These Trendy Puffer Vests are Perfect for Winter Walks

We updated this guide in December 2022 based on recent testing from the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. GH analysts added new picks from Uniqlo, Lululemon, Eddie Bauer, The North Face, Aritzia and Abercrombie as well as a shopping guide at the end of this article.

When it's not cold enough for a thick winter coat but you still need more warmth than just a leather jacket, puffer vests are the perfect transitional piece as the temperature drops. A stylish puffer vest is easy to throw on when walking the dog, running errands or even on a fun night out. And it's sleeveless, so it offers much-needed warmth without weighing you down, and it works with a variety of cute fall outfits — just add a pair of jeans, a cozy sweater and a pair of functional fall boots, and you're good to go. And when temps dip even lower in the winter, you can use your quilted vest as a layering piece under a heavier coat.

Just like with puffer coats, puffer vests come in a variety of styles, materials and prices. Whether you prefer down or down alternative fill, something heavier or a lightweight vest that's easy to pack, a neutral color or a statement pattern, the pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab analyzed over a dozen puffer vests in the Lab, then had testers wear them to get feedback on fit, comfort, style, warmth and more to find the best puffer vest for women.

Our top picks:

After shopping through our top puffer vests for women, continue reading to learn more about our testing process and answers to your puffer vest FAQs.