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Looking for the best sustainable jackets and warm, eco-friendly coats? You’re in the right place!
Unlike traditional options, which almost always involve toxic chemicals and unethical practices, our favorite sustainable waterproof winter coats and organic fall jackets below are produced responsibly, with consideration for both the environment and workers’ rights. These jackets are designed to last longer, reducing waste and the need for constant replacements.
Plus, they come without harmful chemicals like PFCs, making them safer for both the wearer and the ecosystem. In short, they’re stylish, durable, and kinder to the Earth.
For more ethical, cold-weather-approved essentials, check out the Best Non-Toxic Rain Boots For All Ages, the Best Vegan Leather Boots, and the Best Sustainable Accessories For Cold Weather!
SKL top picks, in a nutshell…
- Best Affordable Sustainable Coats & Jackets: Thought Clothing UK
- Best American-Made Coats & Jackets: The Checkroom
- Best Organic Cotton Coats: Whimsy & Row
- Best Wool Jackets: Eileen Fisher
- Best Recycled Polyester Jackets: Wuxly
Let’s be real—jackets and coats are essential, whether you’re trekking through winter’s chill or just need to look stylish while sipping that oat milk latte.
But, unfortunately, those cozy layers we rely on can have a massive environmental impact. We’re talking about everything from resource-intensive materials to unethical labor practices.
Fast fashion might be cheap for your wallet, but it’s costly for the planet—and the people behind it. In fact, the fashion industry is responsible for a jaw-dropping 10% of global carbon emissions, which is more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined.
And if that’s not bad enough, toxic chemicals like AZO dyes and heavy metals are commonly used to dye fabrics, seeping into waterways and harming both the environment and nearby communities. Workers in these factories have to face unsafe conditions, long hours, and shockingly low wages.
“But, my wool coat is all-natural, right?“ Technically yes. But it’s still not sustainable or ethical. Unlike our favorite eco-friendly coats, wool coats from brands like H&M or Marks and Spencer were not created with animal welfare in mind.
In many cases, sheep are subjected to painful practices like “mulesing,” where skin is removed from around their tails without anesthesia to prevent infections.
Beyond that, large-scale wool farming can contribute to deforestation, water pollution, and soil degradation, as grazing sheep can over-consume vegetation, stripping the land of its natural resources.
So, what about weather-proof jackets? Waterproof jackets may keep you dry, but they can leave the planet drowning in pollution.
Many of these jackets rely on PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals) to create their water-repellent coatings, which are harmful to the environment and don’t break down easily.
PFCs can end up in our waterways, where they persist for decades, accumulating in the bodies of animals and humans alike. These chemicals have been linked to health issues like cancer and hormonal disruption.
So, while staying dry is important, choosing sustainable waterproof winter coats with PFC-free alternatives makes a world of difference to both you and the environment.
What makes jackets and coats sustainable?
Sustainable jackets and coats are made ethically with eco-friendly materials, such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and responsibly sourced wool.
Heavier styles feature cruelty-free insulation, like Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified down, or synthetic alternatives like PrimaLoft, which mimics down without animal harm.
Also, responsible production practices, including Fair Trade certification, verify that all garments were made by people who earn fair wages in safe working conditions.
Durability is key, with high-quality construction that promotes longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Many sustainable coats are designed with timeless styles and repairable features to further extend their lifespan.
Additionally, eco-friendly dyes and PFC-free water-repellent finishes minimize toxic environmental impacts during production. Packaging is also considered, with many brands using recyclable or compostable materials.
The Most Eco-Friendly Materials For Jackets & Coats
Recycled Materials
Why make new materials when we’ve got plenty of old ones lying around? Recycled fabrics are a major win in the sustainability game.
By repurposing existing materials—like plastic bottles, old fishing nets, and discarded clothing—we cut down on waste and limit the use of raw resources.
You’ve probably seen recycled polyester and nylon being used in jackets, which are often just as durable as their virgin counterparts but with a much smaller environmental footprint.
Best Recycled Materials:
- Recycled Wool: Wool is already a long-lasting, biodegradable material, but recycled wool takes sustainability up a notch by repurposing old wool garments, and keeping them out of landfills.
- Recycled Polyester (rPET): Made from post-consumer plastic waste (yes, your old water bottles), this fabric helps reduce the need for petroleum-based polyester. It’s strong, lightweight, and easy to maintain.
- Recycled Nylon: Often sourced from discarded fishing nets and fabric scraps, recycled nylon saves on the massive energy that goes into producing new nylon. Bonus: It’s super tough and resistant to wear.
Certified Organic Fabrics
Organic fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo are all amazing plant-based choices for sustainable jackets and coats.
Unlike their conventional counterparts, these fabrics are grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals, which means they’re gentler on the environment and the farmers who produce them.
Best Organic Fabrics:
- Organic Cotton: The eco-friendly version of cotton is grown without toxic chemicals and uses far less water. The result? Soft, breathable jackets that feel good in every sense.
- Hemp: One of the most sustainable crops on the planet, hemp requires little water and no pesticides, grows super-fast, and is biodegradable. Plus, it’s naturally durable and UV-resistant, which makes it perfect for outerwear.
- Bamboo: While bamboo has mixed reviews due to the processing required to turn it into fabric, the plant itself is a sustainable resource. Bamboo grows quickly, doesn’t require replanting, and thrives without pesticides. It’s often turned into a silky-soft fabric that’s breathable and moisture-wicking—perfect for all-weather jackets.
Responsible Down
When it comes to insulation, down is known for being incredibly warm and lightweight. But there’s a dark side to down that has many of us rethinking its use—cruel practices like live-plucking and force-feeding have raised ethical red flags.
Enter: Responsible down. Brands that use Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified down to ensure that feathers are sourced humanely, meaning no harm to the birds.
Alternatives to Down:
- Synthetic Down (e.g., PrimaLoft): This is a man-made alternative that mimics the insulation properties of down without involving animals. PrimaLoft, for example, is a popular choice. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and offers great warmth, even in wet conditions. Plus, many synthetic downs are now made from recycled materials, so you’re doubling up on sustainability.
- Plant-Based Insulation: Yep, you can stay warm with the help of plants! Some brands are turning to innovative plant-based insulation, like fibers made from eucalyptus trees or corn. These alternatives provide effective warmth without the environmental impact of petroleum-based synthetics or animal-derived down.
Ethical Wool
Wool is a natural fiber that has been keeping humans warm for centuries, and good reason. It’s incredibly insulating, moisture-wicking, and durable.
However conventional wool production can have a significant environmental impact, from methane emissions (thanks to those sheep) to water use and land degradation.
That’s why sustainably sourced wool—like responsibly farmed, non-mulesed wool—is making waves in the outerwear world.
Sustainable Wool Certifications:
- Responsible Wool Standard (RWS): This certification ensures that the wool comes from farms that respect animal welfare and use sustainable farming practices.
- Recycled Wool: As mentioned earlier, recycling wool reduces waste and extends the lifespan of this already durable material.
Tencel and Lyocell
Tencel (also known as Lyocell) is a super eco-friendly fabric made from wood pulp, usually sourced from sustainably managed forests.
It’s produced using a closed-loop process, which means the chemicals used in its production are recycled, reducing waste.
Tencel is biodegradable, moisture-wicking, and incredibly soft, making it a great option for jackets and coats that are both comfy and conscious.
15 Best Sustainable Winter Coats & Eco-Friendly Jackets For Fall
From non-toxic maternity clothes and comfy sweatpants to sustainable jackets and stylish, eco-friendly coats women love to wear, Quince has all our needs covered.
The lineup boasts over 90 puffer jackets & responsible down coats with recycled insulation in a variety of styles, leather and suede jackets, wool coats, fleece & sherpa jackets, vests, and blazers.
Quince solely uses OEKO-TEX Standard 100, completely free from chemicals and toxic dyes.
As for their 100% shearling sheepskin jackets, rest assured that the leather used is always biodegradable and tanned in an LWG (Leather Working Group) certified tannery.
And to top it all off, all pieces are ethically made in Bsci-certified factories.
Price
From $79+
materials
100% recycled polyester and premium goose down, 100% shearling sheepskin, wool, Mongolian cashmere, recycled fleece
location/shipping
United States
For affordable, sustainable jackets and coats, look no further than the slow-fashion brand Tentree.
Not only do you get to shop the most eco-friendly fall and winter coats for women and men on the market, but with every purchase, 10 trees get planted.
These jackets are made from recycled materials—we’re talking plastic bottles, textile waste, and even old fishing nets.
Plus, every piece, down to the smallest detail, is crafted in Bluesign® certified facilities!
Their new line of jackets, parkas, and puffers features PrimaLoft® Black ThermoPlume insulation – aka an eco-friendly filling that is cruelty-free (no animals harmed, ever) and offers top-tier performance, keeping you cozy even on the frostiest days.
For those unexpected rainy or snowy days, Tentree’s outerwear is armed with a non-toxic, PFC-free DWR coating that repels water without harming the environment.
Price
From $168+
materials
Recycled polyester, Certified PFC-free DWR
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
For sustainable wool sweaters, and eco-friendly fall and winter coats for women, Eileen Fisher is the go-to destination.
Think wool vests, long blazers, motorcycle jackets, and some of the best organic wool jackets for fall we’ve seen so far.
Most fabrics are Bluesign® APPROVED and dyed without hazardous chemicals using less water and less energy.
And if that wasn’t enough, the B-certified corporation launched a fantastic Renew program that has already collected a total of two million garments.
Of those, one million have been resold, donated, or remade.
Price
From $305+
materials
Extra fine regenerative merino wool, 52% organic cotton/48% recycled nylon
location/shipping
United States, ships within the US
Want to build a super versatile winter capsule wardrobe?
The sustainable fashion brand Universal Standard offers an array of eco-friendly fall and winter coats for women.
Take your pick from size-inclusive leather jackets, denim jackets, trench coats, puffers, and vests – all available in sizes from 00-40! You can thank their innovative “Fit Liberty” system for that.
While the company does use some synthetic materials such as polyester and elastane, you can still find many organic outerwear options in their catalog.
To top it all odd, Universal Standard’s founders personally visit and vet every factory the US works with (in China, Peru, France, and the USA) and only approve factories determined to be ethical.
Price
From $138+
materials
Cotton, polyester, elastane
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
In addition to beautiful sweaters and cardigans for the cold, winter days, the ethical fashion brand Outerknown also offers some premium-quality sustainable jackets for women and men.
We especially love their cropped bomber jackets which are perfect for layering.
Outerknown uses a recycled wool/recycled nylon blend melton from Italy that adds a modern edge to any look.
You can also find warm and sustainable winter jackets for men, made entirely from recycled PET face and partially recycled PET membrane that creates a waterproof 2.5-layer fabric.
Last but not least, the Fair Trade clothing brand works with two B Corp Certified suppliers and has 8 facilities running on renewable energy.
Price
From $225+
materials
Recycled wool, polyester & polyamide
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
Your hunt for the best eco-friendly coats and ethically made vegan jackets for winter ends here.
On Whimsy & Row’s virtual shelves, you can find zero-waste and sustainable trench coats made of 100% Tencel fabric, organic outerwear made of certified organic cotton, as well as ultra-chic 100% upcycled deadstock polyester blazers.
As for the rich colors, they are a result of low-impact dyes!
What’s more, the LA-based, American-made clothing brand works closely with small, family-owned factories to create each piece locally.
Price
From $175+
materials
100% Tencel, 100% upcycled deadstock polyester, 100% organic cotton, or 99% organic cotton 1% elastin
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
The Checkroom creates stylish organic wool jackets for fall and winter with a temperature rating suitable for 5°F to 35°F.
The process is simple. Pick your favorite long or knee-length wool coat, cape, or lady jacket in your favorite color and style.
The sustainable fashion brand will cut & sew it ethically in Chicago in 2 to 3 weeks, and voila!
That’s the beauty of on-demand production – attention to detail, no excess waste, and pieces that will last you a lifetime.
Price
From $572+
materials
RWS-certified domestic wool
location/shipping
United States
Use discount code SKL20 to save 20%!
Bedi creates beautiful eco-friendly jackets for men and women as well as unisex sustainable winter coat styles locally, in Canada. These minimalist winter coats keep you warm till -30°C.
If we had to choose one, it would be the “ORSOLA Extended Parka” because it combines effortless elegance with top-tier protection against harsh winter weather, all while maintaining a sleek, flattering silhouette.
Despite reaching full length, the Orsola is surprisingly lightweight. The secret? An innovative insulation that keeps you toasty in temperatures as low as -30°C/-22°F, without making the coat feel heavy.
The generously sized storm hood and high neck add extra layers of defense against those biting winds and chilly snowfalls, ensuring you stay protected from head to toe.
Price
From $362+
materials
80% Econyl® luxury Italian nylon, Isosoft, lining made from recycled materials
location/shipping
Canada, ships worldwide
Cotopaxi’s eco-friendly jackets and sustainable coats are here to shield you from all the elements – no matter the temperature.
Whether you’re looking for insulated jackets, fleece jackets, rainwear & windbreakers, or vests, they‘ve got you covered.
For those rainy days, the packable, weather-resistant, recycled polyester windbreaker will certainly keep you warm and cozy.
But for heavy-duty use, their affordable eco-friendly winter jackets are a way better option.
Cotopaxi created a durable, 100% recycled polyester shell and also uses 650-fill responsibly sourced down.
All styles are Fair Trade Certified™ or made in factories that promote fair labor practices. But what really sold me was the lifetime warranty and repairs!
Price
From $20+
materials
100% recycled polyester shell 650-fill responsibly sourced down
location/shipping
United States, ships worldwide
Asket is the mecca of warm and sustainable winter jackets for men.
From the breezy days of spring to the icy chill of winter, these pieces are designed with high-performing, low-impact materials that make you look and feel good while respecting the planet.
If versatility and durability are what you’re after, look no further than “The Field Jacket“.
Crafted from 100% recycled nylon shell fabric, it’s both insulating and water-repelling, giving you top-notch protection without weighing you down.
It’s insulated with Primaloft™ Silver—a high-performance fill made from 100% recycled PET bottles.
Lastly, the zip-up jacket features a 100% recycled nylon shell and Primaloft™ Silver insulation, meaning it’s both lightweight and sustainable.
The water-repellent shell makes it ideal for wet days, while the insulating layers provide warmth without bulk.
Price
From $195+
materials
Recycled PET bottles, 100% recycled nylon, Primaloft™ Silver insulation
location/shipping
Sweden, ships worldwide
Wuxly is the ultimate destination for vegan-friendly wool alternatives, including sustainable winter coats for all genders.
The lineup boasts vests, rain & wind, lightweight jackets, puffer jackets, bombers, and parkas. Personally, I have a soft spot for their long, recycled polyester jackets.
The high-performance shell not only protects you from the elements but also helps protect the planet by reusing materials that would otherwise go to waste.
Inside, the down-alternative insulation is a thoughtful blend of 75% polyester and 25% bio-based Sorona®, meaning you get all the coziness of down without any animal involvement.
Whether you’re braving snowstorms or light rain, these eco-friendly jackets’ water-repellent and snow-proof features have you covered – even when the temperature drops to -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F).
Price
From $907+
materials
Sorona®, recycled nylon, recycled polyester
location/shipping
Canada, ships worldwide
Known as one of the on-demand fashion brands in 2024, Mila Vert doesn’t keep stock!
This means that they are only producing what you order to avoid over-production, cut down on waste, and preserve precious resources to deliver high-quality ethical fashion.
So, their versatile sustainable jackets for winter and elegant eco-friendly coats are not only modern but also zero-waste and ethically made!
Mila Vert uses an array of eco-friendly materials including recycled wool, recycled nylon, Tencel, and organic cotton to create blazers, trench coats, and denim jackets, ideal for work and leisure.
Price
From $225+
materials
100% organic cotton, Tencel, or 70% recycled wool, 25% recycled nylon, 5% recycled other fibers
location/shipping
Slovenia, worldwide shipping is available
Meet the world’s only Canadian eiderdown outerwear, Olmstead Outerwear!
Their collection is packed with ultra-modern, sustainable waterproof winter coats for men and women.
Most styles are unisex, oversized (because who doesn’t love a little extra room for cozy layers?), and feature drop-shoulder puffed sleeves for that effortlessly cool, street-style look.
To create those insulated and wind-proof sustainable jackets for winter, the B-certified corporation uses 100% sustainably harvested wild Canadian eiderdown.
Not only is this down literally the lightest on Earth but it’s also harvested in a way that respects the environment and the birds themselves.
Customers can also take advantage of Olmstead’s take-back program to give their worn-to-death jackets a new life.
Price
From $2607+
materials
GRS recycled nylon & polyester, wild Canadian eiderdown
location/shipping
Canada, ships worldwide
Sustainability should be a joy and thus, Thought Clothing UK aims to outfit us with eco-friendly fall and winter coats for women who are bold and unapologetic. The best part? They are super affordable!
Choose between organic cotton coats and wool/recycled polyester jackets. What wowed me is that despite the organic materials, the cotton coats are, in fact, waterproof!
As for the coating, it’s a fluorocarbon-free coating, meaning better for the environment as it means harmful fluorocarbons can’t get into the water system and cause possible harm to nature or people. Show said that ethical fashion is boring or uninspired?
Price
From $99+
materials
40% wool, 60% recycled polyester, 100% organic cotton with fluorocarbon-free coating
location/shipping
United Kingdom, ships worldwide
The German company Lanius is one of the top brands of sustainable winter outerwear in Europe.
They choose the finest virgin wool, and in some cases, hints of polyamide, to create timeless coats for women in an array of muted colors.
You can also find teddy coats, blazer coats, and denim jackets, perfect for layering.
Most items are completely CO₂-neutralized and made ethically in BSCI and Fair Wear-verified factories in North Macedonia since 1999.
Price
From $239+
materials
Virgin wool, organic cotton, polyamide
location/shipping
Germany, ships worldwide
Certifications To Look For in Sustainable Winter Coats
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): If a sustainable jacket is GOTS certified, it means that at least 70% of the fibers are organic. But GOTS goes beyond just fabric—this certification also ensures that the garment was produced under fair labor conditions, with a focus on environmental sustainability at every stage of the supply chain.
Responsible Down Standard (RDS): If you’re looking at a sustainable jacket for winter filled with down, make sure it’s RDS certified. This certification ensures that the down used in the garment comes from ducks and geese that have been treated humanely. RDS guarantees that no live-plucking or force-feeding has occurred, so you can stay cozy without compromising animal welfare.
Bluesign®: Bluesign® is all about reducing the environmental impact of textiles. This certification focuses on the entire supply chain, ensuring that every step—from raw material production to the final product—meets stringent safety and environmental standards. If a coat carries the Bluesign® label, it means it’s made with minimal chemical use, less water, and a reduced carbon footprint.
Fair Trade Certified™: The Fair Trade certification guarantees that the people making your coat were paid fairly and worked under safe conditions. This certification also supports community development initiatives, with premiums going back to workers to invest in local health, education, and environmental programs.
OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: OEKO-TEX® certification means that the textiles used in your jacket are free from harmful chemicals and substances. This certification tests for a wide range of toxins, from harmful dyes to dangerous pesticides, guaranteeing that the materials in your coat are safe for you and the environment.
Global Recycled Standard (GRS): For jackets made from recycled materials, the GRS certification is the one to look for. GRS verifies that the materials used in the coat—such as recycled polyester or nylon—are truly recycled and meet strict environmental and social criteria. It also covers the entire supply chain, ensuring transparency and accountability.
PETA-Approved Vegan: For those looking for cruelty-free and animal-friendly options, the PETA-Approved Vegan label is your go-to. This certification ensures that no animals were used or harmed in the making of the jacket—no wool, leather, down, or fur involved.
How to care for your sustainable jackets & coats?
First of all, your jacket’s tag holds the secrets to keeping it in top shape. Whether it says “machine wash cold” or “hand wash only,” following those instructions will prevent damage and keep the materials intact.
Wash Less, Wear More
Unless your coat just survived a mud fight (hey, it happens), you don’t need to wash it after every wear. Frequent washing wears down the fabric and can shorten the lifespan of your jacket.
Air it out between wears to keep it fresh, and only toss it in the wash when it’s really necessary. Less laundry also means less water and energy used. Plus, let’s be honest, nobody loves laundry day.
Use Eco-Friendly Detergent
When it’s time for a wash, opt for an eco-friendly laundry detergent. Conventional detergents often contain harsh chemicals that can break down fabrics and aren’t great for the environment.
Choose a gentle, biodegradable detergent that’s free of dyes and fragrances. You’re not just protecting your jacket, but the planet too. Bonus points if you use a detergent that comes in recyclable or compostable packaging!
Hang Dry, Don’t Fry
If you can, skip the dryer. High heat can mess with the structure of your jacket’s fabrics, especially with technical materials like recycled polyester or nylon.
Hang drying not only preserves the life of your coat but also saves energy (and your electric bill). For down jackets, give them a good fluff between drying sessions to keep that puffiness intact. And for bonus eco points? Dry your clothes outdoors on a sunny day!
Repair, Don’t Despair
Do you have a loose button or a zipper that’s seen better days? Don’t panic—or worse, toss the coat! Many sustainable brands offer repair services or sell replacement parts like zippers and buttons. Patching up minor damages not only extends the life of your coat but also keeps it out of the landfill.
Store It Right
When winter’s over, your coat deserves a little TLC before you shove it in the closet. Make sure it’s clean, fully dry, and stored in a cool, dry place.
Avoid cramming it into a small space where it can get squished or misshapen. And if it’s down-filled, store it loose—not in a stuff sack—so the insulation stays fluffy and effective for next winter’s chill.
Skip the Dry Cleaner (Most of the Time)
Dry cleaning uses some pretty nasty chemicals, which isn’t great for you, your jacket, or the planet. If your coat is labeled “dry clean only,” try to find an eco-friendly cleaner that uses non-toxic methods, like CO2 cleaning or “wet” cleaning.
Better yet, look for a water-based cleaning solution that’s gentler on fabrics. Some jackets, especially wool or technical fabrics, can be hand-washed carefully at home instead.
These were the best sustainable coats and eco-friendly jackets for fall and winter.
There you have it – stylish, eco-friendly fall and winter coats for women and men who want to stay warm in the most ethical way possible.
Whether you prefer recycled material winter coats for cold weather, organic fabrics, or cruelty-free insulation, there is something for everyone. These sustainable coats are designed to last, so you’re not just investing in style but in sustainability.
They sidestep the toxic chemicals and unethical practices often found in traditional fashion, keeping both your conscience and the planet clear.
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