Winter coat under $100: how to stay warm for less

A good winter coat under $100 is possible. Warmth comes from the fill, the fit and what you wear under it, not the price tag. A coat you wear 80 times is $1.25 a wear if it costs $100.

Start with the cold you face

Ask yourself how long you stand outside. A ten minute walk to the bus needs less than a night shift at a bus stop.

Ruling: buy for the coldest days you will actually be outside, not for the coldest day of the year.

Fill: what keeps you warm

• Synthetic fill. Keeps warmth when damp, dries faster and costs less. A common pick under $100.
• Down. Very warm for its weight, but can lose warmth when wet and often costs more. Cheap down coats may use a low fill power, which means less warmth.

Six checks in the shop or at home

1. Fit with a sweater. Try it over the thickest top you wear. You should be able to lift your arms.
2. Hood or high collar. It cuts wind at the neck.
3. Cuffs and hem. Elastic or snug cuffs hold heat in.
4. Zip. It should run smoothly and have a storm flap behind it.
5. Seams. Tight, even stitching.
6. Care label. Does it wash at home?

Layers cost less than a bigger coat

A thermal base layer, a sweater and a mid weight coat can beat one heavy coat. You can also adjust. Warm gloves, a hat and thick socks matter as much as the coat. For cold feet, our guide to shoes for standing all day covers fit and insoles.

Cost per winter

These numbers are examples, not quotes.

The mid coat wins. Past a certain point, extra money buys the label, not the warmth. See cost per use.

Buy at the end of the season

Winter coats are often marked down in late winter. If your coat is not urgent, waiting for the sale can save a lot. The trade off is size and color choice. Read buy now or wait for a price drop for the rule.

Walk away if

• The label does not state the fill.
• The zip catches in the shop.
• Seams show thin stitching with fill poking out.
• You cannot lift your arms over your head.

Common mistakes

• Buying a size smaller to look neat. Tight coats let cold in.
• Choosing white or very light colors for daily use if you dislike washing.
• Ignoring the hood.