­These cosy coats are unbeatable in chilly weather. Here are 9 of the best puffer jackets for winter walks and outdoor socialising.

For a while, it looked like the days of outdoor socialising were over. ­ That we’d never again have to endure al fresco dinners in the middle of winter or huddle under space heaters clutching mugs of hot chocolate in a bid to keep hypothermia at bay.

Alas, the rapid rise of the Omicron variant has meant more and more people are once again opting to dine in the open air, or take a brisk walk with a pal instead of braving the great indoors.

And it just so happens that the must-have outerwear of the season is a puffer jacket. Lightweight but oh-so warm, a quilted coat will keep out the cold and look totally on-trend too.

­This season’s coolest puff pieces come in mood-boosting brights and icy pastels. But if you want something a bit more understated, you’ll find lots of classic khaki, navy and black colourways in the shops too.

A longline puff er coat offers the ultimate in insulation (it’s basically like walking around in a sleeping bag), while shorter styles are great for striding through urban parks or the countryside. Here are some of our favourites...

Ready to wrap up? Here’s our pick of the best puffer jackets on the high street…

Rab Womens Cirrus Flex 2.0 Hoody Deep Heather €155, visit cotswoldoutdoor.ie

Santa Cruz Mallow Jacket €105, visit santacruzskateboards.eu

Oliver Bonas Popper Collar Pink Short Pu­ffer Coat €115, visit oliverbonas.com

Arket Waisted Down Jacket €225, visit arket.com

Love & Roses Quilted Coat €102, visit next.ie

River Island Blue RI Studio Super Pu­ffer Coat €188, visit riverisland.ie

Khost Clothing Longline Pu­ffer Coat €131, visit mandco.com

Binky x Very Longline Padded Coat with Hood €115, visit littlewoodsireland.ie

Lyle & Scott Argyle Pu­ffer Jacket €140, visit zalando.ie

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