Choosing the right jacket to keep you warm: the essentials

When winter really sets in, finding a jacket that keeps you warm becomes much more than just a style choice. Between frosty mornings, windy walks, and trips to the mountains, you need a jacket that is reliable, comfortable, and able to keep up with you. But warmth doesn't have to mean bulkiness: a good jacket should combine insulation, lightness, breathability, and waterproofing. Here is a clear and practical guide to choosing the right winter jacket for your needs. As a bonus, we've included some well-designed recommendations from JOTT!

Thermal insulation: what really makes the difference

Insulation is the first thing to look at when searching for a jacket that keeps you warm. At JOTT, it is mainly based on RDS-certified natural down filling, a blend of 90% down and 10% feathers known for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. Down traps warm air while remaining breathable, keeping you at a stable temperature even when the mercury drops.

To better understand a jacket's performance, you can also look at its fill power, expressed in cuin. The higher this number, the more air the down can trap (and therefore the better it insulates without adding unnecessary bulk). Down with a fill power of around 700 cuin, such as that used in the warmest models, guarantees effective insulation in the depths of winter.

For really cold days, the Extreme Cold models offer optimal protection thanks to their generous padding and construction that is perfectly suited to low temperatures.

Heat levels: a simple and reliable benchmark

Not all jackets are created equal when the temperature drops. To help you choose the right one, JOTT has developed a warmth rating system. It consists of five levels of protection:

• Level 1 – Lightweight: perfect for early fall or slightly chilly summer evenings.
• Level 2 – Moderate: ideal for mid-season, or for layering.
• Level 3 – Everyday warmth: good balance for winter in the city.
• Level 4 – Reinforced insulation: for drier cold weather or very chilly days.
• Level 5 – Extreme cold: designed for harsh climates, even humid ones.

Down jackets are often the best in this regard, thanks to their natural down filling (90% down, 10% feathers), which provides exceptional insulation without adding too much weight. This is the case with models such as Prestige and Java, which combine level 4 or 5 insulation with true lightness for everyday wear.

Parkas, which are longer and more protective, are also gaining popularity with more covering cuts and often lined with wool or fleece. They are suitable for cold and wet climates, offering real added protection. 

To refine your search according to your needs or desires, explore our collections of Man, women's, and Kid parkas Kid
Man Parkas
Women's Parkas
Kid Parkas

Conversely, lightweight and windbreaker jackets focus on mobility and breathability. They often offer a level 1 or 2 rating, which is sufficient for movement but less so for spending long periods outdoors in cold weather.

A jacket that keeps you warm, but is also waterproof

When it comes to waterproofing, there is a real difference between a water-repellent material and a truly waterproof jacket.

• A water-repellent fabric allows water to bead up on the surface. It is ideal for light rain or melting snowflakes. This is what you will find on most JOTT down jackets, which are suitable for dry climates or everyday commutes.
  
  
• A waterproof jacket has a membrane or special treatment that prevents water from penetrating, even in continuous rain. It is often reinforced with waterproof seams and zippers.
  
  

What should you look for in a good waterproof jacket?

• The type of fabric (membrane or waterproof coating)
• The presence of welded or heat-sealed seams
• Protected or waterproof zippers
• A snug hood with adjustment
• And if possible, adequate breathability to avoid sweating under the jacket.

In terms of use, if you live in a humid region, walk a lot, or cycle frequently, opt for a waterproof jacket, even if it means layering it with a light down jacket light . For more urban use, a good water-repellent jacket may suffice.

Breathability: warmth, yes. Oven, no!

Breathability refers to a fabric's ability to allow water vapor (and therefore perspiration) generated by the body to escape. In short: good breathability keeps you dry inside even when you're moving. And therefore avoids the sauna effect...

When is it important?

• If you walk a lot, ride a bike, or wear your jacket indoors
• In the city, when temperature variations are frequent (subway/outdoors/store, etc.)
• For children, who are constantly on the move
  
  

How can you identify a breathable jacket?

• Most JOTT parkas are designed with this in mind, combining thermal insulation with more technical materials.
• Some jackets feature a soft, light inner lining light maintain thermal comfort without causing overheating. They are designed to strike a balance between insulation and everyday comfort, even when you're on the move.
  
  

Style and uses: finding the right jacket for everyday wear

At JOTT, cuts and materials are designed to suit a variety of lifestyles, without ever compromising on comfort.

For those who love cozy warmth, long styles such as parkas are perfect: they often reach down to the thighs and provide effective protection from the cold, wind, and even rain. They are generally worn for outings in town or when traveling, over formal or casual outfits.

Conversely, short styles, such as bomber jackets or straight jackets, prioritize freedom of movement. They are particularly suited to everyday commutes, more active pursuits, or those looking for a more dynamic look, sometimes even inspired by outdoor wear.

The style can also vary depending on the finish: some pieces opt for a subtle matte effect, while others prefer a slightly shiny or textured look. Colors range from the most understated to the most daring, allowing everyone to find their favorite jacket, whether they want something discreet, sporty, chic, or a little bit of everything.