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Without fail, every year right around this time when temperatures dip below freezing, I am reminded how irreplaceable the best puffer jackets really are. This cold-weather hero masterfully integrates technical fabrics with fashion-forward details, making it easy to toss on and zip out the door without thinking twice. It is—I’d argue—a winter wardrobe must-have.
That said, it’s an outerwear staple that requires a bit of know-how when choosing which to buy. Knowing the right details to look out for—from insulating materials to thoughtful enhancements like removable hoods and drawstring cords—will ensure your investment will work hard for many years to come.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Puffer Jackets
The Retro Classic
The North Face Nuptse 1996 quilted jacket
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As far as aesthetics go, whether you like to keep your outerwear low-key or make a statement is up to you. These days, there’s a puffer style that reflects a broader range of tastes, from splashy prints destined for the ski slopes, to clever color palettes well-suited for a street style moment. Look at this year’s best iterations, available in wearable hues, from matte blacks to rich, gem tones, and a variety of silhouettes (cropped! belted! wrapped!) to keep you bundled up in style. Below, find our edit of the best puffer jackets for women to wear all winter long.
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Certified Classics
These are the prized silhouettes that consistently deliver on function and form. The tried-and-trues, you could say. The North Face’s 1996 Nuptse jacket in black continues to reign supreme with its retro appeal and technical warmth, while Tory Burch’s deep burgundy zip-up is an instant standout. Polo Ralph Lauren’s corduroy puffer gives the signature silhouette a cozy twist, and a minimalist take from Alo keeps things sleek—proof that the classic puffer can do it all, from the snowcap to the subway.
The North Face
Nuptse 1996 quilted jacket
A retro jacket built to last: this baffle-quilted, down-insulated design from 1996 can withstand the worst weather conditions. And thanks to its packable design, the jacket can be stowed in its own pocket.
Tory Burch
This short puffer is made from weather-resistant nylon and does an excellent job at locking in warmth with quilted, down insulation. The silhouette is cut so you can layer it over sweaters and sweatshirts without looking overly bulky, and the red lining at the neckline adds a stylish contrast to the jacket’s rich hue.
Polo Ralph Lauren
embroidered corduroy down jacket
A little bit retro, a whole lot of comfort, this cotton-blend corduroy jacket is a seasonal MVP. The silhouette is packed with insulating down, and is quilted throughout to give it a plush-as-can-be feel.
Alo
This best-selling silhouette brings together all the right details you want when the weather turns south: ripstop fabric, a warm fill, and a tall collar to block out the chill. The hem is subtly cropped and cinchable bungees allow you to customize the fit depending on the other elements in your outfit.
Fashion-Forward
For those seeking puffers with true fashion pedigree, this season’s standout styles double as statement pieces. Gucci’s G-logo jacket is pure logomania, while Miu Miu’s check-lined version offers up the perfect amount of personality. Then, there’s Prada’s belted black puffer, which takes on a more tailored spin, and Burberry’s patterned silhouette is heritage charm at its most elegant. Together, they’re the ultimate style-forward picks for snow-bound getaways and city strolls alike.
Gucci
While the Gucci logo motif is the first detail that grabs your attention with this outerwear hero, look more closely and its the knitted hems that cement its icon status. Also, the elastic drawstring waist is ideal for crafting a custom-to-you fit.
Prada
Brave the cold in this goose down jacket crafted in Re-Nylon (the brand’s signature sustainable fabric made from regenerated nylon). An elasticized belt, numerous zippers, and a stand-up collar all come together for a flawless fit.
Burberry
Check Ambleside puffer jacket
Rendered in a wine-colored plaid, this puffer jacket offers a subtle hit of color while maintaining its versatility. There’s a packable hood for especially frigid days, and a Knight stamp appliqué on the arm (the brand’s archival motif from the 1980s).
Miu Miu
technical reversible down jacket
This technical pongé down jacket gives a chic nod toward outdoor classics with its tartan lining and chocolate brown hue, while the slightly oversized fit and reversible functionality make it easy to adapt to your wardrobe essentials.
Ski Brands
Heritage ski brands are masters at blending performance with high-fashion. Just look to Perfect Moment, which leads the charge with bold printed puffers made for weekends in the snow, while Cordova delivers earth-toned styles that feel just as timeless as those in classic black. Yves Salmono’s fluffy-trimmed version adds a bit of texture, while Fusalp’s metallic puffer exudes alpine flair. Make each of these the festive foundation for all your après-ski outfits to come.
Perfect Moment
Polar Flare houndstooth ski jacket
It’s (almost) impossible to have a bad run when wearing one of Perfect Moment’s vibrantly-printed pieces. This houndstooth jacket is bold without feeling over the top (key if you’re on a more low-key mountain!), and its durable shell is designed with all the right details—like zipped pockets to hold your pass and gloves, and jersey cuffs to block out the chill.
Cordova
“Most skiers I know pull up to the base in a Gore-tex shell and what feels like a hundred layers, I’d much rather slip on a simple Heattech turtleneck and be on my merry way; I have a red version of this puffer from a few seasons ago and it’s still in great shape,” says Vogue shopping director Talia Abbas, whose skied in it in all kinds of conditions without fail. She loves the oversized hood and the very many pockets for “stashing her ski pass, sunscreen, and phone,” adding, “I have no intention of retiring it anytime soon, but I do think it’s time for a new color scheme.”
Fusalp
A ski legend since the 1950s, Fusalp’s jackets are built to last. This metallic silhouette is made from a quilted shell filled with insulating Sorona padding and features an adjustable hood and integrated snow breaker.
Yves Salomon
Glide down the slopes in this sleek ski jacket that’s quilted and padded with insulating down. The fluffy trim encircling the hood adds an elegant touch, while the earthy brown hue and buckled belt add the perfect dose of versatility.
Long and Luxe
Longline puffers with luxurious finishes are the ultimate winter investment. Uniqlo’s hooded dark brown option is a practical pick, while a classic black coat from Moncler delivers the same kind of wearability as your go-to LBD. For a hint of color, a mint green iteration from Canada Goose feels fabulously fresh. The key here? Choose a length that covers the knee (or beyond) to help fight against biting temperatures.
Canada Goose
Rendered in a fresh, flattering shade of icy green, this long coat is made from a shell that’s quilted and padded with insulating down. There’s a drawcord for those days when you want a cinch at your waist, and a deep hood when it’s especially nippy.
Aritzia
The Super Puff Long cliMATTE jacket
Aritzia’s much-beloved Super Puff comes in a variety of lengths and colors, but the long version is an absolute hero for the dead of winter—just ask anyone of the Vogue editors who’ve owned one over the years. Engineered for weather as low as -40°F, cold temperatures will be an afterthought when putting together your best winter looks.
Moncler
It’s unsurprising Moncler’s puffer is a winter hero: it’s made from a two-layer durable shell that’s quilted and padded with insulating down. This long, luxe silhouette features an internal drawstring that defines your waistline, yes, but also traps in the heat.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo’s long coat—ideal for chilly commutes and outdoor excursions—focuses on delivering maximum warmth with minimal bulk. It features a seamless construction and the premium down filling and water-repellant finish keep you both toasty and dry.
Sport Mode
Go full sport mode in puffers that blend fashion and function. Whether you choose Arcteryx’s hooded black option, Aztech Mountain’s powder blue zip-up, or On x Zendaya’s lavender ThermaTech find, each makes for easy layering, while also providing the utmost protection from the grueling elements. Equal parts sporty and stylish, they’re the go-to for a winter spent in motion.
Aztech Mountain
Just like the bluebird days you dream of, this puffer is a favorite for its cheerful color. Beyond the palette, design details like reflective trims, velcro-fastening cuffs, and a drawstring hem trimmed with rubber (to prevent it from riding up) ensure a technically sound experience on the slopes.
Arc’teryx
With its down insulation and Gore-Tex waterproofing, you’ll be teed up well for a winter outing in this hooded jacket. No detail has been spared, whether its fitted cuffs that seal out the wind, or thoughtfully-placed pockets to store your cold-weather essentials.
On
x Zendaya All-Day ThermaTec jacket
Stay warm without feeling bulky in this everyday puffer crafted with On’s proprietary material, ThermaTec. The lilac hue adds a fashion-forward touch, while details like a hidden thumbhole cuff keep warmth at top of mind.
Lululemon
Wunder Puff cropped jacket
A perennial puffer you’ll turn to year after year, this classic jacket is designed for a roomy fit so you can layer it over your favorite cold-weather knits and sweatshirts. For a touch of customization, there’s a removable hood and cinchable hem.
Other puffer jackets we love:
Zara
rubberized windproof anorak
Everything You Need to Know
To curate our edit of the best puffer jackets we culled outerwear from brands that have a sterling reputation for durable materials and thoughtful design. We also focused on finding options at a range of price points, and with a diverse mix of colors, patterns, and silhouettes. Tapping into our collective expertise and our editors’ firsthand experience, we narrowed our list down to puffer jackets that will empower any winter wardrobe, offering tried-and-true selects from heritage labels such as Moncler and Canada Goose, to sportswear standouts including On, Perfect Moment, and Aztech Mountain.
What to Look For in the Best Puffers
The best puffer jackets excel at integrating technical materials into style-forward silhouettes. Insulation is among the most important factors to look out for as this will keep you warm without adding unnecessary bulk. Small but significant details like fitted cuffs, removable hoods, and drawstring cords also help ensure your outfit can withstand winter’s most frigid days. If you’re looking for a puffer that can carry you through the ski season, make sure it has ample pockets for securing essentials like your pass and lip balm, and a skirt to prevent snow from creeping in.
