Ready or not, winter is here! No longer can we fight the cold, crisp air and leave the house without our trusted outerwear. It can often be a difficult choice deciding if we should reach for the ever-trending denim jacket or the oversized puffer to help us stay warm and cozy.
But what actually prevents a jacket from being considered a parka? We spoke with personal stylists to explain the difference between the two (and when to opt for each), once and for all. We also rounded up the best jackets and parkas to shop, according to our experts and tested by our editors.
Jackets vs. parkas | How to style | Jackets to shop | Parkas to shop | Which is best for you? | How we chose | Meet the experts
Jackets vs. parkas
Jackets are shorter and prioritize style over warmth.
According to Cindy Conroy, a fashion expert and TV host, jackets and parkas are two different pieces of outwear despite many using the terms interchangeably. Jackets "are not built for extreme cold and often stop at the hip or mid-section,” she says. “They cover the upper part of your body, but never the bottom,” shares Conroy.
"A jacket is going to be that everyday piece that can be a bit more of a styling piece than a utility piece, if you will!" suggests Los Angeles stylist Mallory Morris.
According to Kelly Reddy-Best, a Morrill professor in fashion, design and merchandising at Iowa State University, one of the primary functions of (many) jackets is to protect the wearer from moisture. "Whether facing a sudden downpour or navigating through prolonged wet conditions, staying dry is essential. In these cases, the jacket’s material needs to be both waterproof and breathable," she explains.
"For those seeking warmth, the choice of materials becomes more complex, as different insulation types offer varying levels of protection depending on weather conditions and the activity at hand," shares Reddy-Best. "One of the most popular options for cold-weather jackets is down insulation. Down, derived from the soft feathers of birds, is renowned for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and its ability to trap heat effectively in cold, dry climates," she continues.
Reddy-Best also recommends synthetic insulation materials, such as PrimaLoft, which she says has emerged as a practical solution for cold and damp environments. "In addition to warmth and dryness, some jackets are designed to regulate body temperature and promote ventilation in warmer climates," she states. Reddy-Best suggests lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as nylon or polyester blends, to prevent the wearer from overheating.
Most budget friendly: Columbia Women's Switchback III Jacket
- Lightweight
- Comes in multiple colors
- Great quality
- Not super thick
Product Specs:
Sizes: XS-3X | Colorways: 35 | Materials: Polyester, nylon
If you pay attention to the length, you will immediately be able to identify this piece of outerwear as a jacket as it hits above the waist. This lightweight jacket is waterproof, comes in nearly three dozen colors and has over 10,500 five-star ratings on Amazon. Complete the look with a pair of durable rain boots and yoga pants.
Parkas run past your waist and are great for braving the extreme cold.
"The mystical parka is a type of jacket that goes well past your waist. [It] might even go to your knees or past,” explains Conroy. “Its longline silhouette, windproof design and wraparound hood are the perfect antidote to blistering winds and extreme cold. It’s like a warm cup of hot chocolate on a winter day,” she shares.
In addition to design, Morris explains that the simplest difference between a jacket and parka comes down to the outdoor elements. “Parkas are for those serious weather days, the rain, wind, snow are up a notch and we need something chic and stylish to keep us warm and safe from the weather,” she suggests.
"Parkas have their origins in the Arctic regions, developed by Indigenous peoples such as the Inuit, Yup’ik and Aleut, to protect themselves from extreme cold weather," shares Reddy-Best. "Traditionally made from animal skins and fur, including caribou or seal, these garments were highly effective in insulating against freezing temperatures," she continues.
Reddy-Best explains that the most important aspect of contemporary parkas is the insulation, which traps and retains body heat. "Contemporary parkas are designed with features that enhance functionality and warmth," she says.
"Hoods with fur or synthetic trim, for example, create an extra barrier against wind and help retain heat around the face. Many parkas also include adjustable cuffs, drawstring waists and longer hemlines to keep out drafts and provide better coverage," suggests Reddy-Best.
Affordable and cozy: WenVen Women's Winter Thicken Padded Parka
- Very warm
- Protects from wind
- May be a bit too bulky
Sizes: S-5X | Colorways: 16 | Materials: Polyester
It's no wonder this padded parka is an Amazon's Choice for overall pick. This heavy parka features a thick layer of insulation and windproof ribbed cuffs to help combat inclement weather. If you're an avid skier or snowboarder, this long, puffy jacket may be just what you need to take on the winter.
The best jackets, recommended by experts and tested by editors
Most trendy: Toponsky TOPONSKY Winter Warm Lapel Faux Fur Coat
- Affordable price point
- On-trend
- Warm to wear
- Runs small
Sizes: S-XXL | Colorways: 14 | Materials: Faux fur and fleece
I [Wise] am obsessed with this faux fur, fleece coat from Amazon. It’s been keeping me super warm during this blistering cold month and is super comfy and chic. I own it in both black and leopard [...] and am currently eyeing the brown as well.
Sophisticated and cost-effective: Uniqlo Pufftech Compact Jacket
- Comes in multiple colors
- Affordable
- Comes with storage pouch
- Only available up to size XXL
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colorways: 5 | Materials: Nylon, polyester
"While serving muted Michelin man vibes, the quilted design wraps you in softness," shares Conroy. She loves that this affordable jacket gives you coverage without feeling like basic outerwear. This chic jacket also comes with a storage pouch for easily carrying your jacket, whether you're traveling on a plane or hiking up a mountain.
Lightweight pick: Lee Women's Cropped Wool Chore Jacket
- Large front pockets
- Warm fabric blends
- Snap closure
Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: 1 | Materials: Polyester, wool
Commerce editor Amanda Fama loves a lightweight jacket and says that even though her closet is full of them, this one is her favorite. "Although it’s lightweight, it’s still super warm (thanks to the polyester-wool fabric blend)," shares Fama. "I also love the large front pockets; they’re big enough for my phone, keys and wallet [...] no purse necessary. The colors pair perfectly with jeans of all washes, too," she explains.
For the sports fanatic: NBA New York Knicks Retro Classic Rib Wool Varsity Jacket
- Warm
- Retro look
- Arms may be a bit short
Sizes: S-3X | Colorways: 2 | Materials: Wool
"I’ve had this jacket sitting in my closet since earlier this year and I’m so excited to finally break it out when the season starts!" shares associate editor Kamari Stewart. "It’s definitely on the pricier side but the quality makes it worth it, and it has a very cool, retro look and feel," she says.
The best parkas, recommended by experts and tested by editors
A featherless option: Quince Featherless Quilted Long Puffer Jacket
- Insulated
- Water-repellent fabric
- Not bulky
- Only goes up to XL
Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: 5 | Materials: Polyester
If you prefer to not wear a heavy coat, consider this featherless pick from Quince. It claims to provide all the warmth without the bulk, which senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil appreciates on lightly cool days. Most of all, she praises how functional the coat is, from detail to detail.
"It can be zipped, buttoned or both, and the pockets are wonderfully roomy for storing my phone and wallet or just keeping my hands warm" she explains. "And the quilted stitching and gold hardware really elevate the look."
Say hello to faux fur: ellos Women’s Plus Size Side-Snap Wool Parka
- Removable hood
- Pockets
- Only comes in plus sizes
Product Specs:
Sizes: 14-34 | Colorways: 1 | Materials: Wool
“The faux fur trim is so luxurious!” raves Conroy. “At this price point, you don’t often see that. It’s a steal,” she says. This cozy, plus-size jacket features an attached hood with a removable button, long sleeves and pockets for storing your hands if it gets too cold. Right now, it’s a whopping 51% off.
Don't break the bank: Kenneth Cole Quilted Puffer Stadium Jacket
- Comfortable
- Warm
- Sold out in some colors
Product Specs:
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colorways: 3 | Materials: Polyester
Conroy loves this puffer stadium jacket because it is soft and delicate, but also tough when it comes to winter weather. This warm parka features a hidden snap front closure, two pockets and a drawcord toggle stand collar for your desired fit.
Worth the splurge: Aritzia The Super Puff Shorty cliMATTE™
- Wind-resistant
- Built-in 'gloves'
- Very warm; trendy
- Multiple lengths available
Product Specs:
Sizes: 2XS-2XL | Colorways: 13 | Materials: Nylon, elastane, goose down, goose feathers and polyester
I [San Miguel] will always lean on my Aritzia Super Puff for when the weather drops below 30 degrees [Fahrenheit]. According to the brand, The iconic Super Puff is engineered to deliver warmth up to -4 degrees Fahrenheit, all thanks to the premium down that it's filled with. I can attest to this claim since I've survived wearing a T-shirt alone underneath the jacket is 15-degree weather, and managed to break a sweat.
Plus, the Super Puff has other great features to keep you super warm: built-in storm cuffs with finger holes, a removable hood, an adjustable length and water-repellent and wind-resistant fabric, among many notable details.
Although the color I chose was limited edition, there are 13 other colors to choose from in various lengths (original, mid and long) and fabrics (liquid shine, satin flex and more).
Which is best for you?
When choosing between a traditional jacket and a parka, it all depends on your intended activity and the weather. If you're planning to attend an outdoor sporting event in the freezing cold, a parka would be the best option. A parka is "like a warm cup of hot chocolate on a winter day," says Conroy.
If you want to get fancy and experiment with lightweight options for a day of shopping, opt for the jacket. "Give your closet a cold weather refresh by pairing a cream-colored jacket with a wool skirt in the same hue," recommends Conroy. "It’s unexpected for the season, but that’s why winter white ensembles are so delicious. Complete the look with lace-up boots in a complementary shade and a colorful knit beanie," she says.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best jackets and parkas by enlisting the recommendations of fashion stylists. We also included a few editor-tested favorites as well to keep you warm all fall and winter long.
Meet the experts
- Cindy Conroy is a fashion expert and TV host. Profiled by Teen Vogue and PEOPLE, she appears regularly on nationally syndicated shows like Entertainment Tonight.
- Mallory Morris is a stylist in Los Angeles, California.
- Kelly Reddy-Best is a Morrill professor in fashion, design and merchandising at Iowa State University and chief curator and director of the ISU Textiles and Clothing Museum.
