As the mercury drops along the east coast and the alpine region set to receive more snow this weekend, there’s never been a better time to invest in a new winter wardrobe.

But while some brands will have your spending big at the checkout, we’ve found the best puffer jacket buys with some costing less than $40.

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MEN’S: THE STEAL

Active Puffer Jacket, $35 from Kmart. For under $40 this quilted nylon number offers plenty of bang for your buck.

The steal; Active Puffer Jacket, $35 from Kmart.Source:Supplied

A funnel collar, elasticated sleeves, ample pocket space and a fleece lining work hard to keep the chill out regardless of your adventure level.

MEN’S: THE ALL-ROUNDER

Men Ultra Light Down Seamless Parka, $129.90 from Uniqlo. For our money this puffer is hard to beat.

The all-rounder; Men Ultra Light Down Seamless Parka, $129.90 from Uniqlo.Source:Supplied

Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down series is exactly what it says it is; light, warm and as a bonus, packs down into its own tiny carry pouch. Guaranteed to keep you toasty as well as protected from wind and light rain.

MEN’S: FOR THE STYLE CONSCIOUS

Men’s Silent Down Shirt, $299.95 from Patagonia. With a shell made from 70 per cent recycled polyester and inner from 100 per cent recycled duck down, this shirt-style jacket is stylish and kind to the planet.

For the style conscious; Men’s Silent Down Shirt, $299.95 from Patagonia.Source:Supplied

Handwarmer pockets, adjustable cuffs and stand-up collar will also keep you protected from the elements.

MEN’S: FOR STREET CRED

Men’s 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket, $400 from The North Face. This classic puffer was built for the elements but has also garnered the street cred few high-performance labels strive to achieve.

For street cred; Men’s 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket, $400.Source:Supplied

It’s made from water repellent, rip-stop fabric and features a stowable hood and internal pockets.

MEN’S: FOR NO-FUSS GUYS

Lightweight Puffer Jacket, $139 from Zara. Those looking for versatility will find this go-anywhere Zara puffer a great choice.

For no-fuss guys; Lightweight Puffer Jacket, $139 from Zara.Source:Supplied

The high neck will block out the cold while zip-front and internal pockets secure your wallet, keys and phone. It also takes advantage of COMFORTEMP ® thermal filling, which assists in retaining body heat.

WOMEN’S: THE CONVERSATION STARTER

Puffer jacket, $299 from Country Road. It’s blue skies ahead thanks to this water-resistant puffer that’ll not only keep you supremely snug but most importantly, looking on point too.

The conversation starter; puffer jacket, $299 from Country Road.Source:Supplied

Stow your essentials in its internal zip pocket and then hit the streets.

WOMEN’S: THE MULTITASKER

Federate Women’s Down Bomber Jacket $449.98 OR members price, $269.99, from Kathmandu Water repellent finish, 550 fill power Responsible Down Standard-certified duck down, stretch-woven, stitchless fabric, ribbed collar and cuffs.

The multitasker; Federate Women’s Down Bomber Jacket $449.98 OR members price, $269.99.Source:Supplied

This bomber jacket is the ultimate fusion or functionality and fashion. A versatile travel buddy if luggage space is tight.

WOMEN’S: FOR THOSE WHO WANT MORE

Ultra Light Down Volume Jacket, $109.90 from Uniqlo Part of Uniqlo’s signature Ultra Light Down range, this jacket offers the same weather protection — like a water repellent coating and hidden zips — with just a little more oomph.

For those who want more; Ultra Light Down Volume Jacket, $109.90 from Uniqlo.Source:Supplied

Despite the extra puff it’ll still pack like a dream.

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WOMEN’S: THE INSULATOR

Core Down Hooded Jacket, $199.95 from Superdry Super lightweight, this ladies jacket has a 90/10 premium responsibly-sourced duck down, which, in a nutshell, means it’ll provide pretty good insulation in the coldest of climates.

The insulator; Core Down Hooded Jacket, $199.95 from Superdry.Source:Supplied

An elasticated hood, cuff and hem will prevent water and wind sneaking in.

WOMEN’S: FOR FASHIONABLE WEEKENDS

Fashion puffer, $179.95 from Witchery, Whether it’s a partner to boots and jeans or over your activewear, this puffer will answer the call of all your weekend activities, at home and away.

For fashionable weekends; Fashion puffer, $179.95 from Witchery.Source:Supplied

The panel design and over-size hood will keep your warm without sacrificing style.

FOR EVERYONE

Reversible down jacket, $185 from Mac in a Sac Reversible, unisex and available in a range of colours, this mid-weight down jacket is a traveller’s dream.

For everyone; Reversible down jacket, $185 from Mac in a Sac.Source:Supplied

It’s made from a 90/10 down and feather mix and also repels water but is free from common toxic perfluorinated coatings.

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This article originally appeared on Escape and has been republished with permission.

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