and dry from gusty winds and abrupt showers. In fact, we’ve worn the Fuego on the slopes, through freezing trails, and during daily commutes to work.

This jacket is basically a walking flex for anyone who loves outdoor gear that can be a show-stopping look. Whether you’re wearing workout clothes or business casual attire, the classic fit layers over top without any bunching. As you’re on the go, your essentials can be safely stored in either of the two hand pockets or interior stash pocket. And when you’re not wearing the jacket at all, it stows away into its own internal pocket for easy transportability.

Previously the “Cerium LT Hoody,” this technical puffer from Arc’teryx has trimmed down everything including its name to just the “Cerium Hoody” (drop the “LT”). Like everything in the brand’s catalog, this is a premium bit of apparel. It’s purpose-built for all alpine conditions, including everything from chilly nights around the campfire to early morning summit pushes to all-day winter climbs. The puffer jacket has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, yet a lightweight build that’s easy to pack for adventuring when you only want to pack one. It’s versatile enough to work as a go-to midlayer or as a standalone down jacket.

The 850-fill down is sustainably sourced and bolstered with Coreloft synthetic in those areas most prone to moisture. Translation: It’s ultra warm when you need it to be, but temperature-regulating to prevent overheating. It also wicks away moisture like a champ. The only downside? As with most Arc’teryx gear, this one is damn-near-perfect but at $400, it’s not for everyone. If you’re a hardcore adventurer who likes his technical gear, this is the one for you. It’s probably overkill, however, for casual adventurers who might do better (and save a little money) by looking elsewhere.

The Outdoor Research Helium Down Jacket isn’t just tough—it’s practically indestructible. Crafted with Pertex Quantum with Diamond Fuse technology, this shell fabric is built to handle serious wear and tear without skipping a beat. The abrasion resistance is no joke, and it manages all that durability without adding extra weight. In other words, you’re getting a jacket that can take a beating but still feels super light.

With over 800-fill down insulation, it keeps you incredibly warm while also fending off wind and water, so you’re covered for unpredictable conditions. The hybrid mapped construction ensures insulation is where you need it most, making it great for those high-performance, ultralight adventures.

We didn’t find that it had much breathability or stretch, but with an external chest pocket or tricot-lined hand pockets, it doesn’t skimp on functionality. Despite all the tech packed in, you’ll barely notice it on your back. Bottom line: If you’re after a jacket that can hang with the toughest alpine climbs or cold-weather missions, this is your best bet.

In true Uniqlo fashion, the Japanese retailer sees that you receive quality pieces—from crewneck sweaters to puffer jackets—without breaking the bank. Enter the PUFFTECH Parka, which infuses new high-performance fiber technology that’s as lightweight as it is warm. The exterior dons a stitch-free channel design without the needle holes, so wind or rain can’t penetrate. We don’t recommend wearing it in heavy rain, but the fabric is coated with a water-resistant agent to get you through light showers. On top of that, the hood serves as another layer of defense against the elements.

While it’s considered a parka, length-wise, this one doesn’t come about half way down your thighs for extra coverage. It stops at your waist, but the relaxed fit makes for easy layering. For extra measure, there’s stretchable tape that gathers from the sides to the back of the cuffs to reduce chances of cold air freezing your butt off. And if you experience any spills or stains, no worries—it’s hand-washable for easy maintenance, so you can keep it looking fresh without a trip to the cleaners.

It’s true that most down jackets run into the same issue of being too bulky. But Columbia breaks the mold by incorporating solar-boosted tech that helps trap body heat and swapping out the pillowy panels for a slimmer profile. It turns out this clever design makes for a lightweight jacket, which has kept us warm and mobile during cold mountain hikes. As for the outer fabric coated with Omni-Shield protection, it provides water-resistance coupled with the hood and high-neck zip, so it handled wind and rain without a hitch.

We found the real game-changer here is that it packs into its own inner pocket with a zip closure. For full transparency, getting the quilted panels to flatten out took some practice, but once we figured it out, it turned into a compact bag that easily slips into a gym backpack or carry-on luggage. Between its exceptional insulation and weather resistance, it’s hands down one of the best we’ve seen for travel, outdoor adventure, and daily commuting.

A puffer jacket that can withstand the everyday wear and tear is a 10/10. That’s why this simple number from Hawke & Co. has landed a spot on our list. With a superior warmth-to-weight ratio, high stretch, and water-resistance, it’s a breeze to navigate freezing commutes to the office or trips to the gym. If the forecast consists of rain or frigid winds, you have the adjustable hood and stand up collar to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Plus, the double yoke comes with an extra layer of fabric across the back and shoulders for enhanced durability and warmth.

During our testing, we found it feels like you’re wearing your favorite blanket, but outside the house. The standard cut fits comfortably without being too tight or too loose—it strikes a balance between relaxed and slim. In terms of style, the minimalist look is super effortless and the quilted fabric has a smooth, clean finish. It looks just good with a button-up and chinos for work as it does with a cozy sweatsuit to run last-minute errands on the weekend.

The North Face brought back the classic 1996 design that helped elevate the San-Fran label from outdoor gear to high-end fashion. The feel is pillowy, almost like you’re wearing a sleeping bag, which trades a little mobility for extra warmth and cushioning. The down also creates a solid barrier against the wind, but it’s not the most water-resistant. No, your clothes underneath won’t get soaked, but it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as a fully waterproof jacket.

The timeless piece of outerwear option prioritizes comfort above all. But the real draw for our style editors is how iconic the design is. Once a reliable outdoor staple, it’s now dominating the wardrobes of influencers and trendsetters everywhere. Not to mention, it’s versatile enough to pair with almost anything. We’ve rocked it with hoodies and joggers as well as sweaters and jeans. While many guys gravitate to the standard two-tone versions, we’re partial to the black and bleach dye print contrast for that extra edge.

Despite being the lighter build of Fjallraven’s classic down jacket, this iteration can manage the most unbearable winter conditions with ease. Thanks to the high-quality down insulation filled within the stitch-through construction, we found the piece holds up nicely during 20-degree temps and blustery treks. There was no discomfort or shivering—just complete warmth. Listen, don’t underestimate its protective hood either; it does a bang-up job of keeping any chills from creeping in and shooting down your spine.

The price tag is higher than most on the list, but its value is pretty substantial. You get wind- and water-resistance for excess armor, along with synthetic padding over shoulders to resist moisture and pressure. In total, there’s five pockets, but the ones on the front are super deep to carry your phone, wallet, winter gloves, or beanie. Lastly, the red colorway is just the right amount of bold to liven up gray skies and snowy landscapes, while making sure you stand out against the muted tones in the city or on the trail.

If you’re hitting the slopes or braving the backcountry this winter, you need a puffer jacket with superior warmth-to-weight ratio. Well, the Norrona Lyngen Down850 Hood has it in spades, which arrives in a knockout lime green color. First off, it’s designed with articulated elbows, so you have full range of motion whether you’re craving turns on a snowboard or scaling icy peaks. The down insulation and brushed chin lock in heat, but we found breathability isn’t one of its strong suits. From time to time, you might need to unzip to manage ventilation, especially during those high-intensity activities.

On a brighter note, the durable water-repellent treated materials keep you dry in unexpected flurries and light rain. Its storm hood is helmet-compatible and adjustable with hand—perfect for those windy summits. Add in the innerplacket to block cold spots and handwarmer pockets with zipper closure, and you’ve got a tough number to handle the elements. We also have to point out that it’s a packable design that tucks neatly into its own pocket, remaining a top contender for winter sports enthusiasts.