5 great jackets for this freezing cold weather

1. Patagonia Micro Puff ($299)

Manufacturers have finally developed synthetic waterproof fibers as warm as 800-fill down, and the best of the new crop of jackets is this Patagonia hoodie. It's $50 less than the down version and "almost indistinguishable in warmth and feel." Buy it at Patagonia.

2. L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Sweater ($199)

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If you'll be traveling between a cold climate and a warm one, "this jacket is essential." Filled with water-resistant 850-fill down, the windproof puffer weighs just 10 ounces and packs into its own pocket. Buy it at L.L. Bean.

3. Eddie Bauer Evertherm Jacket ($279)

You don't have to look like the Michelin Man to stay warm. The down in Eddie Bauer's new jacket, rather than being blown into chambers, is bonded in an ultrathin sheet. It can keep you warm in temperatures well below zero. Buy it at Amazon.

4. The North Face Ventrix ($199)

Designed for climbers, the North Face's new winter coat combines state-of-the-art synthetic insulation with strategically placed micro vents that open or close depending on body temperature. Buy it at Amazon.

5. Filson Down Cruiser ($695)

Not all technical jackets rely on space-age materials. This rugged, down-filled coat is made of rain-repellent oiled canvas and has two lined "hand warmer" pockets. Stylewise, it's "suited for both New York City streets and Wyoming hunting lodges." Buy it at Amazon.

Editor's note: Every week The Week's editors survey product reviews and articles in websites, newspapers, and magazines, to find cool and useful new items we think you'll like. We're now making it easier to purchase these selections through affiliate partnerships with certain retailers. The Week may get a share of the revenue from these purchases.