These cheap jackets will be game changers on and off the slopes

They’re the light, trending item making the sudden cold snap bearable and we’ve scoured the shops to find the best deal in town.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.