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Contributed By: Chris AndersonWinter…. Even the word gives me a little chill down my spine. I reached out to our winter loving staff experts to find the best winter jackets of 2024
Even though I live on the Gold Coast where the temperatures are, for the most part, comfortably warm, I still feel the chill during winter just like everyone else. Especially when a trip to the Aussie snow or a far-flung winter destination awaits me. When you get acclimated to the warmer temperatures, you definitely feel the pinch when that mercury drops. Even more so when you're camping in The Hinterland or watching the sunset on a high-altitude mountain. The crisp evening air can be surprisingly biting, making it essential to have the right gear.
Having a good winter jacket, a beanie, and even some gloves helps me deal with chilly days and nights no matter where I am. It's amazing how much difference the right clothing can make, transforming a potentially uncomfortable outing into a toasty, enjoyable adventure. With winter just around the corner, I’ve taken it upon myself to talk to the experts on the Wild Earth shop floor to get their advice on the best winter jackets and accessories of 2024. Our team has tested and reviewed countless items to ensure you can take your pick of the best!
This list had to start somewhere and what better place than with one of Patagonia’s warmest down jackets, the Fitz Roy Down Hoody. With 800-fill-power 100% Responsible Down Standard down and a 100% recycled nylon down-proof ripstop shell that boasts a DWR finish, this jacket is not only warm, but durable and responsibly sourced and constructed and will keep you dry in that annoying light rain. Patagonia goes above and beyond on delivering the Fitz Roy Down hoody.
Why I Like It: The Fitz Roy is perfect for those drizzly, cold days when you need reliability. The ethical sourcing of materials makes it a jacket you can feel good about wearing.
Warmth Rating: 9/10
Arcteryx never fails at providing some of the highest quality gear on the market, so it goes without saying that the Thorium Insulated Hoody performs at an elite level. Lightweight, breathable and moisture resistant, the Thorium has a 750-fill down for premium warmth. Being an Arcteryx jacket, of course they have thought of everything with the hood being helmet-compatible and adjustable, meaning you can take this jacket everywhere!
Why I Like It: The versatility of this jacket is unbeatable. From alpine climbs to city strolls, the Thorium is a reliable companion.
Warmth Rating: 8.5/10
Rab has stormed on to the Wild Earth shelves in recent times and found its place among some of the top guns for technical outdoor clothing. The Axion Pro Down Hiking Jacket is no exception. With nice retro style large baffles filled with 700-fill down to keep you warm and fashionable. Perfect for casual walks in the colder temperatures, winter trekking, climbing and mountaineering.
Why I Like It: The Axion Pro combines retro style with modern performance, making it ideal for both everyday use and technical adventures.
Warmth Rating: 8/10
We couldn’t put together this list without including the iconic 1996 Retro Nuptse Insulated Jacket from The North Face. A crowd favourite for many years, the Retro Nuptse never disappoints for a jacket that's both high performance and extremely fashionable. A shorter cut than the other jackets features, it's 100% nylon ripstop shell keeps the Nuptse durable and the 700 fill goose down keeps you warm. The North Face do everything at the highest level and the Retro Nuptse is no exception.
Why I Like It: The Nuptse is a timeless classic. Its style and performance make it a staple in any winter wardrobe.
Warmth Rating: 8.5/10
Another staff favourite here at Wild Earth is the Patagonia Nano Puff® Hoody. Weighing in at only 363 grams this warm, windproof and water-resistant - this jacket uses incredibly lightweight and highly compressible 60-g PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Eco with 55% postconsumer recycled content, wrapped in a 100% recycled polyester shell and lining. Being from Patagonia, you wouldn’t expect any less than Fair Trade Certified sewn. Whether you’re on a cold commute or hiking through cold temperatures (like Kurt who took his to Nepal) this jacket has you covered.
Why I Like It: The Nano Puff® Hoody stands out for its combination of lightweight design and exceptional warmth. It's perfect for packing light while staying warm, and the sustainable materials make it a feel-good choice for eco-conscious adventurers.
Warmth Rating: 7.5/10
Some headwear is the cherry on top of every winter outfit, whether you're out in the extreme conditions or just going for a casual winter walk, a good quality beanie is a must have. We lose more than 10% of our body heat through our heads, so the Mons Royale Chunky Logger Merino Beanie is the perfect tool to keep that heat in. Not to mention the traditional design makes for a fashion accessory that goes with any outfit.
Why I Like It: The merino wool provides excellent insulation while remaining breathable. It's both functional and stylish.
Warmth Rating: 7/10
Trying to keep your hands warm in winter while still being able to use your phone is one battle we have all endured. The XTM Arctic Thermal Liner Gloves are perfect for winter with their smart screen compatible finger tips. They can be used as a glove liner or stand alone glove for when a full insulated glove isn't needed.
Why I Like It: These gloves are versatile and practical, making them perfect for tech-savvy adventurers who need to stay connected.
Warmth Rating: 6.5/10
The final piece of the puzzle to round out this winter gear list is a neck gaiter. Not just any neck gaiter, but our very own Wild Earth Neck Gaiter. Made with lycra, these neck gaiters are super lightweight, breathable, and the perfect addition to keep your neck and face warm when the chilly winds pick up.
Why I Like It: The Wild Earth Neck Gaiter is versatile and easy to carry, providing that extra layer of warmth when needed.
Warmth Rating: 6/10
If you need any further help, don't hesitate to come in-store to chat with our experts or shoot us a message online if you have any questions! We’ll see you outdoors. Share your adventures with us on Instagram at @wildearthaustralia and use the hashtag #MyWildEarth to be featured.
Chris Anderson is the graphic artist for Wild Earth. When he isn't getting creative behind the computer screen he's behind the camera lens hunting for that next epic landscape shot. You'll often find him hitting the trails and chasing waterfalls or jetting off to new places around the globe to surf, snowboard and just searching those hard-to-reach places for unseen beauties.
Follow his adventures on Instagram.
