The right jacket can make or break your winter. Here’s how to find the best jacket that suits your climate and personality.
A lot of people only wear one jacket throughout the fall and winter. Others might rotate two or three pieces throughout the season. Regardless, it’s crucial to pick the right jacket that suits your location, style, and needs. The right coat will provide you with a safe haven from the harsh elements while enhancing your charm and fashion. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect jacket.
It’s essential to consider your lifestyle and how you will use a jacket before getting into the nitty gritty. The best option will be different if you need something for running errands or if you’re skiing down mountains.
Consider your most common activities and lifestyle. Do you walk to work, take public transport, or drive? Do you need something for your morning run? Or maybe you secretly want to learn how to snowboard this season. Either way, knowing what you’ll use the jacket for will inform your decision later on.
There are two main types of insulations to choose from: synthetic and down. Each option has advantages, disadvantages, and best-use cases to keep in mind.
Down insulation is ultra-light, compressible, and designed for cool, dry climates. The material is made from duck and geese plumage, which helps retain body heat while staying breathable. However, down insulation loses performance when it gets wet. Some coats offer water-resistant exteriors, but you might opt for synthetic insulation to be safe.
There are several varieties of synthetic insulation, but they’re typically affordable and composed of polyester fibers. The material retains warmth when it gets wet and dries quickly, making it excellent for wet climates. The main downside is that synthetic insulation can be heavier, bulkier, and less durable than down materials.
The outer shell of a jacket is a fundamental component to consider, as it’s your first line of defense against the elements. You’ll want a winter jacket that’s waterproof or weather-resistant. There are various options to consider before you can make your choice.
Some jackets have a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane that is designed for wet environments. If you live in an area with rainy winters and mild climates, you’ll want to select a jacket with a GORE-TEX exterior.
Jackets with a durable water-resistant (DWR) treatment are not waterproof. These jackets are weather resistant and perform best in cold, dry climates. You might select a DWR jacket for snowy climates, as long as you aren’t encountering much slush and rain.
Jackets must keep you warm and dry, but they must also be practical. Most winter jackets come with a hood, but maybe you want a bomber jacket or overcoat. If you end up going with a hood, ensure it’s adjustable or even removable.
Be sure to consider the pockets, as well. You’ll need secure pockets for function, organization, and keeping your hands warm. You can find options with compatible audio cables, allowing you easy access to your music. You might also consider UV protection, wind flaps, and other adjustable features.
These are some of the considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right jacket. You’ll need to consider your lifestyle, climate, insulation, and practicality. You might want something lightweight if you stay active during the fall and winter, or you might opt for something warm and heavy if you only need to keep cozy while running errands. With these considerations in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect jacket.
What’s your favorite kind of jacket? Let us know on Twitter at https://twitter.com/mobilestylesapp!
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