WHAT IS THE BEST COAT FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE?
Text by: Quartz Co.
Here’s a practical guide to help you choose the winter coat best suited to your needs and environment.
Our winters are not the same, nor do we all have the same daily routines! Before purchasing a coat, ask yourself these questions and discover our top options tailored to your lifestyle.
1. WHAT TYPE OF WINTER CLIMATE DO YOU LIVE IN ?
Does it get moderately cold (up to -5°C, sometimes -10°C), very cold (up to -20°C), or extremely cold (up to -30°C, sometimes -40°C)?
Light Coat or Full Winter?
At Quartz Co., we offer lightweight (transitional) and full-winter coats. The first step is determining which type of coat fits your winter climate.
- If temperatures rarely drop below -5°C to -10°C, a lightweight coat will suffice.
Possible options: Marina, Camila, Isabela, Christopher, Tyler, Neal, Leo.
- For colder winters (-10°C to -40°C), choose from our full-winter models.
2. ARE YOU MORE SEDENTARY OR ACTIVE?
- Fit, Length, and Warmth
If your daily routine mostly involves short commutes (work, errands, or outings) in urban environments, the fit, length, and warmth of the coat entirely depends on your personal comfort and preferences. For more details on sizing and fit, check out our article How to Choose Your Winter Coat.
Possible options: Gisele Long, Fermont, Vivian, Robin, Grant
- For those with an active lifestyle—such as hiking, long forest walks, skating, etc.—avoid ultra-long (below the knee) coats and very oversized or fitted silhouettes that could hinder movement. Instead, choose a short or mid-length, semi-fitted or regular coat to allow freedom of movement. The warmth level will depend on your activity type and personal comfort since some people feel the cold more than others!
Possible options: Emily Hooded, Labrador
3. IS YOUR WINTER WET (RAINY, SNOW, OR BOTH) OR DRY (MOSTLY COLD, SUNNY DAYS)?
- Type of Insulation
Beyond your lifestyle, choosing the right insulation is key depending on your winter's climate. At Quartz Co., we use two types of insulation: natural (traceable down) and synthetic (recycled). Refer to our article on down vs. synthetic insulation to learn more about their respective properties. Additionally, all our coats are treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent), a coating applied to fabrics to make them water-resistant. - If, however, a water-repellent is not enough and your lifestyle and/or the climate in which you live in require a waterproof coat, we offer a wide variety of styles made from waterproof and breathable fabrics, like Bomber Twill 2L®, Super Shiny®, Super Matte® or Oxford 2L®.
Find more details in our Materials and Certifications section.
4. DO YOU PREFER A TRENDY DESIGN OR A TIMELESS ONE?
- Overall Look
If you want your coat to reflect your fashion style and you love following trends, go for a bold model with an oversized cut, a style we feature this season. For example, the Gisele, in ultra-long or short versions, boasts a cocoon shape—a trendsetter this season. Or opt for a strong color like bright red (the standout shade of fall/winter), blue, a bright sandy beige, or khaki.
Possible options: Gisele Long & Short, Jeffrey 2.0, Jackson
- If you prefer a classic and timeless style, turn to our best-sellers with clean looks, available in various cuts and lengths. Check our sizing page for assistance since, if you’re used to layering under your coat, you may want to consider a regular fit rather than a fitted one or go up a size if necessary.
5. DO ETHICAL AND SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES MATTER WHEN CHOOSING A COAT?
- Values and Durability
Since 2015, Quartz Co. has focused on environmental concerns, implementing concrete actions to protect the planet and the people who wear our products. Our emphasis is on technological innovation, thoughtful design, and ethical business practices.
Visit our Mission and Materials and Certifications pages to learn more about our efforts to offer the most durable and ethical products possible.
KEY FEATURES THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
HOOD
Fixed or detachable. A detachable hood adds versatility, while a fixed hood offers extra protection from the cold. Either way, a hood is essential for keeping warm in snowstorms.
POCKETS
Well-placed pockets are crucial. You shouldn't have to reach too far back or raise your arms high to slip your hands inside. They should also be spacious enough for your hands and belongings, with zippers or snap-button flaps for security. Lined pockets, though not necessary, add extra comfort.
ZIPPERS
For long coats, ensure they have a two-way zipper that unzips from the bottom for better movement and ventilation.