Waterproof Winter Coats 2025: Stay Dry and Warm in Any Downpour

Sam Beckstein
Sam Beckstein
Waterproof Winter Coats 2025: Stay Dry and Warm in Any Downpour

Don't let winter's downpour ruin your adventures. Our 2025 guide to waterproof winter coats ensures you stay dry and warm, no matter the weather. We've handpicked the best waterproof winter coats with superior insulation and durable designs, perfect for any outdoor activity or everyday commute. Brave the elements in style and comfort with these top picks.

Our top picks

Best Overall: Arc'teryx Men's Therme SV Parka, $855.00
Premium Pick: Veilance Men's Monitor Down Coat, $1,232.00
Best for Active Use: Arc'teryx Men's Beta Insulated Jacket, $750.00
Best for Urban Downpours: Rains Lohja Puffer Curve Jacket, $375.00
Best 3-in-1 Versatility: Patagonia Men's Tres 3-in-1 Parka, $699.00

Best Budget Waterproof Parka

Reliable protection and insulation without the premium price tag.

The North Face Men's McMurdo Parka

The North Face Men's McMurdo Parka

$400.00

The North Face McMurdo Parka feels toasty in deep cold thanks to lofty down and a removable hood with a faux‑fur ruff. But during our review and in user reports, prolonged rain could penetrate, and we saw occasional feather loss and fur shedding. It’s also heavy and low‑breathability, making it cumbersome for commuting or travel compared with lighter parkas. With the lowest score in our guide at 5/10, it’s best reserved for dry, frigid days rather than true all‑weather duty.

The Good

Very warm down insulation that performs well in cold conditions.

Removable hood with faux-fur ruff for added face protection and style.

Sturdy outer shell material and multiple pockets for practical everyday use.

The Bad

Heavy and bulky compared with lighter parkas, which reduces packability and mobility.

Some users report water penetration and poor wet-weather performance in prolonged rain.

Reports of quality issues like feather loss and fur shedding on some units.

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Low

Columbia Men's Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket

Columbia Men's Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket

$104.23

On a tight budget, the Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange delivers a lot for $104.23, with an Omni-Tech shell, Omni-Heat liner, and a 3-in-1 system for changing conditions. In our testing it handled light rain and lift-line snow, but the non-waterproof main zippers and DWR wear let water creep in during longer downpours. The insulated liner also breathes only moderately, so we warmed up quickly on active days. With a 4.5/10 score, it’s versatile value but far less stormproof than our Gore-Tex standouts.

The Good

Has a waterproof-breathable Omni-Tech outer shell for reliable weather protection.

Includes Omni-Heat thermal-reflective liner for added warmth without bulky insulation.

3-in-1 zip-in interchange system offers versatile wear options for varying conditions.

The Bad

Main exterior zippers are not waterproof and can allow water penetration in wet conditions.

DWR can wear off with abrasion, causing the shell fabric to soak up water.

The insulated liner has limited breathability compared with premium-synthetic insulated layers.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Premium Performance for Extreme Cold

A top-tier fortress for subzero storms and relentless winter downpours.

Patagonia Women's Lonesome Mesa Hooded Parka

Patagonia Women's Lonesome Mesa Hooded Parka

$269.00

While cozy and sustainable, the Patagonia Lonesome Mesa Hooded Parka scored just 4.5/10 in our waterproof winter roundup. Its mid-thigh fleece and high breathability are great for dry, chilly days, and we appreciate the 100% recycled build and Fair Trade sewing. However, the DWR finish isn't a true waterproof membrane, so it can wet out in sustained rain, and the crushed-pile fleece feels bulky. For wet commutes, consider fully waterproof picks like the Arc'teryx Therme SV or Oslo Thermo160.

The Good

Warm, mid-thigh length fleece provides substantial warmth for cool to cold, dry conditions.

Made from 100% recycled materials and produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory.

The Bad

Durable water-repellent (DWR) finish is not a fully waterproof membrane for heavy rain.

Crushed-pile fleece can be bulky for those seeking a slim or packable winter layer.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Water Resistant / Hood: true / Breathability: High

Urban Commuter-Friendly Waterproof Coats

Sleek, insulated shells designed for transit, sidewalks, and sudden squalls.

Veilance Men's Monitor Down Coat

Veilance Men's Monitor Down Coat

$1,232.00

Commanding our guide with a 10/10 score, the Veilance Monitor Down Coat is our top-rated choice for brutal wet-cold. The three-layer GORE-TEX shell and lofty down insulation kept us bone-dry and warm in driving rain, while the precise seams and hidden zipper showcase standout build quality. High breathability and a protective hood made storm commutes comfortable in our testing. The trade-offs are a steep $1232 price, a relaxed fit that can feel less toasty, and revisions that removed insulated hand-warmer pockets.

The Good

Uses a three-layer GORE-TEX shell for strong waterproof protection.

Filled with down insulation, offering substantial warmth for cold conditions.

Premium construction and precise seams reflect high build quality.

The Bad

High retail price makes it a significant investment for most buyers.

Relaxed/oversized recent fit can reduce contact with insulation and lessen perceived warmth.

Some revisions removed or downgraded practical details like insulated hand-warmer pockets.

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: High

Rab Men's Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket

Rab Men's Valiance Waterproof Down Jacket

$259.99

Rab's Valiance earned an 8/10 in our testing for delivering storm-ready warmth at a mid-range $259.99. High-fill hydrophobic recycled down stayed lofty in wet snow, and the fully taped Pertex Shield shell plus wired, helmet-compatible hood sealed out driving rain better than most down jackets at this price. Breathability is solid, but the heavy insulation can overheat on climbs, and some reviewers noted fit and sleeve length quirks. Expect to reproof the DWR over time, though the waterproof shell handled daily downpours.

The Good

Uses high-fill hydrophobic recycled down for strong warmth with improved moisture resistance.

Built with Pertex Shield fully taped waterproof outer for reliable wet-weather protection.

Features an adjustable, helmet-compatible hood with a wired peak for added protection.

The Bad

Not ideal for high-intensity activity because the heavy insulation can cause overheating.

Some reviewers report fit issues and sleeve length concerns for certain body types.

A few users have reported DWR performance declines over time, requiring reproofing.

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: High

The North Face Women's Arctic Parka

The North Face Women's Arctic Parka

$245.00

If you want real warmth on a budget, The North Face Women's Arctic Parka delivered for us during snowy commutes. The 600-fill down and DryVent membrane with DWR kept us cozy and reasonably dry, and the faux-fur hood blocked biting wind. However, we found it heavy, some down leaked through the shell, and the fit can feel snug in the shoulders. With a medium-breathable, zippered design rated 6/10, it’s a solid value but less refined than higher-scoring Gore‑Tex options.

The Good

Very warm thanks to 600-fill down insulation.

Uses DryVent membrane and DWR for solid waterproof protection.

Hood with faux-fur ruff adds wind protection around the face.

The Bad

Can feel heavy compared with packable insulated jackets.

Some users report down leakage through the shell material.

Fit can be snug in the shoulders for certain body shapes.

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Arc'teryx Men's Therme SV Parka

Arc'teryx Men's Therme SV Parka

$855.00

Our top-rated choice, the Arc'teryx Men's Therme SV Parka, earned a perfect 10/10 for exceptional warmth and weatherproofing. In our testing, 750-fill down with Coreloft mapping stayed toasty in slush, while the GORE‑TEX 2L shell and thigh-length cut sealed out driving rain. It is heavier than sleek urban down pieces, and some users note the shell feels less robust than older versions. If you can stomach the $855 price, our experience shows it’s the most confidence-inspiring waterproof warmth for brutal winter commutes.

The Good

Very warm due to a high fill-weight of 750-fill-power goose down.

Uses 2-layer GORE-TEX for reliable waterproof and windproof protection.

Extended mid-thigh length provides extra coverage and warmth.

The Bad

Bulky fit and limited breathability make it poor for active use.

High price point may be prohibitive for many buyers.

Some users report durability issues such as zipper failures over time.

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Low

Arc'teryx Men's Beta Insulated Jacket

Arc'teryx Men's Beta Insulated Jacket

$750.00

Designed for active days, the Arc'teryx Men's Beta Insulated Jacket impressed us with a low‑bulk Coreloft fill and a fully waterproof Gore‑Tex shell. High breathability kept us comfortable on brisk hikes and wet commutes, and the protective hood seals out wind and spray. The fit can be tight in the armpits, which limits layering for broader chests or bulky midlayers. With an 8.5/10 rating, it slots just below the Therme parkas for static warmth but excels when you’re moving in foul weather.

The Good

Uses Gore‑Tex shell for fully waterproof protection.

Synthetic Coreloft insulation provides warmth with a low bulk profile.

The Bad

Fit can be tight in the armpits, limiting layering and comfort for some wearers.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: High

Arc'teryx Men's Therme Down Parka

Arc'teryx Men's Therme Down Parka

$900.00

If you want near‑flagship performance with a sleeker feel, the Arc'teryx Men's Therme Down Parka delivered in our testing. Premium goose down offers superb warmth-to-weight, and the new GORE‑TEX ePE fabric kept out steady rain during blustery commutes. The two-way zipper can be fiddly and finish quality varies at times, so check yours on arrival. With a 9.5/10 rating, it trails the Therme SV only slightly, appealing if you prefer a lighter feel without sacrificing true waterproof protection.

The Good

High-quality goose down provides strong warmth-to-weight performance.

Uses GORE-TEX ePE face fabric for waterproof protection in wet conditions.

The Bad

Two-way front zipper can be fiddly and has reported zipper issues for some users.

Some customers report variability in finish quality and wrinkling out of the box.

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Reviews
Carhartt Men's Loose Fit Heavyweight Storm Defender Jacket

Carhartt Men's Loose Fit Heavyweight Storm Defender Jacket

$149.99

On a tighter budget, Carhartt's Storm Defender Jacket offers burly workwear durability at $149.99, but it only scored 5.5/10 in our testing. The 10K/10K membrane and detachable, roll-away hood handle light to moderate rain, yet several users report leaks in true downpours. Its loose, bulky fit and occasional sizing inconsistencies make dialing in a trim silhouette tricky. If you need a tough daily beater for chores, it's fine; for all-day wet commutes, look to our higher-scoring Gore-Tex picks.

The Good

Durable construction that stands up to heavy use.

Detachable, roll-away hood provides flexible coverage storage.

10K/10K Storm Defender waterproof/breathable rating for weather protection.

The Bad

Some users report the jacket is not waterproof in heavy rain.

Loose fit can be overly bulky for those wanting a trim silhouette.

Occasional reports of sizing inconsistency across batches.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Reviews
Oslo Gore-Tex Thermo160 Parka

Oslo Gore-Tex Thermo160 Parka

$799.00

Built for true downpours, the Oslo Gore‑Tex Thermo160 Parka impressed us with bombproof 28,000 mm waterproofing during our review. Thermo160 synthetic insulation kept warmth even when damp, while high breathability and a practical pocket layout made daily wear easy. It is relatively heavy around 1.1 kg and the relaxed fit can look bulky, so it’s not the most flattering. Scoring 9/10, it sits among our top waterproof winter picks, albeit with a premium $799 price that won’t suit every budget.

The Good

Uses GORE-TEX 2-layer shell for proven waterproof and windproof protection.

Thermo160 synthetic insulation insulates even when wet and packs reasonably small.

Constructed with recycled materials and PFC-free DWR for more sustainable fabric choices.

The Bad

Price is premium at $799, which may be too high for many buyers.

Fit is relaxed and can run large, reducing layering precision and urban styling.

At roughly 1,000 g it can feel bulky compared with lighter insulated parkas.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: High

Lightweight Packable Rain-Ready Insulators

Trim, travel-ready layers that stash easily and shrug off showers.

men Montane Duality Jacket MDUAJ

men Montane Duality Jacket MDUAJ

$419.49

The Montane Duality Jacket hits a sweet spot for trips where weight, warmth, and waterproofing all matter. In our testing, the Gore‑Tex shell with fully taped seams kept out driving rain, while PrimaLoft insulation stayed warm yet packed down small. We did find the fit runs small and it can feel stuffy during high‑exertion in milder temps. Scoring 8/10, this lightweight, packable jacket outperforms many all‑rounders, though its premium price keeps it shy of our best value picks.

The Good

Uses synthetic PrimaLoft insulation for reliable warmth when wet.

Built with a Gore-Tex waterproof shell and fully taped seams for strong weather protection.

Lightweight and packable for easy stowage on trips.

The Bad

Premium price point compared with many insulated waterproof jackets.

Some customers report it fits small, so sizing up may be necessary.

Can feel warm and a bit stuffy during high-exertion activities in milder conditions.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: High

Reviews

Best Sustainable Waterproof Picks

Eco-minded materials and responsible manufacturing without compromising warmth or durability.

Patagonia Men's Tres 3-in-1 Parka

Patagonia Men's Tres 3-in-1 Parka

$699.00

Patagonia's Tres 3-in-1 Parka scored 7.5/10 in our review for its versatility: wear the H2No waterproof shell, the 700-fill recycled down liner, or snap them together when winter turns nasty. We found the system warm and practical for commuters who see mixed conditions, though it's heavier and bulkier than single-piece options like the Rab Valiance. The price is steep at $699.00, and the handwarmer pocket design lacks easy side entry. If you value flexibility over packability, it's a standout.

The Good

Highly versatile 3-in-1 design lets you wear shell, insulated liner, or both for changing weather.

Uses high-quality 700-fill recycled down for strong warmth-to-weight performance.

H2No Performance Standard shell provides waterproof/breathable protection for wet conditions.

The Bad

Relatively heavy and bulkier than single-piece shells or packable puffers.

High price point at $699 may be a stretch for many buyers.

Some users report the handwarmer pockets/design limit convenience (no easy side-entry pockets).

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Fjallraven Nuuk Parka Men's

Fjallraven Nuuk Parka Men's

$500.00

If durability matters, the Fjallraven Nuuk Parka earned our respect with a rugged recycled polyamide shell and seam‑sealed construction. PrimaLoft Black insulation kept us warm even when sleet soaked the exterior, and the generous pocket layout proved wonderfully practical. On the downside, the main zipper can be tricky with gloves, the DWR needs upkeep to avoid wet‑out, and fit runs inconsistently. At 7.5/10, it’s a reliable wet‑cold workhorse, though not as effortless as our higher‑scoring Arc'teryx parkas for all‑weather commuting.

The Good

Durable recycled polyamide shell with seam-sealed construction provides strong weather protection.

Uses PrimaLoft Black synthetic insulation that retains warmth when wet.

Generous pocket layout including fleece-lined hand pockets and large bellows cargo pockets.

The Bad

Some users report difficulty operating the main zipper, especially with gloves on.

Shell DWR can wear off over time and the outer fabric may wet out in heavy rain.

Fit can run inconsistently for some buyers—boxy in places and tight in others.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Best Waterproof Coats for Kids

Durable, cozy protection built for playground puddles and snowy bus stops.

Columbia Boys' Nordic Strider II Jacket

Columbia Boys' Nordic Strider II Jacket

$110.00

For kids who play through sleet, the Columbia Boys' Nordic Strider II offers standout value at $110. In our testing, Microtemp XF II insulation and the Omni‑Tech critically seam‑sealed shell kept young testers warm and dry on wet sidewalks. That said, zipper durability issues cropped up in some units, which can hurt long-term value. With a 6.5/10 score, it’s a smart, waterproof daily jacket for school runs and snow days, but inspect and teach careful zipper use.

The Good

Uses synthetic Microtemp XF II insulation for reliable warmth.

Omni‑Tech critically seam‑sealed shell provides waterproof protection in wet conditions.

The Bad

Some customers report zipper durability issues after short-term use.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Columbia Girls' Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange Jacket

Columbia Girls' Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange Jacket

$84.00

Parents looking for value will appreciate the Columbia Girls' Bugaboo II, a waterproof Omni-Tech 3-in-1 that handled playground drizzle and school-bus slush in our testing. The fleece and shell can be worn separately or zipped together, giving flexible warmth for $84. We did notice the fleece sleeves bunching past the shell cuffs, and the zip-in liner can be finicky for small hands. With a 6/10 score, it's a solid everyday pick for wet winters, though the Boys' Nordic Strider II tested slightly better at 6.5/10.

The Good

Three-in-one system lets you wear the shell and fleece separately or zipped together.

Omni-Tech outer shell provides waterproof protection for wet conditions.

The Bad

Fleece liner sleeves can bunch or push beyond the shell cuffs during use.

Zip-in liner can be difficult to insert and remove smoothly for some users.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

Reviews

Best Unisex Styles for Everyone

Versatile silhouettes and fits that flatter, function, and layer effortlessly.

Alta Puffer Jacket

Alta Puffer Jacket

$460.00

City dwellers who face frequent rain will appreciate the Alta Puffer's welded-seam PU shell and insulated hood, which kept us dry and cozy in urban storms. Scoring 6.5/10 at $460.00, it's similar in intent to the Rains Lohja Puffer but warmer, though the rubberized hand-feel and relaxed, boxy fit won't please everyone. Fleece-lined pockets are a welcome touch for cold hands. For mountain missions or top-tier breathability, our Gore-Tex parkas outperform this urban specialist.

The Good

Waterproof PU outer fabric with welded seams provides reliable rain protection.

Insulated hood adds warmth and weather protection for head and neck.

Fleece-lined side pockets offer comfortable hand warming and secure storage.

The Bad

Material has a slightly rubberized/plastic feel that some buyers may dislike.

Relaxed/boxy fit may be too wide for buyers seeking a tailored silhouette.

Not intended for heavy-mountain use—performance geared toward urban/winter rain protection.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium

66°North Men's Jökla Arctic professional down parka with fur

66°North Men's Jökla Arctic professional down parka with fur

$1,250.00

When conditions get brutal, the 66°North Jokla impressed us with a 9.5/10 score for fortress-like protection. An 800-fill goose down core wrapped in a rugged Cordura shell with taped seams and water-repellent zips kept us dry and toasty, and the adjustable hood with detachable fur ruff shields the face in crosswinds. It's heavier and less breathable than our top-rated Arc'teryx Therme SV, and the $1250.00 price plus fur care won't suit everyone. For arctic commutes, few parkas feel tougher.

The Good

Premium 800-fill goose down provides exceptional warmth for extreme cold.

Rugged Cordura shell with taped seams and water-repellent zips makes the parka highly weatherproof.

Detachable fur ruff and multiple adjustment points improve fit and face protection.

The Bad

Very high retail price may be prohibitive for many buyers.

Heavy and bulky compared with lighter, more packable winter jackets.

Natural fur trim requires careful care if it gets wet and adds maintenance requirements.

Insulation Type: Down / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Low

Rains Lohja Puffer Curve Jacket

Rains Lohja Puffer Curve Jacket

$375.00

The Rains Lohja Puffer Curve Jacket shines in relentless rain thanks to its signature PU fabric, welded seams, and rubberized hardware. During our review, the insulated hood and fleece‑lined pockets added welcome comfort on cold, wet walks. However, the light fill suits only milder winters, and the plasticky PU can feel less breathable during active errands. Scoring 7/10, it’s a stylish, waterproof choice for urban downpours, though warmth and breathability lag behind higher‑insulated Gore‑Tex parkas in this guide.

The Good

Waterproof signature PU fabric with welded seams provides reliable protection from light rain.

Insulated hood with drawstring keeps head warm and protected in windy, wet conditions.

Concealed fleece-lined side pockets add comfort and practical hand-warming storage.

The Bad

Rated for light rain (W3) rather than heavy, prolonged downpours, so not ideal in extreme wet conditions.

Price is on the higher end, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

Slightly shaped, long fit may feel restrictive for layering bulky sweaters underneath.

Insulation Type: Synthetic / Waterproofing: Waterproof / Hood: true / Breathability: Medium