Dazzling Coat Sure To Be In Demand With Pimps Everywhere

This is the newest addition to [Arren Parker's] Burning Man wardrobe. The full-length lighted faux-fur coats is completely his creation. He started with a pattern that he acquired from Ebay, adding side pockets and changing the hood to a collar. From there he added the 256 RGB LEDs that make it shimmer so appealingly.

For this to work, he designed and ordered 300 tiny PCBs on which a connector socket and the LED are soldered. These are driven by a set of six TLC5940 pulse-width modulation chips, and ultimately by an Arduino. The effect is spectacular (see for yourself after the break), and we're sure it'll be a hit at burning man.

The 14 Best Winter Jackets For Extreme Cold, So You Won't Be Left Shivering

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There's cold and then there's cold. We're talking single-digit temperatures—or possibly even lower—with gusts of frigid wind and Jack Frost chomping on your nose rather than just nipping at it. The kind of cold that makes you want to curl up in head-to-toe cashmere and sit by a fire with a piping hot cup of cocoa. Unfortunately, our schedules don't always allow for such indulgences and sometimes we're forced to endure the bitter winter air. For such occasions, you'll definitely want to be sporting one of these ultra-warm coats. These high-tech toppers are the absolute best winter jackets for extreme cold, to give you that "warmed by a fire" feeling while you're still getting things done outdoors. Plus, we've got some expert tips on what to look for to ensure maximum warmth from the winter coat of your choosing. Now all that's left to do is accessorize with some cozy mittens, don a wool cap and slip into some fabulous snow boots.

Here's What Makes the Perfect Winter Boot According to a Podiatrist (With 10 Styles to Shop Now)

The Best Jackets for Extreme Cold at a Glance Meet the Expert

Ingrid Johnson is a Product Information Specialist at REI. She has worked for the co-op for nearly 14 years and has been working and playing outdoors in all of the weather her whole life.

11 Tips for Layering Your Winter Clothes Without Adding Bulk

Triple F.A.T. Goose

This coat checks all our boxes—super warm, waterproof, windproof, stylish—and is made from high-quality materials that feel incredibly luxe to the touch (like the plush fleece-lined pockets, for example). The hood is also removeable and comes with multiple adjustable cords and an extended visor to keep snow or rain out of your eyes. Yes, it is expensive, but there is a lot of technology that's gone into making such a supremely cozy and chic design, so if you live someplace that regularly hits single digit temperatures (or lower), it's definitely worth checking out.

Buy it ($500)

REI

You don't need to break the bank to find an ultra-warm winter coat. This REI design is long enough to cover your hips and bum, and the insulated hood is lined with cozy fleece for extra comfort around your face. It's also made from recycled polyester, as an eco-friendly bonus. The materials have been treated with a water-repellant finish to help maintain that intense warmth even in rain and snow. And while the overall look may be simple, the Norseland has a flattering silhouette that's neither too puffy nor too cinched and works well on a number of different body types. Reviews suggest it runs a hair large, but if you plan to layer thicker sweaters underneath we say stick with your usual size. Per one Minnesota-based reviewer, "Great for the cold northern winters in Minnesota, this coat is warm and stylish at the same time. I walk my older dog four time a day. Since it is a slow walk, I have difficulty staying warm but this coat does exactly what I need! I also like where the pockets are located—other long coats make you bend down just to put your hands in but the pockets are higher up on this one."

Buy it ($199)

L.L.Bean

Insulated pants make sense for ski vacations and outdoor adventures, but for simply strolling around the city (or quickly shuffling from your car to the front door to avoid the cold) you're unlikely to sport such a bulky item. This does not, however, mean your legs must be forced to endure the wrath of Jack Frost. L.L.Bean's Ultrawarm coat goes all the way down to mid-calf, right about where your cozy shearling-lined winter boots would end, and is rated for temperatures as low as -50° F. A double zipper allows you to adjust the fit to accommodate your stride, and both the hood and the faux-fur trim are removable, giving you multiple stylish (and warm) options to wear. It also comes in petite lengths so those under 5'4" won't feel like they're sporting a literal sleeping bag. That said, there is also a three-quarters length style available if you prefer.

Buy it ($299)

Canada Goose

Canada Goose is the outerwear of choice for explorers and scientists working in Antarctica, as well as film crews the world over, oddly enough. The brand makes some of the absolute warmest winter puffers and parkas, with multiple options rated to keep you warm at temperatures below -22° F. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most expensive brands on this list. This is definitely an investment piece, however it does come with a lifetime warranty and a bevy of rave reviews. The Fusion Fit parka comes with an impressively high neck (plus a detachable hood) to ensure no gusts of cold air sneak down your collar, and an inner drawstring that gives you the option to cinch the waist if you like.

Buy it ($1,775)

66° North

This Icelandic outdoor brand is one of the absolute best and most popular options for serious mountaineers, guides, explorers and researchers, so you can bet it will hold up to anything Mother Nature might have in store for you this winter. As the website explains, "Around the solstice, northern Iceland experiences near 24-hour darkness, with temperatures falling as low as -30°C (-22°F). The Jökla was created because it had to be." It even warns that locations with temperatures that can still produce rain are likely too hot for the incredible warmth this coat provides. Of course, such an advanced and technical item of clothing does not come cheap, but if you live somewhere as cold as northern Iceland, it is definitely worth the splurge.

Buy it ($1,395)

The North face

When hitting the slopes in the Northeast, you run the risk of skiing through sub-zero temperatures and nasty winds. And while we don't recommend risking frostbite just to score another run, this jacket should keep you toasty warm throughout the day without trapping in moisture. It has a three-in-one design, with an inner puffer layer that can be zipped in or out, giving you greater flexibility regulating your temperature. The outer shell is fully waterproof, to keep you dry even when it's raining sideways, but there are also pit zips should you decide you need a little extra ventilation if it warms up. Reviews suggest it does run small so we highly suggest going up one (or maybe even two) from your usual size, especially so you can layer even more warm pieces underneath should you want them. Per one review, "Loved this jacket and that it comes with a removeable outer shell. It was warm but did not feel bulky. The size runs a bit small and I like to layer up with multiple sweaters and warm weather gear. I typically wear between a small and medium but returned the small and went with a large."

Buy it ($340)

Eddie Bauer

This compact zip-up is rated for temperatures as low as -5 °F and comes with a water-resistant finish. While it would certainly work well on its own for most scenarios, we love how compact and thin the down is, making it an ideal layering piece that can be worn under your favorite Gore-Tex rain jacket or an even warmer parka for double the insulation. It also comes in both petite and tall sizes, so no one has to stress about rolling up sleeves that are too long or feeling exposed in a jacket that's too short. Reviews suggest it runs true to size, and multiple women also report being pleasantly surprised about not having to size up to accomodate their hips.

Buy it ($249; $171)

Woolrich

Now more than ever we are hyper aware of all the different ways we can help minimize our risk of getting sick, and this super-warm coat offers a bonus level of protection in an unexpected place—the pocket lining, a cozy black-and-red fleece, is treated with Polygiene ViralOff technology, which is designed to kill more than 99 percent of microbes in a two-hour time span. Yup, this gorgeous coat may actually help prevent you from getting sick this winter (in conjunction with washing your hands, using hand sanitizer and wearing a mask, of course). But beyond its germaphobe appeal, Wollrich's Aliquippa down coat is incredibly chic, with a drawstring at the waist to help nip you in and a fabulous stand collar that protects your neck from chilly winds should you decide to remove the adjustable hood. The coat is rated to keep you warm down in the range of 14 °F to -4 °F, so you can feel assured you won't be left shivering on early morning walks. The outer shell material is also water and wind resistant, and the down used to pack those quilted baffles meet the Responsible Down Standard.

Buy it ($1,035; $725)

Patgonia

Just because a coat is warm doesn't mean it will hold up well in wet conditions. In fact, most traditional down filling becomes fairly useless when wet. But this Patagonia design was made specifically for areas that experience both low temperatures and lots of rain or snow. The insulation is made from 100 percent recycled polyester and the outer shell has not one, but two layers of waterproofing to ensure you stay dry and warm in even the heaviest rainfall. There are drawstrings on the hood to help prevent water from sneaking in around your face, and at the waist as well to help cinch you in for a more flattering fit. Reviews suggest it runs a bit large but we still recommend going with your usual size so that you can comfortably layer sweaters or thicker knits underneath.

buy it ($369; $184)

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research makes tons of great outdoorsy gear for all sorts of activities, but this coat really takes the cake as the best everyday winter coat the brand has to offer. And, as an added bonus, sizes range from XS up to a size 4X. It's insulated with 700 down fill for maximum warmth, and the shell is made from 100 percent recycled materials and is water resistant. The hood is also insulated, unlike most of the designs on this list, to ensure your head and ears stay warm even if you forget to bring a hat. The drop tail hem (for extra bum coverage) has two side zips to give your hips better range of motion if you've got an active day planned. And there is an internal, fleece-lined collar that will keep your neck protected even if you aren't wearing the hood. Kate from British Columbia writes, "When the temperature is below zero and the wind is blowing at 25 mph I wear this coat over a fleece and I'm very comfortable. The hood blocks the wind and can be pulled up over my chin, so that my face (all but my nose) stays warm. And I like the hip length because it's not awkward to zip or sit in. Also the coat has practical features like a durable zipper, sleeve thumb hole cuffs and well placed pockets. The outer layer is durable and has withstood challenges, like dogs jumping up on me in my forays into dog parks."

Buy it ($299)

The North Face

We adore this throwback North Face style, which was reissued last year and is back in the same retro hues you loved in 1996, plus a few more modern options. But more than just feeling trendy, this coat is also supremely warm. In fact, it comes with the brand's highest warmth rating and is also water repellent, all while maintaining a lightweight feel that won't bog you down. Our only gripe is that, while there is a removable hood to add more warmth around your ears and head, the cropped cut leaves your hips and booty exposed to the elements (unless you opt for a pair of insulated pants, too).

Buy it (from $330)

Apparis

Apparis makes some of the highest quality faux-fur coats out there—which is in itself a mega warm and animal-friendly material—but we're big fans of this style in particular for two reasons. One is that big cozy hood, which can be pulled up to cover your ears and head for additional warmth without worrying about ruining your 'do with a beanie. Second, it comes with snaps down the front rather than a tie waist, like most faux-fur styles, meaning you don't have to worry about your coat flying open should a cold gust of wind hit. Oh, and it also has deep pockets in front to keep your hands toasty warm.

Buy it ($370)

lululemon

We'll start by saying that, yes, it can absolutely be too cold for you to safely go for a run. But for the dedicated miler that still actually wants to head outside mid-February, this lululemon topper will help keep you warm and dry, even as you approach 10° F. The outer shell is water repellent and the PrimaLoft insulation will continue to keep you nice and warm even when wet. It also comes with an extra fleecy dickie zipped into the collar for additional warmth on truly frigid days, but that can be removed once spring starts to creep in. We also deeply appreciate the reflective details which help identify you as a runner on the road, since you're more likely to be running in the dark during winter's shorter days.

Buy it ($228)

Aritzia

Canadian company Aritzia's Super World puffer coat series has been a major hit with fashion editors, models and influencers for its super stylish puffers. But they aren't just for style—most of the 15 silhouettes offered are rated to keep you warm all the way down to -40°C / -40°F, and the Super Puff2O is also fully waterproof to ensure inclement weather can't ruin the warmth of the 700+ goose down fill. This waterproof design comes in four different lengths, but we like the OG cut best because it hits that sweet spot between being long enough to cover you hips and bum but not so long that petite frames will feel overwhelmed by the material. "I was deciding between this coat and another from a really well regarded outdoor gear brand for a recent mountain climbing trip," said one PureWow editor, "and when I was comparing the two I was surprised to find the Super Puff really held its own and was just as warm and had just as many technical features and details. The only thing that made me pick the other coat in the end was because that one could pack down into a smaller stuff sack. But that one also wasn't waterproof, so it was a difficult choice to make."

Buy it ($350)

What Are Some of the Pros and Cons of Natural Insulation Materials Like Wool, Down or Fur?

It's hard to say which is better overall, natural insulations or synthetic insulations, but there are some specific scenarios in which one definitely stands out over the other. For example, Johnson notes that coats made with down feathers are much lighter in weight than synthetics, and the weight-to-warmth ratio of down is remarkably high (meaning it's shockingly lightweight considering how much warmth it provides). Down is also easier to pack if you're headed on a trip or want to stow your winter gear for the summer. "It readily compresses and re-expands to full fluff more quickly and more readily over time than synthetic insulation," explains Johnson. "Down jackets are therefore easier to move about in and easier to pack than other garments of similar warmth. Properly cared for, they stay closer to their original warmth level than a synthetic jacket over the same number of years of existence and days of use." Wool is also a great natural fiber for winter because "it continues to insulate even when damp or soaking wet," meaning you won't suddenly start shivering if your wool sweater gets wet.

That said, there are some notable downsides to natural insulation, most notably cost—natural materials tend to be much more expensive than synthetics. "However, if a garment works better and lasts longer, it is worth the investment," suggest Johnson, "and might pay for itself several times over in the long haul if you do not need to own as many different clothing items or do not need to replace them as often." There's also a higher chance that clothing made with natural fibers will require special cleaning instructions.

What Are Some of the Pros and Cons of Synthetic Insulation Materials?

Synthetics do have one major benefit over natural fibers, which is that they have been specifically designed, from scratch, to serve a very specific purpose. So while down feathers may be lighter and warmer than down alternatives, they're also totally useless when wet, whereas basically all synthetic downs are designed to maintain their shape and warmth even after being exposed to water. As Johnson notes, this makes it a particularly good option for wet, moderately cold climates, "for example, the rainy upper-20's-upper-30's that passes for winter in much of the Pacific Northwest. It is also better than down (though not as good as wool) for highly aerobic activities because it will not 'wilt' and lose some warmth from sweat." On the flip side, generally speaking, synthetic insulations are not often the most eco-friendly choice. "While more and more brands, especially in the outdoor industry, are offering garments that contain some recycled material, there's still environmental impact to every garment you choose."

Are There Specific Materials One Should Look for When Considering the Outer Shell Layer of a Winter Coat?

"The three main variables for shell fabric are waterproofing, breathability and durability," says Johnson. "How much each matters to you will depend on weather conditions and type of activity. Weight is another variable. A lightweight garment in good standing for all the above qualities can be considerably more expensive than a heavier one. Whether you need to pack and carry the garment or how far and fast you intend to move while wearing it will help determine priorities."

As mentioned earlier, down feathers lose a lot of their warming ability when wet, but there is an incredibly easy solution: Choose a winter coat with an outer layer that's waterproof or water resistant. "Most shell fabrics are nylon, usually with a water-resistant layer called DWR (durable water repellant) on the outside that helps precipitation bead up and run off," explains Johnson, but it's always a good idea to double check the specifics of your coat before ordering. If you live someplace where the winters are equally wet and cold, a water resistant jacket won't work as well as a waterproof one.

The Best Women's Snow Pants to Keep You Warm and Dry No Matter How Many Inches (or Feet) Have Fallen

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PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women's walking shoes that won't hurt your feet, we've got you covered.

11 Best Puffer Coats For Women To Keep You Cozy All Winter Long

Best packable puffer jacket Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket

When it's time to jet off on winter holidays, having a packable jacket makes planning outfits so much simpler. The oversized Pippa packable puffer jacket stuffs into its own pocket, making it easy to toss into a suitcase for travel. Apart from the enormous 16-color selection, we love that the oversized fit offers plenty of room for layering.

Pop it on for a water-resistant walk during light snow, or wear it over a sweater to walk your pup in lower temperatures. Make sure to snag a doggy winter jacket for Fido, too!

Pros

Lightweight

Fits into its own pocket for packing

Huge selection of 16 colors

Water-resistant

Roomy for layering

Cons

No plus size option

Reviews mention it's very oversized

Shop Now

Best petite puffer coat Women's Sun Valley Down Parka

Petite women who can't find the perfect mid-length puffer, listen up! Eddie Bauer's Sun Valley down parka is ideal for those who are on the smaller side. This pretty parka comes in a huge selection of sizes, ranging from plus to petite. Apart from a flattering silhouette that works for every woman—even those over 50—a good-sized color selection and water-repellent finish make this our go-to petite puffer.

Responsible Down Standard (RDS)-certified down insulation ensures that this coat is guilt-free. We also love that the hood is removable to work for a variety of outfits.

Pros

Comes in petite, regular and plus sizes

Flattering mid-length

11 different colors

Suitable for freezing temperatures

(RDS)-certified down insulation

Fleece-lined zip pockets

Snap-off hood with detachable faux fur ruff

Cons

Those with broad shoulders should size up

Pricey

Zipper can stick with rough use

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Best waterproof puffer coat Patagonia Frozen Range 3-in-1 Parka

Can't decide between a rain jacket, puffer coat or something that offers the features of both? Patagonia's Frozen Range 3-In-1 parka is the perfect solution. This convertible puffer coat comes apart into two separate coats: a light puffer that's ideal for winter weather, and a waterproof outer rain jacket shell for downpours. Zip them back together to enjoy the best of both worlds!

As if that's not enough, generous inner pockets, an attached hood and a useful lifetime warranty round out this frigid weather find.

Pros

Perfect year-round coat

Zips apart to reveal a parka and raincoat

Waterproof outer shell

Attached hood

Lifetime warranty

Trusted Patagonia brand name

Cons

Only comes in size XS-L

Runs large

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What to look for when buying a puffer coat

Durability and warmth should be your top two priorities when shopping for puffer coats. The colder the climate, the more coverage you'll want—including a longer length, hood and high-quality insulation. Small details matter, too. Double-closures (snaps over a zipper), ribbed hems and elastic cuffs can also help keep frigid temps at bay.

Pair your favorite puffer coats with some fleece-lined leggings for a toasty outfit that's ready for the incoming frigid temperatures.

Evaluation Criteria

To narrow down the best puffers to add to your coat closet, we shopped retailers we respect and brands that have a long history of selling quality outerwear. We selected a variety of well-reviewed puffers in an assortment of styles, all of which are sure to keep you cozy all season.

FAQs Do puffer coats keep you warm?

Yes! The whole point of a puffer is to keep you warm—that's why they're a wardrobe essential if you live in a frigid climate. How warm they'll keep you depends on the quality of the filling and its construction. Some retailers, like Canada Goose (who offer a lifetime warranty on their coats), outline exactly which temperature ranges their coats can ensure. However, you can feel confident that most puffers will keep you toasty through freezing temperatures.

What's the difference between a puffer jacket and a down jacket?

It all comes down to the stuffing. Down jackets are filled with down, of course. Puffer jackets, meanwhile, can be filled with down, but many are stuffed with a lightweight synthetic filler. Those who need more coverage may want to layer a warm cardigan underneath, and most down and puffer jackets offer ample room to do so.

Both options keep you dry and warm, but down is more expensive. However, it may also aggravate allergy sufferers.

Is a puffer coat waterproof?

Most puffer coats are water-resistant or water-repellent, but very few are fully waterproof. They'll keep you warm in moderate rain for a short period, which is usually sufficient for a winter coat. Looking for a good pair of rain-resistant boots to go with your new puffer? Spring for some Blundstone boots for a waterproof pick.

How do you wash a puffer coat?

Before washing your puffer coat, be sure to read its care label carefully. You'll want to follow those directions step-by-step to keep your coat in the best, cleanest condition. In general, most puffer coats can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle in cold water. To dry, use a low heat setting and don't forget to add dryer balls. They'll prevent the filling from clumping. Don't be surprised if it's not fully dry after one cycle, it may require a few rounds in the dryer.

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