Winter is here, and so are frigid temperatures. Whether you live in more temperate winter climates or spend winter surrounded by snow, you need a coat. Here is our guide to men's coats to help you find the best jackets to keep you comfortable, looking dapper, and enjoying the season.
No man's closet is complete without a classic men's wool coat. It is a timeless and sophisticated look. Regardless of cut, color, or style, wool coats are also extremely warm. Wool coats come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and cuts. There are different weights or lengths of wool coats for your personal warmth needs. The beauty of a wool coat is also how versatile it is. While its sleek look lends itself well to workwear, it also looks great paired with denim jeans and a nice top for weekend wear. Keep your shoes on the dressy side when you wear this coat style to keep the look cohesive.
One of the trendier looks out there, and bomber jackets come in a wide variety of styles that make them perfectly versatile, from wearing to the office in the morning followed by a first date in the evening. Their easy zip-cropped length and athletic fit makes them an excellent choice from fall through spring. When the temperature goes below freezing, choose a bomber jacket that is well insulated and lined with fleece rather than cotton. Wear over a cashmere turtleneck for a city slicker-retro look that will also keep you cozy. Alternatively, wear over a men's flannel shirt for a stylish alpine charm.
Quilted jackets are a lightweight and moderately warm pick for winter, offering every man a fashionable and sophisticated look. Incredibly comfortable and versatile, quilted jackets are another great pick to wear almost year-round. Put one on over a down men’s winter vest or a men's fleece jacket for an extra layer of insulation.
Parkas are the ultimate choice for winter weather. They are water-resistant and lined with cozy layers of insulation. Parkas are great for wearing while out in the city, for skiing and other winter activities, or even just for scraping the ice off your windshield in the morning. There are many different styles, lengths, and materials for parkas; pick the one that works best for you and your lifestyle.
If you plan to spend winter experiencing bone-chilling temperatures, then a men's down jacket is a must. Although a high-quality down jacket tends to be on the pricier side, it is worth every penny. Down jackets are lightweight yet incredibly warm. Stuffed with a wide variety of feather lining (goose down is the warmest!), a down jacket will keep you toasty during lengthy commutes or endless hours spent outdoors. Go for a lightweight, packable down coat for a jacket that will easily fit into your briefcase or backpack and still keep you uncompromisingly warm. Wear under a windbreaker for those harshest winter days to keep the wind and wet at bay.
To accessorize your down jacket, try a pair of fleece men’s gloves and a warm, rib-knit beanie in a seasonal color. A fleece gaiter or lightweight earmuffs can also be good accessory options with your down coat, especially if you’ll be outdoors for an extended time.
Leather is always on-trend, not to mention one of the warmer fabrics out there. Leather jackets are especially practical for holding up against those bitter winds, which is why they are a timeless favorite for motorcyclists. These jackets come in a wide variety of styles, from leather bomber jackets to trench coats and any other style you can imagine. Leather jackets are a top choice for fall to spring wear and can be made a little warmer in the winter by wearing it over a down vest or fleece jacket. Since leather is a sleek, streamlined material, adding a stylish scarf in a material like wool or a soft synthetic blend can help balance the look. A structured men’s hat is also a great look to pair with a leather coat.
If leather is not your pick for ethical reasons, there are still other options. Opt for second-hand leather or vegan leather (yes, it's a thing) for the same cool look without the weight on your conscience.
Squall jackets are designed to keep out all sorts of unfavorable weather. Sometimes called windbreakers, squall jackets are light but warm for bracing winds and wet weather. This jacket is an excellent choice for surviving all the elements during the long winter. Squall jackets are great when layered over a down vest or fleece jacket—perfect for winter sports like skiing or snowboarding to keep the wind out and the warm in. Water-resistant squall gloves and an ultra-warm sherpa-lined hat are the perfect complements to this men’s coat style. Choose snow- and water-resistant boots and have lightweight but durable insulation to keep you warm to coordinate with your squall jacket and keep you toasty.
Regardless of your cold-weather needs, there is a coat to keep you warm and stylish all winter long. Consider the choices in this men’s coat guide to determine which looks will be right for you. For most men, choosing a few different jacket styles for various occasions will fit the bill. For example, a polished-looking wool coat or leather jacket will be just right for work and special occasions, while a bomber jacket or down coat will give you a great look for weekend wear or date night. Thanks to today’s coat styles for men, your options are endless. Choose looks that make you feel your best, and you’ll make it through winter in comfort, style, and confidence.