Winter Hiking Jackets
Winter is here, and with it comes the need for warm and durable outdoor gear. In this article, we’ll be rounding up the best winter hiking jackets on the market, ensuring that you stay protected from the harsh elements while enjoying your outdoor adventures. From insulated layers to waterproof designs, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the perfect winter hiking jacket.
The Top 10 Best Winter Hiking Jackets
- Women’s Norseland Insulated Parka for Cold Weather Outings — Experience the ultimate warmth and protection with the REI Co-op Women’s Norseland Insulated Parka 2.0, featuring lightweight down insulation, extra length, and an insulated, fleece-lined hood designed for extreme winter hiking conditions.
- Gender-Neutral 6 Pocket Winter Hiking Jacket — Stay warm and stylish in any outdoor adventure with this versatile men’s softshell jacket for hiking, camping, or hunting.
- Insulated Arc’teryx Winter Jacket for Outdoor Adventures — Experience the perfect blend of warmth and versatility with Arc’teryx’s Cerium Hybrid Hoody, an essential companion for all-season adventures.
- Insulated Hooded Jacket for Outdoor Adventures — Winter Hiking Gear — Stay cozy and comfortable with the Cotopaxi CAPA Insulated Hooded Jacket — perfect for winter hiking and other outdoor adventures.
- Versatile Warm Fleece Winter Ski Jacket for Outdoor Activities — Experience the warmth, durability, and functionality of the TREKEK Men’s Winter Hiking Jacket — the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures in snow, rain, or wind.
- Versatile, Rugged Winter Hiking Jacket — Experience ultimate protection and versatility in any outdoor adventure with the Fjallraven Men’s Vidda Pro Jacket, offering durability, water-resistance, and a multitude of storage options for your adventure gear.
- Slim Fit Winter Jacket with Removable Fur Hood — BINACL Women’s Thickened Down Alternative Jacket offers extreme warmth and style for cold weather activities, with a breathable hood, insulated zippers, and diverse colors to choose from.
- Warm and Stylish Men’s Winter Hiking Jacket with Hood and Insulation — Stay warm and protected during the coldest winter months with the versatile Avalanche Men’s Winter Jacket with Hood, featuring water-resistant materials, windproof layers, and thick insulation.
- Warm and Protective Men’s Winter Jacket — The Avalanche Men’s Winter Jacket with Hood offers water-repellent, windproof features and thick insulation for optimal warmth during cold winter activities.
- Warm & Cozy Military Style Winter Parka for Men — Keep warm and cozy in the great outdoors with the WenVen Men’s Winter Sherpa Parka, a heavy-duty and stylish solution tailored for all kinds of winter activities.
Reviews
Women’s Norseland Insulated Parka for Cold Weather Outings
The REI Co-op Women’s Norseland Insulated Parka 2.0 is a perfect companion for those chilly outdoor adventures. The lightweight down insulation keeps you warm even in the harsh polar vortex, and the extra length ensures your legs stay toasty. I loved the insulated hood, which really protected my face from the cold.
However, there were a few drawbacks to this parka. The hood wasn’t as secure as I would have liked, and it could have been more adjustable for different head sizes. Additionally, I found the side zippers to be a bit bulky, making them difficult to use while walking or sitting.
Overall, I think the REI Co-op Women’s Norseland Insulated Parka 2.0 is a great choice for those who need a reliable, warm jacket for outdoor activities. It might not be perfect, but it certainly did the job for me.
Gender-Neutral 6 Pocket Winter Hiking Jacket
I recently tried the Men’s Softshell Jacket, and I was really impressed with its durability and versatility. It’s perfect for all those outdoor adventures — whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting.
The jacket is made of polyester, which makes it both comfortable and reliable. Its six functional pockets are fantastic — with three arm pockets securely fastened by Velcro, two side pockets, and one back pocket, you have plenty of room to carry all your essentials. I love the weatherproof hood, adjustable cuffs, and drawstring hem that help protect you from the elements.
This jacket is ideal for various occasions, from leisure to tactical training, making it perfect for almost any outdoor activity. Just make sure to read the size chart carefully and choose the right fit for you, since it’s designed for different waist and bust measurements.
Overall, I highly recommend this jacket for all your outdoor endeavors; it’s a must-have in your gear collection.
Insulated Arc’teryx Winter Jacket for Outdoor Adventures
The Arc’teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody Men’s, Black Sapphire, Size M, has become an essential part of my outdoor adventures this season. I’m often out in the early morning before the sun is fully up, and this jacket has saved me from the chill that sometimes lingers even in summer.
One feature that really stood out to me is the hybrid design of the jacket. It’s perfect for those mornings when the air is crisp, but I don’t need a full-on parka. The air-permeable Fortius Air 50 softshell around the arms, sides, and waist allows for stretch and thermal regulation without compromising warmth. This means I still get the cozy feel I need without sweating it out.
However, one downside I’ve noticed is the size fit of the jacket. I ordered a medium, which I assumed would fit well based on my experiences with other Arc’teryx products. Unfortunately, the sleeves are way too long, and the jacket feels more like a shell or parka than the slim-fitting active layer I was expecting. This has made it a bit difficult to layer while wearing, especially under a belt or harness, and it might not be the best choice for those looking for a slim-fitting piece.
Despite this minor issue, I’ve been really impressed with the Arc’teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody Men’s. It’s a versatile and functional piece that has become a go-to for those cool mornings where a full down jacket would be overkill. Overall, it’s a great addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s wardrobe, especially for those summer trips where the temperatures take a dip.
Insulated Hooded Jacket for Outdoor Adventures — Winter Hiking Gear
I recently bought the Cotopaxi CAPA Insulated Hooded Jacket in the Men’s Woods/Greenery S color, and I must say, it’s a fantastic combination of style and functionality. The modern, athletic look of the jacket makes it perfect for a variety of outdoor adventures, including camping in summer and hiking in autumn and winter.
One of the most impressive features of this jacket is its temperature rating, which ranges from 5°C to -10°C. I’ve found that it provides excellent insulation, even when wet. The water-resistant outer and elastic cuffs ensure a snug fit and help keep me warm in any weather conditions.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks to this jacket. For one, it is not the most breathable, especially during more intense activities. Additionally, the sleeves are on the shorter side, which might be an issue for those with longer arms. Despite these minor cons, the Cotopaxi CAPA Insulated Hooded Jacket has become a staple in my outdoor wardrobe, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a stylish and functional jacket for various adventures.
Versatile Warm Fleece Winter Ski Jacket for Outdoor Activities
I’ve recently had the chance to test out the TREKEK Men’s Winter Ski Jacket — and I must say, it’s been a game changer for my snowy adventures. The waterproof fleece lining keeps me snug and warm in icy conditions, while the durable 100% polyester fabric shrugs off the elements with ease.
One of the standout features for me is the adjustable hood with drawstrings that effectively keeps the wind at bay. The zipper closure system provides quick and easy access to pockets, making it a breeze to stow away essentials. But, as much as I love this jacket, it does come with a noticeable weight, which might not be ideal for those tackling lighter snowboarding or hiking trails.
All in all, the TREKEK Men’s Winter Ski Jacket offers exceptional comfort and protection in winter sports and outdoor activities. Just remember, you’ll have to take the extra weight into account before hitting the trails.
Versatile, Rugged Winter Hiking Jacket
The Fjallraven Men’s Vidda Pro Jacket is a sturdy and versatile addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s wardrobe. Built from a robust combination of cotton and polyester, the G-1000 Eco fabric ensures high-quality wind and water resistance, making it perfect for varying weather conditions. The jacket’s thoughtful design includes bellow pockets secured with zippers, a chest pocket, and smart gear loops on the front pockets, offering plenty of storage options. The adjustable hood and tall collar provide extra protection against the elements, while the drawcord-adjustable hem ensures a comfortable fit.
Although the jacket requires periodic waxing for optimal performance and comes with an adjustable left-handed zipper, these minor drawbacks do not detract from its overall quality and functionality. The Vidda Pro Jacket is both stylish and practical, making it an excellent investment for those seeking warmth and protection during their outdoor adventures. The multiple size and color options ensure a comfortable and personalized fit, while the various pockets offer ample storage space for essentials. Overall, this jacket is a reliable and fashionable choice for any adventure-seeking man.
Slim Fit Winter Jacket with Removable Fur Hood
When I first tried the BINACL Women’s Thickened Down Alternative Jacket, I was pleasantly surprised by how warm it was. The E-2Y Insulation kept me cozy on even the chilliest days. The high quality zippers and buttons closure made it easy to put on and take off, and the big hood offered great protection from the elements.
However, I did find that it was a bit tricky to properly hand wash, and I had to be careful not to damage the faux fur trim. Overall, it’s a stylish and practical choice for those looking for a reliable winter parka.
Warm and Stylish Men’s Winter Hiking Jacket with Hood and Insulation
I recently gave the Avalanche Men’s Winter Jacket with Hood a try during an unexpected snowstorm. I was impressed by its thick yet breathable insulation, which kept me toasty warm even though I was caught in a sudden flurry.
I also appreciated the adjustable hood, which offered shelter from the blustery winds and snow. The jacket’s water-repellent features did an excellent job at keeping me dry, despite the wet conditions. However, the one downside I noticed was the somewhat limited pocket space, which made it a bit challenging to store my essentials.
Overall, this winter jacket proved to be a great investment for those chilly days and nights, providing both fashion and practicality.
Warm and Protective Men’s Winter Jacket
I have always loved outdoor activities, and winter is no exception. But one thing that could bother me is the sudden change in temperature and the chilling winds. That’s when this Avalanche Men’s Winter Jacket with Hood came to my rescue.
The first time I wore it on a snowy day, it really impressed me with its water-repellent and windproof properties. I was out on the ski slopes enjoying the crisp air, and the thicker insulation kept me cozy, even when the wind gusts hit.
I truly appreciated the convenience of having pockets on both sides for storing my gloves and keys, and I was just as pleased with the adjustable hood for added protection from the snow. Despite these features, there was one thing that could have been better: the jacket wasn’t fully waterproof, so it didn’t hold up in heavy rain. Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile, comfortable, and warm winter jacket, this one is worth a try.
Warm & Cozy Military Style Winter Parka for Men
I recently gave the WenVen Men’s Winter Sherpa Parka a try, and let me tell you, it was a game changer in my wardrobe. The fabric was thick and warm, making it perfect for those icy days when I needed a little extra layer. The quilted sleeves added an extra level of coziness that I appreciated.
One of my favorite features was the detachable hood. It came in handy when the weather took a sudden turn, and I needed a little extra protection from the wind. The front zipper with snap-on flap kept the chill at bay while the ribbed knit at the neck and cuffs sealed the deal.
This parka wasn’t just functional, but it was also stylish. The heavyweight cotton fabric and brass hardware added a tactical feel to it, which appealed to my fashion-forward side. The 7-pocket design was super useful, keeping my hands warm and my essentials close.
Overall, I was delighted with my WenVen Men’s Winter Sherpa Parka. It was a practical addition to my wardrobe, perfect for all the winter activities I enjoy. A bit of washing required, but it was worth it in the end.
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to winter hiking, having the right gear can make all the difference in your experience. One essential item you should consider investing in is a reliable and comfortable winter hiking jacket. This buyer’s guide will help you understand the key features to look for, provide valuable advice, and guide you in making a smart purchase for your next winter adventure.
Important Features to Consider
- Insulation: Look for jackets that provide adequate insulation, ideally with synthetic or down insulation, to trap warm air close to your body. Consider the climate you’ll be hiking in and choose a jacket with the appropriate warmth rating for your needs. Insulation can vary from lightweight (around 400 fill) to more robust (above 800 fill), so assess your personal requirements before making a purchase.
Considerations
- Waterproofing: A good winter hiking jacket must provide protection against rain and snow. Look for jackets with a waterproof and breathable membrane like Gore-Tex or similar technology to prevent water from soaking through while still allowing the jacket to breathe. Ensure the jacket has a waterproof rating of at least 20,000 mm or higher.
Additional Features
- Wind Resistance: Winter winds can be intense, so select a jacket that offers good wind resistance. This will help maintain your body’s core temperature and keep you comfortable during your hike. A jacket with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish will provide extra protection against wind and wet conditions.
Advice for Choosing the Right Winter Hiking Jacket
- Fit: The jacket should fit snugly without being too tight. Make sure to try on a few different sizes to find the one that provides the best balance of warmth, mobility, and comfort. Pay attention to the fit around the sleeves, shoulders, and hem, as these are common areas where cold air can seep in.
FAQ
What type of insulation is best for winter hiking jackets?
Down insulation is widely regarded as the best choice for winter hiking jackets due to its warmth and compressibility. It provides excellent insulation even when wet, which is essential for hiking in harsh winter conditions. However, synthetic insulation is also a popular option, offering similar warmth and drying capabilities, but may be heavier and bulkier than down.
Another factor to consider is the fill power of insulation. Higher fill power means more warmth per ounce, making it a good choice for lightweight jackets. Lower fill power, on the other hand, provides better warmth-to-weight ratio for heavier, more robust jackets. Ultimately, the choice of insulation depends on your specific needs, budget, and the conditions in which you’ll be using the jacket.
What should I look for in a waterproof and breathable jacket?
For winter hiking jackets, look for a waterproof and breathable membrane. This will protect you from water and snow while still allowing your body to release moisture, preventing you from feeling clammy and suffocated. Some popular membrane technologies include Gore-Tex, eVent, and Polartec Neoshell.
Additionally, consider the jacket’s design and features. Many modern jackets incorporate pit zips (small vents under the arms) or adjustable cuffs to improve breathability. Adequate venting is crucial for maintaining comfort during high-intensity activities like hiking uphill or climbing rocky slopes.
What is the advantage of using a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 winter hiking jacket?
A 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 winter hiking jacket offers the convenience of a single garment, rather than carrying multiple layers. They typically consist of an outer shell with an attached insulated liner that can be worn separately or together. This flexibility allows you to adjust the jacket’s warmth and breathability according to the weather and your body’s needs.
For instance, you can wear the outer shell and liner together for maximum warmth when it’s cold and snowy, or detach the liner when you need a lighter layer. Some jackets even have removable hoods or separate pants, further enhancing their versatility. However, these types of jackets may be more expensive and heavier than traditional jackets.
How should a winter hiking jacket fit?
A well-fitting winter hiking jacket should be comfortable and allow for ease of movement. It should be snug around the neck and shoulders, but not too tight as to restrict breathing or circulation. The sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists when you’re wearing gloves, and the torso should be long enough to protect your lower back when you’re bent forward.
There should be some room for layering underneath, but not so much that the jacket becomes bulky and restricts movement. Look for adjustable cuffs, hem, and hood to help fine-tune the fit. Many jackets have a drawstring waist, which can be pulled tight to prevent cold air from creeping in when you need to remove your top layer.
What are some important features to look for in a winter hiking jacket?
Some key features to consider when buying a winter hiking jacket include waterproofing and breathability, insulation, fit, and versatility. As mentioned earlier, a waterproof and breathable membrane is essential for protection from the elements without sacrificing comfort. Insulation should be appropriate for the climate and conditions you’ll be hiking in.
Additional features to look for include adjustable cuffs, hem, and hood to help fine-tune the fit, pit zips for enhanced breathability, and removable or adjustable liners for added warmth and flexibility. Some jackets may also have helmet-compatible hoods or dedicated pockets for storing maps and snacks. Finally, consider the jacket’s durability, especially if you’ll be hiking off-trail or in rough terrain.
What are some good brands for winter hiking jackets?
There are many reputable brands that offer high-quality winter hiking jackets. Some popular options include Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’teryx, and Mountain Hardwear. These brands are known for their commitment to innovation, durability, and performance. However, there are also many smaller and niche brands that produce excellent winter hiking jackets, so it’s always worth exploring these options as well.
Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your personal needs, budget, and preferences. It’s always a good idea to read reviews, ask for recommendations from experienced hikers, and try on jackets in person before making a decision. Online retailers like REI and Backcountry also offer comprehensive product reviews and guidance from knowledgeable staff.
