Is there anything more irritating than having to schlep a giant winter coat around all day once you’ve overheated? While the mere thought of it grates my nerves, the alternative — not wearing a coat and then being too cold — is also a dangerous move. This makes finding a middle ground imperative, both for peace of mind and body temperature. A lightweight jacket that also happens to be ultra-warm is an easy way to split the difference.
Many clothing brands boast of having such a jacket in their arsenal, but all are certainly not made equal. To truly find the best options on the market, we scoured reviews sections to ensure shoppers verified such claims.
Below, we’ve rounded up the very best light, thin and packable jackets for men and women that are deceptively warm, according to reviews. Take a look around and pick one up for yourself. They come at a range of price points, styles and colors, but they’re all a great option for chilly days and won’t weigh you down.
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Quince Featherless quilted long puffer jacket
Quince rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Want a bit more coverage without the extra bulk? Quince has the perfect option. The quilted design is as cozy and warm (and on-trend) as it gets without making you feel like you're wearing a giant puffer coat. The high-stand collar keeps your neck warm while a hidden front two-way zip closure keeps your torso toasty. It's available in two colors in women's sizes XS–XL.
Promising review: "Love this jacket. I bought this jacket for a December trip to Italy. I wanted something that wasn't super bulky. This jacket is warm without the added bulk. I originally purchased a medium but switched to a small. For reference, I am 5'-5" and 125 lbs, I would definetly recommend it." — Kelly
A lightweight quilted jacket at Amazon
Amazon rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Featuring a timeless longline chore coat silhouette, this lightweight quilted jacket boasts a cool diamond texture that looks as good as it feels. It's surprisingly warm, cozy and versatile. You can dress it up or down, either way, it won't feel like you're wearing a shapeless coat or sacrificing style for warmth. It's available in a range of colors in women's sizes S–XXL.
Promising review: "Perfect. This is a great travel coat because it’s warm but not too heavy and lends itself to layering if you need more" — Tamsterhr
Carhartt Rain Defender insulated rain jacket
Carhartt rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
This jacket weighs a feathery 1.75 ounces and is still able to keep you warm in chilly weather. It's insulated and quilted, with generously-sized pockets in which to stuff your gloved hands. It comes in five colors in men's regular and tall sizing from S–3XL, plus women’s XS–3X.
Promising review: "I like it. Like the jacket it's lightweight yet warm and blocks the wind" — Steve J.
Amazon Essentials lightweight puffer jacket
Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
If you're in the market for a packable puffer, you don't want to miss this one at Amazon. Made with water-resistant fabric, it's designed to be ultralight while still providing serious warmth during the cold winter months. It has a quilted pattern with seam detailing and a stand collar along with sipper pockets and comfy elastic cuffs, all of which can be packed neatly into its carrying bag. It's available in a range of colors in women's sizes XS–6X and men's sizes XS–6X tall.
Promising review: "I really like this jacket. It’s thick enough to wear in chilly weather but it’s still lightweight and doesn’t take up too much space in a suitcase. I ordered medium and it fits me perfectly. I also like the way it looks on me” — Candace
L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 down sweater
L.L. Bean rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
You can't go wrong with a classic like this down "sweater" from L.L. Bean. This timeless jacket is as lightweight as it gets. Made with super warm down filling, it's shockingly lightweight without skimping on heat retention. It's available in four colors in women's regular and petite sizing from XXS–XL and men's regular and tall sizing S–XXXL.
Promising review: "I have only had my new jacket for a couple of weeks but have worn it almost every time I went outside. I live in VT where it can get very cold. I did wear it when the temperature was in the teens and it was very comfortable. I look forward to trying it when the temps are below zero. It fits well and I very much like the style and the "unique ribbing." The liner is also a smooth material which I like so much better than fleece which shirts and sweaters can cling to when putting it on. I also love the dark green color!" — George T.
A fleece-lined plaid shacket with a hood
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
A shacket is always a good idea, and this is a great option for someone who wants a little more warmth and coziness without sacrificing style or throwing on a bulky coat. Available in 10 colors and sizes S-XXL, it's lightweight and cozy with an attached hood for extra comfort.
Promising review: "I really love this shirt - it can be used inside on a cold day to keep you warm but also makes a nice jacket on warm fall days. It’s lined and warm but not too heavy. It’s a loose fit so goes well over a turtleneck or light weight sweater. It’s got side pockets which are a plus. The snap buttons are easy and look nice. Sizing is perfect." — Amanda L. Hosmer
Vuori Canyon insulated sporty jacket
Vuori rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Available in women's sizes XS–XL, this simple, yet sweetly elegant insulated jacket is flying off the shelves, so you better snag one while you still can. It keeps you warm on cold days spent on-the-go, including during camping trips. It's designed to have a relaxed fit and slight bubble look: reviewers recommend sizing down if you prefer a more fitted look. It's made with recycled materials and looks as good as it feels.
Promising review: "I love the feel and weight of this jacket. It’s so soft and lightweight. I got a medium which is my usual size and I can wear it over a sweatshirt. It’s slightly oversized and the sleeves are a little long.” — Stephanie B.
The North Face Antora jacket
Nordstrom rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Run, don't walk, to grab this windbreaker-like North Face shell jacket. This popular piece of outerwear is a must for anyone who wants to add a bit of style to their cold-weather arsenal and look good doing it. It's considered more midweight than lightweight, but its slim silhouette still fits the bill. It features an adjustable three-piece hood, elastic cuffs and a wind- and water-repellant shell. You can get it in a few cool colors in standard and plus sizes from XS–XXL.
Promising review: "100% worth every penny. I love this jacket. It's light weight and doesn't get me wet when it's raining out. Best part is that it also keeps me warm" — Isabel
Columbia Labyrinth Loop insulated jacket
Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
You don't have to be a hiker to love this jacket, but it is a wonderful option for those who spend a lot of times outdoors. It's made with recycled synthetic down insulation that retains body heat while remaining breathable and squishes down for easy packing and carrying. The exterior is water-resistant and the interior is designed with thermal-reflective gold dots that can also help to keep you extra warm. It's available in five colors and men's standard, big and tall lengths in sizes S–XXL.
Promising review: "This jacket is exactly what I was looking for. I only owned spring/fall jackets and heavy winter parkas. I wanted something lightweight, but would keep me warm when temperatures were below freezing. This jacket is it. Extraordinarily light (not at all bulky) and extraordinarily warm." — Keith