No matter where you live in the world and how many seasons you actually experience (Californians, this one’s for you), a puffer jacket is a staple in most women’s wardrobes. Whether this is your trusty winter coat that keeps you warm down to your ankles, or the lightweight, highly packable jacket you can throw on in fall or spring weather, you’ll likely have or want more of these at your disposal. Since puffers are ubiquitous these days and come in various lengths and materials, I assembled a group test of the best women’s puffer jackets suitable for all outdoor pursuits. Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, ice skating during the holidays, hiking or camping with your loved ones – you can get your hands on a puffer jacket for any occasion.

I included my top picks in this buyer’s guide. I’ve personally tested and worn a selection of them during the late fall and winter months in the Big Apple. After seeing how they hold up in the rain, snow, cold and windy conditions, I’ll give you my honest opinions to help you decide if any are a good fit for your needs. 

Because no good review leaves readers hanging by omitting sizing and measurements, I’m 5’3″ and around 114 pounds for reference. If it’s relevant, I’ll also state whether a jacket runs small or large (since “true to size” isn’t always a given), and mention which size I decided on. Take a look at my top choices below to see if any of these puffers are just what you’re looking for.

Cover image by Melanie Pellis

The Best Puffer Jackets for Women

	Aritzia Super World 'The Super Puff'	Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Puffer	The North Face Women's Nuptse Short Jacket
Material:	Content – 100% nylon; Cuffs – 81% nylon, 19% elastane; Fill – 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers	Shell, lining and fill – 100% polyester	100% recycled nylon, goose down fill
Colors:	34 for Mid-length (pictured), larger variety for Original, Shorty and Long	21	TNF Black, Harbor Blue, Lavender Fog, Dark Oak
Sizes:	3XS-2XL	XS-6XL	XS-XXL
Care:	Machine washable. Recommended to place in the dryer with felted wool dryer balls (or tennis balls) to restore puffiness	Machine washable	Machine washable
	Aritzia	amazon.com	Backcountry

The Best Puffer Jackets for Women at a Glance: 

1. Aritzia Super World ‘The Super Puff’
2. Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Puffer
3. The North Face Women’s Nuptse Short Jacket
4. Patagonia Women’s Micro Puff Hoody
5. Patagonia Women’s Off Slope Waterproof Jacket

Best Puffer Jackets for Women Hands-On Reviews

1. Editor’s Choice: Aritzia Super World ‘The Super Puff’

Specs:

If there’s one women’s puffer jacket that you need for your outdoor winter activities, it’s the Aritzia Super Puff. This is by far the most customizable puffer out there – sizes range from 3XS to 2XL, you can choose different lengths depending on your height, and also different materials to suit any outdoor adventure. I opted for the Mid-length in versatile Chocolate Mousse (and yes, it looks and feels as smooth and delightful as it sounds) in a size XS, which fits more like a Small. I read tons of reviews online that said the Super Puff tends to run large, so I was elated when the XS fit me like a glove (but with lots of room for layering). 

The most impressive thing about the Super Puff is how warm it actually keeps you in the winter. A temperature rating of -22ºF is pretty unheard of for a puffer jacket, and the goose-down insulation is to thank for this. I’ve worn this down jacket while commuting in all kinds of snowy weather (in both Canada and the U.S.), and it feels like you’re wrapped in a duvet when venturing out into a blizzard. There’s also a drawstring with a clasp at the bottom, which you can tighten for that extra level of warmth. It goes without saying that this is a heavy-duty down puffer, so keep in mind that it’s not suitable for mild fall weather (as you’ll definitely work up a sweat!). The Super Puff is water-repellant and wind-resistant, comes with a removable hood, and is made with high-quality materials. 

Older versions of the Super Puff were known to shed over time, with goose feathers often coming out at the seams. Thankfully, in my experience, the new and improved version doesn’t have this issue, which speaks to the impressive quality of the goose-down fill and durable nylon shell. The cuffs also have small openings for your thumbs to double as fingerless gloves for extra warmth. While it’s a little bulky to tie around your waist if you get too warm, this is to be expected from a winter jacket that will keep you toasty in -22ºF weather.

Lastly, we all know how important great customer service is when it comes to making a purchase (particularly an expensive one!). I’ve shopped at Aritzia for many years and have always had exceptional customer service experiences, particularly with their online live chat feature. Aritzia’s live agents are so helpful, friendly and truly go above and beyond to assist you. Brands that offer exceptional customer service are always at the top of my list, and that’s why the Super Puff is my Editor’s Choice.

Pros:

• Huge color variety including a ton of neutrals
• Delivers warmth to -30ºC or -22ºF, fill power rating of 700+
• Water-repellant and wind-resistant
• Removable hood
• Different length options are available in the Long Super Puff to suit petite and tall women

Cons:

• Quite bulky, not so easy to remove and tie around the waist when needed

Buy if: You want to invest in a single down coat to use across a range of temperatures and conditions.

Aritzia

2. Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Puffer

Specs:

This roundup wouldn’t be complete without a budget option, and you can find one of the best lightweight puffers on Amazon for a fraction of the price compared to big brand names. The Amazon Essentials Women’s Water-Resistant Puffer comes in 21 colors and goes all the way up to 6XL – which is basically unheard of for most manufacturers. It’s well suited to plus-size women because of this, and we love brands that are inclusive of women of all shapes and sizes. Much like the Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody, this jacket is great for traveling as it’s super lightweight and compact enough to stash in your carry-on luggage. It’s also a little longer than other puffers out there, so you’ll be nice and cozy just below the waist.

Because this puffer is exceptionally lightweight, I’d recommend wearing a few layers underneath if you’re planning to venture out during the winter. Alternatively, you could throw on a heated vest to give you a little extra warmth. If you choose to layer up under this jacket or add a vest on top, consider sizing up so you have enough room and don’t feel restricted by the extra layers. It’s important to mention that this jacket definitely isn’t the warmest option on the market. But sometimes all you need is a little warmth without overheating. If this sounds like it fits your needs, this Amazon Essentials puffer is a great budget option.  

Pros:

• • Most affordable puffer on our list

• Huge color and size variety, inclusive of plus size women (sizes go up to 6XL)
• Lightweight and easy to compress when you travel

Cons:

• Not the warmest puffer jacket available (fill is 100% polyester, rather than goose or duck down)

Buy if: You’re on a budget and are looking for a lightweight, waterproof jacket that won’t make you overheat.

amazon.com

3. Best Cropped Puffer Jacket: The North Face Women’s Nuptse Short Jacket

Specs:

Unless you live under a rock, you’ve likely seen The North Face Nuptse Short Jacket all over social media for the past couple of years. The Nuptse is one of the most popular puffer jackets (and made by an even more popular brand), so naturally, it had to be included on our list. You may have heard of the Retro Nuptse puffer, which is the original standard length, but I opted for the cropped version as the more minimalist, less mainstream option. It’s one of the more versatile jackets you can find for the wintertime, and I couldn’t look past the beautiful chocolate Dark Oak color. With its super warm 700-fill goose-down interior, I can confirm that this puffer will keep you warm even when it’s snowing out. It comes with two hand pockets on each side that can be zipped shut, so you can stash your go-to pair of mittens in there for when you’re ready to brave the cold. Another huge bonus is that the Nuptse cropped puffer can be purchased from several different retailers. We’ve included links to a few of these so you can pick your preferred color – wherever you choose to shop.

Sizes range from XS to XXL – an impressive selection that’s inclusive of petite and larger body types alike. I was initially a little concerned that the cropped length would be far too short that it would barely reach my waist, but the Small size fit me perfectly and wasn’t as cropped as I expected. I’d still say that this puffer is an acquired taste, as many shoppers may prefer a regular length or long puffer to keep the legs warm. It’s also reasonably pricey compared to other cropped puffers you might find elsewhere, particularly from retailers like Amazon. But The North Face is a well-known brand for a reason, and you can feel confident that you’re paying for high-quality materials that will really keep you warm. 

One of the biggest drawbacks of this puffer coat is that it doesn’t have a hood, which may be a dealbreaker for many shoppers. However, I often wear this jacket with a thick hoodie underneath, so I always have the hood option if it starts to drizzle or snow. Overall, the Nuptse Short Jacket is a great go-to cropped puffer to diversify your outerwear. If you already have a heavier down parka and are after something less bulky, it’s perfect for traveling and will ensure you’re warm enough for any outdoor activity.

Pros:

• Good size variety, ranging from XS-XXL
• Secure-zip hand pockets
• 700 fill goose down for extra warmth, yet still easy to compress for travel

Cons:

• Extreme cropped length won’t suit everyone; I’d recommend this puffer for petite women
• Expensive for a short puffer jacket
• No hood

Buy if: A cropped, water-repellent puffer jacket with warm goose-down fill is what you’re after.

Backcountry

4. Best Lightweight Puffer Jacket: Patagonia Women’s Micro Puff Hoody

Specs:

This lightweight puffer from Patagonia is ideal for hiking and travel, and it’s compact enough to throw in your backpack when you get too hot and don’t want to carry it. The Micro Puff Hoody is made from 100% recycled materials, incorporating a nylon shell and polyester fill. Though it’s one of the more lightweight jackets out there, this jacket will still keep you cozy in mild winter or fall conditions. For deep winter conditions, the Patagonia Women’s Micro Puff Hoody can function as an insulated midlayer.

As I mentioned earlier, I’m about 5’3″, and this puffer falls just below the waist on me. It’s always handy to look at the model’s height specifications (they’re both 5’9″ on the Patagonia website) before deciding on your size, so I factored this into my decision. The sporty blue and green color combination (Anacapa Blue) was by far my favorite of the bunch, and this puffer will be a go-to for me before the harsh winter creeps in.

Because it’s not super puffy (e.g., like ‘The Super Puff’, our Editor’s Choice), washing and drying this jacket isn’t challenging if you get it dirty. Other than spot cleaning stains as necessary, you can toss it in the washing machine and it won’t become flat when it dries. I’d still avoid machine drying it just in case (as I do with most delicate and/or expensive pieces of clothing I own!), but overall this puffer is one of the easiest to keep clean. I also opted for a Small, and it fits true to size, but still with room for layering underneath. This is undoubtedly one of the lightest, most packable jackets for traveling and outdoor adventures.

Pros:

• Super lightweight, packs into a compact travel bag
• Most ideal for light rain
• Good variety of sizes available
• Fits true to size

Cons:

• Not suitable for winter conditions

Buy if: You’re in the market for a lightweight puffer that you can easily pack into a compact travel pouch.

Backcountry

5. Best Waterproof Puffer Jacket: Patagonia Women’s Off Slope Waterproof Jacket

Specs:

If you feel like puffer jackets in general make you look like a Michelin woman, have I got something for you! Not all puffers have a “puffy” exterior – some can be the opposite and have this look and feel on the interior instead. The Off Slope Waterproof Jacket from Patagonia is a perfect example of this, and we’ve dubbed it the Best Waterproof option on our list. When it’s raining heavily outside, I know exactly which winter coat I’m reaching for. The 100% recycled nylon shell and recycled polyester fill has kept me warm during rainy and snowy conditions, which can’t always be said about many puffers or winter jackets out there.

It’s also not as bulky as other jackets you’ll find, and this is an important one for me. Having a warm jacket shouldn’t always mean that it’s the heaviest article of clothing you own. Odds are that you’ll want to take your jacket with you while traveling, whether you’re on or off the slopes (see what I did there?) or when you just want to be covered up on a rainy day. The Off Slope Waterproof Jacket is perfect for all of the above as it’s thick and cozy enough to be the perfect winter weather companion.

With all of its pros, there are some obvious cons that I have to mention. Patagonia only offers four colors to choose from, which is far fewer than every one of our picks above. Sure, they include your classic neutral colors (Black, Navy, etc.), but there’s just not enough variety for my liking. The size selection could also be broader and more inclusive of smaller and larger body types alike. 

There’s also no specification on Patagonia’s website about the laundering instructions. I always want these details before purchasing an expensive product like a winter jacket, so if I have to dig around for these specs, it’s a little frustrating. Other than these minor cons, the Off Slope jacket from Patagonia is one of the best around for a less traditional puffer, so check it out if you’re in the market for a new waterproof jacket.

Pros:

• Ideal for rainy winter conditions
• Thick and cozy without being too bulky or uncomfortable 
• Perfect length to keep you warm

Cons:

• Very few colors to choose from, particularly compared with others on our list

Buy if: You’ll be venturing outdoors in wet, rainy conditions and a jacket that’s waterproof is your top priority.

Patagonia

Best Puffer Jackets for Women Comparison Table

Puffer Jackets		Material	Colors	Sizes	Care
Aritzia Super World 'The Super Puff'		Content – 100% nylon; Cuffs – 81% nylon, 19% elastane; Fill – 90% goose down, 10% goose feathers	34 for Mid-length (pictured), larger variety for Original, Shorty and Long	3XS-2XL	Machine washable. Recommended to place in the dryer with felted wool dryer balls (or tennis balls) to restore puffiness
Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Puffer		Shell, lining and fill – 100% polyester	21	XS-6XL	Machine washable
The North Face Women's Nuptse Short Jacket		100% recycled nylon, goose down fill	TNF Black, Harbor Blue, Lavender Fog, Dark Oak	XS-XXL	Machine washable
Patagonia Women’s Micro Puff Hoody		100% recycled nylon shell, 100% recycled polyester fill	Anacapa Blue, Black, Hemlock Green, Wax Red	2XS-2XL	Machine washable
Patagonia Women’s Off Slope Waterproof Jacket		100% recycled nylon shell, 100% recycled polyester lining and fill	Black, New Navy, Oar Tan, Sequoia Red	XS-XL	Not specified

What We Learned While Testing

One of my key takeaways from reviewing some of these puffer coats hands-on was the importance of fill power and temperature ratings. You can’t expect all outerwear to have the same level of warmth, particularly if they’re made up of different fabrics. I learned that a down puffer is by far the warmest of them all, whether it’s made of goose or duck down fill.

Depending on which types of weather, seasons or outdoor activities you’d like a puffer jacket for, I learned that packability was key. Being able to take off my puffer and tie it around my waist without it slipping, or pack it in the bins at airport security – this needed to be smooth sailing for me. The North Face Nuptse Short Jacket was my travel companion for a recent trip. She kept me warm and played nice when I had to stash her in my carry-on. None of the fill was peeking out at the seams either (which can happen with poor quality jackets), so I can confirm it stands up to all kinds of wear and tear.

What to Look For When Buying a Women’s Puffer Jacket

Material & Warmth

This may be a no-brainer that outerwear should keep you warm, but there’s more to consider regarding the level of warmth, such as a jacket’s temperature rating. This is one of the most useful details that manufacturers often provide, as it’s important to know during what temperatures a jacket will keep you warm (whether that’s in Fahrenheit or Celsius). 

You can usually find this rating in the specifications breakdown on the product page. If a puffer jacket is said to be suitable for -30ºC or -22ºF weather, it’ll be ideal for chilly winter days and particularly when it’s snowing. In general, materials like down (e.g., made with duck or goose feathers) should keep you toasty – even if you don’t layer up excessively underneath. My ideal puffer coat will feel like I’m wrapped in a quilted duvet – like I never left the comfort of my bed. Of course, you may not need this level of warmth if your goal is to find a lightweight puffer for the fall, in which case, consider whether the materials used are breathable and promote airflow. 

Weather Protection: Is it Waterproof/Windproof? 

In addition to a jacket’s temperature rating and breathability, you may also want to consider how waterproof and windproof it will be. There’s absolutely no point in buying a jacket if it doesn’t protect you when a strong gust of wind comes along. If you can feel the cold the same as you would when wearing a t-shirt, this is obviously useless as a puffer jacket. The same goes for protection from the rain, which will clearly be important if you live in a notoriously rainy city. Hooded puffers may be your best bet, as well as jackets that have a windbreaker-style outer shell that’s made to repel water and always keep you dry. 

Is it Packable?

Another key factor that may be important if you travel frequently is whether a puffer jacket is packable. Can it be folded up easily and stored in a carry pouch? Can you tuck it into your carry-on luggage or duffel bag, without it taking up much space? If these things are essential to you, the Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody will be an excellent choice for women – and it definitely ticks each of these boxes. This puffer jacket scrunches up to about the size of a softball and is the perfect packable, lightweight jacket. Heavier winter puffers that are warm yet a little bulky won’t usually be ideal for travel (unless you have plenty of room in your suitcase to lay it flat, as is).

FAQs

What is the warmest puffer jacket?

The warmest puffer jackets are typically made from duck down or goose down, and they’ll have a fill power rating of 500-900 on average. You should also look for puffers that specify a temperature rating, e.g. suitable for -30ºC or -22ºF weather. This will help you determine what kinds of activities the puffer you’re looking at may be best for.

What is down fill power?

Fill power is a rating that essentially tells you the quality of the down used, which is particularly found in outerwear. It’s a measurement of how much loft (in cubic inches) one ounce of the down produces. You may have heard the term “loft” being used when describing pillows, which essentially describes how fluffy it is. The higher the fill power rating, the better quality the down will be and the greater warmth you’ll get from your puffer jacket. The best down jackets will have a rating that’s upwards of 700.

Should a puffer jacket be tight or loose?

You’ll want a puffer jacket that’s not too tight (as this leaves little room for breathability) and not too loose that it lets ample cold air in. I’d recommend staying true to your size or opting for a size up if you usually layer up underneath, so you have room for a hoodie to keep you extra warm.  

What is the best material for a puffer jacket?

Goose or duck down are the best materials for warm winter clothing. Their feathers still maintain breathability, so you don’t overheat when transitioning from cold weather to indoors. Alternatively, if you’re searching for a lightweight puffer that’s more suitable for cooler weather, an ultralight nylon shell with a polyester fill may be a better choice.

Why do some puffer jackets go flat?

Keeping a puffer jacket compressed in storage for extended periods of time can make it lose its loft (and potentially wear down the filling inside). It’s best to hang up your puffer jacket, so it has room to breathe. But if yours becomes flat and is machine washable/dryer safe, place it in the dryer with wool dryer balls (or a few tennis balls) which can restore the puffer to its original state.

How do you make a puffer jacket puffy again?

Placing your puffer jacket in the dryer with dryer balls or tennis balls can break down clumps of down that may have bunched together, which has made it flat or less puffy. While the balls bounce on your jacket in the drum, this can also remove excess moisture and get your puffer jacket looking puffy again.