The most important characteristic of outerwear is how it protects against the cold. Lightweight jackets can be successfully worn in regions with mild climates; they allow you to experiment with layering and play with styling, but you most likely won’t choose them for snowy, below-zero weather. On the other hand, parkas can be extremely durable in the most extreme temperatures. They are designed to keep warm and cover as much of the body as possible.

Below, you’ll find the temperature ratings that define the warmth level of each outerwear piece:

Water repellency is the ability of the material to resist water penetration, meaning the water only beads on the outer side of the fabric and cannot seep through. This is an important feature if you are living in a wet area with frequent and heavy rains, snow, and hail. Water-resistant materials can also be called hydrophobic.

Wind resistance refers to the ability of clothing to effectively block the wind. This is achieved through the specific material texture, which is designed to create a protective barrier. 

Many types of outerwear feature this capability, from vests to parkas. Due to the high-tech modern materials and sensible design, wind-resistant garments are not only functional but can also be quite fashionable.

A modern high-tech fabric for outerwear always includes the membrane layer in it. A membrane repels water from the outside while allowing the moisture from the inside to pass through. The thinner the membrane is, the more breathable it becomes. On the other hand, thicker membranes provide better waterproof protection. Membranes can be microporous and hydrophilic. The first one works due to the difference in size of water molecules; the second one absorbs moisture from the inside and releases it on the outer side through osmosis.

Breathable materials are designed to transport moisture vapor away from your body, preventing sweat from building up under your jacket. Instead of getting trapped, the sweat can easily evaporate, effectively cooling you down. These materials feature tiny holes that allow smaller water vapor molecules to escape while blocking larger water droplets from the outside.

For anyone leading an active lifestyle, breathable outerwear is essential. Particularly—in cold weather. Whether tackling a mountain peak or enjoying leisurely strolls around the city, a breathable jacket will prove invaluable.

Fill power is an indicator of the quality and thickness of the down inside the outerwear. It describes the number of cubic inches that one ounce of down will fill. The higher the fill power, the thicker the clothing will be, and the better its ability to trap the air and provide more warmth.