These Are the Best North Face Jackets for Staying Cozy and Looking Cool (No Matter the Weather)

Like many millennials, I owned this jacket way back in my high school days and absolutely adored it. And just last year I acquired a new style as an adult and adore it just as much, if not more. The soft fleece is an ideal weight for crisp autumn days, whether you’re headed out for a hike or strolling through your local farmers’ market. In fact, I find it to be surprisingly warm, although there are also armpit zips for extra ventilation, if needed. And while the Denali isn’t going to keep you dry in a rain storm, the signature black panel on the shoulders and chest is water resistant.

As for sizing, I and most other reviewers find the Denali fits true to size. However, I did opt to size up one to ensure easy layering options and to give myself some extra wiggle room should my body change over the years. Like so many North Face designs, this cutie is built to last and has the added bonus of being a truly iconic silhouette that will be just as cool next autumn as it will be 15 autumns from now.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 3XL and 1X to 3X
• Materials: 360 g/m² 100 percent recycled polyester body; 118 g/m² 100 percent recycled nylon overlay with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
• Insulation: n/a
• Weatherproofing: wind repellant
• Warmth Rating: warmest

Another of my most-used North Face jackets is the Mountain Jacket. (Unfortunately, my purple version is a few years old and no longer available.) Another classic TNF silhouette, this jacket debuted in 1985 as a shell layer that could protect outdoor adventurers from rain, wind and even snow when layered appropriately. The 2025 version still does exactly that, but with all the latest and greatest technology from the brand, including a DryVent™ Mono membrane that supposedly delivers seam-sealed, waterproof protection with 100 percent recycled materials. Plus, it comes with the ability to zip onto the Denali jacket to create one super-warm, weather-resistant layer that won’t bunch up no matter the activity. On top of all that, it just looks supremely cool. My only gripe is that is doesn’t come in plus sizes at the moment.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 3XL
• Materials: 140 g/m² DryVent™ Mono 2L—100 percent recycled polyester body with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
• Insulation: n/a
• Weatherproofing: windproof and waterproof
• Warmth Rating: warm

A packable, lightweight rain jacket is a must for any outdoor activity, but it’s also a really nice thing to be able to toss into your tote bag to keep you dry in any unexpected drizzles. The Alta Vista jacket packs neatly into its own chest pocket for easy storage and portability, but more than that it offers dependable rain protection. The recycled nylon body is treated with a non-PFC durable water repellant that keeps rain out while also wicking away sweat from within. I’ll admit, it’s not perfect—wearing this jacket on a rainy run I ended up soaked from sweat such that I could have forgone a jacket altogether—but I’ve yet to find any truly waterproof jacket that doesn’t get a little toasty on the inside. This one is also highly adjustable, with drawcords on the hem and hood, hook-and-loop cuffs around the wrists and armpit zips for better ventilation, earning it a coveted spot in my remaining jacket collection.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 3XL
• Materials: 70D 90 g/m² DryVent™ 2.5L—100 percent recycled nylon body with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
• Insulation: n/a
• Weatherproofing: windproof and waterproof
• Warmth Rating: n/a

Another old-school favorite iconic for the brand is the Nuptse puffer. But don’t let the fact that this winter jacket has become a must-have for fashion folk trick you into thinking the Nuptse is just for show—this is one super-warm puffer! The recycled nylon ripstop body is stuffed with 700 fill goose down to keep you cozy and warm on even the coldest winter afternoons. And while the material isn’t totally waterproof, it is water resistant should you find yourself weathering an unexpected drizzle. It can also be clipped into the Mountain jacket for added protection.

The latest iteration has a nearly identical silhouette to the ’90s original, but can be packed neatly into its own right-hand pocket and comes with a hood that can be rolled up and zippered into the collar. As for sizing, this puffer definitely fits true to size, even when considering layering. Unless you’re very petite, I recommend sticking with your usual size.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 3XL and 1X to 3X
• Materials: 40D 57 g/m² 100% recycled nylon ripstop body with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
• Insulation: 700 fill goose down insulation
• Weatherproofing: windproof and water repellant
• Warmth Rating: warmest

If you’re on the hunt for a trusty winter parka that can see you through all conditions, all while looking good too, this North Face jacket may just be the one for you. The sleek cut is simple and elegant, and there’s an internal drawcord at the waist for those who like a bit more definition with the shape. While the hood itself is not removable, the faux-fur trim is, allowing you to shake up the look even further. The body is both waterproof and windproof (with cozy 600 fill recycled down), designed specifically to keep you dry and warm on very wet or cold days. The collar even has a chin guard to avoid any irritation when the jacket is fully zipped up. Despite the fact that the Arctic Parka is designed with a roomy fit, most reviewers do say you’re best bet is to go with your usual size when ordering.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to XXL and 1X to 3X
• Materials: 75D 184 G/M² DryVent™ 2L—100 percent recycled polyester body with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish; 70 percent acrylic, 17 percent polyester, 13 percent modacrylic faux-fur trim
• Insulation: 600 fill recycled waterfowl down
• Weatherproofing: windproof and waterproof
• Warmth Rating: warmer

This puffer perfectly straddles the line between chic and practical, to leave you looking cool while feeling toasty warm. The 600 fill recycled down is incredibly lightweight and highly compressible for easy storage. And the recycled nylon taffeta body keeps out unwanted precipitation while providing a slightly shimmery finish for bonus style points. The hood is, unfortunately, not removable, but does come with a chin guard sewn in. This is a really great everyday option to see you through winter in style that also won’t take up all the space in your already crowded closet.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 3XL and 1X to 3X
• Materials: 30D 45 G/M² 100 percent recycled nylon taffeta body with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
• Insulation: 600 fill recycled waterfowl down
• Weatherproofing: windproof and water repellent
• Warmth Rating: warmer

Another sleek puffer option is the Thermoball parka. With a longer length and less loft, it can very easily be worn under a shell or larger layer, but also looks great all on its own. And don’t let that pared down silhouette fool you, this parka is still incredibly warm. Despite the fact that the hood is not removable, the silhouette of this jacket is actually very easy to switch up thanks to an internal drawcord at the waist and a two-way zipper up the front. And multiple reviewers say the slightly longer length is actually very comfortable for sitting or driving. So if you have a winter packed with weekend ski getaways or cheering from the bleachers at Sunday football games, this is a definitely a style to consider.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to XXL and 1X to 3X
• Materials: 20D 44 g/m² WINDWALL™—100 percent recycled polyester body with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
• Insulation: 11 g/ft² THERMOBALL™ 100 percent post-consumer recycled polyester
• Weatherproofing: windproof and water repellent
• Warmth Rating: warmer

There are multiple North Face ski and snowboard jackets to consider, and you really can’t go wrong no matter which one you pick, but the Freedom stands out to me for two main reasons. First is the price point, which is lower than almost all other TNF ski designs, making this a great option for anyone who's ready to upgrade from their entry-level jacket to something a bit more high-tech—without spending more than $400. Second is the sheer number of thoughtful design details packed into this one silhouette. Beyond the usual snow skirt, helmet-compatible hood and hook-and-loop cuffs, the Freedom also boasts a small pocket on the right arm to fit your lift ticket that also has a built-in goggle wipe. And there are drawcords seemingly everywhere to help you find your perfect fit, even while wearing heavy-duty mittens. The armpits have ventilation zips as well as a mesh layer to prevent snow from piling in should you fall, and multiple internal and external zippered pockets to keep everything neatly organized and safe from the elements. Add to that some very cool color options, and you’ve got yourself an undeniable winner.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to XXL
• Materials: 70D X 160D 130 G/M² DryVent™ 2L—100 percent recycled nylon body with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
• Insulation: 80 G Heatseeker™ Eco 90 percent post-consumer recycled polyester in body, 60 G in sleeves and hood
• Weatherproofing: windproof and waterproof
• Warmth Rating: warmer