Look for a "hard outer shell" but I love my winter coats. Living in the Midwest, we get ridiculous amounts of wind year round. I prefer a soft shell hoodie, fleece, and hard shell. Get those three pieces and you can mix and match to any warmth and protection level. Patagonia, REI, Arteryx, Columbia, and most winter brands are great.

I'm currently hanging on to Colombia gear lately, though. I've had the same hard shell and soft shell for over 10 years. My boots I bought used and are still like new after 8 years with me. My Columbia fleeces outlasted my North Face, but I love fleeces and usually buy a new one every 1-2 years..