When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn moreAmir Ismael/Business InsiderA parka is the most protective layer you can have against harsh winter weather. If you've experienced bone-chilling winds seeping through your coat even once, it's enough to make you consider how proper gear might be worth investing in so you're not left out in the cold again.The best men's parkas we've selected are meant to last you season after season, because when you're investing in a sturdy winter coat, it ought to keep paying for itself. We considered how effectively each insulates according to its filling, as well as design details like pockets, hoods, water resistance, and bulkiness. Our top pick is the Triple F.A.T. Goose Staden Down Parka for its high fill power and overall value. We also recommend The North Face's HMLYN Down Parka for street style that doesn't compromise warmth and Marmot's GORE-TEX Mammoth Parka for its waterproof design.Below you'll find more of our reviews and recommendations, as well as FAQs on how the brands featured here approach the sustainability of materials like down and fur. The top 5 winter parkas for menBest overall: Triple F.A.T. Goose Staden Down ParkaAmir Ismael/Business Insider
Down fill power: 750Exterior fabric: 3-layer waterproof 90% polyester, 10% SpandexWeight: 3.5 lbsHood: Removable hood with draw cords and visonPockets: 6 exterior pockets, 1 interior pocketSizing options: S-5XLWarranty: 1 year
Pros: As warm as parkas getCons: NoneI've tested a lot of winter coats and parkas over the years and Triple F.A.T. Goose has yet to disappoint me. It's one of the few brands that consistently check off all the boxes for adequate warmth, functionality, style, and value.The Triple F.A.T. Goose Staden Down Parka was first introduced a few years ago, but got phased out for other similar styles. I'm glad to see it back because of how well-equipped it is. With an eco-friendly, durable waterproof coating, sealed seams and zippers, and a 3-layer waterproof outer shell, you won't have any problems staying dry in this coat. And with a 750-fill power rating, it's one of the warmest choices on this list. Other key features like the retractable storm cuffs with thumb holes, six fleece-lined pockets (no need to worry about putting your hands into cold nylon pockets), and adjustable drawcords, add to the warmth. Some of my favorite features are the magnetic fastenings on the storm flap and two front pockets. They're easy to access, even with gloves on, and never have to spend time fastening a row of buttons to block out the elements. With sizes going up to a 5XL, this is easily the most size-inclusive parka we've tested.Best budget: L.L.Bean Baxter StateAmir Ismael/Business Insider
Down fill power: 650Exterior fabric: 2 layer TEK waterproof shellWeight: 4.08 lbsHood: Removable, insulated, and adjustable with zip-off faux fur trimPockets: 7 exterior, 3 internal, 1 sleeveSizing options: S-3XL, regular or tallWarranty: 1 year
Pros: Affordable, high-quality and heavily packed down, waterproof, relatively breathableCons: Faux fur can be a little ratty (but you can ditch it)If you're on a budget (and quite frankly even if you're not) it's hard to make a case against L.L.Bean's Baxter State Parka. It's loaded with pockets, windproof and waterproof, and warm as anything.Where sustainability is concerned, L.L.Bean uses DownTek down, which is RDS-certified, and there's plenty of it to keep you warm.With seven exterior pockets, three interior pockets, and one on the sleeve with a snap-closure storm flap, you'll have no problem fitting everything you need on your person for your winter commutes or snowy hikes. The hood comes with a wire insert that allows you to shape it around your head, which we like a lot. You can also just zip the faux fur ruff away and forget about it altogether. We also tried the Maine Mountain Parka, which is similar, and we were very impressed with the quality.Best sustainable: Fjällräven Expedition DownAmir Ismael/Business Insider
Down fill power: 700Exterior fabric: 100% recycled polyamideWeight: 3.8 lbsHood: Attached, adjustable drawcordPockets: 2 hand pockets, 1 interior pocket, 1 open side pocketSizing options: XS-XLWarranty: Lifetime warranty
Pros: Durable, utilitarian but still stylishCons: Not waterproofOriginally released in 1974, the Expedition Down Jacket is one of Fjallraven's most iconic designs. It was initially created for cold-weather explorers who needed serious protection from sub-freezing temperatures, and its current version serves the same purpose.Of the many winter coats and parkas I've tested, the Expedition Down Jacket is excellent if staying warm is your primary objective. The jacket has a 700-fill power, a below-the-hip length to block out the cold, an adjustable alpine hood, an adjustable hem, two-way zippers, a durable water-resistant outer lining, and adjustable sleeves. And the most surprising feature of all is that it's packable — something unheard of for jackets this big. In terms of function, I can't think of a single feature I wish it had.While the Expedition Down Jacket is as no-nonsense as winter coats come, its oversized fit makes it less practical for daily use. For example, I found it uncomfortable and difficult to drive my car while wearing it. If you love the style, but want a jacket that's a bit more practical (and affordable), I also recommend the Expedition Down Lite Jacket.Best waterproof: Marmot GORE-TEX Mammoth ParkaAmir Ismael/Business Insider
Down fill power: 700Exterior fabric: Waterproof, breathable 2-layer GORE-TEXWeight: 3 lbs, 5 ozHood: Removable hood with adjustable drawcordsPockets: 4 exterior pockets, 2 interior media pocketsSizing options: XS-XXLWarranty: N/A
Pros: Powder skirt blocks snow and wind from going up the parkaCons: NoneFounded in 1971 as a social club for mountain climbers, Marmot got its start as bonafide outdoors brand after it began producing its own sleeping bags and parkas in 1973. In 1976, it became the first outdoor brand to use GORE-TEX, a waterproof yet breathable fabric, in its gear. Fifty years later, the brand is still deeply rooted in performance and still uses GORE-TEX in its jackets simply because it's just that good.The Marmot GORE-TEX Mammoth Parka is the brand's most popular parka design. Fit for expeditions and street use alike, it features a two-layer waterproof GORE-TEX fabric and tape-sealed seems to prevent leak through. While many other parkas have some sort of waterproofing technology, GORE-TEX is by far my favorite technology because it keeps water from getting in, but allows built up moisture from your body to escape the garment. I've worn boots, hats, hoodies, and many jackets featuring the technology and they've all impressed me with how well they hold up to water. With a 700-fill power rating, the Marmot Mammoth is incredibly warm and has plenty of features that make it usable for anything the winter has to offer. The powder skirt is a great feature for snow sports from snow tubing to more extreme sports like snowboarding. You'll also find fleece-lined hand warmer pockets on the outside and convenient media pockets on the inside.Fitting of the Mammoth name, this parka is slightly oversized, so I recommend going true to size. However, adjustable drawcords at the waist and Velcro cuffs allow you to adjust the fit to your liking.Best patterned: Better Gift Shop x Marmot Mammoth ParkaAmir Ismael/Business Insider
Down fill power: 800Exterior fabric: Waterproof, breathable 2-layer GORE-TEXWeight: 3 lbs, 5 ozHood: Removable hood with adjustable drawcordsPockets: 4 exterior pockets, 2 interior media pocketsSizing options: XS-XXLWarranty: N/A
Pros: High fill power, Powder skirt blocks snow and wind from going up the parka, backpack straps to prevent overheatingCons: NoneDesigned in collaboration with Canada-based brand Better Gift Shop, this Marmot Mammoth makes the list specifically for its unique desert camo pattern. It's one of the best styles I've seen this season, and will remain a timeless piece for anyone who loves a good military-inspired garment.Aside from cosmetics, this Marmot Mammoth has many of the same features as the standard version above. The two key differences are a higher 800 down-fill rating compared to the standard 700 down-fill rating and built-in suspender straps so you can comfortably carry the jacket on your back to prevent overheating. Most stylish: The North Face HMLYN Down ParkaAmir Ismael/Business Insider
Down fill power: 550Exterior fabric: Water resistant nylonWeight: 2 lbs 9.62 ozHood: Attached, adjustable drawcordPockets: 2 exterior, 1 interiorSizing options: XS-3XLWarranty: Lifetime
Pros: Wide color varietyCons: Lower fill powerWhile The North Face is deeply rooted in outdoor performance, some of its most technical cold-weather designs have been adopted in fashion. Inspired by the original Himalayan Down Parka, the HMLYN Down Parka bridges the gap between high-alpine gear and streetwear fashion. As a toned-down version of the original, the HMLYN Down Parka features the iconic retro look and feel of The North Face parkas with large down-filled baffles and bold color-blocking, while being more comfortable for daily wear.The jacket features 550-fill power down, durable water-resistant coating, adjustable cords on the hem and hood, and plenty of interior and exterior storage pockets.Overall, the HMLYN Down Parka is a great choice of men's winter coats for people who love the look of burly parkas like the original Himalayan Down Parka, but have no intentions of scaling any mountains. Not to mention, it's more affordable.Best vegan: Frank and Oak Capital ParkaSyd Hutnik/Business Insider
Down fill power: Vegan Primaloft ThermoPlumeExterior fabric: Wind and water-resistant 100% recycled polyesterWeight: 3.99 lbsHood: Attached, adjustable drawcordPockets: 2 hand pockets, 1 zippered sleeve pocket, 2 interior pouchesSizing options: XS-XXLWarranty: N/A, 15 days from the date your order is shipped to request a prepaid return shipping label online
Pros: 100% recycled and vegan, plenty of zippered compartments for storage, backpack-style straps for indoor convenienceCons: Sleek and slim design doesn't have classic parka lookFrank and Oak, a brand known for crossing cruelty-free and recycled materials with high performance, finds a solid middle ground in between bulk and warmth with their Capital Parka. While the Parka definitely has an appropriate amount of bulk to keep you warm, and also the right length to cover your posterior, it's not overly heavy and when I'm wearing it I don't feel like I'm taking up more than my allotted space in a busy Subway train.We've tested a previous version of this parka that boasted 60% recycled polyester and 40% regular polyester, the new iteration now has zero virgin polyester in addition to being completely vegan and cruelty-free. Instead of goose or duck feathers to fill the jacket, they utilize Primaloft ThermoPlume insulation, designed to keep you warm in temperatures as low as 22 below zero. Additionally, the jacket is windproof and waterproof, with a Hydrophobic shell and waterproofed sealed seams, and even waterproofed zipped pockets. I also appreciate the jersey sleeve, which helps keep your wrists protected on a windy day. What this all boils down to is that you don't need to compromise on performance to wear this coat that matches your sustainability and ethical guidelines.Functionally, the coat checks off what most people who aren't wandering around in sub-freezing temperatures need, while also offering a sleek design with plenty of fun convenience features. My favorite features are the magnets that clasp the main zipper and exterior pockets closed because you don't have to deal with buttoning or clasping anything to fully seal yourself from the cold. This is also especially helpful when you're wearing gloves or mittens. There's a good amount of interior pocket space, one side with three compartments, a zipper section on top of a velcro on top of a mesh pouch, and a singular velcro pouch on the other side. There is also a sneaky zipper pocket on the sleeve that is perfect for quick access items like a credit card or a pack of tissues plus another hidden pocket on the outside of the main zipper. The hood and waist can be tightened to your liking, and the jacket also comes with backpack straps attached to the interior. — Danny Bakst, former Senior Manager, Story ProductionBest oversized: The North Face Coldworks Insulated ParkaAmir Ismael/Business Insider
Down fill power: 50/50 blend of synthetic and 600-fill down insulationExterior fabric: DryVent 100% recycled nylonWeight: N/AHood: Removable hood with adjustable drawcordsPockets: 2 chest pockets, 2 lower pockets, 2 handwarmer pockets, 1 media pocket, and 2 interior mesh pocketsSizing options: XS-XXLWarranty: Lifetime warranty
Pros: Lots of pocketsCons: No adjustable drawcords at waist or hemThere's something about an oversized parka that always wins me over. Not only is comfortable to wear a coat that's not tight and restrictive, but if you choose the right one, it'll look great, too. The North Face's Coldworks Insulated Parka is one of the best-looking and most useful choices available.The North Face is often known for its bright color-blocking (which I love too), but it's refreshing to see some neutral colors like the Almond Butter I tested and the Coal Brown that's also available. Aside from the color options, the style is timeless. It features four large pockets at the chest and hips that are reminiscent of military field jackets.The Coldworks Parka isn't the absolute warmest jacket in terms of a fill power rating, but it has excellent coverage to block out the cold with the below-the-waist fit, adjustable hood, and adjustable cuffs. Plus, the relaxed oversized fit allows you to adequately layer up underneath. I love to wear chunky sweaters, hoodies, and fleeces in the winter, didn't mind wearing another layer for added warmth.Despite not having the highest fill power rating, I wouldn't hesitate to wear it in the snow. It's made using The North Face's proprietary DryVent material, so it's waterproof and breathable at the same time.The only disappointment I had with this parka was the lack of an adjustable draw cord at the hem. As much as I like the style, this parka fits me just a bit too big in a size medium. If you're in between sizes like I am, I recommend choosing the smaller size because you'll still have plenty of room.How I tested for the best parkas for menFor this guide, I tested each parka in the real world over several winter seasons. Each parka was worn during the coldest months of the year. I considered the overall warmth, water resistance, comfort, bulkiness, style, and important design features like adjustable cuffs, hand warmer pockets, and removable hoods.I also considered testing a variety of styles to meet different people's needs and budgets. Some parkas are designed for more technical use, but my testing was based on everyday wear — as the average person would wear them — outside a controlled environment.Best parkas for men FAQsHow do brands sustainably use down?The sustainability and ethics surrounding down and fur are inherently points of contention. The animal welfare of waterfowl is slightly more clear-cut and traceable: Many of the brands in our guide, including Fjallraven and Triple F.A.T. Goose, put their down through rigorous testing to identify whether or not the down was plucked from live animals.Triple F.A.T. Goose puts its down through the International Down and Feather Testing Laboratory (IDFL) to meet the Responsible Down Standard (RDS). Then there's the Global Traceable Down Standard (Global TDS), which is certified by the NSF and slightly more rigorous in requiring parent farm certification. That means that whatever farm an egg or a hatchling came from must be certified, too.Otherwise, the RDS and Global TDS are almost identical, and both essentially uphold the Five Freedoms, ensuring that the ducks and geese whose feathers and down are collected are not force-fed, live-plucked, malnourished, or transported from farm to farm.Do brands still use real fur?Some do, yes. Fur can come from animals that have been farmed (as is often the case with foxes and minks), or it can come from wild animals. Coyote fur, which is usually what you'll see adorning parkas, is generally trapped or hunted. A lot of brands source coyote fur from places where they're deemed to be a problem species, either by way of overpopulation, mange, or invasiveness. Blue fox is the most common type of fox fur used in the industry, and is often sourced from farms certified by Nordic fur trading companies, such as Saga. When brands disclose their own use of fur, a general practice is to list their compliance and cooperation with game trapping laws and standards set forth by the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS) in Canada and the Best Management Practices (BMP) standards in the United States.Fur does indeed have moisture-wicking properties and warmth that no synthetic material can match. But we see it being phased out by more and more brands, as public opinion has generally shifted towards "cruelty free" alternatives. For example, Triple F.A.T. Goose stopped producing new fur based products as of 2021. Canada Goose still offers fur trimmed parkas, but announced they stopped manufacturing with fur in late 2022.
