Shop top-rated coats and waterproof boots amid Northeast winter storm

• Proper winter gear, including coats and boots, is essential for staying warm and safe in freezing temperatures.
• Waterproof boots are highly recommended to keep feet dry and protect against frostbite.
• Layering clothing is the most effective way to stay warm in extreme cold.

Winter is making its presence felt in a major way. An intensifying winter storm slammed the Northeast on Monday, unleashing blizzard conditions that blanketed major cities, brought travel to a halt and left thousands without power.

With conditions like these, being prepared with the right winter gear can make all the difference in staying warm, comfortable and safe through even the most frigid conditions.

Now is the time to invest in high-quality coats, jackets and boots that can withstand snowstorms, icy sidewalks and chilling temperatures.

If your winter wardrobe is past its prime, or you simply want an upgrade, shop our top-rated picks for men's and women's winter coats and boots. We’ve rounded up the best cold-weather gear from popular retailers like L.L. Bean, REI, DICK'S Sporting Goods, Amazon and more.

Shop warm winter coats and jackets

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L.L. Bean Women's Ultrawarm Coat, Three Quarter Length

L.L. Bean Ultrawarm Coat Three Quarter Length in Night

Stay warm and dry with this water-resistant coat from L.L. Bean. It has a removable and adjustable hood with faux fur lining. Get now at L.L. Bean

L.L. Bean Men's Mountain Classic Puffer Jacket

L.L. Bean Mountain Classic Puffer Jacket in Gunmetal Gray

This men's puffer jacket is a best-seller. It has light, low-bulk ColdShield synthetic insulation for added warmth. Get now at L.L. Bean

BINACL Women's Winter Warm Thicken Long Outwear Pockets Coat

BINACL Women's Winter Warm Thicken Long Outwear Pockets Coat

This classic hooded winter coat is windproof and water-repellent. It'll keep you warm from heavy rain to freezing snow. Save 51% at Amazon

TACVASEN Men's Winter Skiing Jackets Water Resistant Fleece Coat

TACVASEN Men's Winter Skiing Jackets Water Resistant Fleece Coat

This is Amazon's No. 1 best-selling men's winter coat. It has fleece lining for warmth and comfort with an adjustable drawstring hood. Save 30% at Amazon

Calvin Klein Women's Hooded Puffer Coat

Calvin Klein Women's Hooded Puffer Coat

This puffer coat is water resistant, lined and has a removable hood. It comes to mid-length and has a stand collar. Save 54% at Macy's

Tommy Hilfiger Men's Quilted Puffer Jacket

Tommy Hilfiger Men's Quilted Puffer Jacket

This puffer jacket is wind and water-resistant. It also has an attached hood lined with fleece. Save 60% at Macy's

Columbia Women's Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket

Women's Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket

Get this long insulated jacket to keep you warm with tough water-resistant fabric, thermal-reflective lining and synthetic down insulation. Save 40% at Columbia

Columbia Men's Snowy Summit Jacket

Columbia Men's Snowy Summit Jacket

This insulated ski jacket is built to keep you warm and dry. It's waterproof and has thermal-reflective technologies. Save 50% at Columbia

Shop top-rated winter boots for women and men

Columbia Minx Shorty IV Boots - Women's

Columbia Minx Shorty IV Boots - Women's

These boots have a faux-fur interior and thermal reflective lining. They also have enhanced wet-dry traction to take on any winter conditions. Save 27% at REI

The North Face Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots - Men's

The North Face Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots - Men's

These North Face boots have warm insulation and underfoot cushion. They're also waterproof for any snowy, icy conditions. Save 25% at REI

AUSLAND Women's Black Winter Snow Boots

AUSLAND Women's Black Winter Snow Boots

These fur cuff boots are ideal for snowy and icy days. They are windproof and waterproof with a lace-up design. Save 5% at Amazon

SHULOOK Men's Snow Boots Waterproof Warm Fur Lined Winter Hiking Boot

SHULOOK Men's Snow Boots Waterproof Warm Fur Lined Winter Hiking Boot

These winter boots are made of 100% waterproof synthetic leather. They'll also windproof to keep your feet warm and dry. Save 11% at Amazon

L.L. Bean Rangeley Insulated Pac Boots, Ankle

L.L. Bean Rangeley Insulated Pac Boots, Ankle

These boots are cozy and stylish while keeping your feet warm, dry and comfortable. They're ideal for snowy winter conditions. Get now at L.L. Bean

L.L. Bean Men's Storm Chaser 5 Slip-Ons

L.L. Bean Men's Storm Chaser 5 Slip-Ons

These Storm Chaser Slip-Ons are high-tech all-weather shoes. They're also lighter and sleeker with the comfort of sneakers. Get now at L.L. Bean

Northeast Outfitters Women's Pac 200g Winter Boots

Northeast Outfitters Women's Pac 200g Winter Boots

These winter boots have insulation without the bulk and a faux sherpa collar. They also have a durable outsole for icy conditions. Get now at DICK'S

Timberland Men's 6'' Premium 400g Waterproof Boots

Timberland Men's 6'' Premium 400g Waterproof Boots

These Timberland boots are waterproof and have 400g insulation for comfort for all types of winter weather. They also have anti-fatigue technology for all-day comfort. Get now at DICK'S

Do I need waterproof boots?

Yes, waterproof boots are highly recommended for snow and ice to keep your feet dry, warm and comfortable. With snow and mixed precipitation expected across several U.S. regions, waterproof boots will be ideal protection against snow, ice, slush and freezing rain.

Waterproof boots, combined with insulation, is essential because snow often melts into slush and if your feet get wet in cold temperatures, there is an increased risk for frostbite.

What layers work best for extreme cold?

For extreme cold, the best layering system consists of a moisture-wicking and thermal base layer (merino wool or synthetic material like polyester), insulating mid-layers (fleece or down/synthetic puffy) and a windproof and waterproof outer shell. This combination of layers traps body heat, keeps you dry from sweat and blocks the elements.