How to Choose a Winter Jacket
There’s nothing worse than cold air coming through your winter jacket. Whether you live where winter hits hard or are traveling to a winter wonderland, having the right jacket will make all the difference in your cold-weather experience. From parkas to puffers, our Experts break down how to choose the right winter jacket to comfortably brave frigid temperatures.
Insulation: Down vs. Synthetic
Having an understanding of the types of insulation inside jackets will make your decision easier. Down and synthetic insulation are most commonly used for winter jackets, each with pros and cons. Finding the right insulation for the climate you’ll be in and the needed warmth will allow you to keep the quality and longevity of the jacket at its best.
Down insulation is made from duck plumage - the fluffy undercoat beneath the feathers. Down is a powerful insulator, is extremely compressible, and lasts a long time, which makes it a great option for winter jackets. However, down is more expensive than synthetic insulation and has no insulation properties when wet.
Synthetic insulation is made from plastic polymer threads, which are woven to effectively trap body heat, even while wet. While being a less expensive option, synthetic insulation is often bulkier and heavier than down, and deteriorates over time.
Some jackets have a mix of down and synthetic insulation which can mitigate the drawbacks of each. Remember to check the insulation type before buying a winter jacket to find the one that will fit your needs. If you’re struggling to decide which type of insulation you need, stop by your local SCHEELS and speak to an Expert.
Types of Jackets
When looking for a new winter jacket, it’s important to consider what activities you will be doing and the climate(s) you’ll face. If you’re going to be active while outside, you may not need as heavy of a jacket as if you aren’t moving around. You may also need a different jacket if you’re enduring high winds and frigid temperatures versus mild winter temperatures.
1. Puffer Jackets
If you’re on the go in the winter, a puffer jacket is ideal for keeping you warm without being bulky. Puffer jackets are insulated with down or synthetic and feature a quilted design done by stitching to create a puffy look, but can easily compress for storage and travel. These jackets are typically hip-length and lightweight, making them ideal for running errands and as an everyday jacket.
Top Puffer Jacket Brands
2. Parkas
For the unforgivable cold weather, parkas will be your go-to jacket. Designed to withstand harsh winds and have water-resistant properties, parkas typically reach mid-thigh, with some styles even reaching knee or ankle length. These heavier, durable jackets often have insulated, fur-lined wind-resistant hoods. Parkas are one of the warmest jackets and are essential for braving cold weather, especially if you’ll be outside for an extended amount of time.
Top Parka Brands
3. Heated Jackets
If you’re looking for additional long-lasting warmth, heated jackets will be your best investment. Heated jackets are internally lined with strategically placed battery-powered technology to evenly distribute heat throughout your body. With charges lasting up to 10 hours, heated jackets are designed to keep you warm no matter how long you’re outside and are versatile for layering or standalone wear. Whether you’re ice fishing, camping, or running errands, a heated jacket is a game-changer for every cold weather activity.
Top Heated Jacket Brands
4. 3-in-1 Jackets
Unpredictable weather makes it difficult to choose a jacket. With a 3-in-1 jacket, you will be ready for any condition and adventure. Two layers make up this jacket; the outer shell is waterproof and breathable, allowing you to stay dry while the inner layer is designed to provide optimal warmth. Each of the layers can be worn on its own or they can be worn together for a jacket that’s both waterproof and insulated. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or windy, 3-in-1 jackets are versatile and adaptable, keeping you warm and dry. If you live where the weather changes often, a 3-in-1 jacket will give you the versatility you’ll need.
Top 3-in-1 Jacket Brands
5. Ski & Snowboarding Jackets
If you like to take on winter activities like skiing or snowboarding, getting a specialized jacket will make these activities more enjoyable. Ski jackets are designed to be waterproof and wind-resistant so you can be on the slopes in every condition. Underarm vents will keep the jacket breathable and powder skirts fit snugly around the waist to prevent snow from entering the jacket.
Top Ski & Snowboard Jackets
Now that you know more about different types of jackets, you’ll be able to choose the right winter jacket that will keep you warm all season. If you are looking for additional information, stop by your local SCHEELS and speak to an Expert.