The 18 Best Puffer Jackets of 2023 to Elevate Your Winter Style

Madison Yauger
·24 min read

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Cold-weather favorites like cropped, long, and reflective puffer jackets

<p>People / Kristin Kempa</p>

People / Kristin Kempa

When the cold descends, it’s time to reach for that puffer jacket in the back of your closet. Celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon, and Meghan Markle have all been spotted wearing this style of outerwear — pairing it with beanies, snow gear, athleisure, and more.

“The puffer jacket has become a staple of fall and winter,” YouTube creator and fashion designer Gunnar Deatherage tells PEOPLE. “What I love is that there are great options for any budget.” While there are many kinds of puffer jackets to choose from, the Project Runway alum thinks you should look for a few key features. “I’m a big fan of a transitional jacket,” Deatherage says. “If you are on the go, a lot of puffers will come with a travel bag where you can roll them up to store them and save space. Hoods and deep pockets are key when it comes to chilly destinations so keep an eye out for those.”

In order to help you pick the best puff, we’ve created a virtual closet for you to peruse with options for different budgets, sizes, materials, and designs. Backed by expert insights and research, read on for our favorite puffer jackets for the ultimate winter bundle.

Our Top Picks

Classic Puffer Jackets

A puffer jacket is versatile winter outwear that marries function and fashion to bring you warmth and unequivocal style. A classic puffer silhouette will sit right at your hip, providing a plush layer for your torso, and usually either comes with a hood or collared design.

We found an assortment of popular puffer jackets ranging from $50 to $250 that offer different levels of “puff”, materials and fills, and styles to match your individual style. Whether you prefer something more fitted or a cozier feel, we have a wealth of reliable options, many of which are also on sale right now.

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Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Jacket

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

$129

$50

This puffer jacket from Eddie Bauer has great sizing options, making it an ideal option for many body types. “Many people sleep on Eddie Bauer because it's considered to be an older brand for the outdoors type,” celebrity stylist Chelsea Volpe tells PEOPLE, “but the quality and price tag is not something to roll your eyes at. If you're looking for something basic and functional, Eddie Bauer is a solid choice.”

The outer material and lining are made with recycled polyester and recycled nylon respectively, and the fill is 100 percent RDS-certified down, so if you’re looking for sustainable fashion, this jacket could be a good fit. And if you like to travel and are considering bringing a jacket with you, this one is easily packable.

Price at time of publish: $50 (orig. $129)

Sizes: XS petite, XS–3X | Fill Material: RDS-certified down | Exterior Material: Recycled polyester | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 7 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

TSLA Packable Accent Puffer Jacket

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

$59

If you want a lightweight puffer jacket to bring on trips, the TSLA jacket can be packed into a compact bag that comes with it — a traveler’s dream. It has exterior and interior zippered pockets for storing small belongings such as your wallet or passport. The design of the puffer jacket is on the thinner side, making it a good option for athletes as well because it’s not too bulky to run in, and the nylon material is water-resistant.

Price at time of publish: $58.98 (orig. $66.98)

Sizes: XS–XXL | Fill Material: Unlisted | Exterior Material: Nylon | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 6 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

Aritzia Super World The Super Puff

<p>Aritzia</p>

Aritzia

$250

“Aritzia's puffer jackets are a great choice for a fashion-conscious buyer,” Volpe says. “In all honesty, I don't think the quality is exceptional, but I do know their jackets are versatile and can be dressed up and dressed down for nearly any occasion.” This particular jacket is quite popular, with a durable nylon exterior that’s machine washable and repellent to water and wind.

It’s quite puffy, so it might be tricky to pack for a trip, but it does have a removable hood which could help make it more compact. With an RDS-certified downfill, it’s plush and provides a thick layer of warmth even in the coldest months. And as a bonus, this jacket has 61 different color options, so there is literally something for everyone. “A little simple for my taste, but a great classic, buildable wardrobe staple for the winter months,” Volpe says.

Price at time of publish: $250

Sizes: 3XS–2XL | Fill Material: RDS-certified down | Exterior Material: Nylon | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 61 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Maybe

Related: Jennifer Garner and Emily Ratajkowski Are Bringing Out Their Cozy Fleece Jackets for Fall, so We Are Too

Slow Down Puffer Jacket

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

$100

$77

If you want a simple but effective puffer jacket, slow down and consider this one. Made with 90 percent down, the jacket is quite warm with a thickness that keeps the warmth trapped throughout the day. The material is both soft and durable, holding up to wind, rain, and even snow. It has a cozy hood to add extra protection from wind and other elements and fleece-lined pockets to keep your hands toasty. It’s effective and really well-designed with an overall sleek look.

Price at time of publish: $76.99 (orig. $99.99)

Sizes: XS–XXL | Fill Material: 90% down, 10% feather | Exterior Material: Nylon | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 8 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Maybe

Merokeety Winter Puffer Jacket

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

$90

$62

The Merokeety puffer jacket creates a comfortable, chic aesthetic that can go with many different looks. With a water-resistant, machine-washable fabric, the jacket can also stand a lot of use (which is good because you’ll want to wear it all season long). It adds an extra bit of coziness with the tall neckline, which goes up to your chin to help keep the wind out. Plus, with 13 colors to choose from, you can go with a more traditional base shade for everyday wear like black, beige, or army green, or create a statement look with bright orange, red, or royal blue.

Price at time of publish: $62.05 (orig. $89.99)

Sizes: XS–XL | Fill Material: Unlisted | Exterior Material: Polyester | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 13 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Somewhat

Cropped Puffer Jackets

A cropped puffer jacket offers the same benefits of a classic cut but with a little more style (and a little less material). Celebrities like Hailey Bieber often rock this trend because it makes a fashion statement without the extra bulkiness. A natural pairing is with high-waisted denim or high-cut skirts that create a balance between the pieces.

Brands like Lululemon, Alo, Nike, The North Face, and Amazon all have quality cropped puffer jackets that can serve you some warmth while letting you serve looks. Since cropped jackets are a more stylistic choice, they will generally run a little higher in price — the same concept as paying more for jeans with holes. But, we did find a few options at or under $200, with one discounted at just over $50.

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Uaneo Casual Padded Puffer

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

$71

$54

This cozy puffer jacket from Uaneo is for those who like to wrap up in a blanket and take that feeling outdoors. It’s oversized (size down if you want a more fitted look) and plush without being too bulky. The ribbed cuff keeps cold air from getting in the arm sleeves, and the zippered pockets keep your belongings secure. It’s a simple design, available in a range of basic colors, and it’s on sale for just over $50 right now.

Price at time of publish: $53.99 (orig. $70.99)

Sizes: XS–XL | Fill Material: Unlisted | Exterior Material: Polyester | Silhouette: Cropped | Colors: 8 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Somewhat

Alo Gold Rush Puffer

<p>Alo</p>

Alo

$198

If you’re feeling a chic puffer jacket for the cold times ahead, this durable option from Alo is a winner in our book — a favorite brand of Camilla Cabello, Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, and Victoria Beckham, to name a few. As a stylish and functional piece of outerwear, this jacket is made with a ripstop fabric that’s water-resistant and won’t wear down over time. Fashion stylist Elisabeth Kassab loves “this one from Alo.” She says, “I think the simpler the better. I love how it’s cute but also practical.”

It has a drawstring waist so you can adjust the fit depending on the look and feel you’re going for. The lack of a hood and cropped silhouette makes this jacket more easily packable than others on our list, as you can compress the material down in your travel bag. This jacket serves those who prefer fashion and function, and we believe it’s a wardrobe staple you’ll be reaching for every day this season.

Price at time of publish: $198

Sizes: XS–L | Fill Material: Synthetic polyester | Exterior Material: Ripstop fabric | Silhouette: Cropped | Colors: 3 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

The North Face Hydrenalite Down Hoodie

<p>North Face</p>

North Face

$200

Volpe appreciates The North Face for being “cute, comfortable, functional, and at times, a little fashionable.” This particular jacket also happens to be extremely packable with a cropped silhouette and thin (but warm) fill that makes it easy to squish down and fold in a bag. And if you want to save space in your suitcase, it’s super lightweight so you could also wear this jacket as an extra layer in the airport. With an RDS-certified goose-down fill, this puffer jacket is quite warm, though it doesn’t feel super bulky or heavy when worn.

Price at time of publish: $200

Sizes: XS–XXL, Plus 1X–3X | Fill Material: RDS-certified goose down | Exterior Material: Nylon taffeta with non-PFC durable water-repellent | Silhouette: Cropped | Colors: 7 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

Lululemon Wunder Puff Cropped Jacket

<p>lululemon</p>

lululemon

$278

Lululemon brings its signature athletic style to outerwear like the Wunder Puff cropped puffer jacket. It’s made from similar materials as the popular leggings like nylon, elastane, and polyester, but with an incredibly soft goose-down fill. The design offers versatility with thick pockets on the outside, zippered pockets on the inside, snap buttons, and a zipper closure option.

You can cinch the waist with a drawstring feature and lift the (removable) hood for additional coverage on windy or rainy days. The material is water-resistant and can be thrown into the washing machine for easy cleaning. You can even tumble dry it on a low setting. It’s comfortable with a relaxed fit and looks stylish with many different outfits.

Price at time of publish: $278

Sizes: 0–14 | Fill Material: 600-power RDS-certified goose down | Exterior Material: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Silhouette: Cropped | Colors: 6 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

Nike Jordan Puffer Jacket

<p>Nike</p>

Nike

$195

The Nike Jordan jacket takes the plush element of a traditional puffer and creates a contemporary feel with a cropped silhouette. The jacket has a few unique design elements like a slightly curved hemline and high collar that add to the overall look. The materials are water resistant so you can wear this jacket rain or shine. Plus, the soft fabric and warm polyester filling create a cozy ensemble that should keep you comfortable throughout the day.

Price at time of publish: $195

Sizes: XS–XXL | Fill Material: Polyester | Exterior Material: Nylon | Silhouette: Cropped | Colors: 3 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

Long Puffer Jackets

If you live in a cold climate, the more coverage a puffer jacket can provide, the better. “For me, if I’m wearing a puffer jacket it’s because I need to be warm,” says Kassab. “I need to have as much covered and kept warm as possible. I love a long one for that reason.”

Whether you want to keep your look more classic and sophisticated like Sarah Jessica Parker or branch out into bolder colors and designs like Gigi Hadid, long puffer jackets can make any outfit into a fashion moment. We found a range of long puffer jackets for every budget, starting at $60 from top brands like Aritzia, Nordstrom, Columbia, and Amazon.

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Amazon Essentials Hooded Puffer Jacket

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

$63

This simple jacket from Amazon offers high durability and a classic design. Its polyester fill provides decent warmth without being too bulky so you can pack it in a travel bag without taking up too much space. And the polyester exterior offers a silky feel that’s highly water resistant so if you’re out in the rain a lot, this long puffer jacket is the perfect winter companion.

It also comes in a huge assortment of colors (21 to be exact), so no matter what look you’re going for, there’s a color that will suit you. Plus, the long silhouette and zippered pockets make this a great all-day jacket if you’re out on the town and need continued protection against the elements.

Price at time of publish: $62.50

Sizes: XS–6X | Fill Material: Polyester | Exterior Material: Polyester | Silhouette: Long | Colors: 21 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

Bernardo Hooded Puffer Jacket

<p>Nordstrom</p>

Nordstrom

$180

$100

This gorgeous puffer jacket brings the warmth of down without using actually down. Using a polyester fill and polyester outer material (with a silky feel), it’s highly durable, water repellent, and will block wind to help keep you warm during the winter. Its medium-length silhouette offers some coverage past your torso, and with an attached hood, makes this outerwear the epitome of fashion and function.

Plus, it’s machine-washable for easy maintenance and comes in a range of several cool tone colors. Since this is a larger puffer jacket with a hood and extra material, it might not fit compactly in a suitcase, but if you wear it instead of packing it, then it would make an excellent outer layer for trips.

Price at time of publish: $99.99 (orig. $180)

Sizes: XS–XXL | Fill Material: Recycled polyester | Exterior Material: Polyester | Silhouette: Medium | Colors: 8 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: No

Aritzia Babaton The Duvet Puffer

<p>Aritzia</p>

Aritzia

$375

If you’ve ever had the urge to wear a blanket outside, this jacket makes that dream a reality. PEOPLE senior commerce writer Madison Yauger has the short version of the Aritzia Duvet Puffer, and the satin fabric is incredibly soft and comfortable to wear. It holds up against wind and rain (though not completely waterproof) and it’s super puffy, so you will literally be wrapped in warmth. Despite the puff factor (and feeling like a marshmallow when wearing it), it’s actually lightweight which makes it great for exploring in the winter. And it has a hood to keep your head and ears nice and toasty.

The fill is goose down, but it’s responsibly sourced (not from manufacturers that use inhumane practices). The silhouette is long so it will go down your knees or a little past if you’re petite, providing extra warmth on particularly cold days. Unlike some jackets, this one doesn’t use a zipper, but rather tiny snaps that fasten about five inches apart down the length of the coat. This small detail adds even more warmth because you’re getting two layers of jacket when it’s closed, as one side fits snugly over the other instead of connecting in the middle.

Price at time of publish: $375

Sizes: 2XS–2XL | Fill Material: RDS-certified down | Exterior Material: Satin fabric that’s windproof | Silhouette: Long | Colors: 7 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: No

Columbia Pike Lake II Long Jacket

<p>Columbia</p>

Columbia

$199

Columbia is a longstanding favorite for winter apparel due to the quality and designs of its clothing. The Pike Lake puffer jacket is no exception, made with a recycled polyester that’s soft, water resistant, and warm while you wear it.

It’s available in subtle colors with a few standouts like sky blue and blush pink, and is long enough to cover your knees, or if you’re petite, your shins. Due to the size and excess material, this would be a tough jacket to pack for a trip, but it’s definitely one you’ll keep for many years to come.

Price at time of publish: $200

Sizes: XS–3X | Fill Material: Recycled polyester | Exterior Material: Recycled polyester | Silhouette: Long | Colors: 5 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: No

Reflective Puffer Jackets

There are other ways to play with the design of your outerwear such as the exterior material and appearance. A reflective puffer jacket — whether glossy, matte, or metallic — offers a shiny finish that adds some excitement to your outfit. “A reflective jacket is also good for nighttime or if you’re very active outdoors during the winter,” says Kassab. We found an assortment of reflective puffer jackets starting at just $50 from top brands like Alo, The North Face, and even Michael Kors, which is on sale for 50 percent off right now.

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Dina Weis Shiny Padded Puffer Jacket

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

$50

If you want more of a statement this winter, consider a shiny puffer jacket like this option from Dina Weis. The cuffs and waist are slightly cinched, the puff is plush without being too thick, and there’s a collar rather than a hood for a more sleek appearance.

It’s available in a series of bright, bold colors like yellow, red, blue, and even metallic gold. It should also be noted that despite the polyester material, this jacket should only be dry cleaned (per manufacturer instructions).

Price at time of publish: $49.99

Sizes: S–XXL | Fill Material: Polyester | Exterior Material: Polyester | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 6 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Yes

Alo Ice Breaker Puffer Jacket

<p>Alo Yoga</p>

Alo Yoga

$398

If your priority is fashion, there’s really no question that this Alo Ice Breaker jacket should make it into your cart. It’s absolutely glamorous with faux fur-lined pockets, a tie-around waist, and a slightly oversized silhouette that you would see on a Kardashian. It’s quite warm and though the fill material is unlisted, you can tell it has thick insulation.

The satin faux leather exterior is beyond chic, though it might not hold up to extensive rain. Due to the thick material, it’s also not as packable as other puffer jackets on our list. That said, it’s a stylish and functional puffer jacket that will definitely warrant some double-takes this winter. (We recommend you size down for a more fitted look.)

Price at time of publish: $398

Sizes: XS–L | Fill Material: Unlisted | Exterior Material: Satin faux leather | Silhouette: Oversized classic | Colors: 2 | Water-resistant: Somewhat | Packable: Somewhat

The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket

<p>FWRD</p>

FWRD

$330

For those wanting a more retro vibe this season, consider the 1996 Retro Nuptse jacket from The North Face. “I love this puffer jacket because of the color blocking and how cozy it is,” says Kassab. “You can never go wrong with a North Face puffer. There’s a reason they’ve been around this long.” Emily Ratajkowski, Hailey Bieber, and Ariana Grande have all been spotted wearing puffer jackets from The North Face, which also counts Jennifer Garner as a fan.

The 1996 puffer jacket has a sleek nylon finish that’s water resistant and machine washable, as well as a down fill for comfort and coziness. It’s one of the more expensive options on our list, but between the ripstop fabric and timeless design, it’s a jacket worth investing in.

Price at time of publish: $330

Sizes: XS–XL | Fill Material: Down | Exterior Material: Nylon | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 1 | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Somewhat

Michael Kors Metallic Ciré Puffer Jacket

<p>Michael Kors</p>

Michael Kors

$375

$188

Of course, sometimes you might prefer a bolder, less timeless look — something like the Michael Kors Metallic Ciré puffer jacket. This bright, eye-catching jacket has a stunning chrome exterior. Made from polyester with a down fill, the jacket is not only water resistant but also insulated to keep you warm throughout the winter, whether on the slopes or just going out for a chilly night on the town.

It has a thick hood to help block wind and a drawstring waist to help you cinch in the hem for a more fitted look. Michael Kors is known for high-quality clothing and accessories, therefore warranting a higher price, but today you can grab this beautiful reflective puffer jacket for 50 percent off.

Price at time of publish: $188 (orig. $375)

Sizes: XS–XL | Fill Material: Down | Exterior Material: Polyester | Silhouette: Short | Colors: 1, silver | Water-resistant: Yes | Packable: Somewhat

Things to Consider Before Buying a Puffer Jacket

Materials

When considering a puffer jacket, the most important aspect is the material because that’s what keeps you warm. “If you're looking for warmth and cozy comfort, a functional and fashionable puffer jacket should be made of down,” says Volpe. “Premium down is more luxurious and has the best insulation-to-weight ratio of any material. Not only is it super warm, but it's also easy to fold down for your next outdoor adventure.”

Deatherage agrees. “I find the weight of a puffer to be crucial,” he says. “If you are someone who likes to layer, look for a lightweight puffer with a polyfill. If you want a piece that’s more substantial in colder climates I look for a down fill and a lining that provide that extra warmth.” Nylon and polyester are good lining materials that provide substantial warmth.

Volpe adds that you can play around with different material choices depending on your needs and preferences. “I also go for more unique material choices such as leather to make a statement,” she says. “However, if you're the outdoorsy type and you're seeking a puffer jacket for cold weather conditions like a mountain hike, you're going to want to size up for layering and likely purchase synthetic materials so the jacket doesn't lose insulation from water damage in the snow.”

Silhouette

The silhouette or cut of a puffer jacket will determine how it fits. Some are a little cinched, which can make for a snug fit when layering with sweaters and other garments. Others are bulkier and not as easily packable. “When purchasing a puffer jacket there are so many things to consider,” says Volpe. “For me personally, I purchase a puffer jacket for fashion (and a little bit for warmth) versus function. Due to this, I look for a fun cropped puffer [like the Lululemon Wunder Puff Cropped Jacket] that's a bit oversized for layering a fun turtleneck or printed sweater underneath.”

Pricing

The other consideration that can’t be overlooked is pricing. Puffer jackets — like most outwear — can run the gambit in cost, and if you’re not careful, you can overspend. We’ve worked hard to find selects for every budget but have made sure that the quality is top tier, no matter the price. Some picks are expensive, like the Alo Ice Breaker Puffer Jacket, but they offer a high quality and value that matches the price. That being said, our lower-budget picks, like the Uaneo Casual Padded Puffer, Dina Weis Shiny Padded Puffer Jacket, and TSLA Packable Accent Puffer Jacket, can also stand the test of time and provide functional fashion to get you through the winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should a puffer jacket fit?

The fit of a puffer jacket comes down to sizing and silhouette, as well as the clothes you’re wearing underneath. “Sizing is always an important part of choosing your puffer,” says Deatherage. “Layering is great for those on the go, especially in the winter months. If you want to use a puffer as an under layer I suggest a more snug size as an appropriate fit. If you want your puffer to be an outer layer, maybe size up to accommodate the rest of your outfit under the piece.”

Are longer or shorter puffer jackets better?

We’ve included a variety of short puffer jackets and long puffer jackets to suit your needs. “Depending on the climate, long versus short makes a huge difference in the level of warmth you are,” says Deatherage. “I’m a big fan of an open long puffer that can accentuate the rest of an outfit. That being said, a short puffer is the more practical go-to option.”

What is the difference between a puffer jacket and a down jacket?

While some puffer jackets are made with down, others use a synthetic alternative, which creates a difference between down puffer jackets and non-down puffers. “My vote is always going to be premium down fill for puffer jackets,” says Volpe. “It's softer, higher quality, and just better overall 100 percent.”

That said, not everyone is comfortable with wearing real down for sustainability reasons. “If you are opposed to down fill due to the fact that it’s made of geese and duck feathers, synthetic down fill such as polyester is a fair alternative,” she adds. “One upside to synthetic fill is it's water resistant versus down, which loses insulation when wet.” This makes materials like polyester fill better for machine-washing because it won’t break down like real down can. “Another plus is synthetic fill puffer jackets are more cost effective and affordable,” Volpe says.

Take Our Word For It

Madison Yauger is a senior shopping writer who’s covered extensive fashion trends such as linen pants, fall sweaters, skorts, and running shoes. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources and a penchant for accuracy. For this story, she spoke to celebrity fashion designer Gunnar Deatherage, celebrity stylist Chelsea Volpe, and fashion stylist Elisabeth Kassab, as well as using personal experience with certain jackets, and heavily researching the market of puffer jackets to determine the best picks for different needs.



Meet Our Experts

  • Gunnar Deatherage is a Los Angeles-based YouTube creator and fashion designer. Deatherage is also a Project Runway alum, whose bold and colorful designs often have a vintage-reminiscent flare.

  • Chelsea Volpe is a New York-based fashion and still life stylist with a penchant for bold colors and imagery. She’s worked with celebrities like Alicia Keys and brands like Bloomingdale’s, Victoria’s Secret, and more.

  • Elisabeth Kassab is a fashion stylist and personal shopper who marries comfortable staples with chic pieces for varied elevated looks.



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