Women's Puffer & Down Coats

Long puffer coats and down parkas

A long down coat is the warmest and lightest choice for very cold winters, and a parka adds a hood and a longer, protective cut. Read our guides to Mackage long down coats, Canadian winter coat brands and the warmest winter coats for women.

Down coats with fur and shearling

Many down coats from Mackage and Yves Salomon come with fur and shearling trims; see Mackage coats with fur. For the mountains, shop women’s skiwear; for wool, see wool and cashmere coats.

Puffer & Down Coats: FAQs

What is the warmest type of winter coat?

A long down coat with a high fill power is the warmest coat for its weight, especially with a hood. Shearling is the warmest alternative without down.

What is fill power in a down coat?

Fill power measures how much space an ounce of down fills. A higher number, such as 700 and above, means lighter, loftier and warmer insulation.

What is the difference between a puffer coat and a parka?

A puffer coat is quilted and filled with down and synthetic insulation. A parka is a longer, hooded coat for cold weather, often down-filled and with a weatherproof shell.

Are designer down coats worth it?

A well-made down coat keeps its loft for many winters, uses responsibly sourced down and has better shells, trims and fit. Mackage, Moose Knuckles and Yves Salomon are known for them.

How do I wash a down coat?

Follow the care label; many down coats can be washed on a gentle cycle with a down detergent, then tumble dried low with clean tennis balls to restore the loft.

What length of puffer coat is warmest?

A knee to ankle length puffer is warmest, as it covers the legs, while a hip-length puffer is lighter and easier to wear in town.