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If you don’t already have a puffer vest, let this be your sign to hop on the bandwagon. Though many outerwear brands may advertise them as ideal for hiking, they’re plenty useful as wardrobe staples for layering in that weird in-between weather.
Not all puffer vests are created equal, however. Whether you want a high standing collar to cover your neck, a cropped fit that’s on the trendier side, or a longer one to keep yourself covered and warm all over — there are puffer vests for everyone. We scoured the internet to find some of the most highly-rated options at different price points, and found a variety of vests that can help you embrace the colder weather in style.
Below, check out the cream of the crop — 14 vests that are stylish, comfortable and functional. All of them have ratings well over 4 stars to prove it.
HuffPost receives compensation from one or more retailers on this page, and HuffPost and its publishing partners may also receive a commission for purchases made via links. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Amazon rating: 4.4 (women’s) and 4.5 (men’s) out of 5 stars
With high ratings across over 14,000 reviews on both the men’s and women’s versions of this puffer vest, this is a reliable option that’s on the cheaper side among the other vests on this list. It has a regular fit with two zippered hand pockets, is water-resistant and is lightweight enough to be packable. It’s available in 11 colors, and you can grab it in women’s sizes XS-XXL and men’s sizes XS-6XL with some tall sizing options too.
Promising review: “I had lost a Patagonia puffer vest on a long trip and while looking for a replacement came across these Amazon vests. Although a little nervouse about the price I took the plunge…. and I am glad I did. This is a super high quality puffer vest to keep you warm and stylish. I love the double inside pockets which is not on most. Get one and see.” — Steve
Amazon rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Looking for something a little more fashion forward? Try this women’s cropped puffer vest, the current bestseller in the women’s outerwear vests category. It has a high collar and adjustable drawstring hem. The vest also has a slightly looser fit on the shoulders, if that’s what you’re looking for. It comes in 17 colors and women’s sizes XS-XXL.
Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
An Automet half-zip sweatshirt was an October Prime Day 2024 topseller and the brand is known for its comfy basics, so we had to throw their puffer vest on this list. It’s cropped similarly to the last one (though not quite as much), with the same type of stand collar, but offers the useful feature of two front pockets. It comes in 13 fun colors and women’s sizes XS-XL.
Promising review: “Really like this vest. Cute and cozy to throw on over a long sleeve or sweatshirt for cooler months and has pockets deep enough to fit my phone and keys without falling out. It did puff up a little more after I took it out of the packaging but not too much. Ordered my regular M and it zips up over my DD bust and is snug like a vest should be but still roomy. Note: this vest is not as long as other vests but I would not call it a true crop. Maybe it’s because I’m 5’2″ but honestly I actually prefer this length as the vest is just long enough to cover my pooch but stops before my butt so it works out.” — TC
Amazon rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Though this Baleaf puffer vest has comparatively fewer ratings than some of the others we’ve included here sold on Amazon, we know the brand is trusted for making reliable activewear, including their extremely popular quick-dry hiking pants. This vest comes in four colors and men’s sizes S-XXL. It has four pockets, is lightweight and water-resistant and, unlike the others on this list, has stretchy fabric panels on the sides so as not to restrict movement.
Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
This Lands’ End vest falls at mid-hip, has a high collar, is made with 600-fill down designed to create an hourglass silhouette. The pockets are even fleece-lined, in case your hands get cold. It’s available in a bunch of colors and patterns and women’s sizes XS-3XL, with petite, tall and plus sizes available.
Promising review: “I love this vest. I bought a size up so I can layer with it. Very flattering and creates a slight hourglass shape instead of just hanging straight. I was apprehensive about washing it in my washer (it’s machine washable) as it has down feathers, but it came out great. I hung it up to dry. If you’re looking for a vest, strongly consider this one.” — Sammie
Adidas rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
If you’re anticipating rainy weather, a hood can make all the difference. This hooded down vest from Adidas is insulated with 600-fill down to keep you warm, and has hidden snap buttons on the front to keep the look clean and streamlined. The hood is elastic so it can stay snug, and the vest has two front pockets with zippers. It comes in three colors and sizes XS-4XL.
Note: Right now, Adidas has a Buy 2, Get 30% off deal going so definitely grab yours while they’re discounted.
Promising review: “The color matched the photo exactly. The vest keeps your core body warm and repels water very well in moderate rainy weather. The hood adds some style. Best adidas vest I’ve ever owned.” — Marty1
Quince rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Though Adidas’ vest only comes in men’s sizes, there are plenty of highly-rated hooded puffer vests available in women’s sizes, including this option from Quince which you can nab in six colors and women’s sizes XS-XL. It’s water-resistant, wind-repellant and is fitted without being too tight, making it a great layering piece. It’s made with 90% goose down to keep you warm and cozy. The hood is also removable, so you can switch up the look depending on what you want out of the vest.
Promising review: “I got this puffy vest in the shiny black and it’s amazing. I usually do Burton or other outdoor brands and the quality of this down is as good or better than those. Very fluffy, warm, great fit, and sleek look. Like that the hood is detachable too. You won’t regret it:)” — Sam D.
Columbia rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Vests can be great protection against the cold and rain until you have to sit down outside on a wet bench. (Been there before.) That’s where a longer option with more coverage like this vest from Columbia can come in handy, to keep your butt covered with a droptail hem. Other design features of this vest include a two-way zipper, interior security pocket in addition to the two zippered front pockets, a fleece-lined collar and a thermal reflective lining to keep you warm. Grab it in four colors and women’s sizes XS-3XL.
Nordstrom rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
No outerwear list is complete without mentioning The North Face, which makes this popular vest for both men and women. Machine-washable with a water-repellent coating, this vest has a stand collar and two front pockets like many of the others on this list. It also has a straight hemline, if the droptail hem style of some vests doesn’t appeal to you. It comes in a range of colors across retailers, in women’s sizes XS-3XL and men’s sizes S-3XL.
Nordstrom rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
For maximum coverage, this Zella puffer vest is a reviewer favorite thanks to both the hood and the longer hem. The hood also has drawstrings to adjust it, and the vest’s front zipper has a storm flap you can snap closed over it to keep out wind and cold. Another unique feature is the side zipper vents to keep you from overheating and allow some more movement. Grab this one in four colors and women’s sizes XS-XXL; reviewers say the fit runs slightly large.
Promising review: “This vest is amazing! I bought one last year when I was pregnant because it was oversized and long – I wore it constantly. I purchased it this year in 2 more colors. I like that it’s long and somewhat lightweight so you can wear it out and about all day. I am typically a XS/S and purchased the XS. 5’5” mid 130s 32DD. Highly recommend!” — ashleyam
Patagonia rating: 4.7 (men’s) and 4.6 (women’s) out of 5 stars
Patagonia’s Nano-Puff vest has a unique brick quilting pattern and is made with 100% recycled insulation. It’s also packable, has an interior chest pocket with a zipper and two front pockets, and you can adjust the hem with a drawstring to keep the warmth from getting out. It’s available in seven colors, in men’s sizes XS-3XL and women’s sizes XXS-XXL.
Promising review: “I wake up to cool mornings (50ºF or lower) and then the day warms up (~70º). This vest is perfect for those days because it keeps me warm when it’s cool and is easily packed away when it warms up! So happy that I decided to purchase this!” — Andrew
REI rating: 4.6 (men’s) and 4.5 (women’s) out of 5 stars
This REI puffer vest has four total pockets and a slightly less dramatic collar if you want one that’s a little shorter (but still tall enough to keep your neck warm). It’s made with 650-fill down, as well as a windproof and water-resistant fabric that also has a water-repellent coating to keep you dry. Get it in four colors and men’s sizes S-3XL, plus women’s sizes XS-3XL.
Old Navy rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
You’re not limited to technical performance fabrics when it comes to puffer vests. For a more indoor-friendly vest that’s stylish and comfortable, you can try something like this corduroy Old Navy vest. It has a snap front to hide the zipper, and the relaxed fit makes it easy to layer over other pieces. It comes in six colors and men’s sizes XS-4XL, with tall size options also available.
Athleta ating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
The diamond quilted pattern on this Athleta puffer makes it a standout, but that’s not the only thing to love. It’s featherless and ultra-lightweight, has a bungee cord to adjust the waist to your desired fit and has two front pockets. You can find it in three colors in women’s sizes XXS-3XL, with tall and petite options available, too.
Promising review: “I’ve owned this vest in black for a few years and loved it so much that I decided to get another in a different color to mix up my wardrobe. It’s versatile and perfect for various occasions, whether I’m working out, hanging out with friends, or heading to the golf course. Plus, it’s lightweight and packs easily, making it a great travel companion. A true staple piece that combines style with functionality!” — Adena M.