20 Best Mens Puffer Jackets 2023 | Winter Jackets For Men
Whether you love or hate the cooler weather, you have to admit that there’s something about dressing for the winter – especially for men – that just hits different.
Away go the shorts and T-shirts, and out come an array of glorious knits, coats and jackets that you can layer on as needed – making the outfit possibilities truly endless during the chillier months.
RELATED: Best women’s puffer jackets to get you through winter
RELATED: Oodies. That’s it, that’s the headline
In most men’s wardrobes, a puffer jacket is a staple. They’re ridiculously comfortable, insulated for extra warmth, and stylish-meets-practical enough to wear just about anywhere – as Guy Cortis, Global Menswear Trend Director at Cotton On, explains.
“The puffer’s adaptability is a big part of its appeal,” he says.
“You can wear it as a practical piece to the footy or trip to the outdoor market, but it’s also your go to layering piece for catching up with friends.”
“Puffers really plug perfectly into one of the biggest global trends right now, The Great Outdoors. So much current fashion aesthetic really does play off of the classic and heritage looks of being out among nature. Think flannel shirts, heavy corduroy, polar and teddy fleece, complimented by outdoors fishing, camping and mountaineering T-shirt graphics.”
And with that in mind, our top pick is Kathmandu’s Heli R Men’s novaLoft Hooded Jacket – which is currently 40 per cent off. You really can’t go past Kathmandu for a high quality puffer that’s not only stylish but well-suited to outdoor adventuring.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the perfect puffer jacket to suit your needs and budget, we spoke to Cotton On’s Global Menswear Trend Director, Guy Cortis, for his expert advice and recommendations. In addition, our team of experienced writers spent time sifting through hundreds of customer review, and scrolling on TikTok and Instagram to see what’s trending in fashion so we can bring you a round up of only the best puffer jackets worth investing in.
In this article
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST MEN’S PUFFER JACKETS
Heli R Men’s novaLOFT Hooded Jacket, $137.99 (down from $229.98) at THE ICONIC
Said to be 35 per cent lighter and more compressible than its predecessor, this Heli R jacket will still keep you just as toasty and warm. Perfect for wearing on daytrips and holidays, the lightweight jacket can easily be packed into its own pocket to save space and won’t weigh you down. It’s made from 100 per cent recycled polyester with a durable water repellent finish, and it features a storm flap, elasticated cuffs and hood, zip front closure and a Digital ID (QR code) so you can learn more about the product.
“Unbelievably light and super comfy to wear. Remarkably warm for an extremely light feeling jacket. Wore it from the store upon purchase & haven’t taken it off – awesome purchase,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
Rivers Puffer Wide Stitch Jacket, $57.33 (down from $99.99) at OZSALE
If this Rivers puffer isn’t the epitome of simple and stylish, we don’t know what is. Made from 100 per cent polyester, this jacket features a wide panelled design, stand collar, long sleeves, zip front closure and two side pockets. Plus, it’s available in sizes S to 3XL.
Currently 42 per cent off, this affordable jacket is a must-have winter staple that you can layer with and pop on over any outfit thanks to the timeless design. So whether you’re off to work, dinner or just running errands, you can’t go wrong with wearing this jacket.
Hooded Puffer Jacket in Otter, $66.75 (down from $89) at Target Australia
This durable puffer from Target will exceed your expectations. Made from polyester, this warm jacket is shower proof, wind resistant and has a regular fit. Featuring a non-removable hood with drawcords, long sleeves with elastic cuffs, two zip pockets and a zip front closure, this jacket is a great alternative to the usual black puffer jacket.
It boasts a 4.8 star rating on Target Australia with shoppers raving about how “stylish and warm” it is.
“Very nice puffer jacket. Exactly what is needed this winter. Even the hood is padded. Bought it for my dad to keep him stylish and warm,” one shopper wrote.
It’s available in sizes S to XXXL, and there’s a plus version that ranges from 3XL to 7XL.
Epiq Men’s 600 Fill Hooded Down Jacket, $199.98 (down from $399.98) at Kathmandu
You can’t look past Kathmandu for a high quality puffer that’s well-suited to outdoor adventuring. With 600 fill power duck down, it’ll keep you toasty in chilly temperatures. It has a durable water repellent coating which encourages water to bead off the surface, as well as internal stretch cuffs, an adjustable hood and hem, and an inner collar with a soft lining for added comfort. There’s two front lined pockets on the outside, and two on the inside, and the jacket comes with a stuff sack for portability.
A five-star reviewer said it’s worthy of your spend, writing, “Took this jacket down to the Snowy Mountains for some late season hiking. Keeps you super warm on those peaks and is light weight enough and packs away into its own bag when you no longer need it. Great for above the snowline or in high winds.”
RUNNER UP: BEST MEN’S PUFFER JACKETS
Tommy Jeans Alaska Puffer Jacket in Avalon Green, $279.30 (down from $399) at Myer
This Tommy puffer jacket is one that you’ll want to snap up ASAP. Made from and filled with 100 per cent recycled polyester, this eco-friendly jacket features a non-removable hood, high neckline, front zip closure, two side pockets, adjustable cuffs and signature Tommy Jeans branding.
Country Road Recycled Polyester Quilted Parka, $299 at Country Road
You can always rely on Country Road for great winter basics and this puffer jacket is no exception. Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester, the parka has a zip-through front with buttons, a removable hood, chest zip pocket, two side pockets and a quilted finish.
BEST CHEAP MEN’S PUFFER JACKET
Cotton On Essential Recycled Puffer, $89.99 at THE ICONIC
Made from 100 per cent recycled polyamide this puffer jacket from Cotton On is excellent value at under $100. It has a matte water-repellent finish and it features a high neckline, zip front closure, long sleeves and two side pockets.
M&S COLLECTION Quilted Utility Jacket with Stormwear™, $175 at Marks & Spencer
This quilted puffer jacket offers more of a streamlined look for those who don’t like their outerwear to be too bulky.
Finished with Marks & Spencer’s signature Stormwear™, it can repel rain and it has a packable hood. It also has one zip pocket on the chest, zip and button up closure, two flap chest as well as two zipped ones on the side.
BEST DESIGNER MEN’S PUFFER JACKETS
A-COLD-WALL Asymmetric Padded Jacket, $585 (down from $1170) at MARAIS
If you’ve got the funds to spend on a quality jacket, let this one by A-COLD-WALL be your first pick. Crafted from 100 per cent polyester, this unique padded jacket is the perfect mish-mash of utilitarian style and the streetwear scene. It features an asymmetric silhouette with ribbed panel detailing, a zip front closure, two 3D zip pockets on the front and a stormflap on the back. Snap it up now while it’s on sale.
BEST WATER-RESISTANT MEN’S PUFFER JACKET
Men’s 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket, $500 at The North Face
Inspired by the style of their iconic 90s Nuptse Jacket, this versatile puffer is The North Face’s most popular men’s jacket at the moment.
Yes, it’s pricier then some of the others on the list but boy is it worth it thanks to features like its 700 fill goose down filling, durable water repellent finish and adjustable velcro cuff tabs.
Carhartt Danville Jacket, $499.95 at THE ICONIC
Known for their premium quality and durable workwear, this technical jacket from Carhartt boasts a lightweight and weather-resistant polyester woven shell. It has a thickly quilted and padded design with a zip front closure, stand collar, long sleeves, side pockets and the signature Carhartt logo.
The North Face Men’s Aconcagua 2 Jacket, $300 at THE ICONIC
This jacket is highly wind resistant and has a non-PFC durable water repellent finish to keep you dry. It features a high collar, zip front closure, long sleeves with elastic cuffs and an embroidered logo on the chest and back.
The standard fit jacket also has a 550 fill goose down and Heatseeker™ Eco insulation to keep you nice and snug on cold winter mornings.
BEST LONG MEN’S PUFFER JACKET
The ReNew Long Parka, $471 at Everlane
Similar to the aforementioned ReNew Parka, but this time in a longline design to keep you extra warm, this Everlane parka is a non-quilted puffer made from 64 recycled plastic bottles. It has a storm hood, fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, a two-way zipper, drawstring and toggle cinch hood, interior chest pocket, and a water-resistant exterior. The larger fit makes it ideal for layering over sweaters or hoodies on particularly cold days.
A reviewer left it five stars, saying “Relaxed fit makes layering easy, but it’s so warm that you hardly need to. Soft fabric in the pockets are an added bonus. Great looking winter coat.”
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT MEN’S PUFFER JACKET
Macpac Mens Uber Light Down Jacket, $219.99 at Rebel Sport
Providing lightweight warmth without the bulk, this Macpac jacket is designed to be worn as a mid or outer layer. Made from 100 per cent nylon, it has a water-repellent finish and features 650 loft duck down, a zip front closure, elastic hem and cuffs and side pockets. Wear it for a day or night out, or a holiday and easily pack it into its tiny sack.
BEST MEN’S PUFFER JACKET FOR EXERCISE
Nike Mens Sportswear Therma-FIT Legacy Jacket, $159.99 at Rebel Sport
A combo of a puffer and a windbreaker, this Nike jacket offers the right amount of warmth and is perfect for layering. It’s made from 100 per cent water-repellent polyester paired with synthetic insulation and a fleece lining to keep you warm yet dry. Featuring a zip front closure with a zip chest pocket, snap front pockets and signature Nike branding, this jacket is a great option for popping on before or after gym sessions and more.
STAX. Official Puffer, $169.95
This polyester blend puffer jacket is ideal for throwing over your gym gear on chilly winter mornings. Featuring long sleeves with elasticated cuffs and a high neckline, the puffer also has a zip closure and zip pockets to keep your valuables secure.
BEST SIZE-INCLUSIVE MEN’S PUFFER JACKET
Johnny Bigg Black Westley Puffer Jacket, $79.99 (down from $169.99) at Johnny Bigg
Made and lined with 100 per cent polyester, this puffer jacket is a must-have for your winter wardrobe. This jacket features a high neck, quilted padded panelling, side pockets and a zip front with self guard.
It’s available in sizes XL to 4XL and LT to 4XLT.
ASOS DESIGN puffer jacket with detachable hood in black, $48 (down from $120) at ASOS
This 100 per cent polyester jacket offers the ability to detach the hood, and it features a zip front closure, long sleeves, side pockets and a regular fit. Easy to throw on, this puffer jacket will see you through the cold winter days and beyond.
BEST MEN’S PUFFER VEST
Recycled Polyester Puffer Vest, $199 at Country Road
Stay comfy and stylish in every season with this Country Road vest, it’s a versatile wardrobe staple. It features an eco-friendly recycled polyester outer and lining, zip-through front, external and internal pockets, and a quilted finish.
It already has plenty of fans, with a 4.6 out of five star rating. One reviewer said it’s “super warm, comfortable and moves with your body. Fits well and can be dressed up or down”.
Also available in black.
Recycled Puffer Vest, $69.99 at Cotton On
You can’t go wrong with this puffer vest from Cotton On. Made from a recycled fabric, this stylish vest is water repellent and has a matte finish. Featuring a zip front closure, high collar and a two side pockets, it makes a great winter staple that you can wear in many ways by layering it with shirts, sweaters, jumpers and more.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A PUFFER JACKET?
“From a trend perspective, a large panelled puff in a more traditional bomber style length is the go – and if you have a real love and respect for the great outdoors look for sustainability through recycled fabrications,” advises Guy. Plus, here’s a few more factors to think about:
• Warmth: Do you need a lightweight or heavy option for the climate you live in?
• Insulation: Would you rather a jacket with recycled, synthetic, or down (goose or duck) insulation?
• Colour: Looking for a neutral or a statement colour?
• Budget: Are you able to spend big on a durable, quality jacket or are you feeling thrifty?
• Waterproofing: Do you need a jacket that can withstand wet weather?
• Sleeves: Are you after a vest or full-length sleeve?
• Length: Do you prefer a cropped, mid-length, or longline style?
HOW DO YOU STYLE A PUFFER JACKET?
According to Guy, puffer jackets are easy to work into your existing wardrobe.
“Style it back with a hooded fleece sweater or checked flannel shirt. If you want to go for a more sartorial spin, layer it over a turtle neck knit. Relaxed or loose fit denim will finish out the look or opt for a loose fit cargo pant with your favourite kicks,” he suggests.
CAN YOU WEAR A PUFFER JACKET IN THE RAIN?
It depends on the puffer jacket you buy – not all of them are water resistant! If you live somewhere particularly rainy, or are an outdoorsy type in need of a weatherproof design, check out our water-resistant picks above or check the description of the jacket you’re considering to see if it has a water repellent or water resistant coating.
WHO MAKES THE WARMEST PUFFER JACKET?
Down jackets, usually made using fine goose or duck feathers, are generally considered to be the warmest options when it comes to puffers. If you’re after the warmest options on this list, check out the Men’s UA Armour Down Hooded Jacket, or the Kathmandu Heli or Epiq jackets.
Not set on a puffer? Discover more great men’s coats and jackets here. Plus, read up on our review of the R.M. Williams boots that always sell out.
Discover the best discounts on your favourite brands at news.com.au’s Coupons page here.
To stay up to date with all the best new products, sales, deals and more, sign up to our news.com.au checkout newsletter here.
Originally published as Best men’s puffer jackets to buy in winter 2023
Harriet AmuraoRead related topics:WeatherncG1vNJzZmivp6x7r7HWrGWcp51jrrZ7wqGcnKOfqsFwssCsn6KnnmKur7CMmpqcnaOovLO1xKxmnKSfqbWqusZopq6slafEpq3RaJmeq6Riuqa60manrp6Wmr9utsCcop6so2LBsHnBrrBmoZ5ixKq6056pZmpgZ4BwusSwqmarpKS%2FunuScmmdcWCYfaKClG%2Bbb3Fgl650g8KamJ5rZ26GdIWUcA%3D%3D