As polar vortex grips US, turn to top-rated winter gear to stay warm

Are you prepared for the freezing weather to come? (Photo: Getty Images)
Are you prepared for the freezing weather to come? (Photo: Getty Images)

Brace yourselves because the polar vortex has fractured. A major snowstorm has swept through parts of the Midwest on Monday and is quickly moving towards the East Coast, causing temperatures to drop dramatically this week. Weather reports say that parts of the Midwest will be colder than Antarctica and for those of us on the East Coast, we’re in for bitter cold temperatures as well. Early weather projections showed that a “severe and punishing winter” was ahead and we can expect strong winds and frigid arctic air to swirl around the eastern half of the United States over the next few months.

If you still don’t have the proper winter gear yet, don’t worry — we have you covered. Below, we rounded up top-rated winter gear on the web — from coats to boots and accessories that are currently on sale — to keep you warm all winter long.

The editors at Yahoo Lifestyle are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.

Eddie Bauer Women’s Lodge Down Duffle Coat

Eddie Bauer Women’s Lodge Down Duffle Coat (Photo: Eddie Bauer)
Eddie Bauer Women’s Lodge Down Duffle Coat (Photo: Eddie Bauer)

5-star review:This coat is the warmest I ever had. Today was -23C with wind felt like -29C and I was not cold at all. Petite seems to be the same length as regular sizes, but on the positive side it covers over boots for extra protection from cold. This is a must have for very cold weather.”

Shop it: Eddie Bauer Women’s Lodge Down Duffle Coat, $200 (was $279), eddiebauer.com

The North Face Mossbud Swirl Triclimate Jacket

The North Face Mossbud Swirl Triclimate Jacket (Photo: Zappos)
The North Face Mossbud Swirl Triclimate Jacket (Photo: Zappos)

5-star review: “What a great jacket!! I got this for an Alaska trip. I love the layers and flexibility of this jacket. The inner layer is so soft and cozy underneath. Zipped and paired with the outer layer gives me solid comfort and protection from weather elements. It’s also very easy to zip out the inner and just use as a windbreaker or rain jacket, and is still comfortable. This jacket seems really durable. I love the versatility. I got a large, I’m 5’6 and 135 lbs. I probably could have gotten a medium, but I wanted some room to add layers if it gets really cold on the trip. Very satisfied with the quality of this jacket, and can’t wait to get out into the world and test it out!”

Shop it: The North Face Mossbud Swirl Triclimate Jacket, $183 (was $260), zappos.com

Lauren Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Coat with Faux Fur Trim

Lauren Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Coat with Faux Fur Trim (Photo: Nordstrom)
Lauren Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Coat with Faux Fur Trim (Photo: Nordstrom)

5-star review: “Beautiful, stylish and on point for holiday functions.”

Shop it: Lauren Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Coat with Faux Fur Trim, $235 (was $320), nordstrom.com

Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket

Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket (Photo: Columbia)
Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket (Photo: Columbia)

5-star review: “I have been hunting for a jacket that is down-free (thanks, allergies) but warm enough to handle a Minnesota winter. Love the Omni-heat lining, love the olive green color. The hood lining is super soft and the cuffs are a nice touch. Excited to try it out!”

Shop it: Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket, $98 (was $140), zappos.com

Sorel Tivoli III High

Sorel Tivoli III High (Photo: Zappos)
Sorel Tivoli III High (Photo: Zappos)

5-star review: “This is my third pair of Tivolli III High boots over the years. Living in the high mountain area with cold long winters, these boots have been my to go boots almost every day during the cold winter months for running around without being too bulky and too heavy. They are very warm and stylish and are comfortable walking for a long distance. They are super durable and waterproof. I have worn these boots for hours during winter sporting events without my feet getting cold or wet. I have purchased the brown and the black in the past so I can wear them with different outfits. I was happy to see they offer these boots again this winter and I jumped and bought the black one again. They are little snug at first (size 9, true to size), but they stretch nicely without losing its shape.”

Shop it: Sorel Tivoli III High, $113 (was $150), zappos.com

Ugg Aya Waterproof

Ugg Aya Waterproof (Photo: Zappos)
Ugg Aya Waterproof (Photo: Zappos)

5-star review: “I purchased the traditional suede UGG boots years ago and loved them, but the cold Chicagoland winters just ate away at them. These boots were marketed as being waterproof and they very much are! No skidding either, nice grippy soles. They keep my feet toasty and have a stylish fur accent and easy lace-up (not the leather laces, more like traditional laces). The salt and grime of the city wipe off easily. LOVE THESE!”

Shop it: Ugg Aya Waterproof, $230 (was $350), zappos.com

Topshop Heavy Check Scarf

Topshop Heavy Check Scarf (Photo: Nordstrom)
Topshop Heavy Check Scarf (Photo: Nordstrom)

5-star review: “I ordered the navy and green combination. The scarf has just the right touch of color for me. It is warm but not too heavy. Terrific value.”

Shop it: Topshop Heavy Check Scarf, $20 (was $40), nordstrom.com

Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves

Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves. (Photo: Nordstrom)
Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves. (Photo: Nordstrom)

5-star review: “Beautiful, soft, leather gloves. Nice and toasty warm on the inside. Perfect for a Michigan winter! Great for driving and shopping!”

Shop it: Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves, $60 (was $99), nordstrom.com

Halogen Double Stitch Cashmere Infinity Scarf

Halogen Double Stitch Cashmere Infinity Scarf (Photo: Nordstrom)
Halogen Double Stitch Cashmere Infinity Scarf (Photo: Nordstrom)

5-star review: “My favorite cashmere scarf ever. No itch factor whatsoever, very soft and very warm. This scarf is a definite winner. I have more expensive cashmere that itches.”

Shop it: Halogen Double Stitch Cashmere Infinity Scarf, $60 (was $99), nordstrom.com

Madewell Kent Beanie

Madewell Kent Beanie (Photo: Nordstrom)
Madewell Kent Beanie (Photo: Nordstrom)

5-star review: “Very warm and soft….excellent to wear on a cold winter’s day. When my hair is still damp from washing it protects me from the chill. Love this product.”

Shop it: Madewell Kent Beanie, $22 (was $38), nordstrom.com

Read More from Yahoo Lifestyle:

? 13 gorgeous Valentine’s Day jewelry gifts starting at $38
? Lady Gaga and Lupita made this the No. 1 beauty trend at the SAG Awards
? Underwear ‘joy checks,’ plus 5 other Marie Kondo organizational hacks that changed my life

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.