![]() What we like: Clean styling, excellent weather resistance and coverage, and nice versatility. Most Versatile Parka for Everyday Wear 3. See the Men's REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid See the Women's REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid Despite the nitpicks, we think the Stormhenge Down Hybrid is a very strong offering from REI that provides a hard-to-beat combination of features, performance, and price. In addition, its warmth falls into an in-between spot: It’s insulated enough for temperatures into the low 20s Fahrenheit with only a light baselayer, but it can’t match a higher-end alternative like the Rab Neutrino Pro below. It has many similarities to a belay jacket or ski shell including the waterproofness and technical features, but the streamlined look and classy colorways could work just fine in the city too. In terms of categorizing the Stormhenge and who it’s best for, that’s a bit tougher. For just $279, the latest Stormhenge is a truly remarkable value. Importantly, REI has kept core components of the original, including the 2-layer waterproof construction with full seam taping and pit zips for dumping heat. The Stormhenge has since been refined, and the latest version tacks on synthetic insulation in areas most prone to moisture (like the cuffs and hood), a longer cut for more coverage, and additional storage (we especially like the interior zippered pocket). Here was a value-priced winter jacket that had true technical chops, including premium 850-fill-power down and a waterproof shell. ![]() REI’s Stormhenge 850 was a game changer when it hit the market a few years back. What we don’t: Not everyone will like the mix of technical and casual features. What we like: Premium warmth, strong waterproofing, and a nice feature set at a great price. REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid ($279)įill: 850-fill-power down 180g & 80g synthetic See the Men's The North Face McMurdo See the Women's The North Face Arcticīest Value in a Winter Jacket 2. On the women's side, the Arctic Parka doesn't share the name but has many similarities including full waterproofing, a cozy interior, and a removable faux fur lining on the hood. And the cherry on top: We really like the looks of the jacket (thankfully, the faux fur along the hood is removable, as that could have been a deal-breaker). But these shouldn’t be huge issues for around-town use, which is exactly why many people buy the McMurdo. In addition, you won’t get the same warmth for the weight or compressibility as some of the pricier jackets on the list that use thinner shells and 800-fill-power down or higher. What are the shortcomings of The North Face McMurdo Parka? It has a decidedly casual look and feel, meaning that it isn’t designed for the backcountry. Last but not least, the $400 McMurdo will set you back considerably less than many of the more expensive parka options below. And with a recent update, TNF incorporated a few key sustainability measures, including the use of recycled down and fabrics and a PFC-free DWR treatment. In addition, we appreciate the upper-thigh-length cut, which offers good coverage while still allowing for plenty of mobility. This parka covers all of the important bases: it’s warm, waterproof, blocks the wind, and is decently breathable for use in milder temperatures. You certainly can spend a lot more for a winter jacket, but we love the combination of quality and value offered by the McMurdo Parka from The North Face. What we don’t: Heavier and less packable than a more performance-oriented jacket. What we like: Proven warmth, waterproof, and reasonably priced. Best Expedition Jacket for Extreme Cold: Feathered Friends Khumbuīest Overall Winter Jacket 1.Best for Performance Use: Rab Neutrino Pro.Most Versatile Parka for Everyday Wear: Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka.Best Value in a Winter Jacket: REI Co-op Stormhenge Down Hybrid.Best Overall Winter Jacket: The North Face McMurdo Parka.For more background information, see our winter jacket comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Some toe the line nicely and are fully capable of handling double duty. They run the gamut from casual pieces designed for around-town use to performance options built for the backcountry. Our picks for the best winter jackets and parkas of 2024 are among the warmest on the market-they are packed with down fill (or synthetic on occasion) and built to stand up to freezing temperatures and howling winds. When the coldest winter months arrive, it’s time for a serious jacket. ![]()
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