Picking the
perfect winter coat isn’t easy. It’s a commitment, a challenge, an investment,
and the centerpiece of your outfit for an entire season. Further still, this
piece of attire is your armor against the onslaught of winter elements. So come
rain, wind, snow, or storm – it needs to hold up.
But with so many
jackets to choose from, it can be nigh-on impossible to know which fits your
needs best. Fortunately, the art of selecting the best winter coat can be
mastered by taking a few simple factors into account.
Your Guide to Choosing the
Best Winter Coat
Know what you’re looking
for
You might be
looking for a weekend warmer, a classic cut that will fit perfectly with your
work wardrobe, a stylish piece to get you through this season, or all of the
above. Either way, most winter jackets fall into one of two categories: Down or
Synthetic.
What’s the
difference between Down and Synthetic Jackets?
Down features:
·
Ultralight.
·
Very warm.
·
Can be easily packed.
·
Long life span when properly
cared for.
Synthetic
features:
·
Water-resistant.
·
Washing machine friendly.
·
Can be lower priced.
Usually, the
deciding factor between down and synthetic is climate. For example, if you live
in a relatively dry area and don’t expect snow but know temperatures will
plummet, a Down jacket could be right for you. On the flip side, if you’re
anticipating a wet winter, a synthetic alternative could be best.
Best Winter Coat Styles
While function is
fundamental when it comes to choosing the perfect winter coat, style can also
play a role. Over Winter, you’ll pair whatever coat you choose with various
outfits for multiple occasions. In other words – style matters. As of now,
puffer and bomber jackets are on-trend, however, you can also choose from the more classic iterations of
Parka, Overcoat, and even Peacoat.
Best Winter Coats Materials
Filling
When it comes to
down jackets, they are usually filled with goose down, duck down, or a
combination of the two. Synthetic jackets are typically filled with a cotton
blend.
Outer shell
The outer shell of
a winter jacket is critical to your comfort. So, you might want to ask yourself
some questions before making any choices: “Do I want water-resistant or
waterproof? “Fully Seam Sealed or Critical Seams Sealed?”
The two most
popular shell materials used on waterproof/breathable garments – polyester
and nylon. So, that’s what you’ll want to go for if you live in a rainy
climate. However, cotton shells can also offer a layer of protection against
precipitation.
Lining material
The importance of
a jacket’s lining material mainly lies in its breathability, insulative
properties, and ‘feel.’ Choose more cottony and thick materials such as Sherpa
for warmth, or opt for satin/nylon designs for an added layer of insulation and
a certain style flair.
Winter Coats Prices
It’s good practice
to consider your winter jacket as a worthwhile investment. While you may wince
upon first glance at some Winter coats’ price tags, rest assured they’re well
worth it in the long run. That considered, to get the most out of your winter
coat, don’t be afraid to spend a little extra (or keep an eye out for sales!)
Other factors to consider when buying a winter coat:
Hood: For some, a hood is a hindrance. However, if you expect
glacial winds to lap at your ears while snow falls all around, a hood is
necessary. Some winter jackets have removable hoods, and others that fold into
the lapel for easy storage.
3-in-1 design: Featuring a winning combination of waterproof,
wind-resistance, and insulating fleece, these all-encompassing jackets are
often your best bet for holding fast no matter what Winter sends your
way.
Adjustment
features: Jackets will come with various
features to help customize the fit. You can typically find hood adjustments,
drawcords at the bottom of the coat to help seal out the cold air, and wrist
cuffs as extra reinforcement. Front zippers can be in the form of a storm flap,
water-resistant, or standard design.