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A warm, durable winter jacket is essential for cold Canadian winters. You need a coat that will keep you safe and comfortable in the sleet and snow. There are many to choose from on the Canadian market, from larger ski jackets to comfortable puffer coats. Many of them have different weather ratings, meaning they are suited for different types of winter activity. While choosing a new winter jacket in Canada may feel overwhelming, we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

Each of the best winter jackets in Canada has been thoroughly tested in our test lab. Our team of detail-oriented testers has worn them in all types of weather, from snow to freezing rain and beyond. We’ve recommended these jackets based on both evaluation methods. We looked at very specific performance categories, including insulation, lining, size and fit, and weather resistance – and chose options for both men and women.

Best Women’s Winter Jackets for Canadians

Best Men’s Winter Jackets for Canadians

Why Did We Choose These Winter Jackets in Canada?

We chose each of these jackets because of their unique features. They all stand out in their own special ways. Looking for a jacket for a specific purpose? Here’s why we chose each of the options on our list.

The best winter jacket for women overall is The North Face Women’s Aconcagua Jacket. This jacket features lofty goose-down fill, a weather-repellant finish, and a huge range of sizes. For those who are sometimes outside in colder weather, this is the perfect jacket for you.

The Mountain Warehouse Isla II Women’s Down Jacket is the best women’s down jacket in Canada. This jacket features a lofty down filling that will keep you warm throughout the coldest Canadian winter days.

If you’re looking for a long winter coat, go for the Columbia Women’s Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket. The extra length on this jacket helps keep more of you warm, and it’s especially helpful if you are taller.

The Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket comes in a stunning 10 different sizes, suitable for Canadians between 2XS and 5XL. It fits true to size, too, so you’ll find the perfect option for you.

If you’re looking for a parka-style winter coat, you’ll love the Alpine North Women’s Vegan Down Parka. This durable winter coat features a faux fur-lined hood and a longer profile, making it ideal for those who are looking for a very specific style.

The best winter coat for men overall is the Columbia Men’s Delta Ridge Down Jacket. This coat features a reflective liner, high fill power down, and enough options and sizes to benefit most Canadians. It’s best for snowy conditions.

Mountain Warehouse’s Concord Men’s Down Puffer Long Jacket is the best men’s warm jacket we found. With a rating of -50° C, it will be your constant companion for outdoor activities in the middle of winter.

For Canadians that need a big and tall jacket, we have the Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Hooded Puffer Jacket. This stylish jacket is designed for taller Canadians and is available in larger sizes for those who need a little extra room.

The North Face Men’s Gotham Jacket III is the best men’s down jacket on the Canadian market. The combination of complete weatherproofing features and lofty goose-down fill makes this jacket perfect for even the coldest winter activities.

Finally, the Carhartt Men’s Yukon Insulated Jacket is the best option for active men. It’s insulated with 3M’s unique materials, as well as a 500 denier Cordura exterior. If you’re hiking and camping on the rugged side of things, this coat will serve you better than most.

Best Winter Jackets for Women in Canada

Women looking for the best winter coats in Canada should look no further. We’ve found five of the best choices for the coldest Canadian winters. 

Best for Women Overall

The North Face Women's Aconcagua Jacket

The North Face Women's Aconcagua Jacket, TNF Black, S

Features:

It's Great For:

The North Face is a well-known brand that provides quality outerwear across North America. The Women’s Aconcagua Jacket is a well-fitting puffer jacket that comes in a variety of colours, including neutrals like black and grey as well as more colourful options (purple, pink, and teal). No matter what your style is, this jacket has an option for you. It’s also available in six different sizes, from extra-small to 2XL. Canadians in any of these sizes will find that this jacket fits them well.

It’s a puffer jacket that includes a hybrid type of recycled down insulation. It uses 550-fill goose down, as well as 150 grams of mixed 70% recycled polyester insulation. This insulation is present in the yoke, underarms, and pockets of the jacket, helping keep you warm and dry in these areas where it’s most important. The zippered handwarmer pockets help keep your hands warm in the coldest weather using this unique insulation blend.

The jacket is also completely windproof. The North Face uses WindWall protection to keep the breeze from cutting through you. It’s lightweight enough to be comfortable, providing an ease of movement not usually found in warmer winter coats. This coat is also water-repellent, so it won’t get wet during normal use. You can wipe the water away, so it remains warm even when it’s raining.

The responsibly sourced down offers a warm but lightweight jacket that comes in a variety of colours. The style fits true to size and is easy to move around in. The polyester exterior is resistant to abrasions. It’s extremely durable and ready to take on any outdoor weather and whatever else you can throw at it.

The Highlights

The North Face Women’s Aconcagua Jacket uses a hybrid, recycled down insulation that mixes pure goose down with recycled polyester for warmth and comfort. The jacket is 100% windproof because of the WindWall protection built right into the jacket, so you’ll be toasty even on the windiest winter days. There are 13 different colour options available, including the standards like black, white, and grey, as well as pinks, purples, blues, and teals. At the side of the jacket are zipped handwarmer pockets that work to keep your hands warm throughout colder weather.

  • Recycled down insulation is eco-conscious but warm and comfortable
  • 100% windproof due to The North Face’s WindWall protection
  • Available in 13 different colour options, including black, grey, white, purple, and teal
  • Zipped handwarmer pockets keep hands toasty in colder weather

From the Test Lab

“This puffer jacket was warm and offered the perfect fit for most users. Plus, the durable polyester exterior withstood many different abrasion tests.”

Best Women's Down Jacket

Mountain Warehouse Isla II Women's Down Jacket

Mountain Warehouse Isla II Womens Down Jacket - Winter Puffer Coat Black 4

Features:

It's Great For:

Mountain Warehouse’s Isla II Women’s Down Jacket is the perfect companion for any outdoor activities in the middle of a cold, Canadian winter. It’s one of the best down jackets in Canada for women. With a cold rating of down to -50° C, this jacket will protect you even in the far north. If you plan to go skiing, snowboarding, or camping in the snow, this is one of the warmest winter jackets in Canada.

It features a host of options to help keep you warm and dry, too. The combination of duck and goose feather down insulation helps trap the heat inside the jacket, with a fill power of 600. This means it’s lofty and thick without being unmanageable. You can still move around just fine with this filling. The down-proof lining helps keep the features from poking through the fabric, so you don’t have to worry about sharp feathers while you move around.

The polyester exterior is durable and long-lasting. It’s been treated with Durable Water Repellent, so any type of water (from snow, slush, or freezing rain) will roll right off. As with all winter coats, it’s best to limit exposure to rain when possible. Still, a little bit of moisture isn’t going to hurt the jacket. There’s even a storm flap to go over the zipper, ensuring that water and wind don’t get through to you.

The hood is lined with faux fur to keep your face and ears warm. It’s detachable, so you can remove it if needed. Overall, this down jacket has a nice, comfortable feel and a stylish design. It’s available in sizes from 0 to 16 Plus, as well as in 28 Plus. There are four colours available, including black, khaki, purple, and light beige.

The Highlights

The Mountain Warehouse Isla II Women’s Down Jacket has a 600-fill power rating of goose and duck feather. It’s fluffy and warm, with plenty of loft and insulation. This fill provides better warmth than down alternatives. The longer design of the jacket falls past your hips for more complete warmth, so you only have to worry about your legs. The faux fur-trimmed hood is detachable, so you can use it on colder days and get it out of the way when you don’t need it.

  • 600-fill power rating is fluffy and warm, with plenty of loft
  • Goose and duck feather filling provides better warmth and insulation than down alternatives
  • A longer jacket falls past your hips for a more complete warmth
  • Detachable faux fur-trimmed hood

From the Test Lab

“The long design of this jacket is nice and warm, especially with the storm flap over the zipper. It was one of the best jackets for wet weather that we found.”

Best Women's Long Jacket

Columbia Women's Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket

Columbia Women's Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket Outerwear, Black, Large

Features:

It's Great For:

Columbia makes some of the best winter jackets on the Canadian market, and this one is no different. However, it’s also one of the most affordable winter jackets in Canada. An affordable price pairs with a range of sizes and colours, making this a solid choice for most Canadians. In addition to all these benefits, it also provides a warm, lightweight feel that works well in most conditions.

This jacket uses Omni-Heat reflective technology in the lining. This means that your heat is always being reflected towards you. The 100% polyester down alternative insulation ensures that the heat doesn’t escape through the jacket. As a result, you’ll be warm inside your jacket, even when it’s cold outside.

The comfort cuffs and zippered hand pockets can keep your hands warm, too. Comfort cuffs provide thumb holes, perfect for when you need to keep your palms warm. Even if you’re wearing winter gloves on top of the lining, these cuffs can help keep the cold from creeping up your arms. Zippered hand pockets give you a place to warm your hands, using the same reflective body heat technology as the rest of the jacket.

This long jacket offers a perfect, size-accurate fit. The hood and drop tail allow you to customize the comfort and protection levels, making this a great jacket for the transition from fall to winter as well as for snowy outings. There are 24 colour options available for most sizes. Sizes offered range from extra small to 3XL. Most Canadians will be able to find a size that fits them. The handy size chart can help you discover the right size if you aren’t sure.

The Highlights

The Columbia Women’s Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket uses a water-resistant coating to keep you comfortable when it rains unexpectedly. The Omni-Heat reflective lining helps keep your heat inside the jacket. It works with the polyester synthetic down insulation to keep you comfortable. Cuffs at the end of the sleeves include thumbholes to keep your hands warm if you don’t have gloves. It’s available in multiple sizes and colours, so there’s an option for everyone.

  • Water-resistant coating with a reflective lining to keep your body heat inside
  • Omni-heat technology works with the polyester synthetic down insulation
  • Comfort cuffs with thumbholes to keep your hands warm
  • Multiple sizes and colours

From the Test Lab

“This jacket has a nice long profile and a great modern style.”

Best Women's Size Options

Orolay Women's Thickened Down Jacket

OROLAY Women's Thickened Down Jacket Warm Winter Down Coat (3X, Grey)

Features:

It's Great For:

Orolay offers the best range of size options with the Women’s Thickened Down Jacket. This jacket comes in sizes ranging from 2XS to 5XL, with every option in between available. Most Canadians will be able to find an option that fits them perfectly. This is also one of the cheapest winter jackets in Canada, especially for women. The affordable price makes it an attractive option, especially when you consider the available features.

This jacket is made with a 100% polyester exterior and lining. The filling, on the other hand, is made with 90% fine duck down and 10% feather down. Both materials work to retain heat better than down alternatives. The lining ensures that the feathers don’t poke you, and the exterior is extremely durable.

You’ll be well protected from wind and water with this jacket. The exterior stops wind in its tracks so you don’t feel it cutting through you, while the fabric is treated with water-repellent chemicals, so the water doesn’t soak in. If there’s freezing rain or an unexpected snowstorm during your hiking trip, you can stay comfortable throughout.

Ribbed cuffs work to keep your wrists and hands warm, but they also make it more difficult for the cold to get into your sleeves. There are six roomy pockets around and inside the jacket. No matter what you need to take with you, there’s plenty of room for it. The zippered pockets include a ribbon on the zipper, so you don’t have to fumble with small zippers while wearing your winter gloves.

Finally, Orolay offers a unique extended design, where you can extend the sides for extra room. The size sippers also help you move freely, extending the jacket by 2” on each side if you need it. For women with wider hips, this is a great option to help the jacket fit more comfortably while still keeping you warm.

The Highlights

The Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket offers ribbed knit cuffs at the end of both sleeves, which work to keep your hands and wrists warm. They also seal out cold, so you stay warmer. Zippers on both sides of the jacket (at the hems) allow extra space to move around if you need. There are six pockets inside and around the coat, so you’ll have space for everything you need to carry with you. The 100% polyester exterior is durable, while the down/feather insulation blend helps reflect heat and keep you warm even in colder weather.

  • Ribbed knit cuffs keep your hands and wrists warm
  • Zippers on both sides of the hem ensure you can move around a little easier
  • Six pockets give you plenty of space for the things you need
  • 100% polyester exterior, with a 90/10 down/feather insulation

From the Test Lab

“This is a nice, heavy winter coat with plenty of pockets and layers to keep you warm. Our testers loved the extra room to move around.”

Best Women's Parka

Alpine North Women's Vegan Down Parka

Alpine North Women’s Vegan Down Parka with Faux Fur Hood - Insulated, Water-Repellent, Winter Coat, Jacket For Women (White, Medium)

Features:

It's Great For:

The Alpine North Women’s Vegan Down Parka is one of the best winter parkas in Canada for women. This coat comes in five different colours and five different sizes, so some options work well for everyone. It’s extremely well-insulated with 100% animal-free and cruelty-free polyester. The lining is polyester as well. They work together to ensure that you’ll stay warm in the coldest winter weather.

The longer length helps keep more of you warm, ensuring that you aren’t going to be too cold no matter what you’re doing outdoors. There are so many pockets around the exterior of the jacket (and inside) that you can fit anything you need inside. The hood is trimmed in faux fur and is removable if you don’t need it. Inside, you’ll find rib knit cuffs to keep the cold out of your sleeves.

If you want a parka with a more customizable fit, you’ll love the waistline snaps inside this jacket. You can adjust based on your size. If you want a snug fit, you can snap it a little tighter. If you want to layer other pieces of clothing underneath the jacket, be sure to let the snaps out a bit.

This versatile jacket works well for all of your winter needs. The temperature rating (down to -30° C) allows you to comfortably wear this jacket for skiing, snowboarding, or simply walking outside in the colder weather. The exterior is water-resistant and extremely durable, so you won’t have to worry about buying a new jacket anytime soon!

The Highlights

Alpine North’s Women’s Vegan Down Parka has a detachable faux fur hood, so you can choose whether you want to take it with you. It’s 100% vegan, with animal-free insulation. The fill is made of pure polyester. The interior snaps can help you customize your fit, as they can adjust the taper of your waist. The low-temperature rating makes this coat perfect for outdoor activities in the winter, including sports and recreation.

  • Detachable faux fur hooded parka
  • 100% vegan, animal-free insulation – made of pure polyester
  • Interior snaps help you adjust the taper of the waist to suit you better
  • The low-temperature rating makes it perfect for winter sports and recreation

From the Test Lab

“Our testers loved the stylish design of this parka, as well as the adjustable, customizable fit.”

Best Winter Jackets for Men in Canada

Men looking for the best warm winter jackets in Canada have so many options. We’ve found five of the best to help you keep warm on the coldest winter days.

Best for Men Overall

Columbia Men's Delta Ridge Down Jacket

Columbia Men’s Delta Ridge Down Winter Jacket, Insulated, Water Repellent, Black, Medium

Features:

It's Great For:

Columbia’s Men’s Delta Ridge Down Jacket is one of the best down jackets in Canada, especially for men. This jacket is lightweight but packed with 650-fill power down insulation that works to keep you warm. Together with the Omni-Heat reflective liner, you won’t feel the worst winter has to offer. 

This coat comes in sizes ranging from small to 2XL, so there are options for most Canadians. There are also 9 different color options, including orange, camouflage, navy and dark blue, and more. No matter what style you prefer, there’s plenty to choose from.

This comfortable jacket allows you to move around easily. The medium-lightweight design makes it ideal for most outdoor activities, regardless of how cold the weather gets. You can wear it on your next fall camping trip and your next snowy hike. With the right layers, you’ll get the same level of cold protection. 

When it comes to special features, this jacket delivers. The hem, collar, and cuff are all sealed to prevent air from getting inside the jacket and making you cold. It also features a built-in chin guard, which you can pull up over your chin to keep your face warm. When your fingers get cold, simply slide them into the insulated zippered pockets. The same technology that keeps your body heat from escaping will keep them warm. 

The exterior polyester is wind and water-resistant as well. It’s durable enough to withstand regular use and will even protect you from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

The Highlights

The Columbia Men’s Delta Ridge Down Jacket features fluffy down insulation with 650-fill power. It’s a lightweight jacket, but it’s still warm enough for use during those colder winter days. The water-resistant polyester has a built-in chin guard and zippered hand pocket to keep you comfortable and warm. Omni-Heat reflective technology keeps your body heat trapped in the jacket to keep you warm.

  • Fluffy down insulation with 650-fill power
  • Extremely lightweight but comfortably warm
  • Water-resistant fabric with built-in chin guard and zippered hand pockets
  • Omni-Heat technology helps reflect your body heat

From the Test Lab

“This jacket was perfect for the seasonal transition and worked well for winter activities, too.”

Best Men's Warm Jacket

Mountain Warehouse Concord Men's Down Puffer Long Jacket

Mountain Warehouse Concord Mens Down Puffer Long Jacket - Warm Black Medium

Features:

It's Great For:

The Mountain Warehouse Concord Men’s Down Puffer Long Jacket is one of the best warm winter jackets in Canada. It’s also one of the most affordable winter jackets in Canada, with a lower price point than most of the other options we’ve seen. Together, these features make this jacket extremely accessible for most users. There are nine different sizes to choose from, including 2XS up to 4XL. Size shouldn’t be a factor for warmth, and this jacket will help you keep toasty at any size.

It’s available in two standard colours: black and blue. You can choose the one that works best for you. No matter what you choose, it’s fully waterproof for three years. The fabric has been treated to be waterproof, with company testing rating it for down to 3,000mm. The taped seams help keep water from seeping into the insulation. 

The longer parka design is perfect for taller users, but it also keeps more of you warm. When it comes to coats in this design, the Concord is one of the best parkas in Canada. The hood is detachable and adjustable. You can change the place where you snap it to help keep your face warm. 

The jacket is rated for temperatures down to -50(o) C, too. It’ll be comfortable on the coldest winter days. The way it reflects your body heat keeps it cozy for longer than other options. The down-proof lining helps, but it also keeps the feathers from poking through the fabric. 

The Highlights

Mountain Warehouse’s Concord Men’s Down Puffer Long Jacket is fully waterproof for up to three years, with company testing at a 3,000mm rating. It’s got a longer parka-style design that helps keep more of you warm. The taped seams prevent moisture from seeping into the insulation, while the hood is completely detachable. It can be adjusted for the perfect fit, too.

  • Fully waterproof guaranteed for up to three years
  • Long parka design
  • Taped seams prevent moisture from getting into the insulation
  • The detachable hood can be adjusted or removed when not needed

From the Test Lab

“This jacket is incredibly warm and affordable, so it’s a great option for most Canadians.”

Best Men's Big and Tall Jacket

Tommy Hilfiger Men's Hooded Puffer Jacket

Tommy Hilfiger Men's Midlength Puffer Jacket with Fixed Hood, Black, XXL

Features:

It's Great For:

The Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Hooded Puffer Jacket is the best option for big and tall men. It’s one of the most affordable winter jackets in Canada. The price point is lower than most of the other options we’ve looked at. However, it’s not going to suffer in the style department. Of course, this jacket is made by Tommy Hilfiger, so it’s going to stand out no matter where you go.

It’s also extremely warm, which you might not expect. This jacket uses polyfill insulation to keep you warm, with a fleece lining on the collar to help keep your neck warm. It’s a stand collar, meaning it completely wraps around your neck to prevent cold from leaking through. The hood features adjustable draw cords, so you can adjust the hood however you need to ensure that your face and ears stay warm.

Each sleeve has a rib-knit storm cuff. When it’s raining or snowing, this cuff helps keep the cold and moisture from creeping up your sleeves. With this in addition to the lining and the hood adjustments, you’ll be warm and dry even when it’s cold and wet.

The exterior of the jacket is stylish, durable nylon. It’s shinier than it appears in the product images, so be aware that the coat you get will be eye-catching and fashionable. The Tommy Hilfiger flag is present on the cuffs and the chest, too! Overall, this high-loft puffer jacket is warmer than you’d expect and extremely fashionable at the same time.

The Highlights

Tommy Hilfiger’s Men’s Hooded Puffer Jacket has a nylon exterior that is water-resistant and durable. The adjustable draw cords on the hood help keep your face and ears from getting too cold throughout your time outside, while the rib knit cuffs help protect your hands and wrists. It’s a stylishly designed puffer jacket with a shiny exterior. You’ll definitely stand out when you’re wearing this jacket!

  • The nylon exterior is water resistant and durable
  • Adjustable draw cords on the hood keep your face and ears warm
  • Rib-knit cuffs protect your hands and wrists
  • A stylish design with a shiny exterior helps you stand out

From the Test Lab

“This jacket is eye-catching, but it’s still warm enough to keep you toasty on your coldest winter walks.”

Best Men's Down Jacket

The North Face Men's Gotham Jacket III

THE NORTH FACE M Gotham Jacket III

Features:

It's Great For:

If you need a down jacket for your outdoor recreation, don’t pass up the North Face Men’s Gotham Jacket III. It’s easy to move around in this jacket, but don’t let the thinner insulation rating fool you. This jacket uses pure goose down to keep you warm, with a lining that will help keep you comfortable and dry inside the jacket.

It’s completely weatherproofed, with a water-repellent finish and a windproof DryVent shell. This shell is waterproof and breathable, with sealed seams and double layers. If you’re going to be sweating while you’re out in the cold, this jacket can help you stay more comfortable than other options might. The Heatseeker Eco insulation model maps to your body, providing the highest temperature retention where you need it most.

The down fill has a fill power of about 550, which is reasonably lofting and well-insulated. It’s certified by the Responsible Down Standard, so you can be more comfortable with the animal-friendly nature of the jacket. The fit is more relaxed than other jackets might be, with a comfortable and unrestrictive design so you can move around as much as you need to.

This jacket is available in 12 different colour options, including red, yellow, black, camo, and blues. There are five different sizes, from Small to 2XL. This jacket is ideal for more rugged outdoorsmen, perfect for those who are often outdoors on the coldest winter days.

The Highlights

The North Face’s Men’s Gotham Jacket III features Lofty 550-fill goose down for better insulation overall. It’s extremely weatherproof. The storm flap keeps your zipper protected, and the materials are windproof and waterproof overall. The shell is a breathable DryVent material, making it perfect for outdoor activities where you might sweat. It’s also certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), so you can rest easy knowing that no animals were harmed in the making of the coat.  

  • Lofty 55-fill goose down for better insulation
  • Weatherproofing, including storm flap, windproof and waterproof materials
  • Breathable DryVent shell for outdoor activities
  • Certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS)

From the Test Lab

“This is one of the best coats on our list for outdoor activities. If you’re spending time skiing, snowboarding, or camping, this is the jacket you want.”

Best Men's Active Jacket

Carhartt Men's Yukon Insulated Jacket

Carhartt Men's Yukon Extremes Loose Fit Insulated Active Jacket, Black, Medium

Features:

It's Great For:

Carhartt is a classic outdoor brand that knows what it’s doing when it comes to outerwear. If you prefer camping and hiking to ski and snowboarding, this might be the perfect jacket for you. It’s a perfectly rugged jacket that can stand up to the elements no matter what part of Canada you’re exploring. While other coats might have a polyester exterior, this jacket uses 500-denier Cordura nylon. The shell is made of the same type of material that you might find in tents and other outdoor gear. It’s extremely durable.

Inside, you’ll find a unique 3M Thinsulate insulation. This insulation is an alternative to natural down. It’s eco-conscious and animal friendly, too. This insulation traps body heat and helps you avoid moisture damage, as it wicks moisture away more effectively than other synthetic insulations.

The jacket is also completely weatherproofed. It uses Wind Fighter technology to keep the wind from cutting through the zipper and other parts of the fabric, while the Rain Defender water-repellent coating allows water to bead on the surface of the jacket instead of soaking in. The sleeves and the waist have ribbed cuffs to keep the wind, rain, and cold out, too.

There are plenty of pockets around and inside the jacket, all of which are roomy and insulated. You can carry anything you need to in this extremely durable jacket. If you’re looking for outerwear that will serve you well in the elements, this jacket is certainly a contender!

The Highlights

Carhartt’s Men’s Yukon Insulated Jacket is made with 3M Thinsulate insulation, a lightweight alternative to natural down. It helps trap body heat and wicks moisture away from you. This jacket features classic Carhartt style with protection for your coldest winter hikes and camping trips. Weatherproofing technologies like Wind Fighter and Rain Defender keep you comfortable, blocking out any harsh weather. There are multiple large pockets around the jacket so you can keep everything you need close to you.

  • 3M Thinsulate lightweight insulation helps trap body heat and avoids moisture damage
  • Classic Carhartt style with enough protection for your coldest winter hikes
  • Wind Fighter and Rain Defender technologies block out any harsh weather
  • Multiple large pockets for keeping everything you need close at hand

From the Test Lab

“This is a classic outdoorsman jacket, perfect for those who’d rather go camping than skiing.”

Why Trust Us?


For years, we’ve tried to help Canadians improve their lives. We’ve done research into the latest trends and technology to help us choose the best products for your homes. We’ve looked at some of the best products in Canada, including mattresses, exercise equipment, and kitchen appliances. When you’re travelling into the great Canadian winter, we want to make sure you’re as warm as possible. That’s why we’ve compiled a master list of the best winter coats in Canada.

We evaluated each of these jackets in a variety of performance areas. We combined our test lab evaluations with the feedback from our team of dedicated testers to find the best options for you. Some of the areas we evaluated include:

  • Insulation. A winter jacket is only as good as its insulation. We looked at each type of insulation available to determine which is best for the coldest Canadian winters.
  • Lining. The lining is important, too. The lining keeps your body heat contained within the jacket. It can even protect you from the features poking out of the insulation. We took a good look at the lining of our jackets to ensure it was comfortable and warm.
  • Size and Fit. A jacket must fit just right to keep you warm. Whether you want a jacket that wears a little big for layering or tighter to keep you toasty, we’ve evaluated all our jackets based on whether they fit true to size. 
  • Wind and Water Resistance. Water and wind resistance are an important part of keeping you comfortable in the winter. We looked at how each coat dealt with rain, snow, and wind.

How to Choose a Winter Jacket for Canadians

With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to find a winter coat that works well for you. The following guide explores the different features you want in a winter jacket, as well as what you should look for in each part of your jacket. Keep these options in mind as you shop for the best winter jackets in Canada. 

Insulation

If you are looking for a jacket that will keep you warm in the middle of the coldest Canadian winters, you should pay close attention to the insulation. There are two main types of insulation used in the warmest winter jackets in Canada.

Down Insulation

Down insulation usually refers to duck or goose down and feathers. This type of insulation is nearly unbeatable in colder weather. If you’re often outdoors during the winter, or if you like to take part in activities like skiing and snowboarding, a down jacket is perfect for you. They can be compressed for travel and provide the most warmth for their weight. When properly cared for, they can keep protecting you for years to come.

Down insulation should be gathered following the Responsible Down Standard (RDS). This ensures that animals were not harmed in the making of the jacket.

Overall, down insulation is the most durable and most expensive, but these jackets can usually last for years when you take the time to care for them. Down insulation is measured in fill power. The higher the fill power, the loftier the jacket. A rating of between 500 and 700-fill power is standard and will keep you warm throughout the coldest parts of winter.

Synthetic Insulation

Synthetic insulation can be better when it comes to wet weather. It’s less expensive overall and works better for Vegan Canadians or those who worry about animal welfare or animal products. Synthetic down includes polyfill, polyester, and other alternatives to down. The jackets are still fluffy and comfortable, though.

Synthetic insulation is measured by gram weights, which tells you how much the insulation weighs in a 1 x 1-meter piece of insulation. A coat with a heavier gram weight will be heavier and warmer. These jackets are great for keeping you warm as well, though they are best for weather that doesn’t get too cold (in the low negatives is the maximum for most types of synthetic insulation). However, you can’t beat synthetic insulation for wet or humid climates, as the insulation won’t be affected by the weather.

Lining

The lining on your winter coat helps reflect your heat, ensuring that you stay warm inside the jacket. However, some jackets do this much better than others. Warm winter jackets in Canada provide special Omni-Heat reflective linings. These linings are so good at reflecting heat that you may get a little too warm inside your jacket!

Every coat doesn’t have the same type of lining, but you should look for one that does. Polyester provides a great lining, but if you are going out in extremely cold weather, choose a reflective liner to keep you warm and protected.

Sizes and Fit

The size and fit of your winter coat are essential considerations as you purchase a winter coat. You don’t want to choose a coat that is too small. Likewise, choosing a coat that is too large can reduce the benefits of warm insulation. To avoid choosing a coat that is too big or too small, consult the sizing chart available with most coats. These charts can give you accurate measurements that allow you to choose the best size when you’re unsure about your options.

If you can try the coat on first, this is a great way to determine if it’s right for you. There should be plenty of room to move across the shoulders. Likewise, the sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists at the very least. Move your arms around, bending at the elbow to see if the sleeves ride up at all. If they move up past your wrist while you’re moving around, the coat may be too small.

Raise your arms above your head. Does your jacket still cover you? If your jacket rides up to expose any skin when you raise your arms, you’ll need a longer jacket. No matter how you move, your jacket shouldn’t uncover any of your skin or other clothing.

Don’t choose a coat that’s too large, either. With enough room between you and the lining, it might work poorly. If cold can seep up into the jacket, it isn’t going to be able to keep you warm for long. To avoid these issues, consider choosing a longer jacket that fits well, with a little bit of room for layering other clothing underneath. You may want to put a sweatshirt below your winter coat, so it’s important to keep this in mind.

Water Resistance

When you’re cold, the last thing you want to do is add water to the mix. Being wet can make you colder and increase the risk of dangerous conditions from the cold. If you’re up in the mountains and it rains, you need a coat that won’t absorb water or become difficult to dry. It’s important to choose a coat with a water-resistant or water-repellant coating. You should choose an option that allows water to bead on top of the surface instead of soaking in.

If you plan to be outdoors a lot, a water-resistant winter coat is undeniably important. It can mean the difference between dangerous conditions and a safe environment, so consider choosing a jacket that doesn’t allow water through to your skin.

Wind Resistance

Wind can cut right through some winter coats. While the coat itself might keep the cold out, the wind might get through and reduce the effectiveness of your winter coat. You should always choose a coat with windproofing. This helps you stay warm even on days with cold winter breezes. There are special wind-breaking materials that will keep you cool and prevent the wind from cutting through to your skin.

Most winter coats with low-temperature ratings include some measure of wind resistance. Look for these features if you are skiing or snowboarding, especially if you plan to use ski lifts or take longer hills. Even if the air is still, you’ll generate wind during these activities. You don’t want the breeze to make it uncomfortable to partake in your favourite winter sports.

Temperature Rating

The best winter coats in Canada have a temperature rating. The temperature rating can inform you of the coldest temperatures your jacket will protect you from. For instance, some of the coats on our list have a temperature rating of about -40° C. Down to this temperature, your coat will prevent frostbite and cold exposure.

The jacket might not keep you comfortable down to this temperature, however. You might feel cold while wearing it in these lower temperatures, even if you aren’t in any danger. Once the temperature drops below this, you might be in danger of adverse effects from the cold.

Pay close attention to temperature ratings. When you can, avoid choosing a coat that doesn’t quite meet your needs. If you plan on camping, hiking, skiing, or snowboarding in the mountains, choose a coat with the lowest temperature rating you can find.

Hood

Even if you wear a winter hat, your ears can get cold in chilly weather (particularly when it’s windy). It’s a well-known fact that most of your body heat escapes through the top of your head, so it’s very important to keep your head warm in colder climates. Warm winter jackets in Canada should have a hood, particularly if you plan to use them outdoors for skiing or winter hiking.

There are a few different types of hoods to choose from. A faux fur-lined hood (such as the one you might find in a parka) can keep your face warm and seal out colder air. Some of these are also detachable, so you can change the way the jacket is designed based on the weather.

Otherwise, you might choose a hood that fits close to your head. This type will help you benefit most from the insulation. You might also want to choose a hood with additional straps and closures to ensure that your face is as covered as possible.

Consider your hood options carefully, particularly if you are choosing a jacket for winter recreation or outdoor activities. Pair any type of hood with your winter hat to ensure that your head stays as warm as possible.

Colour Options

Colour options for your winter coat might not be important for your comfort, but it’s something you should consider when you purchase one. If you prefer to go with a simple black coat, there are a ton of options available. Most coats come in at least a standard black option. However, if you want different colours to express yourself, you should look for coats that come in a variety of different colours.

Along with the colours available for each jacket, you should consider the style. Of course, you want a winter jacket that is warm and functional. However, you’re more likely to wear a jacket that fits your style. 

Length

The length of a winter coat can determine how much of your body it can shield from the elements. It’s ideal to choose a winter coat that covers as much of your body as possible. A short winter coat will keep your upper body warm, but it won’t do much for the rest of you. If you lift your arms and your skin is exposed, the jacket is too small. To avoid this, you could choose a long winter coat.

These coats are more protective, and they can also be stylish. If you are looking for a coat you can wear out on a cold day and one that will keep you warm on a hike, a long winter coat can be a great option.

If you are walking around the city or making a run out to the driveway, you might not need a longer coat. Longer options can also be more restrictive than shorter ones, which may be a problem if you want to move around while you’re outside. All of these factors can determine which coat you choose, so be sure to consider them.

Outer Fabric

The exterior fabric is an important part of your winter jacket. Aside from the extremely important water and wind resistance, the outer fabric of your winter coat should be durable. The best winter coats in Canada have tough, resistant outer fabric. It should be resistant to abrasions and rips. A strong outer layer helps keep the interior insulation protected.

You should look for a jacket that is made with polyester on the outside or stronger material. Some high-end jackets may include a ripstop material similar to tents and other outdoor gear as well, so choose the exterior fabric as carefully as you choose the insulating layers. If you want to use your winter jacket for rugged outdoor work, make sure to choose an outer fabric that is stronger and more durable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Longer winter coats can help keep you warm. You’ll want your hips to be warm as well, leaving only your legs exposed. A long winter coat can keep more of you warm, reflecting more of your body heat to you and reducing drafts.

A winter jacket should be comfortable to move around in. The sleeves should cover your wrists, and they should be roomy enough to layer over other warm clothing. A winter jacket for the Canadian weather shouldn’t be too tight or uncomfortable.

While you want the fit to be roomy enough to fit other layers of clothing underneath, your winter jacket shouldn’t be too large. If it is, the insulation won’t work correctly. Cold air will have room to get between you and the jacket. Buy a coat in the same size you usually wear for this reason.