Best 15 Backpacking Winter Jackets Of 2024

In order to be very comfortable when camping in the winter, you will need a very warm backpacking winter jacket. There are lots of jackets that you can use but you have to make sure that they are very warm and comfortable. A lot of people also use ski jackets or snowboarding jackets for their hiking or backpacking trips. I highly recommend getting a jacket specifically made for backpacking or hiking though as these jackets will often have features specifically made for the outdoors like being breathable, waterproof, lightweight and so on. I have listed some very warm and comfortable winter jackets that you can get for your hiking trips.

Best Backpacking Winter Jackets – Quick Chart

How To Choose A Backpacking Winter Jacket

Types Of Winter Jackets

Technical Winter Jackets

Technical winter jackets are jackets specifically designed for a certain activity. There are a lot of technical jackets like ski jackets, snowboarding jackets, mountaineering jackets and so on. The jackets will often have features, trim and capabilities designed for the outdoor activity. These jackets tend to be very expensive and have features or technology that are very brand new and innovative.

Casual Winter Jackets

Casual winter jackets are the type of jackets that you would wear when hanging out, meeting your friends or going out into the city for some fun. These jackets tend to be cheaper with the name brands being more expensive. These jackets are not meant to provide dexterity or more movement flexibility to the user but they are just meant to provide the user warmth and comfort.

Multipurpose

Multipurpose jackets can be used in a lot of ways. They can be used for casual, technical and all sorts of activities. You might be able to use your snowboarding winter jacket for a winter day hike as well. These multipurpose jackets have lots of features that are great for a lot of activities.

Type Of Insulation To Look For

Down

Down insulations are very popular and lots of people or companies put them in their jackets. Downs are very soft, comfortable, and provide a lot of warmth. Unfortunately, downs are not that good against the weather. So they are often protected from getting wet. Once they get wet, they take a lot of time to dry up. They lose a lot of their insulating capabilities for a long time.

Synthetic

Synthetic insulation is made up of polyester fibers or plastic like fibers that are spun to mimic the insulation properties of down. This type of insulation does not clump when they are wet. They still lose a lot of their insulating properties when wet though. More and more companies are choosing to use synthetic insulation over down.

Pile or Fleece Fabric

This type of fabric is meant to mimic or copy the insulating properties and characteristics of wool. This type of fabric is very durable and can withstand water as well. This type of fabric tends to lasts for many years to come. Unfortunately, this type of fabric is not that warm. Down and synthetic provide more insulation than pile.

Waterproof Technology

Gore-Tex

Gore-Tex is a great way to waterproof the outer shell of the jacket. Gore-Tex membrane have tiny holes that prevent water molecules from getting in but at the same time, the holes are large enough for water vapor molecules. This prevents water from getting in while allowing sweat to evaporate.

eVent

eVent is also the same as Gore-Tex. The eVent fabric will have billions of microscopic pores that will allow the sweat to evaporate. This is great for shoes, tents, jackets and a lot of clothing that is meant for the outdoors.

DWR Finish

Most rain jackets have a durable water repellent (DWR) finish. DWR prevents precipitation from saturating the jacket’s outer shell. DWR allows water to bounce off the exterior of the jacket. If the jacket does not have DWR, the water tends to stay on the jacket, making the item very heavy.

Practical Features To Look For

Hoodie

Most winter jackets have some sort of hoodie. This protects the head from rain, wind and the cold. A hoodie can keep the head somewhat warm as well. There are jackets where the hoodie is visible and jackets where you can take the hoodie out, and jackets where you can hide the hoodie underneath the collar.

Pockets

Pockets are very important. They allow the user to store important gadgets and reach for them rather easily. However, pockets can add weight to the item. The more pockets the item has, the heavier it will be. When you are hiking or backpacking for a lot of miles, it is important to have jackets that are not that heavy.

Closures

Closure provide more waterproofing to the jacket. You can have wrist closures, hood closures, waist closures and more. These closures are designed to stop water and snow from getting into the insides of the jacket. Unfortunately, they also stop wind and cool air from getting in which deters circulation inside the jacket.

Zippers

Zippers are an integral part of any jacket. There are zippers for pockets, front of jacket, vents and so on. Unfortunately, zippers add a lot of weight on the jacket. Zippers tend to let water in as well unless they are coated. The coating tends to go away in time. These are just some things to think about when you are looking for jackets with lots of zippers.

General Backpacking Features We Look For

Temperature Rating

The temperature rating of the jacket is important. Not all bulky jackets are warm and some lightweight jackets can protect you from the cold. It is important to take a look at the temperature rating. What temperature is good for the jacket? How warm will you feel in certain temperatures and so on. Usually, people would give their inputs on how warm the jacket feels like and how much the jacket protects them from the cold. I suggest also taking a look at what other people have experienced when it comes to the particular jacket that you are thinking of buying.

Waterproof

A jacket has to be waterproof. Snow can melt and turn into water. Even though it is winter or cold weather, rain can still happen. It is important that the jacket that you get is waterproof. It can protect you from the cold, prevent hypothermia, and so on. If the jacket does not repel water at all, you are going to have a lot of problems when it rains.

Comfort

The comfort that you get from the jacket is also something we need to consider. It is very cold in the winter, if you are not comfortable, you will not enjoy the outdoors. You may even die. You need to consider how much comfort the jacket will bring. This has to do with protection as well. Make sure that the jacket that you have is comfortable.

Price

The price is very important. Unfortunately, the very expensive jackets are very good. I want to recommend to you some very cheap ones but I am not sure they will be able to protect you in the others. It is better to be safe than sorry. The really good jackets can be used for skiing and snowboarding also. So if you love those types of sports, then at least you are getting a jacket that multi purpose.

Stylish

The jacket has to be stylish. It is kind of just a waste if you are just going to use it for hiking. You may as well use it to go out, hang out and so on. Fashion is kind of important. We all want to look nice and look good.

Best Backpacking Winter Jackets

Here are some amazing backpacking winter jackets that you should think about. These are very warm, amazing and very stylish as well. All product links are affiliate links.

1. Arc’teryx Fission SV Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 1.32 pounds
Insulated: Synthetic Insulation
Waterproof: Air permeability and Weather resistance
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: N80p-X GORE-TEX, breathable insulation, weather resistant outer surface, efficient movement and protection in alpine environments

Short Review: This is an amazing backpacking winter jacket that is also very multipurpose. This features two layers of hydrophobic Coreloft Continuous insulation paired with Permeair 20 creates a lightweight, exceptionally breathable, thermally efficient system. The design is also amazing, relaxed fit with e3D fit for easy layering, svelte profile and functional articulation. I love Arc’teryx  and their winter jackets are amazing. This jacket provides a lot of warmth although the price very high. Arc’teryx jackets are often a little bit expensive but they are very effective and they work well for the outdoors. This jacket could literally save your life as it is very warm. Great jacket for severe weather conditions and can be used for casual wear also. This is a great item if you love to go backpacking during the winter months as this will provide a lot of warmth.

2. SPYDER Men’s Leader Gore-Tex Snow Sport Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 1 lb
Insulated: 3M Thinsulate Insulation with Extra Warmth
Waterproof: Windproof, Waterproof, & Breathable
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Wool-Like 2L with GORE-TEX Laminate and PFCecFree DWR, 100% Polyester, fully seam taped, removable helmet

Short Review: This jacket for backpacking is quite great. Spyder jackets are very popular and amazing. This features fully seam taped, removable helmet compatible hood with adjustable opening and anti-abrasion overlay film by Bemis. This jacket provides a lot of warmth and can be used for skiing, snowboarding and other outdoor activities. The downside is that this is also very expensive. So if you want a lot of protection from the cold with the most advanced technology like waterproof and breathable then this is a good choice. Just be warned that Spyder jackets are often very expensive.

3. The North Face Men’s Gotham Jacket III

Technical Specs
Weight: 49.6 oz
Insulated: 550 fill goose down
Waterproof: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Dryvent waterproof, breathable technology utilizes a polyurethane (PU) coating, snap-off, removable, faux-fur ruff

Short Review: This outdoor jacket can be one of the very best things that you have ever ordered. This features  DryVent shell, this jacket features sealed seams and allows water vapor to escape for breathability. North Face is an amazing company and I have a lot of their jackets in my closet. The jackets are very affordable while being very effective against the cold weather and other types of weather. If you want a good jacket while having a reasonable price then this is a good choice. This is very warm. It is also breathable or that it lets sweat evaporate so that it does not accumulate inside the jacket.

4. Helly-Hansen 65551 Men’s Alpha 3.0 Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 15.87 Ounces
Insulated: Primaloft Gold Insulation
Waterproof: DWR Finish
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Fully seam sealed, durable water repellency treatment (dwr), fully insulated, primaloft gold insulation in body, primaloft black hi-loft 80g in sleeves and hood

Short Review: There are lots of people who really like this jacket for the outdoors. This is extremely waterproof and breathable designs and constructions. Made of highly aerobic, extremely wet or unusually long-lasting activities in extremely harsh conditions. Helly Hansen jackets are very good and very beautiful. This jacket just makes me look good. The jacket is very comfortable and can be used in various outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking or just casually going out to dinner on a winter day. The company has a lot of outdoor items that works well. Great item to keep yourself warm in the winter. Beautiful and exquisite jacket that provides a lot of warmth. This item surpassed my expectations and this looks very good.

5. Wantdo Men’s Mountain Waterproof Ski Jacket Windproof Rain Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: Not Available
Insulated: Super soft and warm fleece lining
Waterproof: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Professional water repellent coated, fuzzy lining and durable fabric with 2400 polyester fiber

Short Review: This is an awesome cold weather jacket that I know you will like. This features an outer shell of this ski jacket for men has a waterproof index of 10,000mm. The PU membrane can effectively prevent water seeping into the jacket. This can provide warmth and comfort during the winter months and this is not as expensive as the others. The price of this is amazing while providing a lot of warmth. You can choose from a variety of colors as well. This is great if you need protection from the weather. A great jacket for the winter months that is very light, very comfortable and provides water resistance.

6. TSLA Men’s Winter Ski Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 2.44 Pounds
Insulated: Soft-Touch Fuzzy Lining
Waterproof: Yes
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Multi-layer construction is a combination of anti-static fabric, insulation padding, and duratex ripstop, detachable hoodie with velcro and pullcord is for easy fasten and quick adjustability

Short Review: This backpacking winter jacket that I have listed is impressive. This features multi-Layer construction that is a combination of anti-static fabric, insulation padding, and duratex ripstop. Feels good and provides additional cozy insulation and thermal warmth. This is a pretty good item for the outdoors that provides lots of benefits like water repellant and heat. It looks great and the price is pretty affordable. I have discovered positive results with this jacket. This feels good on the skin and provides a lot of warmth.

7. Eddie Bauer Men’s EverTherm Down Hooded Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 12.64 oz
Insulated: Yes
Waterproof: StormRepel Duper DWR
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Thindown technology provides maximum warmth, minimum loft with no down leakage, StormRepel Super DWR

Short Review: I like making use of this jacket for backpacking and I know you will also. I love how comfortable this feels on the skin because this is made out of very soft material. This creates maximum thermal efficiency without bulk and, since the down is uniform throughout. Can repel water or rain water due to the DWR coating. Eddie Bauer jackets are amazing with lots of up to date technologies but the drawback is that the jackets are also very expensive. The price is something we should keep in mind. This is very stylish and I look good wearing it. The company did an incredible job at the design for the reason that this has a large amount of capabilities.

8. Marmot mens Fordham Jacket 73870

Technical Specs
Weight: 2lbs 11.8oz
Insulated: 700 fill poer down insulation
Waterproof: Not Available
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Membrain 100% polyester herringbone twill fabric, 700 fill power down insulation with down defender

Short Review: There are a lot of jacket for the outdoors in the Internet however this is extremely good. This comes with 700 fill-power-down provides exceptional warmth in chilly temps. Marmot has always produce a lot of amazing jackets and outdoor gear for people. This jacket is very warm. It is a lot warmer than most jackets that I have tried. A lot of people like the style but I’m not a big fan of it. It looks good but it could be better. Seriously one of the best things I have discovered. This is somewhat light and easy to wear. Very comfortable also.

9. Columbia Men’s Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 2.71 lbs
Insulated: Omni-Heat
Waterproof: Omni-Tech
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: waterproof-breathable outer shell and multiple handy features, best winter-essential technology, this jacket aims to protect and keep you ultra-warm: our signature thermal reflective liner features breathable material with little silver dots that reflect body heat

Short Review: This cold weather jacket is among the greatest that you can get. This feels very comfortable and this provides a lot of warmth as well. This features patented Heat Reflective garments are the ultimate body heat management system for outdoor performance. Columbia is an amazing outdoor company. You get two jackets for a decent price that you combine together to form a winter jacket. It consists of an outer jacket that repels water and an inner jacket that provides a lot of insulation. If it is not too cold, you can just wear one jacket and leave the other one at home. It is made of really high quality materials that feels good on the skin. This repels rain water as well. This jacket is very good and look stylish at the same time.

10. Helly-Hansen Mens SOGN Shell 2.0 Waterproof Ski Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 2.45 lbs
Insulated: LIFALOFT insulation
Waterproof: Water Repellency treatment
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Extremely waterproof and breathable designs and constructions, for highly aerobic, extremely wet or unusually long-lasting activities in extremely harsh conditions, matte shell fabric, life pocket, Hi-vis hood brim, RECCO, Fusion modular system jacket

Short Review: This is another Helly Hansen jacket that I love. Provides lots of comfort and protection against the weather which is great for people like us who love the outdoors. This is very beautiful and works well for a lot of other outdoor activities. I get lots of compliments whenever I wear a Helly Hansen jacket because they look great and they stand out over other jackets. The price is pretty high though but provides a huge amount of warmth and protection. This is a great jacket to have and will protect you from the weather and from the cold.

11. Outdoor Research Men’s Tungsten Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 28.0 oz
Insulated: Yes
Waterproof: Waterproof
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Tungsten GORE-TEX Jacket and Pants for when snow, ice, and wind are guaranteed to send the less prepared home, GORE-TEX waterproof protection, and durable VerticalX insulation ensure no temperature can get in the way between you and the mountain.

Short Review: This backpacking winter jacket is very good. Outdoor Research creates amazing outdoor jackets for all seasons. This features VerticalX insulation will actually self-regulate your sweat in order to keep you warmer, for longer, even when wet. Amazing item that has GORE-TEX waterproof protection, and durable VerticalX insulation ensure no temperature can get in the way between you and the mountain. You can purchase other items but this has plenty of features and this is very warm also. The jacket is very breathable. Amazing and well-constructed item that provides a lot of warmth and comfort.

12. Columbia Mens Lhotse III Interchange Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 2.65 Pounds
Insulated: Omni-Heat
Waterproof: Omni-Tech
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: patented Heat Reflective garments are the ultimate body heat management system for outdoor performance, proprietary technology provides air-permeable protection that’s waterproof and breathable

Short Review: You will be very happy with this jacket for the outdoors. This is one of the best and simplest items that I know of. Another jacket from Columbia that I would like to list. I must acknowledge this exceeded all of my expectations from the start. Amazing and well-constructed jacket that will lasts for a long time. The jacket is very warm and provides a lot of insulation. It is water resistant as well. You get two jackets with this one too. You get a very waterproof outer jacket and a very warm inner jacket that you can combine together to form an amazing winter jacket. Since the jackets can be separated, they can be used all year long.

13. Spyder Men’s Whistler GTX

Technical Specs
Weight: 2.38 Pounds
Insulated: 3M Thinsulate Insulation
Waterproof: GoreTex
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Whistler is a locked-and-loaded option for those seeking a ski jacket that balances freeride progression with clean sophistication, 3M thinsulate insulation and highly visible colors make it pop, inside and out

Short Review: This is an excellent winter jacket. An exceptionally important factor is the design. Another beautiful jacket from Spyder. I just love the style and colors of this one. This provides a lot of comfort too. This is very stylish while providing a lot of warmth. I like that a lot of people are satisfied with this item because this is very good for winter outdoor activities while also being very durable. Multi-purpose item that makes hiking a lot easier and provides a lot of comfort and warmth to the body.

14. CAMEL CROWN Ski Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 10.4 oz
Insulated:
Waterproof: DWR coating
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: waterproof level is 10000mm/H2O, breathability is 3000 g, and all the zippers are in waterproof design, shell is made of strong textile fiber fabric material, which can reduce the risk of accidental injury

Short Review: This winter jacket for the outdoors can be one of the best things that you have ever acquired. This is filled with 180g lightweight warm cotton, which can lock the body heat effectively and builds a perfect windbreak system. The Ski coats shell is made of polymer blend material, strong textile fiber fabric shell. This jacket is very warm and provides a lot of comfort. This has a lot of positive consumer reviews so if you need additional information, you can just read them. Another great item that can protect us from the weather and this keeps the body comfortable. A simple jacket that works well and the price is very affordable.

15. FREE SOLDIER Men’s Waterproof Ski Snow Jacket

Technical Specs
Weight: 2.07 Pounds
Insulated: Inner fuzzy fleece lining
Waterproof: Durable Water-Repellent (DWR)
Windproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Wear resisting soft shell is highly wind resistant and warmth, waterproof winter jacket will keep you dry and comfortable when you are outside, protects you from rain, snow and misty weather

Short Review: If you do your homework, you can easily realize that lots of people really like this cold weather jacket. This comes with Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) coating that sheds rain and dries quickly,10k waterproof rating. I love the design of this jacket especially the camouflage one. It just looks well whenever it is snowing. This is the affordable item to have. This provides a lot of warmth too. Very comfortable when you are outside, protects you from rain, snow and misty weather. This is breathable which lets sweat evaporate and it also repels rain water very easily. Multiple pockets is great. I am extremely happy I found this considering that this is definitely one of the best.