I Found an All-Seasons Jacket That Converts Into a Crossbody Bag For Travel

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Mekita Rivas

For as long as I can remember, I've been that person who is always cold. Spring? Cold. Summer? Cold. Fall? Cold. Winter? Definitely cold. As you can imagine, my temperature intolerance regularly affects my wardrobe choices. Most of the time, I need lots of layers that I can stack or shed as needed — depending on how strong the air conditioning is, of course.

When considering outerwear in particular, as the months get chillier, I gravitate toward thick parkas that will keep me warm in even the most frigid of temps. But the typical winter parka comes with some downsides. For one, there's the bulkiness factor. Sure, it's super cozy and toasty, but it also takes up a lot of space. Parkas aren't exactly easy to pack, so if you're headed to a destination like Aspen or Boston during the winter, you'll likely have to wear it onto the plane. It's a minor inconvenience that us perpetually cold people have to deal with.

Fortunately, by the time spring arrives, the parka becomes unnecessary. But what replaces it? That's the outerwear question for the ages: Which lightweight coat still keeps you warm, regardless of the season? I had the opportunity to put one such coat — the Canada Goose Cypress Down Jacket — to the test and I'm here with a full report.

The Canadian outfitter is well-known for its down-filled, fleece-lined parkas that can literally withstand Arctic temperatures. However, the brand's selection of lightweight jackets is worth a second look. Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about the Canada Goose Cypress Down Jacket.

As much as I prioritize function, anything I wear has to actually reflect my personal style, too. What I like most about this jacket is the chic color. Most of my day-to-day wardrobe revolves around neutrals, and this limestone shade with a subtle sheen complements countless tones that I frequently reach for (like black and cream). If limestone isn't your hue, there are eight others to choose from, including summit pink and jasper green.

Other noteworthy details: This style is available in sizes ranging from 2XS to 2XL, and it features removable elasticized interior backpack straps so you can carry the jacket hands-free over your shoulders.

Consider this jacket the outerwear staple that stays in your carry-on. When you're not wearing it, it's packable into the interior left pocket. When packed, exterior loops provide a backpack strap capability, so you're able to wear the coat slung like a crossbody bag. Versatility FTW! Another feature that's great for outdoor runners are the brand's Recessed Power Stretch cuffs, which help lock in heat and keep sleeves nice and snug when you're active.

Since I'm always cold, it seems counterintuitive to reach for something that's described as "lightweight" when I'm trying to stay warm. That may explain why I don't really own any lightweight down jackets. I figure if you're going to go all in on winter outerwear, it might as well be a parka. Oh, how wrong I was — I was pleasantly surprised to discover that this style kept me warm in temperatures ranging from the 40s to 50s, and even in the mid to high 30s. That's a big deal for someone who treats her thick winter parka like a security blanket.

TL;DR: This jacket is for anyone who wants a lightweight jacket that still keeps you warm, is easily packable (i.e. good for travel), and that can be worn year-round.

The jacket is currently shoppable on the Canada Goose website, in addition to Saks Fifth Avenue ($750) and Neiman Marcus ($750).

Rating:
★★★★★