Seeking recommendations on solid men's winter jackets

Submitted by kingofallnorway t3_yf4fgm in BuyItForLife

The only jackets I've had were no names from department stores and one good Columbia, it was a shell fleece type with nice insulation but doesn't fit me.

Ideally, I'd like something that will keep me toasty in temperatures down to 0F, especially if I need to go out and shovel or walk and be outside for long stretches. Possibly something that will also be somewhat comfortable inside like going into a store.

A hood would be nice, maybe even detachable, and probably a shell/fleece type or layered. Budget can be flexible for this since it's important. I like Columbia

37

Comments

You must log in or register to comment.

shannon_g t1_iu1rfxs wrote

BIFL = Patagonia. Pricey yes but have the right jacket for any climate and their warranty cannot be beaten.

Also had very good luck with LL Bean and North Face.

56

smashey t1_iu1zt0g wrote

Patagonia for sure. Patagonia makes a lot of down jackets with a shiny surface which I suspect are not super durable and some with a more canvas like texture. I have one of them and it is amazing in cold weather.

Lifetime warranty, relatively ethical business practices.

I think I spent around 300 but for the quality that's a very good deal.

13

kingofallnorway OP t1_iu1y2o0 wrote

What is their warranty like? Do you have specific suggestions? They have so many different types

5

smashey t1_iu1zyob wrote

Patagonia will replace or repair anything they make. Lifetime warranty.

12

shannon_g t1_iu20i8g wrote

https://help.patagonia.com/s/article/Ironclad-Guarantee?_gl=1h4ii4o_gaODI4NTIyNTYzLjE2NjY5MTMyNzE._ga_1SYPSJZYJ5*MTY2NjkxMzI3MS4xLjEuMTY2NjkxMzI5MC4wLjAuMA..

That’s their guarantee. When i moved to Maryland i started with a down sweater which is great. It can be worn under a torrentshell rain jacket as well which is nice if it’s freezing rain etc. i also have a synthetic insulated jacket which is better for hiking and an insulated rain jacket for long periods in freezing rain/active snow. Best recommendation is figure out what you want to do most and then try a couple on at rei or somewhere if you can. Their staff are pretty knowledgeable. No one jacket can do everything amazing that’s why there are so many types. A good collection can be built over time and last a really long time

4

slapwerks t1_iu224mq wrote

I’ve had my down sweater for about 6 years. Last year it got a tear in it and a zipper pull got chewed by my dog. Patagonia fixed it up no questions asked.

6

2amIMAwake t1_iu2vqzy wrote

my dog chewed the pocket of one of my coats, i was wondering if pantagonia would have replaced that. thanks for your post, i may replace it with pantagonia now- it was an expensive coat and not warrantied at all.

1

slapwerks t1_iu44mwq wrote

I’ll add that I have a Patagonia store near me so I took it in directly. They offered to send it off to the manufacturer to replace the whole panel, or take it to a local tailor to fix the rip. I opted for the tailor.

When I got it back, I couldn’t tell it had ever been ripped and they had replaced the zipper pull which I hadn’t even asked them to do.

5

cankle_sores t1_iu5a56z wrote

Your dog tearing something up should never be on the manufacturer to fix. Abuse of lax policies hurts us all in the end.

−2

2amIMAwake t1_iu6bfsr wrote

the poster said his dog chewed the pull and they repaired it. i think they were aware that wasn’t a manufacturer defect. i was surprised that type of damage was covered and if that was true i would buy that brand next time. i don’t believe any attempt to deceive was made by myself or the other poster - maybe pantagonia doesn’t care, maybe they don’t sort out how the damage occurred ? not sure why i felt the need to explain.

3

cankle_sores t1_iu2veyy wrote

I like a good guarantee so I dislike when ppl abuse one.

EDIT: Your dog tearing it up shouldn’t be on Patagonia to fix.

−1

Easy-Progress8252 t1_iu2a5ur wrote

Great warranty. I have a DAS parka (overkill for all but the coldest days) and a micro puff hoodie which is perfect for me. I can wear a t shirt in that thing in 20 degrees. With a medium base layer you’ll be fine in 0 degrees. If it’s windy you’ll want to invest in a shell. Mine is Arc’teryx, there’s a whole subreddit for learning more about those.

3

ModernWagie t1_iu2t7je wrote

Agree with LL Bean, North Face & Patagonia. Patagonia will be the most expensive on this list.

3

domdiggitydog t1_iu3bv5e wrote

I have a TNF Thermoball and a Patagonia Down Sweater. Both seem similar in quality and warmth. The Thermoball has slimmer cut sleeves which feel bulky when I wear a hoodie underneath. The Thermoball also cost $125 less…

1

natooDidou t1_iu4fess wrote

> North Face.

Man, you're probably the first one who tells me some good about TNF...

2

shannon_g t1_iu4frd7 wrote

The Apex Bionic Softshell in particular has been amazing. I'm aware that they aren't as good across the board as they used to be (same goes for Columbia imho) but there are definitely still some premium level jackets to be found

2

SafetySmurf t1_iu4tw5k wrote

Yes, this. I get it that in their efforts toward mass appeal some things have been lost. But the Apex bionic (I have an old one and a new one) rocks for lots of not-super cold weather because it is easy to layer and still allows so much movement.

Also, I have a TNF Denali vest that has survived 26 years of hard wear and is still in great shape other than some pipe glue I got on the front of it.

2

rennyrenwick t1_iuajv17 wrote

While not what it once was, TNF gear is still generally quite high in quality. TNF Nuptse will last you a long time even with hard use, and is quite warm.

1

ALISadmin t1_iu1rzfv wrote

My dad bought me a Filson wool coat for my last Birthday before he passed suddenly this summer. It’s not the warmest coat, but incredibly well made and I’m never truly cold. Always sort of “just right”, even down to single digits. Best, last birthday gift he could’ve gotten me. It feels like a hug.

46

MooseCannon t1_iue8l8g wrote

Sorry to hear about your dad. Hope you’re doing ok.

2

fiddlifig t1_iu26oss wrote

Proper layering will be as important as the jacket itself. If you're doing something active (like shoveling), have a moisture-wicking base layer against your skin (e.g. merino wool or something synthetic) to make sure your sweat doesn't make you clammy. Then add your sweaters/puffy and finally your BIFL jacket.

31

JohnGarrettsMustache t1_iu2kjt8 wrote

This.

Get a waterproof shell, and insulator (fleece, down, synthetic down), and a base layer (Merino wool) so you can adjust for the weather.

You can wear what you need for the conditions, rather than just having a big insulated jacket.

I skied for years in the Backcountry. We'd have everything on for the morning chair ride. Ditch the shell as we started to ascend (unless it's snowing hard) and eventually end up in just our base layer. Get to the top, put everything back on after cooling off and start your descent down the mountain.

14

Girhinomofe t1_iu2odni wrote

Agreeing and echoing with the above comments.

I have a heavily insulated Mountain Hardwear winter jacket that is close to 20 years old, but looks like new as I’ll only use it to bicycle commute to work when the temperature is below 10°F— it is just too damn warm for any kind of exertion.

From a lifetime of camping and skiing, the answer absolutely exists in layering. Even on cold-ass winter days, I am super cozy wearing
moisture-wicking t-shirt
Merino wool base layer (Smartwool have been my go-to)
Arc’teryx lightweight hoodie
Either a Helly Hansen or Mountain Hardwear outer shell (non-insulated).

If I get too warm while shoveling, biking or skiing I can peel a layer before I start sweating, and add it back if the chill creeps in. A single super insulated coat doesn’t give you any flexibility to regulate your temperature.

Also, same goes for the bottoms; usually it’s underwear, wool long underwear, and outer pants— never an insulated pair of pants straight-up.

5

dronecarp t1_iu32va9 wrote

Layering is the answer. I have a LL Bean down coat with a hood that was good to -50F when I lived in Alaska. All well and good until you warm up after a trip to the mailbox. Layer! I use a Patagonia base layer, Marmot fleece jacket with hoodie and overlay those with a Northface gortex shell. Good to at least -20F if you keep moving. Patagonia is the best though. Unbeatable on any level.

2

Excellent_Condition t1_iucep1a wrote

I've never gone skiing, but I'm curious- what would you do with all of the clothes you are shedding on the top of the mountain? Do people ski with backpacks to hold extra clothes and whatnot?

1

JohnGarrettsMustache t1_iud6mox wrote

In the Backcountry, yes. Water, food, avalanche probe, shovel, etc. are all necessities. As well the gear a person uses to ascend. It's a lot of work but the views and the skiing make it worth it.

2

dashbreaux t1_iu1oytf wrote

arc’teryx is pricey but will last forever. my north face nuptse gets me through chicago winters and is exceptionally light. cant go wrong with carhartt though.

19

regaphysics t1_iu22ee0 wrote

Arc stuff isn’t really known for being all that durable…it’s designed to be light weight/compressible, not exceptionally durable. Cheaper heavier stuff will last longer if you don’t need the warmth/weight ratio.

4

nshields84 t1_iu2xh0i wrote

My beta ar is a tank. Varying layers under it allows for good versatility too.

1

Extremely_Simple t1_iu2yeo5 wrote

Yeah all the little acronyms mean something. AR all round, SL super light, FL flippin light. Those are the only ones I am familiar with. But the AR stuff is very well made.

1

regaphysics t1_iu4hwrv wrote

Well, sure. It’s a hard shell. Most all hard shells are very durable. Not that the beta isn’t nice; it is. But not exceptionally durable. They actually have delamination issues after a while, especially around the logo of the newer models.

1

duchessofdaftness t1_iu1ncba wrote

Can't go wrong with Carhartt.

16

Psnuggs t1_iu2kxxt wrote

Carhartt has fallen in quality. They used to be Union made in the U.S.A. Now they are made wherever. I have a U.S. made winter jacket that is 15 years old and still looks relatively unworn. My boss has the same style and color jacket, but it’s 6 years old and made in Mexico. His is fading and the stitching is coming apart on the cuffs and has a hole wearing in one of the elbows. We both work office jobs.

10

duchessofdaftness t1_iu2l7eg wrote

Oh man, it's been a while since I've bought any. What a shame.

5

Psnuggs t1_iu2lpv7 wrote

I completely agree. They were my favorite brand too until I started hearing from my construction friends that the coveralls started wearing out in 6 months. My boss’ jacket was the nail in the coffin for me. I hear Duluth Trading Company is the way to go now for that type of outer wear. I don’t have any experience with them personally but when I retire my Carhartt I’m making the switch.

1

JoshuaKammert t1_iu1sci7 wrote

Came here to say this. Love my Carhartt. Just got one of their hoodies too, already loving it.

1

jerkITwithRIGHTYnewb t1_iu1pavf wrote

Pea coat. Especially army surplus pea coats. I’ve had mine since I was in the navy 20 years ago.

13

Aurochbull t1_iu3whke wrote

This is it! While you're at it, get the U.S. Navy wool watch cap and you can handle anything!

3

Phranquelyhnne t1_iu1rcj8 wrote

Carhartt is indestructible, and warm as shit.

I worked out side in Minnesota for a couple winters, and I used a heavy Carhartt with a few layers underneath when I was doing rough type work, and used a Columbia Titanium with some layers underneath when I wasn’t working heavy.

Either will last forever

7

Psnuggs t1_iu2l0hq wrote

Carhartt has fallen in quality. They used to be Union made in the U.S.A. Now they are made wherever. I have a U.S. made winter jacket that is 15 years old and still looks relatively unworn. My boss has the same style and color jacket, but it’s 6 years old and made in Mexico. His is fading and the stitching is coming apart on the cuffs and has a hole wearing in one of the elbows. We both work office jobs.

7

smsutton t1_iu1wrrr wrote

Pea coat and watch cap. Doesn’t matter who makes it as long as it’s wool

5

Dingo6610 t1_iu257m9 wrote

Fjallraven Greenland No. 1 Down Jacket

5

KY_Counsel t1_iu7x3z9 wrote

I have one and it's great.. but, the limited lifetime warranty seems like it's hard to enforce. Requires you to produce as photo of the original receipt or purchase order, and is only honored if bought at specific stores.

2

Handball_fan t1_iu29gth wrote

My go to jacket is a ripstop deck jacket alpaca lined, can buy a second hand one like I did actually i bought two a khaki real McCoy for $300 and a dark blue brand new Eat dust for $200 , iv had both for over a decade and still look brand new however nether have a hood.

3

caskey t1_iu1ms1e wrote

North Face. No synthetic will last forever though. For that I rely on thermals and a good oilskin duster.

Edit: mine is by outback trading

Edit2: a quality hat. Non dress up Stetson

1

Metaprinter t1_iu25wg6 wrote

Ive had my northface parka since 2001, warm and bombproof. It looks like the current McMurdo parka but i believe it’s an earlier model, all the tags have become illegible

1

J_Suave t1_iu2hzod wrote

North face 500 fill puffer jacket. If you can, go with the variety that has a hood (could be the 700 fill but I'm guessing here). Its gotten me through 5 years of walking every day in the dead of frozen winter (far below 0).

Then, during the summer you can send it back to them where it will get re-fillled, patched or replaced depending on what you need. However after all this time all that mine needs is a bit of a restuff but even without it it's still incredibly warm. The lifetime warranty is incredible

1

Psnuggs t1_iu2kcjy wrote

Wintergreen outer wear. You could stand still in 0F for hours and be completely comfortable. I have friends that have gifted their coats to their children when they got big enough to wear them and they still look like new.

1

Robloblaw_ t1_iu2ylue wrote

Relwen! And Patagonia but that’s obvi

1

Obsidizyn t1_iu301h7 wrote

As others have said, layers is more important.

1

StationSignificant87 t1_iu32n1d wrote

The atom AR jacket by arcteryx. The warmest jacket you will ever own thats only as thick as a hoodie.

1

ferretkona t1_iu3ci6o wrote

I have several Columbia jackets but my go-to winter jacket is my Carhartt, it does have a snap in hood but it will last forever.

1

CriticuhL t1_iu3n5sx wrote

Im obsessed with my columbia omni heat products. I live in east coast canada, can get as cold as -40, through the winter. I have a voodoo falls turbodown one (will wear all szn from late september through april) and a Rugged Path one. Obsessed w these omni jackets, and have gloves, hats, and a neck warmer to match. Love them all

1

Appropriate-Ad-4148 t1_iu4ak3j wrote

I was in a bike wreck at 20 mph on asphalt with a NAU parka jacket after owning it for 5 years and it didn't tear.

It looks good with a suit or with a T-shirt too. Customer for life if possible.

1

undisputed_truth t1_iu4ribn wrote

Vodka liquid jacket, never frays or tears! On a real note, I love my mountain hardware gear, I have been wearing the same down jacket from them for about 8 years, it got one small tear in the back from banging my back against a rusty bolt sticking out of something, other then that it’s been rock solid.

1

Agreeable-Most-9556 t1_iu4zwi0 wrote

I can recommend you the Patagonia Jackson Glacier Parka. Love mine!

1

rippah777 t1_iu5ompp wrote

The best winter jacket I own is by far my Filson Down Cruiser. Rewaxable and repairable. I wear it ice fishing in the north east and have never been cold. Many zero degree mornings with negative windchill until noon. Plenty of storage. Not cheap, but I would Consider used if I where to do it again.

1

mp90 t1_iu5sa3u wrote

I’m in the midst of shopping for a new one now after a decade of service from my no-name jacket.

Patagonia seemed nice but the reviews weren’t great for the models I liked. I work in marketing so I can suss out review outliers, but enough of the reviews had consistent issues regardless of star rating.

I tried Nobis and Canada Goose. Both seem fantastic. Pricy, yes, but I live in a cold climate and if I keep it for a decade it’s a good value.

1

rileycolin t1_iu62hcu wrote

I got one of these a few years ago.

Not sure if it's BIFL, but it isn't showing any signs of wear, and I like it a lot.

1

Alarmed-Abies6985 t1_iu8qffm wrote

I have an Eddie Bauer that easily goes -20F. Carhartt & Berne are fantastic tough workwear coats, just get large enough to move in. I’ve had mine for 13+ years.

1

bad-monkey t1_iu9qwsx wrote

If it’s cold and dry, Wool and Down are the warmest. Down has the extra benefit of being lightweight, too. Wool would be tougher than puffer if you expect to do heavy duty work.

But if it’s wet, you’ll need some kind of synthetic fabric with insulation. Maybe a waterproof shell that layers well with base and mid layers.

1

SilverSaintLouis t1_iuip0e1 wrote

I dunno 0F in celcius but as a Canadian, the best winter coat is the Canada Goose Artic program parka. Worn by the Arctic and Antarctica scientists

1

Groundblast t1_iu1wj9q wrote

I’ve got a military surplus N-3B, best jacket I’ve ever seen. Literally never been cold wearing it, even well into subzero temps.

They are pretty ugly and much to warm to wear around indoors, but they are not expensive and they’ll keep you warm in a nuclear winter

0

kerry-w t1_iu262kn wrote

The kuhl ukon has been great!

0

cousinstrange t1_iu1n4js wrote

Alpha industries is $$$$$$ but it's incredibly high quality.

−4