I own many jackets and coats suitable for various occasions, however I've been struggling to find a jacket that would be suitable to wear all day, every day, no matter what I had planned. This was until I came across Columbia's Longhorn Ridge Puffer Jacket, and it's safe to say I will be living in it for the rest of winter.
The majority of puffer jackets I've tried on or owned in the past have been too short, providing no protection below the waist. Some have had no hoods or pockets, while others have been perfect for hiking but haven't been stylish enough to wear out and about.
Columbia's jacket is the first puffer I've worn that has truly ticked all the boxes. It's available in sizes XS to XL and comes in three stunning colours - black, moonvista purple, and camel brown.
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The coat retails for £210, however the camel colourway is currently on sale for £126, and I think it's worth every penny. Firstly, it's super practical as it can be worn in any weather thanks to it being made from a stain and water resistant material that's packed with padded insulation. It also has an advanced Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining that contains the heat to keep you warmer for longer.
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Columbia)The lightweight jacket has a cosy hood that's adjustable and detachable, while the elasticated cuffs, hem and drawstring waistband keep you feeling snug. It has fleece-lined side pockets perfect for keeping your hands toasty warm, while the chest flap pockets are ideal for keeping your phone, keys, purse or other essentials safe.
The black puffer is without a doubt one of the most stylish I've seen on the market. It falls to an attractive below-the-hip length and allows you to accentuate your waist if desired by tightening the inner drawstring toggles.
The first time I wore Columbia's Longhorn Ridge Puffer Jacket was for a wintery walk followed by a pub lunch. I paired the coat with denim dungarees, a roll neck top and platform converse, and to my surprise the coat complemented the outfit perfectly. As well as making me feel nice, it kept me warm and cosy in the chilly five-degree weather without feeling stuffy.
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Phoebe Barton)Since then, I've worn the versatile jacket with leggings for evening trips to the gym and with jeans to pop to the shops. I plan on wearing it on days out I have coming up, including to the zoo and on a hiking trip.
The only downside to the puffer is that when I have it zipped up, it feels a little snug around my hips and chest, so I won't be able to wear a chunky jumper underneath. This isn't an issue though, as I find you don't need to wear anything too thick underneath the jacket due to it being padded and insulated.
Fancy adding my favourite Columbia Longhorn Ridge Puffer Jacket to your wardrobe? You can buy it here. Elsewhere, Superdry has a Hooded Padded Sports Puffer Jacket priced at £109.99 that's available in three colours and is coated in a water-resistant finish.
Berghaus is currently offering a brown Ewden Synthetic Insulated Jacket on sale for £133, down from £190. It has Hydroloft insulation and an adjustable hem and hood.