How to choose the best warm jacket for winter
A well-chosen jacket will help you continue your outdoor adventures throughout the winter. Effective insulation will regulate your temperature without compromising your performance. Choosing the ultimate warm jacket for the winter should take into account your planned activities alongside the weather you expect to encounter.
Winter weather in the UK can be unpredictable - from icy winds to wet commutes and snowy hikes. Choosing the right jacket isn't just about staying warm; it's about staying ready.
This guide will help you consider your jacket choice this winter. Whether you’re commuting through the city or heading into the mountains, we’ll compare the benefits of down vs. synthetic insulation, explore key jacket features, and answer common questions.
We aim to equip you to make an informed choice, giving you peace of mind so that you can focus on enjoyment and performance.
At what temperature do you really need a winter jacket?
The temperature at which you wear a winter coat will depend on the air temperature, wind chill and your chosen activity. The greater the temperature difference between the air and your body, the faster heat will be lost. The more vigorous your movement, the faster you will warm up inside your coat.
How cold you feel depends on the ambient temperature combined with wind chill. Thermal energy is lost from your body to the surrounding air, which makes you feel cold. Wind moves cold air past the body at a greater rate, speeding up the process. Wind chill can make you feel much colder than the temperature suggests.
A winter coat will use insulating materials to trap body heat close to the skin and slow down the heat loss.
You should also consider what you plan to do when wearing your winter coat. High-intensity activities such as running or climbing will make you sweat. A heavy winter coat would feel uncomfortable in these situations, even if the temperature is very low. For these kinds of activities, look for a combination of breathable layers to help you stay warm. Outer layers can then be removed if necessary to help you maintain a comfortable temperature.
The North Face will keep you warm hiking the trail or walking to work. The 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket with 700-fill goose down offers superior insulation, while the stretch fabric adds flexibility for ease of motion.
What makes down jackets so effective in cold weather?
Down jackets are a good choice for winter due to their effective insulating properties. Down jackets use the soft feathers found near the skin of ducks or geese to trap air close to the body, keeping you warm in cold weather. Down jackets are lightweight and compressible.
Down jackets have long been a firm favourite with outdoor adventurers due to their incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. The use of down as insulation not only provides impressive warmth but also remains lightweight and can be packed down into small spaces, making it ideal for life on the go.
To choose the level of insulation you need, look for fill power and weight. Fill power is a measurement of the amount of space that one ounce of down will occupy. Higher fill powers mean that the down has a greater loft and will trap more air in between the feathers. This will provide higher levels of insulation for less material.
The premium range from The North Face generally uses around 600-800 fill. This is the highest quality commercial down available. These heavy-duty jackets can perform in extreme cold and are designed for the harsh conditions of the mountainside.
The North Face also created the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), which certifies a commitment to the ethical treatment of animals throughout the feather supply chain.
What should you look for in a warm winter jacket?
A warm jacket for winter will provide a high level of insulation, along with resistance to wind chill. Down or synthetic alternatives are effective at keeping you warm, while the fabric used for the outer shell will protect from the elements.
Staying warm in winter weather requires more than just thermal insulation. Your jacket also needs to combat wind and rain. The outer fabric of the coat will determine the wind and water resistance of your jacket.
The North Face fabrics have been developed to defeat wind chill without sacrificing breathability. By reducing the flow of air past the body, thermal energy transfer decreases, keeping you warm in cold winds.
Waterproof fabrics tend to be less breathable so consider the level of rain you are likely to encounter. Water-resistant fabrics with moisture repellent coatings will be able to withstand light showers. For heavy downpours, it is recommended to use a separate rain shell that can be worn over your other clothing.
Down loses its insulating properties when it gets wet, so it is important to choose the right jacket for the conditions.
The North Face technology was engineered to maintain insulation even when it becomes wet. Thermoball™ insulation recreates the properties of down feathers by using small clusters of synthetic fibres. These clusters retain their shape when they become damp, continuing to provide warmth in all conditions.
The ThermoBall™ Eco Jacket from The North Face is a great all-rounder, made from 100% recycled materials. With zipped pockets and an attached hood, this warm coat packs down into its own pocket for easy storage in your bag.
How do you choose the best jacket for your winter needs?
The best jacket for winter will have the right combination of insulation, breathability and weather resistance for your needs. Consider your regular activities to ensure your winter jacket will not restrict movement. Think through the other clothes you will be wearing to choose an effective combination of layers.
The best winter jacket for you will be the coat that meets your specific needs. Use the following checklist to help you go through the key features.
Insulation: Think about the temperatures you are likely to encounter to decide on the level of insulation you need
Weight: Consider how the weight and size of the coat will affect your activities
Waterproof: A water-resistant coating can handle light rain, but choose a waterproof shell for heavy downpours
Breathability: Look for breathable fabrics that will allow moisture to escape when you start to sweat
Combinations: Choose a jacket that will combine effectively with your other layers
How long does a good winter jacket really last?
A high-quality winter coat can last a long time if it is properly maintained. To maximise the lifetime of your winter coat, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Investing in durable fabrics will pay off for a long-lasting jacket.
The life expectancy of your winter jacket will depend on the type and quality of the fabric used to make the coat, the frequency of use and the types of activities you carry out while wearing the coat.
Regular maintenance is a key factor in the longevity of your winter jacket. Spot clean any marks or dirty patches as soon as possible after use. When you need to wash your coat, follow the care guidelines carefully. Some jackets can be washed on a cool cycle in the washing machine, while others may require hand washing.
Drying your coat is important for retaining the insulating properties of the jacket lining. Down jackets can be dried in a tumble dryer with tennis or dryer balls added to prevent the wet feathers from forming clumps.
Small abrasions and tears should be addressed immediately. Ripstop fabric will help prevent tears from spreading through the material, and patches can be used to prevent insulation from escaping through holes. Professional repairs can be a great option to extend the life of your winter jacket.
Ready to find your perfect winter jacket?
From insulation to waterproofing, layering to longevity, the best winter jacket is the one that works for your lifestyle. Whether you’re walking to work or heading into the mountains, The North Face has high-performance outerwear built to handle whatever the weather throws at you.
Explore our Summit Series and Ski and Snowboard gear for ultimate warmth.