Kohls has amazing deals! My Columbia Pike Lake II Omni-Heat Synthetic beats REI Co-op 650 Down Hoodie 2.0 Water-Resistant specs; the metallic liner is warmer tho the REI is lighter!

Re: In my experience, you should check Eddie Bauer... skip them. Im happy with my Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket 750 Fill Power from last year.

• Uniqlo: warm.
• Old Navy Water-Resistant Puffer Jacket: cheap. Both work!

^ This. Also, honestly, I am having the exact same issue and it is just so disappointing. I have been hunting for a reliable heavy coat for weeks now because my old one is basically shreds, but every sale I find is still way over my budget or just feels like low-quality junk that wont actually stop a Chicago wind.

• flimsy zippers that feel like theyll snap
• insulation that looks way thinner than the photos
• brands charging 200 plus for basic polyester I really thought I would have found something by now but I am still stuck freezing every morning. It feels like you have to spend a fortune just to stay safe and warm these days... totally get your frustration because I am right there with you and I still havent found a single thing that feels trustworthy.

Saw this earlier but just now getting a chance to reply. ^ This. Also, if you are really worried about the wind and durability since your last one ripped, honestly you gotta look at Lands End. Ive been using their gear for years and im always satisfied with the quality for the price. Right now they almost always have a 50% off code on their homepage which should bring the Lands' End Men's Expedition Waterproof Winter Parka down to around 130 or 140 bucks. Its a total beast for Chicago winters and much tougher than those thin puffers. Another quick tip is checking out Carhartt Loose Fit Firm Duck Insulated Flannel-Lined Active Jacket. Its basically indestructible and blocks the wind better than almost anything else in that price range. I have one that has lasted me forever and it handles the cold no problem. Just dont ever pay full price at Lands End tho... wait for the daily code to pop up on the banner.

In my experience, you should check Eddie Bauer today. Over the years Ive found their early November sales are the best for real warmth. I actually picked up the Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka 650 Fill Power for right around 150 recently. It is built specifically for sub-zero temps and blocks those Chicago winds way better than most. Its a methodical choice if you want something that actually lasts.