13 Best Men's Puffer Jackets 2024, According to GQ Editors
GQ RecommendsDon't wait until January to buy a legitimately warm winter coat.By Leon HedgepethDecember 3, 2024Image: Getty; Collage by Brittany LogginsSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.At a certain point, the best men's puffer jackets don't have much competition. I love a handsome topcoat and a rebel-inspired leather jacket as much as the next person. But when the temperature drops below freezing, let’s face it—you need a heavy-duty puffer coat. Sure, it hogs closet space, but it does its one job flawlessly: keeping you warm.As for the category leaders, while your favorite celebrities might still bundle up in The North Face’s trusty Nuptse, there’s a world of puffer jackets out there that go beyond the standard fare. Think fun, funky patterns and statement-making designs that turn your winter workhorse into the cherry on top of a cold-weather outfit sundae. From ultra-performance powerhouses to modern heritage labels vying for the puffer throne, we’ve rounded up the best of the best.The Best Puffer Jackets for Men, According to GQThe Best Puffer Jacket Overall: Arc'teryx Thorium Hoody Jacket, $500The Best Longer Puffer Jacket: The North Face Himalayan Down Parka, $380The Best Budget Puffer Jacket: Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Parka, $90The Best Upgrade Puffer Jacket: Goldwin Pertex Quantum Down Jacket, $690The Best Puffer Jacket for Nostalgists: Crescent Down Works Classico Down Parka, $754The Best Puffer Jacket for Fashion Guys: Entire Studios MML Puffer Down Jacket, $800Looking for Something Specific?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronMore Puffer Jackets We LoveWhat the Heck Is Down Fill, Anyway?What to Look for in a Great Puffer JacketOther Details to Keep an Eye OnHow We Review ProductsHow We Make These PicksBest Puffer Jacket Overall: Arc’teryx Thorium Hoody JacketArc'teryxThorium Hoody Jacket$500 AmazonPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsArato 30 nylon is both lightweight and abrasion-resistant, ensuring longevityThe two-way zipper offers versatile styling options for the jacketConsThe brand is known to fit slim, so pay attention to sizingRemember when dudes were flexing by showering in their Arc’teryx jackets? Sure, it was weird, but it was also testament to the brand’s undeniable mastery of bad-weather projection. And the Vancouver-based brand has perfected more than just rain-beading—take their Thorium jacket, for example. It’s lightweight enough to make you forget you’re wearing it, but don’t let that fool you—it packs a 750-fill-power certified grey goose down wallop.Fancy? Yes. Toasty? Also yes. Its Arato 30 nylon fabric isn’t just lightweight and packable; it’s also rugged enough to shrug off any abrasions. And the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish? It brushes off light moisture with ease. For those extra chaotic weather days, there’s a StormHood with an adjustable tightener to keep your noggin cozy and dry. Sure, it’s an investment, but Arc’teryx stays looking new years down the line—and can you really put a price on surviving winter in comfort and style?Best Longer Puffer Jacket: The North Face Himalayan Down ParkaThe North FaceHimalayan Down Parka$380 SSENSEPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsHighly wind-resistant material provides excellent protection against icy gustsInternal drawcord traps warmth and minimizes heat lossConsCumbersome to pack for travelYes, the iconic Nuptse jacket proudly hangs in the outerwear Hall of Fame, but you’re likely here because you’ve already considered that one, and decided to seek beyond that particular puffy masterpiece. Still, for a great value alternative puffer the North Face is still where I’m going to point you. Here’s the HMLYN Down Parka—a jacket inspired by Everest expeditions, but reimagined for city streets as well as mountain slopes.Designed with a relaxed fit to accommodate all your winter layers—whether it’s a chunky sweater or a secret stash of snacks—this parka is a winter no-brainer. Crafted from The North Face’s patented, highly wind-resistant WindWall fabric, it’s like a fortress against icy gusts. The internal drawcord traps heat and keeps your jacket from flapping like a rogue sail in a storm. The adjustable hood is your ultimate shield, and the longer length means even more coverage. At under $500, this jacket is a full-blown winter survival kit, with all the bells, whistles, and cozy feels you’d need for a polar vortex. Whether you’re throwing it on over a suit for a frosty morning commute or going full après-ski chic, the HMLYN Down Parka has you covered.Best Budget Puffer Jacket: Uniqlo Ultra Light Down ParkaUniqloUltra Light Down Parka$70 UniqloPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsThe ideal stock-worthy option for the price and value750 fill power is exceptional at this price pointConsAlthough it is super affordable, you may run the risk of the down unraveling
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
At a certain point, the best men's puffer jackets don't have much competition. I love a handsome topcoat and a rebel-inspired leather jacket as much as the next person. But when the temperature drops below freezing, let’s face it—you need a heavy-duty puffer coat. Sure, it hogs closet space, but it does its one job flawlessly: keeping you warm.
As for the category leaders, while your favorite celebrities might still bundle up in The North Face’s trusty Nuptse, there’s a world of puffer jackets out there that go beyond the standard fare. Think fun, funky patterns and statement-making designs that turn your winter workhorse into the cherry on top of a cold-weather outfit sundae. From ultra-performance powerhouses to modern heritage labels vying for the puffer throne, we’ve rounded up the best of the best.
The Best Puffer Jackets for Men, According to GQ
- The Best Puffer Jacket Overall: Arc'teryx Thorium Hoody Jacket, $500
- The Best Longer Puffer Jacket: The North Face Himalayan Down Parka, $380
- The Best Budget Puffer Jacket: Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Parka, $90
- The Best Upgrade Puffer Jacket: Goldwin Pertex Quantum Down Jacket, $690
- The Best Puffer Jacket for Nostalgists: Crescent Down Works Classico Down Parka, $754
- The Best Puffer Jacket for Fashion Guys: Entire Studios MML Puffer Down Jacket, $800
Best Puffer Jacket Overall: Arc’teryx Thorium Hoody Jacket
Remember when dudes were flexing by showering in their Arc’teryx jackets? Sure, it was weird, but it was also testament to the brand’s undeniable mastery of bad-weather projection. And the Vancouver-based brand has perfected more than just rain-beading—take their Thorium jacket, for example. It’s lightweight enough to make you forget you’re wearing it, but don’t let that fool you—it packs a 750-fill-power certified grey goose down wallop.
Fancy? Yes. Toasty? Also yes. Its Arato 30 nylon fabric isn’t just lightweight and packable; it’s also rugged enough to shrug off any abrasions. And the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish? It brushes off light moisture with ease. For those extra chaotic weather days, there’s a StormHood with an adjustable tightener to keep your noggin cozy and dry. Sure, it’s an investment, but Arc’teryx stays looking new years down the line—and can you really put a price on surviving winter in comfort and style?
Best Longer Puffer Jacket: The North Face Himalayan Down Parka
Yes, the iconic Nuptse jacket proudly hangs in the outerwear Hall of Fame, but you’re likely here because you’ve already considered that one, and decided to seek beyond that particular puffy masterpiece. Still, for a great value alternative puffer the North Face is still where I’m going to point you. Here’s the HMLYN Down Parka—a jacket inspired by Everest expeditions, but reimagined for city streets as well as mountain slopes.
Designed with a relaxed fit to accommodate all your winter layers—whether it’s a chunky sweater or a secret stash of snacks—this parka is a winter no-brainer. Crafted from The North Face’s patented, highly wind-resistant WindWall fabric, it’s like a fortress against icy gusts. The internal drawcord traps heat and keeps your jacket from flapping like a rogue sail in a storm. The adjustable hood is your ultimate shield, and the longer length means even more coverage. At under $500, this jacket is a full-blown winter survival kit, with all the bells, whistles, and cozy feels you’d need for a polar vortex. Whether you’re throwing it on over a suit for a frosty morning commute or going full après-ski chic, the HMLYN Down Parka has you covered.
Best Budget Puffer Jacket: Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Parka
Best underwear—check. Most reliable socks—check. Stock-worthy beanies—also check. It's no secret that you can easily outfit yourself from head to toe in the ‘Qlos frugal-guy-friendly staples—or just sprinkle in a few pieces for that ultimate high-low mix.
This jacket delivers on that promise once again. Minimal, water-repellent, and oh-so-practical, it’s got wide quilting at the shoulders and waist for comfort, plus a nylon ripstop that—yes, you guessed it—helps prevent rips and tears over time. And here’s the kicker: it’s under $100, yet boasts a fill power of 750—the kind of insulation that would normally set you back three times the price. There’s no better feeling than strutting around in a premium winter-ready jacket like this, smug (and snug) in the knowledge that you can still afford your car payment and your oat milk lattes.
Best Upgrade Puffer Jacket: Goldwin Pertex Quantum Down Jacket
Goldwin was founded in 1950 in Oyabe City, Toyama Prefecture, Japan, but it was in the 1960s that the brand decided to go downhill—in the best way possible—by pivoting to high-quality sportswear, starting with ski apparel. This marked the beginning of Goldwin’s long love affair with skiing. Over the years, they’ve become Japan’s outdoor juggernaut, with a portfolio that includes Helly Hansen, Woolrich, and The North Face Purple Label.
All things considered, you’d expect their puffer to be exceptional. And it is. A high-performance piece of outerwear that’s equal parts functional and fashionable, it’s made with Pertex Quantum fabric, which delivers an ultra-lightweight feel, windproof performance, and impressive durability, all while admittedly sounding a bit like the title of a James Bond flick. Deceptively lightweight, the parka’s down baffle structure traps warmth where you need it most, while the front curve—a signature “Spur Line”—adds a touch of design swagger.
Best Puffer Jacket for Nostalgists: Crescent Down Works Classico Down Parka
Crescent Down Works make puffers that look as good as vintage Eddie Bauer jackets, but perform as well as any puffer in production today. In fact, founder Anne Michelson started her career at Eddie Bauer in 1969, setting up their first-ever down-testing laboratory. Then, in 1974, she launched Crescent Down Works in Seattle, Washington.
Since then, they’ve been designing made-in-the-USA, inclement-weather-tested outerwear that’s tougher than your uncle’s fishing stories. Take their classic down parka, for instance: it’s packed with a solid 14 ounces of 700+ fill power down and wrapped in a cotton-nylon blend outer shell to keep you dry. And forget the zippers—this baby opts for button snaps, a detachable hood, handwarmer pockets, and a vintage-style tag that’s destined to have eBay buyers frothing at the mouth in 20-30 years. Think of it as wearable nostalgia with a side of future investment potential.
Best Puffer Jacket for Fashion Guys: Entire Studios MML Puffer Jacket
Entire Studios
MML Hooded Puffer Down Jacket
- A brand with a proven track record with out-of-the-box outerwear
- Ribbed cuffs at the wrist
- Unexpected, more natural texture
- The price could be hard to commit to
- Bold silhouette and oversized design may be harder to style for those used to classic puffers
New Zealand designers Sebastian Hunt and Dylan Richards, the brains behind Entire Studios, already make some of the best bomber jackets in the game. Now? They're setting their sights on dominating the puffer jacket scene too. While some brands are busy stuffing their puffers with recyclable fills, performance-overkill fabrics, and loud patterns, Entire Studios is playing it cool—focusing on reimagining the silhouette. And they know what the hell they're doing.
Their take on the puffer is made of heavyweight twill—imagine your favorite beat-up Carhartt Detroit jacket hitting the gym, bulking up, and coming back larger, heavier, and ready to flex. The brand's signature dropped shoulders are front and center, paired with ribbed knit cuffs to keep the fit snug and the cold out. Whether you’re channeling your inner rap legend or QB1 vibes on game day, this jacket walks the line between streetwise swagger and sideline MVP. Duality never looked this good.
More Puffer Jackets We Love
Buck Mason
Down Expedition Jacket
No matter how much Buck Mason evolves, their Expedition Jacket will always stay in the rotation—because it’s that damn good. Warm? Check. Water-resistant? Double check. And the gorgeous coyote color? It practically goes with everything, from rugged trails to coffee runs.
Frizmworks
Karakoram Quilted Cotton-Blend Hooded Down Jacket
FrizmWORKS has been leading the made-in-Korea wave since 2010, and lucky for us, they’ve recently made their way stateside.This particular piece takes its cues from 1960s mountaineering, made with quilted, weather-resistant fabric that scoffs at winter's bite. Oh, and those oversized flap pockets? They're just right for tucking away all your cold-weather accessories.
Big Rock Candy Mountaineering
Arctic Parka
Peter Middleton, the owner of Wythe, and Samuel Hardeman teamed up to create Big Rock Candy Mountaineering less than a year ago, and they're already making waves. Each jacket is packed with cozy duck down fill, but let’s be honest—the real showstopper is that Blue Raspberry color and the wind-blocking drawstrings scattered throughout.
C.P. Company
Quilted Chrome-R Hooded Down Jacket
C.P. Company first unveiled their game-changing Chrome-R fabric a few decades ago, and guess what? It’s still strutting its stuff in their lineup today—just check out this jacket. It's lightweight, wind- and rain-resistant, and quilted to keep your core toasty.
And Wander
Diamond Stitch Down Jacket
Founders Keita Ikeuchi and Mihoko Mori of And Wander have built the label’s lore by incorporating innovative materials and obsessive-level construction techniques. Their Pertex nylon ripstop jacket is lightweight, down-filled, and—wait for it—packable. It’s the outerwear trifecta, folks!
Taion
Military Down Insulated Pullover Hoodie Jacket
TAION, which translates to “body temperature” in Japanese, makes its focus exactly that—keeping you at the perfect temperature. Think of it like your favorite go-to hoodie, but with some supercharged down insulation and zippered side slits for maximum mobility. It’s warm without the bulk—no more looking like a marshmallow here.
What the Heck Is Down Fill, Anyway?
Once you've sussed out the vibe of a puffer jacket, you may have clicked into its product details only to find way too many numbers than you were prepared for. 500-fill? 650-fill equivalent? These refer to something called Down Fill Power, a numerical rating that denotes the quality of down insulation.
Essentially, the higher the number, the better the insulation. High-fill powers tend to be 700 and above. But just because you have a 900-fill power jacket doesn't necessarily mean it will be the warmest—the amount of down insulation a jacket contains also matters. While a lightweight jacket might contain 900-fill down insulation, a 600-fill jacket with twice the amount of down would actually be warmer.
But not all down is created with actual down feathers. Down alternatives, like recycled polyester and natural kapok, have become increasingly popular among more earth-conscious and animal-welfare conscious consumers. While friendlier options are welcomed, it also makes the rating system more confusing.
Because there are so many different materials used as down alternatives, each one has different insulating properties which don't often translate directly to a down fill power rating. Some brands will label their jackets with a ‘down fill equivalent’ to approximate the level of warmth to the more conventional system. (You can think of this like comparing wattages between LED bulbs and incandescent bulbs.)
Sometimes, you'll also get a temperature rating that will tell you how cold the jacket is rated for. That can be helpful in some ways, but you should know that these ratings are based on lab-controlled environments. In the real world, other factors come in to play, like level of physical activity and whether you run hot or cold.
What to Look for in a Great Puffer Jacket
What makes a puffer jacket the reigning champ of winter wear? It’s basically like walking around in a portable cloud of cozy warmth. Thanks to clever insulation—whether it’s down, synthetic fill, or a mix—they trap heat while staying delightfully lightweight. The outer shell? Usually a sleek, slightly slick number made of nylon or polyester, to deflect wind and bounce the raindrops right off.
But first, a very quick word about puffer pricing. It really runs the gamut—from “I got this for under $100” to “This cost me more than a month’s rent.” But here’s the secret sauce: D-F-P. That stands for down fill power, a metric that measures how well the down traps heat. It typically ranges from 400 (entry-level warmth) to 900+ (full-on human sleeping bag). The higher the number, the toastier you’ll feel, and the more you can feel comfortable paying.
Other Details to Keep an Eye On
DWR Coating: A DWR coating, or Durable Water Repellent coating, helps to keep clothing water-resistant. In the throes of winter, you could encounter rain and snow, which could instantly negate any warming properties your jacket may have had.
Waterproof Seams: Even with the best DWR coating, seams and zippers provide opportunities for water to enter. So jackets with heat-sealed seams and waterproof zippers improve a puffer's weatherproofness considerably.
Congratulations, you've just been inundated with big brain-level knowledge on the best men's puffer jackets. Whether you choose to use that information is up to you, but you can't go wrong with any of the below.
How We Test and Review Products
Style is subjective, we know—that’s the fun of it. But we’re serious about helping our audience get dressed. Whether it’s the best white sneakers, the flyest affordable suits, or the need-to-know menswear drops of the week, GQ Recommends’ perspective is built on years of hands-on experience, an insider awareness of what’s in and what’s next, and a mission to find the best version of everything out there, at every price point.
Our staffers aren’t able to try on every single piece of clothing you read about on GQ.com (fashion moves fast these days), but we have an intimate knowledge of each brand’s strengths and know the hallmarks of quality clothing—from materials and sourcing, to craftsmanship, to sustainability efforts that aren’t just greenwashing. GQ Recommends heavily emphasizes our own editorial experience with those brands, how they make their clothes, and how those clothes have been reviewed by customers. Bottom line: GQ wouldn’t tell you to wear it if we wouldn’t.
How We Make These Picks
We make every effort to cast as wide of a net as possible, with an eye on identifying the best options across three key categories: quality, fit, and price.
To kick off the process, we enlist the GQ Recommends braintrust to vote on our contenders. Some of the folks involved have worked in retail, slinging clothes to the masses; others have toiled for small-batch menswear labels; all spend way too much time thinking about what hangs in their closets.
We lean on that collective experience to guide our search, culling a mix of household names, indie favorites, and the artisanal imprints on the bleeding-edge of the genre. Then we narrow down the assortment to the picks that scored the highest across quality, fit, and price.
Across the majority of our buying guides, our team boasts firsthand experience with the bulk of our selects, but a handful are totally new to us. So after several months of intense debate, we tally the votes, collate the anecdotal evidence, and emerge with a list of what we believe to be the absolute best of the category right now, from the tried-and-true stalwarts to the modern disruptors, the affordable beaters to the wildly expensive (but wildly worth-it) designer riffs.
Whatever your preferences, whatever your style, there's bound to be a superlative version on this list for you. (Read more about GQ's testing process here.)
