The Best Winter Jackets For Men
When temperatures drop, the idea of strolling around in short sleeves becomes a distant memory. Equipping yourself for the cold is essential if you're planning to keep active outdoors when it's chilly out. Though a quality jacket can seem like an investment, you'll be sure to thank yourself once you find yourself warm and comfortable in the bitter cold. We've rounded up a few of our favorites below, so take a look and see for yourself.
What to Look For
Not all cold-weather jackets are built the same, so we had three distinguishing features in mind while we did our research: waterproofing, insulation, and adaptability. Our overall favorite comes from Moerdeng. This versatile ski-inspired design is a great choice for anything from snow sports to commuting in rain and snow. But if you’re looking for something a little more lightweight, you won’t want to miss the portable puffer from Tommy Hilfiger. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Moerdeng Waterproof Ski Jacket
Slope ready
Batten down the hatches with this robust ski jacket design from Moerdeng that’s fit for a blizzard. Its thick fleece insulation is made with snow sports in mind, so you can be sure that you’ll stay toasty whether you’re caught in the snow or not. And thanks to the jacket’s delicate fluffy lining on the inside, you’ll be sure to feel snug in the process.
Pros:
- The fleece-lined hood is detachable, meaning you can switch between styles at your leisure.
- The adjustable Velcro cuffs allow you to create an insulating seal or let in a little air if you start overheating.
- This high-performance waterproofing can keep you dry even in torrential rain or snow.
Cons:
- There’s no drawstring at the neck, which can leave a gap for frosty winds to enter.
Tommy Hilfiger Packable Down Puffer Jacket
Pocket-sized
When facing the cold, insulation is often the first quality we look for in a jacket. However, if your lifestyle demands a little more maneuverability, you might quickly become frustrated at the cumbersome dimensions of most heavyweight insulated coats. Enter the Tommy Hilfiger puffer. This notorious classic kills two birds with one stone thanks to its supremely portable design, which exploits the naturally lightweight insulation of down feathers.
Pros:
- This coat really packs down to compact dimensions, and the drawstring carry bag comes with a handy hook to attach to belts, backpacks, or coat rails.
- The side-entry pockets give you plenty of storage space and provide easy access for hand-warming.
Cons:
- Down jackets can sometimes shed feathers, so be prepared to collect a few stragglers from car seats or the like.
Carhartt Loose Fit Active Jacket
Take a look under the hood
This casualwear champion from Carhartt takes its cue from the aesthetics of a classic zip-up hoodie, but boy, will you be warm inside. Constructed from heavyweight ring-spun cotton, this durable outer insulates efficiently. Plus, it’s tough enough to endure constant wear, unlike most polyester coats. And thanks to the quilted flannel lining on the inside, you’re sure to feel pampered each time you wear it.
Pros:
- This classic split-kangaroo pocket at the front offers easy access and plenty of room for valuables.
- The rib-knit cuffs and waistband make for a tight fit at the entryways to keep out any pesky breezes.
Cons:
- Fans of modular jackets might be disappointed that this hood doesn’t detach.
Gemyse Snow Jacket With Puffer Liner
Three in one
If you’re struggling to make your mind up between different styles of jackets, why not triple your chances for success with this combined trio design from Gemyse? This clever modular design combines a classic puffer with a heavyweight snow jacket for unparalleled insulation. And best of all, you can separate each layer to wear them separately, giving this design plenty of utility as the weather shifts.
Pros:
- Thanks to the high-quality waterproof lining on this snow jacket, you’ll be safe from the rain if you get caught in an unexpected shower.
- This detachable hood comes with an adjustable drawstring, so you can wrap up snugly and protect yourself from chilly drafts.
Cons:
- The pockets on this jacket are a little shallower than most.
Carhartt High Visibility Insulated Sherwood Jacket
Seeing is believing
When being visible in the cold is important, you can rely on this versatile high-visibility option from the workwear champions Carhartt. This 3M Scotch lite reflective material fulfills level-2 visibility standards, making it a suitable choice for most professional applications. You won’t be left feeling the chill, either, thanks to the thick lining that works to trap your body heat inside.
Pros:
- Thanks to this jacket’s waterproof membrane, water-repellent coating, and fully tapered waterproof seams, the chances of moisture working its way inside are slim to none.
- Carhartt knows the deal when it comes to practical workwear, and you won’t be disappointed by the array of pockets on this jacket.
Cons:
- This fully-featured professional option is a little pricier than commercial alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I be sure that my jacket will keep me from getting wet?
While many jackets may claim to be waterproof, not all are built equally, and it pays to read between the lines if staying dry is a priority. Be wary of materials labeled as water-resistant, as these will often only provide scant protection against the lightest rainfall. If you’re looking for full protection, keep your eyes peeled for options fitted with a waterproof membrane, and smart materials like GoreTex.
How can I clean my jacket?
We’d advise against anything but wipe-downs at home, as these garments are often crafted from a range of materials that can be sensitive to machine-washing. Most of the jackets we reviewed featured a protective lining that will keep the insides safe from dirt and debris, so scrubbing with a wet cloth should be enough to do the trick. If in doubt, a trip to your local dry cleaners is sure to resolve any lasting mess.
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