Cold weather is here and one coat style that always prevails is the classic puffer.
There was a significant increase in purchases for the bubble-style coats last year, according to Klarna, and demand has continued to soar by 76% within the past month.
If you're in the market for a new puffer coat, Good Housekeeping Style Director Lori Bergamotto shared with "Good Morning America" a few tips to keep in mind while shopping:
Insulation: If you're looking to stay warm in frigid conditions, down offers the best insulation because its clusters trap in heat. Not to be confused with feathers, down comes from the undercoat of ducks or geese. Some brands have worked to improve traceability of their supply chains to ensure the birds are not force-fed or live-plucked. Look for certifications like the Responsible Down Standard.
If you're on a budget or prefer to be down-free, you can opt for a down-alternative coat that uses a synthetic fiber, like polyester, to mimic the down clusters.
Fill power: This term is specific to down. In technical terms, it is the volume of down in cubic inches per ounce. In general, it lets you know how warm and cozy the coat will feel. A higher number means the down takes up more space and traps more air for better insulation. Fill powers can range from 300-900 cubic inches per ounce, but anything over 550 is considered warm. Keep in mind that fill power isn't the same thing as fill weight, which tells you how much down is actually used.
Material: For performance outerwear and casual everyday coats, nylon is water-resistant and often the most durable, but you can find good quality jackets made of polyester as well.
For a fashion-forward look that can be casual or dressed up, consider a wool jacket. While wool is typically dry-clean only and not suitable for wet winter weather, it's a good option for warm and stylish cold, dry weather outerwear. If you're going for a blend, look for one with nylon -- it's strong and will help the coats last for years -- but avoid coats with fabric with over three fibers blended together because these are more prone to pilling. Also opt for double-breasted wool coats if you're looking for more warmth, as these help block out cold air.
Comfort features: Look for styles that are lightweight, breathable with ventilation, and not too long if you plan to be moving around a lot.
Coverage: Avoid shorter jackets if you're looking for extra warmth. Coats that have coverage around your neck and longer lengths that go to your knees are ideal for blocking out cold air.
Weatherproof design: For ultimate weatherproof-ness, your coat should have flat, sealed seams to keep snow, sleet and rain out. You should also consider design details that block cold air, such as drawstrings that cinch around openings and a flap over the zipper.
Below are a few top puffers to consider adding to your coat closet this winter:
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If you're looking for a longer option to keep more of your body warm, this padded bubble coat is an excellent choice. It features a stylish belt, faux fur collar and it's under $100.
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