We tried a ton of winter jackets — here are the 9 best women's winter coats in 2024
Yahoo Canada's team is sharing their picks for the best coats and jackets worth shopping for winter 2024.
Temperatures are plummeting, the snow is (finally) falling, and sunsets happen at 5 p.m. — it's winter in Canada. Though it's been a slow start to the season, flurries and frost are on their way, so it's time to bring out our winter jackets. If you found last year's coat lacking, there are plenty of great new options to keep you warm this winter. And since there's nothing like word of mouth to instill confidence, we've gone door-to-door (by that, we mean pinged our work Slack chat) to find out what the Yahoo Canada team is wearing this winter. To see what jackets are worth buying in 2024, check out our picks below.
Down Short Puffer Jacket
Nimbus Down Parka
Women's Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Mid Jacket
Sherpa Snow Angel Puffer
ReNew Long Puffer
Rhoda Hooded Vest
Tremblant Jacket
The North Face Cirque Down Jacket
Wunder Puff Long Jacket
Roots Down Short Puffer Jacket
The Roots Down Short Puffer Jacket will keep you warm in style.
- Colourful and unique
- Lightweight yet warm
- Functional features
- On sale
- Cropped style hits at high hips
Editor's review: If you're like me, you're probably sick of seeing a steady stream of black and navy parkas every winter. This year, I wanted something a bit more fun, and this floral puffer fits the bill. This puffer is extremely lightweight but super cozy, and details like fleece-lined pockets, an adjustable corded bottom and a removable hood make it as functional as it is stylish. Roots says this parka can withstand temperatures up to -25°C — and while I haven't yet been able to test it in that temperature (phew!), it's been more than warm enough for early December in Toronto. My current short puffer is out of stock, but Roots makes a longer version that looks even cozier.
Downsides: While I love the shorter length of this jacket, it's not for everyone — if you're looking for a bum-covering coat, this isn't it. If the pattern doesn't work for you, you can also shop both the short puffer and the long puffer in solid colours. — Hilary Hagerman, Lifestyle Managing Editor
Sweaty Betty Nimbus Down Parka
Interior straps and extra zippers make this parka a functional choice for winter.
- Inner backpack straps for easy carrying
- Side zips can be adjusted for venting
- Long length may not work for petites
- Zippers need breaking in
Editor's review: I’m from the U.K., so I purchased the Sweaty Betty Nimbus Parka to prepare for my first Canadian winter. It's super warm with the 100 per cent duck down fill and is more stylish than other typical long puffers. It’s waterproof and windproof, providing reliable protection against the coldest of windchills, keeping you both warm and dry. I really enjoy the features like the cuff warmers, fleece lined pockets and inclusion of the internal straps if I want to wear it like a backpack when I’m temporarily exposed to a warmer environment. I also like that the coat has side zips to which can be adjusted for venting. The coat’s length makes it feel cozy and warm, like you’re wearing a sleeping bag, but still has good shape to it.
Downsides: The zip is a bit stiff and so it can be a bit of a struggle doing up. I’m 5'6" and the coat comes down to mid-calf, so when I take stairs it can drag slightly. Apart from that, I’m very pleased with the purchase! — Alice Lee, Partnership Manager
Columbia Women's Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Mid Jacket
My Columbia jacket is my absolute favourite any time temperatures drop below 10°C.
- Blocks wind, rain and snow
- Longer back hemline
- Lightweight yet insulating
- Not suitable for frigid temperatures
Editor's review: I have a previous version of the Arch Rock Double Wall jacket, but even after a couple years of use it's still my most-worn jacket between the months of November and April. It's the perfect weight to wear outdoors once temperatures start to fall below 10°C, and it does a great job protecting against wind, rain and snow. My favourite things about this jacket are the lightweight insulation that adds warmth without bulk, and the longer rear hemline that covers your bum — even while sitting.
Downsides: While I love this jacket for fall and early spring weather, it's not the best option for temperatures below -5°C in my opinion. For spending really cold days outdoors, I'll reach for a heavy full-length puffer jacket instead. — Kate Mendonca, Former Shopping & Lifestyle Editor
Alo Sherpa Show Angel Puffer
The Sherpa Snow Angel Puffer comes in three colourways.
- Incredibly warm
- High collar
- Machine washable
- Feels bulky
- Not great material for snow or rain
Editor's review: I have a bad habit of buying a lot of coats and jackets that just can't stand up to particularly cold temperatures. This year, instead of having to layers on the sweaters just to take my dog out for a walk, I turned to this option from Alo. It has exceeded my expectations for warmth and the high neck means I definitely don't need to grab a scarf to go outside. The shorter jacket style is great if you're going to be sitting in a car or public transit for a while. I did size up, which Alo recommends if you want to possibly put a sweater underneath this jacket. While it's good sizing advice, because it is more slim fitting through the waist, it's so warm I imagine I'll very rarely put anything too heavy underneath. It feels like I'm walking around in a big, fluffy blanket.
Downsides: While it's great to be warm, that does mean that this puffer feels quite bulky, specifically in the arms, and particularly if you do size up. While this isn't listed as a cropped jacket, the body length isn't very long, which is fine for someone like me who has a shorter torso, but it's worth double checking the measurements to best suit your body type. Additionally, while the sherpa material feels great, it's not the best option when there's a lot of snow or rain in the forecast. - Elisabetta Bianchini, Senior Editor
Everlane ReNew Long Puffer
The ReNew Long Puffer also pairs well with novelty hammers.
- Warm
- Zipper allows you to easily sit with coat on
- Sustainable
- On sale
- Oversized; may want to size down
- Small hood
Editor's review: This puffer has been a workhorse in my winter wardrobe for 4 years now, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. While this is the "long" version of Everlane's sustainable puffer, it hits more mid-thigh which makes it easy to pair with everything from jeans to dresses. It's toasty — I wear it most days during December to February — and also features large front pockets which give it a functional edge. Another great functional feature? The front zipper doesn't go all the way to the bottom, which means you can sit comfortably even when zipped up. I sized down from my usual size and can still comfortably wear a sweater underneath.
Downsides: If you don't like an oversized style, this isn't the coat for you. One other downside? I hate this coat's hood — it's way too small, IMO. If you're known to go sans toque in the winter you'd probably be fine, but getting the hood to fit over a hat is a struggle for me. — Hilary Hagerman, Lifestyle Managing Editor
Canada Goose Rhoda Vest
The Rhoda Hooded Vest is my pick for a stylish yet functional vest this winter.
- Lightweight warmth
- Freedom of arm movement
- Surprisingly stylish
- Expensive
- Fabric is prone to wrinkles
Editor's review: As all Canadians know, winter weather can be unpredictable here. That's why in addition to a lightweight coat and a heavy puffer, I'd been eyeing a vest to complete my winter wardrobe. This one from Canada Goose fits the bill as it offers plenty of warmth thanks to 750 Fill Power duck down, but more mobility than a heavy winter coat — ideal for winter driving. The oversized fit and wrap neckline also add an unexpected style element that you don't often see in outerwear.
Downsides: Unsurprisingly, the cost of this Canada Goose vest is its biggest negative. However, if you're on the fence about whether or not to invest in the brand's outerwear, a lifetime warranty protects against defects in materials and workmanship for years to come. — Kate Mendonca, Former Shopping & Lifestyle Editor
MEC Tremblant Jacket
This MEC jacket features a cozy insulated hood and high collar — does not feature various bathroom renovation items pictured.
- Sporty fit
- Bright, colourful
- Smart design keeps heat locked in
- Zipper catches on fabric
Editor's review: I received this jacket for Christmas last year after dropping numerous hints that I wanted a sportier winter coat. I've worn this for everything from snowshoeing to weekend dog walks, and it's also stood up well during some serious snowfall. The insulated hood and high collar, as well as elasticized sleeves and shockcord hem keep the heat locked in even on the most blustery days. Last year's blue version that I have is sold out, but I'm eyeing this year's Wild Berry purple, which is currently on sale.
Downsides: Honestly, I'm pretty hard-pressed to find something negative to say about this jacket, but my one complaint is that I find the storm flaps get caught in the zipper pull more often than I'd like them to, especially on the pockets. But it's a good excuse to keep my phone tucked away and enjoy whatever I'm doing. — Hilary Hagerman, Lifestyle Managing Editor
The North Face Cirque Down Jacket
This cozy down-filled jacket is great for cold days.
- High collar blocks wind
- Fleece lined pockets
- Suitable for winter sports
- Runs small
Editor's review: This mid-length down jacket keeps you warm since it’s packed with 550 goose down is perfect for the winter. I like that it's waterproof and windproof, the collar comes up high and the soft fabric on the inside is easy on the skin — the length is perfect as it sits around the hips. The sleeves have cuff gaiters to keep your hands warm and the pockets are fleece lined. Since it can be worn as a ski jacket, it also has the option to open vents under the arms when you need a break from the warmth as well as a long hood which fits easily over a beanie, as well as an abundance of pockets including internal ones.
Downsides: Sizing is slim fitting so I would recommend sizing up from your normal size if you prefer a looser fit like me. — Alice Lee, Partnership Manager
Lululemon Wunder Puff Long Jacket
The Wunder Puff Long Jacket comes in six colourways.
- Cinchable waist
- Detachable hood
- Hits mid-calf
- May overwhelm smaller frames
Editor's review: For the past 10 years, I've turned to a Canada Goose parka for the most bone-chilling winter days. While it still gets the job done, it was starting to look a bit worse for wear, so I decided it was time for something new. I wanted a long puffer that would keep my legs warm, and this doesn't disappoint. While I haven't had a chance to wear it in truly frigid temperatures yet, I have a feeling it'll become my go-to for cold, snowy days. I have the classic black colourway, but if I was buying again I think I'd snap up the jacket in this stunning ashy purple.
Downsides: I've lovingly dubbed this my "sleeping bag jacket" — and while it's definitely the most stylish sleeping bag I've ever seen, it's worth keeping in mind that this coat is long. I'm around 5'4" and it hits mid-calf on me. While this is exactly what I wanted, it might not be what you're looking for — and I wouldn't recommend if you're under 5'2". For a more in-depth look at the Lululemon Wunder Puff, check out our honest review here. — Hilary Hagerman, Lifestyle Managing Editor
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