Built with breathable panels, this jacket keeps its wearer toasty warm even in temperatures as low as negative double digits when layering over a thick base layer. Furthermore, its range of motion allows it to remain flexible while its hem-adjusters remain hidden so as to not catch on gear or become dislodged accidentally.
Cuffs feature wedge-shaped fabric inserts (a type of gusset), making it easier for bulky winter gloves to fit more easily. Furthermore, this jacket boasts a garaged full zipper jacket at its neck as well as an ergonomic soft collar that won't abrade your chin.
Lightweight
If you want to stay warm without adding much additional weight, a lightweight fleece may be your solution. Rab Microlight Alpine is an outstanding lightweight fleece option designed for backpacking and mountaineering expeditions; Outdoor Gear Lab and Gear Junkie both give it high marks as a movement-focused product.
The Sweetwater Heated Jacket is another lightweight option with excellent temperature regulation capabilities. Featuring an attractive shell design with a detachable hood, as well as color-coded buttons to indicate different heat settings (red for high, blue for medium, and white for low), this compact piece can easily stow away into its dedicated pocket when not worn.
Women who lift will appreciate the women's Define jacket. Its seamless design conforms perfectly to your body, creating subtle contouring effects while offering ample stretch for perfect fitting - so tall or shorter athletes alike will find this an excellent piece!
Breathable
Fleece is a versatile insulator that excels at temperature regulation. Lighter and more breathable than its synthetic fill counterparts, fleece makes an ideal choice for aerobic activities like day hiking or resort skiing when the bulk isn't an issue.
Define's sweat-wicking fleece was designed for women who lift heavy, featuring seamless technology that feels like a second skin and subtle contouring that emphasizes your hard-earned physique. Plus, you can layer up other Define pieces such as workout leggings or shorts for an integrated workout look!
The Arc'teryx Cerium Down Hoody is an outstanding hybrid insulated jacket, which uses "down composite mapping" technology to strategically place synthetic insulation where it won't get wet while keeping it down in its proper place for maximum dryness. A flattering fit with a tall collar makes this an ideal choice for women!
Water-Repellent
As its name implies, this jacket is both water-resistant and breathable, packing up into its own pocket for convenient travel or day runs. Ideal for casual runners and backpackers seeking warmth without wearing too much clothing!
While its low-denier (10D) fabric is extremely light, yet sturdy enough for rough use. We found it isn't as suitable for off-trail bushwhacking and alpine climbing with chimneying as Montbell Plasma 1000 (7D) or Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer2 (10D).
This insulated jacket has a dropped back hem with color blocking and diminishing contrast piping, elasticized cuffs, a durable water repellent finish, and a center front exposed reverse coil zipper as well as interior storm flap with chin guard for stylish design and maximum comfort in cold windy environments. It comes complete with a center front exposed reverse coil zipper, interior storm flap with chin guard for convenient wearability, and is complete with stylish design details that show you care about appearances while the insulation material will provide warmth even in windy environments.
Versatile
Kari Traa, Olympic freestyle skier, and designer of the Rothe full-zip jacket and hoodie. She stands out from the shrink-it-and-pink trend with its sleek silhouette and vibrant color schemes as well as thoughtful details like its tall collar and contrasting ribbed cuffs - ideal for women seeking stylish baselayers that work with smart clothes as well as loungewear.
Performance fleeces provide excellent mid layer warmth for skiing and hiking trips, but sometimes all you need is something comfy to wear around town. A great choice is Cotopaxi's Teca full-zip jacket which combines Polartec Micro Fleece fabric with their signature retro styling for optimal warmth in this case.
Other high-performance fleeces like the Arc'teryx Cerium Down Hoody are great choices for backcountry adventures because they combine down warmth with the breathability of synthetic insulation, with venting panels strategically located to vent out heat as necessary. However, like other Arc'teryx products, the Cerium may not suit every body type despite having its slim fit design.
