Negotiating the minefield of men’s coats can be a tricky process. For some men, warmth and utility are the only factors governing their choice of coat while others prioritise the latest trend over all else. However, the leaps and bounds made in the field of men’s fashion in the last decade have meant that those looking for practical coats need not compromise on style. By considering the basic elements you require for outerwear, you could end up with a pragmatic coat that weathers harsh climates and changing fashion whims for decades to come.
Start by thinking about what you most need from a coat. For example, if you live in the UK, the likelihood is that you’ll need a coat that protects you from the constant rain that much of the country experiences throughout the year. So, if you’re not a regular umbrella user, a hood may be a necessity. What’s more, if you’re averse to buying a heavy wool coat to keep warm, a fleece inner lining in a lighter jacket may be the ideal way to marry practicality with fashion. One style of jacket that matches these requirements is the bomber jacket, a waist-length coat that is characterised by a hood, a warm inner-lining and an eternally fashionable exterior, often made from a wool and polyester mix.
In addition to the practicalities of weather, it’s also important to consider your body shape and the kind of coats that will suit your physique. Shorter men, for example, should avoid wearing longer coats and instead choose outerwear that ends at the hips or upper thigh. Conversely, tall men should seek out coats that are longer in length, like a smart plain overcoat that stretches to the knees or a classic trench coat or duffel coat. Moreover, men that carry more weight around the waist and chest should stay away from puffer coats and double-breasted jackets, which are better suited to men of slim stature.
If you’re an active sportsman or you spend a lot of time outdoors, there’s yet more to keep in mind when buying men’s coats. Golfers, for instance, should consider waterproof coats that effectively ward off water but are still made out of a material that’s light enough to facilitate effective movement around the golf course. Similarly, active hill-walkers, climbers and cyclists need windbreaker jackets that provide steady protection from the elements. And if you’re going on a winter sports holiday, a ski jacket is an essential investment. The best ski jackets keep you warm and dry, with accessible pockets and enough breathability to ensure that you don’t overheat when you’re sliding down the snow.
