Editors' Choice Snow 2014: MontBell Frost Line Parka

The MontBell Frost Line Parka in action. (Ben Fullerton)

MontBell Frost Line Parka (Courtesy Photo)

We confirmed the price three times before we actually believed it. A full-featured, 800-fill goose down puffy for $220? Unheard of. If it’s maximum warmth per dollar you’re after, this is your coat. “I can’t imagine ever needing more insulation than this jacket offers,” says one tester who wore it on winter camping trips in New England with temps hovering around 0°F. The traditional box baffle construction means no sewn-through seams, hence no cold spots, and the dropped hem kept our midlines covered even when we were bending and twisting while pitching tents. And despite the killer price tag, MontBell is not stingy with the features. The overstuffed hood cinches down over a beanie or expands to accommodate a helmet, and fleece-lined pockets up the cozy factor. The chunky zipper never snags, even though there’s a wind-blocking draft tube behind it. “I’ve tested hundreds of puffy jackets over the years,” our gear editor says. “This one does everything right, and costs $50 to $100 less than its competitors.” $220; 1 lb. 4 oz. (m’s L); montbell.us