When the arctic winds sweep across the UK, a high-performance puffer jacket becomes an essential piece of kit. To find the very best for 2025, we took a selection of the latest insulated layers to the exposed, granite-strewn landscape of Dartmoor, subjecting them to freezing temperatures, biting winds, and the rigours of winter hiking.
Our testing took place during a prolonged cold snap in December 2025, providing the perfect, if challenging, environment to assess warmth, weather resistance, and durability. The key to a great puffer lies in its insulation, measured by 'fill power' – the higher the number, the greater the heat-trapping ability. We prioritised jackets that offered an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, freedom of movement, and a durable outer shell suitable for everything from muddy dog walks to mountain trails.
Our Top Picks for Men's Puffer Jackets
After extensive field testing, these thirteen jackets stood out from the pack, each excelling in a specific category.
Best Overall: OEX Kintra Down Jacket (£180). This jacket impressed with its 700-fill power duck down, offering exceptional warmth without excessive bulk. Its athletic fit performed superbly during active use on Dartmoor, and the ripstop shell with a DWR finish handled snow flurries admirably. Features include an adjustable hood and hem, elasticated cuffs, and multiple zipped pockets.
Best Budget Buy: Peter Storm Loch Down Jacket (£65). Proving that you don't need to spend a fortune, this synthetic 650-fill power jacket provides reliable core warmth. It boasts a ripstop outer, elasticated hood and cuffs, a drawstring hem, and packs neatly into its own pocket for ultimate convenience.
Best for Durability: Carhartt Rain Defender (£104). True to its workwear heritage, this jacket is built to last. Its synthetic insulation maintained warmth even when significantly damp, and the robust construction can withstand heavy wear and tear. It features multiple pockets, including a smartphone-sized chest pocket.
Best for Bitter Conditions: Shackleton Halley Ultralight Jacket (£325). When the mercury plummets, this is the jacket you want. Its 800-fill power goose down, engineered baffle construction, and ripstop shell provide elite-level insulation. Lightweight and packable, it includes thoughtful details like a microfleece chin guard and hidden draft-dampening cuffs.
How We Tested for Maximum Winter Performance
Our methodology was hands-on and rigorous. Journalist Jon Axworthy wore each jacket during day-long hikes across the windy, cold expanse of Dartmoor throughout December 2025. The testing criteria were strict and practical.
We evaluated each coat's ability to trap body heat and repel wind and moisture in sub-zero conditions. Comfort and fit were assessed to ensure the jackets allowed for a full range of motion without dead air space or restrictive bulk. We deliberately scrambled over rough granite to test the durability of the outer fabrics against abrasion. Finally, we weighed the build quality, technical materials, and features against the price tag to determine genuine value for money.
Key Insights and Standout Performers
Beyond our category winners, several other jackets delivered exceptional performance. The Mammut Taiss IN (£350) was praised for its superb anatomical fit and mix of 900-fill power goose down with strategic synthetic insulation in high-wear areas. For mountain use, the Rab Mythic Ultra Down (£440) with its 900-fill TILT insulation was deemed incredibly warm and robust, featuring a helmet-compatible hood.
The Arc'teryx Cerium Hooded Jacket (now £280) excelled in warmth-to-weight ratio, being remarkably light and packable, while the ThruDark Melee Jacket (£400) combined a tough, windproof build with distinctive styling suitable for country pursuits. For transitional weather, the Finisterre Lapwing Jacket (£150) offered a stylish 'shacket' design with effective synthetic insulation.
Ultimately, the best jacket depends on your specific needs. For all-round excellence at a fair price, the OEX Kintra is hard to beat. For uncompromising warmth in the worst conditions, the Shackleton Halley is a top-tier choice. And for those seeking premium fit and technical innovation, the Mammut Taiss IN represents a significant investment in quality.
Armed with this tested and verified selection, you can confidently choose a puffer jacket that will provide reliable warmth and performance through many winters to come.
