The 17 Best Cold Weather Items of 2023, According to T+L Editors

Under Armour Women's ColdGear Authentics Crew

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While your first instinct may be to layer up in the thickest, bulkiest clothing you can find, it’s a much smarter idea to look for something warm-yet-breathable and moisture-wicking. That’s why we love Under Armour’s ColdGear Authentics Crew: it’s super toasty, incredibly soft, and quick-drying, so you’ll remain comfy even while sweating or caught in wet, wintry weather. Snag it in eight colors and six sizes.

“UA really found the perfect fabric blend and weight to be super warm while still beautifully wicking away sweat for hours on end,” commerce editor Lydia Price said. “I feel completely dry and comfortable all the way through post-ski drinks in the lodge. The nice, tight fit is great for layering over, and it comes in a range of vibrant, flattering colors. Personally, I prefer the crews, but it's also available in a mock neck if you like the extra coverage.

Price at time of publish: $55

Parachute Cozy Booties

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Everyone knows slippers are the key to adding a little warmth, comfort, and relaxation to your daily at-home routine, but we suggest leveling up with a pair of slipper boots. If you’re someone who’s chronically cold, you’ll appreciate the extra few inches of fabric that seal up the space between the top of your foot and hem of your pants — something regular slippers can’t do. These slipper boots from Parachute are simply the best around thanks to their dreamy sherpa design and high-quality construction, plus they’ll keep you extra toasty.

“I'm telling you, slipper boots are infinitely better than regular slippers,” associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin said. “Admittedly, I thought the style was a little goofy when I received a pair in a Secret Santa gift exchange years ago, but I quickly fell in love when I realized how warm they kept me each winter. I love this pair from Parachute because they're just as durable as they are warm and cozy. You can find styles with sturdier soles for indoor-outdoor use, but I like that these ones are lightweight and soft as a cloud.”

Price at time of publish: $59

Naadam Essential Cashmere Sweater Womens

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It's no secret that cashmere locks in heat, but it's also no secret that the luxe fabric is pricey. But sustainable cashmere brand Naadam is shaking things up with their now-iconic $75 Cashmere Sweater. Don’t let the price fool you — this 100 percent Mongolian cashmere sweater is soft, stylish, warm, and luxurious. Not to mention, it comes in dozens of colors ranging from dark ginger to frost green, and you may just want to drop a few of them in your cart.

“I love this sweater from Naadam,” Maglin said. “It's just $75, but it's still one of the softest and highest quality items in my closet. It's unbelievably soft to the touch, comfy, and warm without causing me to overheat. I have it in the mint color (which scores compliments every time I wear it), but I can see myself purchasing a new color every year.”

Price at time of publish: $75

Marmot Montreal Women's Mid-Thigh Length Down Puffer Coat

4.5

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If you’re on the hunt for the winter jacket, look no further than the Montreal Coat by Marmot. It’s extra long, ultra-warm, and totally waterproof, so it’s equipped for taking on any type of winter weather. Beyond the abundance of hidden pockets and other practical features, we love that as thick as this coat is, it still has a subtly cinched waist that creates a flattering silhouette. We recommend it for everything from international journeys to walks with the dog.

“I've become super loyal to this sleeping bag-like coat,” updates writer Taylor Fox said. “It's incredibly warm with a fleece-lined interior and goose-down filling that is completely waterproof in snow and rain (I was caught in an Ireland downpour and absolutely no moisture made it through the coat.) It also has a removable hood, which is really convenient, and multiple large front pockets.”

Price at time of publish: $300

Halfdays Isabel Soft Shell Bib Pant

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Skiing, snowmobiling, and other snow sports call for some heavier duty winter wear, and the Isabel Soft Shell Bib Pant from Halfdays has you covered. The cozy pants are softer and more stylish than the average bib, perfectly insulated, and even feature four-way stretch, so you’ll never feel restricted on the mountain. We especially love that they come in five chic colors and sizes XS to 2X.

“If you find yourself in the presence of snow this winter, then this is the pant of your dreams,” associate digital editor Jamie Aranoff said. “Halfdays' Isabel Soft Shell pants stay up during long active days which is always a major win. Not to mention they also are fleece lined, and have a zipper down the front because after a long day on the mountain the last thing you want is to wrangle with gear. Halfdays is a women-owned brand that uses recycled materials for all of their products.”

Price at time of publish: $345

Patagonia Los Gatos Fleece Zip

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We love a fleece jacket. Who doesn’t? But if you want to save years of your time and hundreds of dollars looking for the best one on the market, go for Patagonia’s Los Gatos Fleece quarter-zip this season. It’s warm without looking or feeling bulky and, because it hits at the hip, it’ll never feel too long or too short. It’s also comfy as can be — so much so, our tester considers it the best fleece she’s worn.

“I own way too many fleeces, and the one I reach for every time I'm going skiing is the Los Gatos fleece,” Aranoff said. “It performs better than anything else I own by keeping me warm and acting as a shield from the wind. I usually wear it as my mid-layer (base-layer under, jacket overtop) and I'm kept comfortable and warm all day. The fleece also does an excellent job at wicking away moisture and I appreciate the wide area around the neck so I can wear a neck gaiter or scarf for extra warmth.”

Price at time of publish: $109

Lululemon Pack It Down Jacket

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Every traveler needs a winter coat that fits into a suitcase without sacrificing warmth and quality. Our top pick is Lululemon’s Pack It Down Jacket. The slim fit, water-resistant coat keeps cold air at bay, all while remaining stylish and lightweight. It’s stuffed with high-quality down, but it isn’t so bulky that you’ll have trouble rolling it down into a small, handled cylinder. Wear it alone or under heavier gear — either way, it keeps you warm.

“I bring this jacket with me on all of my winter trips for a few reasons,” Aranoff said. “First, it's a warm puffer perfect for shielding from chilly temperatures and wind. Second, if temperatures are frigid I'll use this as a mid-layer under a heavy ski jacket. Finally, the jacket rolls up into a soft bag which is the perfect portable pillow for travel. Not to mention the jacket is hooded. If you need an all-in-one jacket for winter travel this is it!”

Price at time of publish: $198

J.Crew Italian Leather Touchscreen Gloves

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Touchscreen gloves, or “smart gloves,” seem to be available at every corner store these days. But before you drop your cash on the first pair you see, keep in mind these gloves are pretty much useless if they don’t keep you warm or actually work with your smart devices. That said, we’re all about these Italian Leather Touchscreen Gloves from J.Crew. Not only do the finger touchpads do their job, but the soft leather couldn’t be sleeker. To top it all off, a cashmere interior seals out chilly air.

“If you want super-soft leather gloves that'll actually keep your hands warm and still let you text, these are the ones for you,” senior commerce editor Morgan Ashley Parker said. “Not only is the leather so buttery out of the bag (and gets better with wear), the cashmere lining adds even more coziness on a chilly day. I especially love the embroidered hearts that serve as the finger touchpads because, not only are they cute, they actually work well enough that I can send a quick message on the go.”

Price at time of publish: $138

Umeepar Winter Faux Fur Bucket Hat

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An affordable hat that traps body heat and goes with pretty much every ensemble? That’s this Umeepar hat in a nutshell. The cute, Y2K-inspired bucket hat is ultra soft to the touch and perfectly complements crewnecks, peacoats, and puffers. And because it comes in more than 50 colors and prints, you can use it to totally customize your look: go for plain black, or opt for something wild with the rainbow leopard-print style.

“This hat was an impulse purchase and it's become a part of my everyday wardrobe,” commerce writer Anna Popp said. “I love that it looks a bit nicer than a sporty beanie and it keeps my head just as warm. And it can be dressed up or down for running errands or going out at night so I particularly love its versatility in the winter months. I'm going to be sad (sort of) when the weather gets warmer and I have to tuck away this chic faux fur hat for winter.”

Price at time of publish: $23

Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT jacket

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Puffers are warm and trendy, but not everyone wants to look like a marshmallow when they leave the house in the winter. If subtlety is more your style, check out the SuperStrand LT Jacket from Outdoor Research. It’s sleek and form-fitting but remains warm and toasty to combat chill. It’s even lightweight and packable, so this jacket perfect for all the cold-weather trips you have planned this year. Oh, and it’s likely to fit you perfectly since it comes in 10 sizes.

“I am not the biggest fan of puffer jackets, as I often overheat in them, but I am obsessed with this lightweight puffer from Outdoor Research,” Popp said. “It keeps me super warm without feeling constricted by down fill and I especially love it as a base-layer for skiing. It fits perfectly over a fleece zip-up and under a shell so I can be comfortable and warm while hitting the slopes. I got the green color and it's a lovely, deep forest shade so it looks just as good off the runs, too.”

Price at time of publish: $199

Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Thermal Socks

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While jackets, gloves, and hats are usually the stars of a cold weather wardrobe, socks are the unsung hero. Feet are usually the first thing to get cold, so make sure you have something effective, like Alvada’s Merino Wool Hiking Socks, to keep warm. These thick, itch-free wool socks fit nicely under boots and sneakers, while cushioned footbeds offer comfort and stability when you’re on the move — not to mention, moisture-wicking properties to keep things comfy all day long.

“I'm obsessed with these merino wool socks,” commerce editor Sophie Mendel said. “As someone with perpetually cold hands and feet, I'm constantly on the lookout for socks that will keep my feet warm, but regulate the temperature enough so they don't get sweaty. This pair does just that, plus their medium-heavy thickness is perfect to wear with winter boots or just my regular booties or slip-ons.”

Price at time of publish: $27 for pack of 3 pairs

LL Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Jacket

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Believe it or not, windproof construction isn’t something every winter jacket boasts. But L.L.Bean’s Ultralight 850 Down Sweater Hooded Jacket does — and then some. In addition to keeping the sting of wind at bay, the coat features the highest quality goose down and a fill power of 850, which means this thing is warm. It’s even water-resistant, easily packable, and equipped with plenty of pockets.

“The warmth-to-lightweight ratio on this jacket is astounding,” associate editorial director of commerce Chris Abell said. “I've had it for a couple of years now, and I love that it protects me from the cold without feeling bulky. It holds up especially well against biting winds, and the hood is comfortable and zippered pockets are well placed. It's water-resistant as opposed to waterproof, so it's not the best bet for pouring rain, but this down jacket has become the primary staple of my winter wardrobe.”

Price at time of publish: $249

Everlane The Alpaca Crew

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What’s a winter wardrobe without a basic, good-quality, crew neck sweatshirt? If you need to stock your closet, go with the Alpaca Crew from Everlane. It’s stylish, versatile, and so soft you may just want to sleep in it. We’re also loving the fact that the sustainable fabric (woven from good-for-the-planet Alpaca fleece) is pill-resistant, prickle-free, and lightweight. Choose a neutral shade like almond or warm taupe, or add a brighter hue like lemon or horizon blue to your cart. Either way, you’re sure to be just as stylish as you are comfy.

“When the temperature drops below, say, 45 degrees, I immediately go into soft-and-fuzzy mode,” senior editor Hannah Walhout said. “And the beauty of this alpaca sweater is that I can actually wear it to work (unlike, say, a set of fleece-lined footie pajamas). I want one in every color.”

Price at time of publish: $100

UGG Classic Short II

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Uggs never seem to go out of style, and we’re thankful, because we can’t get over them. Lately, we’re particularly obsessed with the Classic Short II Boots, which feature the brand’s signature sheepskin lining, cushioned foam footbeds, and traction-heavy outsoles. They’re also the perfect mid-height boots that can be worn as-is or rolled slightly to create a fur-topped look. The boots are incredibly warm and can be worn pretty much anywhere and for any occasion.

“I’ve been a loyal Ugg wearer since the early 2000s and breaking out my Classic Short II Boots is honestly my favorite winter tradition,” commerce writer Emily Belfiore said. “They’re the warmest shoes I own and they last a long time — definitely worth the investment, whether you want to wear them as slippers for lounging, casual shoes for errands, or winter boots for cold-weather trips.”

Price at time of publish: $170

Abercrombie Ultra Mini Puffer

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The mere mention of Abercrombie & Fitch may conjure up memories of the early 2000s and overly potent cologne, but the retailer is currently in the midst of a resurgence — and we’re here for it. One of our favorite items is the Ultra Mini Puffer, which offers luxe vibes and a perfect fit thanks to a cropped (but not too cropped) length. It has fleece-lined pockets and cinched cuffs, plus it looks great with everything from streetwear to office clothes. It’s even available in multiple different fabric types including faux leather and corduroy.

“Word to the wise, don’t sleep on Abercrombie’s outerwear — especially when it comes to the Ultra Mini Puffer Jacket,” Belfiore said. “It’s the only winter coat I’ve owned that I actually look forward to wearing because it’s so warm and stylish. And, I love that you can easily layer sweaters underneath without feeling bulky.”

Price at time of publish: $160

Baleaf Fleece Thermal Mock Neck Long Sleeve

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Wearing base layers underneath heavier cold-weather clothing is the easiest way to stay warm. We recommend the comfy and reasonably-priced Thermal Base Layer Top from activewear brand Baleaf. It’s sleek, stretchy, and breathable, and its mock neck paired with a drop-tail hem provide coverage everywhere you’d ever want it. The top, which comes in eight colors and seven sizes, even features reflective elements for increased visibility.

“I can’t say enough good things about this base layer top, which I impulse bought in 2020 when I needed cold-weather activewear to exercise outdoors when gyms were closed,” Belfiore said. “It fits snuggly to keep the cold out and the warmth in, but is still incredibly flexible and comfy. When I was on the east coast for the holidays, I basically wore it every day.”

Price at time of publish: $33