Having the right clothing for cold or wet weather is, of course, essential and perhaps the most important item of clothing you need to think about is a jacket. One that keeps you warm and dry but allows freedom of movement is ideal and they come in various materials and styles to allow you to remain fashion conscious at the same time.

There are several things to consider when choosing a mens jacket for cold and wet weather. Leaving design aside for now, you need to think about the material, the hood, the length of the jacket, protective coating and type of fastening.

You also need to consider the type of weather you are likely to be encountering on a regular basis. Is it more likely to be cold than wet and if so, how cold? Or are you more likely to be spending time in the rain? This is important as it will determine the material you choose. In addition, it’s worth considering the activity you will be doing, such as walking, running or just getting to and from work and home.

Let’s assume you are buying a jacket for cold weather to start, it is for regular activity and you need a certain amount of freedom of movement for walking. You’ll want to choose a jacket with a mid-thigh length constructed of a nylon outer layer with a water resistant protective coating and an insulated but breathable inner layer consisting of a material such as down.

This construction will allow air to be trapped and warmed but also allow you to breath, so you don’t sweat and lose insulation through being damp. The mid-thigh length will keep you warm below the waist and you should choose one with a two-way zip to allow you to loosen the coat at the waist for greater freedom of movement.

Meanwhile the water resistant protective coating will ensure you stay dry in showers or in the snow.

For more casual wear, you could choose a shorter coat made of wool or cashmere (assuming your budget allows for this!) that buttons up at the front, as opposed to a zip. This is a far more stylish jacket and more suitable for socialising than a full on winter coat. However, this won’t protect you from the cold in temperatures below zero, so be aware of that.

For wet weather you’ll need a waterproof jacket but do be aware that no jacket, no matter what the manufacturer says, is 100% waterproof! You just want to buy the closest thing to it. Obviously you’ll want to avoid wool or leather as a material and look for something similar to the cold weather jacket. Some of the most waterproof materials on the market are Gore-Tex and eVent so any coat boasting these as materials will be a good one.

Whether it is cold or wet weather, you’ll want a coat with a hood. One with a good shape, that stays up in bad weather but allows you to turn your head and keep a good view all around is perfect. Try as many coats on as you need to to find the right hood otherwise you’ll find you have it down more than up and that is a waste and will ruin the insulating or waterproof properties of the jacket.

Choosing a jacket for its insulating or water resistant properties does not mean you have to compromise on style. There are many designers now producing practical yet stylish coats. Superdry jackets are one example, while Berghaus and DKNY also produce fashionable, useful jackets.

The choice is huge, so have a look around and take your time.

Author Bio: Ian Grainger is writing on behalf of Room 14 Menswear, retailers of Superdry jackets and other designer menswear.

Category: Advice
Keywords: waterproof jackets, insulated jackets, designer jackets, weatherproof jackets