23 Clothing Items That Actually Stand Up to Cold Weather, According to Reviews
Love it or hate it, there's no doubt that the arrival of winter is imminent, so we'd say it’s high time to get our cold-weather wardrobes into gear. While there’s no lack of warm and cozy pieces on the market, it can be hard to decipher which ones will actually stand up to the frigid temps this winter. To get a better sense of what pieces people are loving for winter, I went straight to the customer reviews and highly rated products at our favorite retailers to get the scoop. After hours of reading reviews—nine to be exact (hey, someone’s gotta do it), I whittled down some of the most highly rated pieces based on positive reviews. From cozy coats to shearling boots and cashmere sweaters, scroll below as I share some the highly touted cold-weather pieces and some snippets of the reviews they received. Stay warm!
Coats
The popular coat that took over the Upper East Side remains one of Amazon's best sellers—much loved for its style, warmth, and windproof properties.
"Out of probably 20 winter coats, this is now my absolute favorite! I can't even begin to tell you how much I love this coat. I love everything about it. The quality is outstanding. I have had every expensive brand name winter coat, but have never ever had one that has kept me this warm!"
Don't you just want to live in this teddy bear? Celebrity-loved and coveted for its luxurious cozy feel, this coat will make make a major statement (while keeping you snug).
"Such a great coat. Very warm!"
Designed to stand up to frigid temps, this quilted parka is highly praised for its stylish silhouette and incredible warmth.
"This coat is amazing! Very comfortable and SO warm it’s like a loving embrace. I bought it to deal with the cold winds in Philadelphia and I can say it has stood the test! I'd definitely recommend. It fits perfectly, even over my bulky sweaters and other layers."
Mackage comes in with some of the highest reviews for its coats (this fur-trim down coat also receives five-star ratings). Customers love this water-repellent puffer for its super-insulated properties and flattering fitted silhouette.
"This is one of the smartest, chicest puffer jackets I've ever seen. It has a great comfort zone down to 25F."
Snuggle in style. This double-breasted faux-fur coat is super soft and fashion-forward with a slightly oversize fit.
"This jacket is beautiful! Very luxurious, plush and extra soft. It looks really expensive and has an oversize fit. It's a keeper!"
Customers love this coat for its quality, great fit, and amazing feel. While it may not be for frigid temps, reviewers say it's still incredibly warm and when worn with layers it's the perfect coat to see you through fall and into winter.
"I absolutely love this coat (I ordered it in black) and have received so many compliments on it! The faux-fur collar is incredibly soft!"
Boots
These waterproof hiking boots earn high points for style, comfort, and protection against the elements. They're super versatile too—they look cool worn with jeans on the weekend, with a skirt and tights to work, or with sweats for hiking. I own a pair and can attest they're super comfortable and look cool.
"These are really warm, comfortable and the nicest looking winter boots I’ve ever found. They are true to size and incredibly lightweight for being as warm as they are. They’re also the only winter boots that haven’t made my feet look like clown shoes. Highly recommended!"
With its thermo rubber sole providing underfoot insulation and shearling wool lining, these chic chunky heeled knee-high boots will keep you looking stylish and warm through the cold-weather season.
"Love these warm lined boots: very comfortable, and super warm. They have a nice platform that’s not too high. I have thin legs, and the width was perfect. Highly recommend."
Not only are heavy-duty combat boots trending hard right now, but this Dr. Martens pair will stand up to cold weather with its wool tartan lining and chunky heat-sealed rubber soles. Its air-cushioned sole makes them extremely comfortable.
"I am MADLY in love with these boots! They have what it takes to force me out of the house throughout the Indiana winter."
Love them or hate them, there's no question that Uggs have a cult following and with over a whopping 1.4K positive reviews on Nordstrom, they are officially one of the most loved boots for their cozy comfort.
"My favorite winter boot! I've had mine for six years. They'll last you forever. Super comfy and very warm."
Another Ugg boot highly praised for its warmth, comfort, and style—with 110 five-star reviews.
"They kept my feet warm and dry when I was standing on wet grass and ground in 35 degree (rain/drizzle) weather by a river for hours! Stylish enough to dress up or down. So happy I got them! Will be my go-to boots for a long time!"
Sweaters
Super soft, warm, and comfortable, this merino wool and alpaca blend sweater is a hit among customers for its warmth that doesn't weigh you down. It also comes in six chic colors.
"This is a great roomy sweater that is not too bulky. Extremely soft and squishy, very soft and breathable."
With 120 five-star reviews, customers can't get enough of this plush and cozy cardigan that will keep you snug and warm no matter the season. It's definitely more casual in nature and runs large so order a size down.
"I will be back for another one. This cardigan is super soft and comfortable. I keep it on the back of my chair at work and wear around the freezing office all day. I need another one for home. I've tried other cardigans from this brand, and so far this one is my favorite. It's like wearing a hug."
A soft and cozy layering sweater, the side buttons are a chic addition and customers love the value for money. It comes in five cool colors.
"I love the quality of this sweater—it looks very chic (the pale blue and is an unexpected winter color). It is soft and warm, Great for date night or paired with faux leather pants. Super flattering length."
This casual fleecy pullover is perfect for both winter outdoor activities and casual weekends thrown on with jeans. Reviewers love its flattering fit and the fact that it's lightweight but seriously warm.
"This is one of the warmest, most comfortable sweatshirts I own! It’s super flattering and really can be 'dressed up”'when worn with jeans and booties. I think it’s fully worth the money."
A luxuriously soft 100% cashmere cardigan, customers love this one for its warmth, versatility, beautiful feel and chic factor.
"This cardigan is thick, soft and the most lovely color. Great for fall and winter in Seattle. I will wear over a button-up silk blouse for work and a tee for the weekend. Lots of room to layer underneath too."
For casual and cozy winter weekends, this five-star-rated sweater will keep you toasty.
"Everyone needs to own this pullover. It is so comfortable and is SO warm. It's like a weighted comfort blanket."
Basics
These leggings are highly touted on Amazon with over 437 amazing customer reviews. Designed with soft fleece and breathable fabric, they're sure to keep you toasty during all your favorite winter activities."Pulling these pants on was like stepping into a hug. The fleece is lightweight but cozy. I need 15 more pairs so I can live in them the entire winter."
If you need an extra layer of warmth this winter (without too much bulk), this fitted thermal top is it. Customers rave about how warm yet thin and seamless this top—perfect for wearing under blouses or sweaters.
"Perfect item for layering. When we travel, we want to pack light. These allow you to head to cold temperatures without packing bulky sweaters, coats, and sweatshirts. Put these under a pair of lightweight traveling clothes and you're ready for anything. We just got back from Iceland hiking on Glaciers, and hiking all over European cities. These saved us so much luggage room. We also use them when traveling locally to areas with climates in the low 20s up to the 60s. Also perfect as pajamas."
This quilted vest offers maximum warmth in minimal weight. It's touted for its great quality, warmth, and ability to compress down easily when traveling.
"The perfect travel vest because it packs down to nothing but still has great shape and structure when it’s on. It's warm, without the bulk, the quality is impeccable and you can't beat their guarantee."
Accessories
Made from merino wool these socks have moisture-wicking properties that will keep your feet toasty and sweat-free through winter.
"These socks are amazing! Incredibly soft and comfortable, I wear them all the time. My feet get cold easily, and it's been a struggle to find a perfect fit; all socks were either too large or too thick or tight or not warm enough until I tried these and the price is pretty fair. They feel like butter and fit well. I am definitely getting these for my family for Christmas."
It's almost like you don't have to get out of bed! Duvet dressing is a huge trend for fall/winter 2019, and this cozy scarf nails it perfectly.
"Love this scarf! Get so many compliments on it! It’s super warm!"
Made from 100% merino wool this classic and cool beanie will add a vibrant touch to your winter outfits.
"It is super soft plus thick and durable. I plan to get a lot of use out of it this season!"
Up next, the only coats to buy right now, according to 9 fashionable brits.
Ed. Note: Reviews have been lightly edited for clarity.
Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.