Choosing a Winter Coat That Can Benefit You the Most

If you’re a summer person like me, you probably dread the thought of winter. Not only are you unable to enjoy most outdoor activities, but you also need to put on heavy layers of clothes every time you go out. And I’m the kind of person that hated having to wear turtle-necks, scratchy scarves, bulky sweaters and similar types of clothing pieces that weigh you down. And this is why I used to avoid going out in the winter whenever it was possible.

But after a while, I learned to love the cold season. After all, the cold encourages the body to burn more calories. And instead of wearing layers of heavy clothes, I’ve found that you can stick to just one piece of clothing and still feel warm – a nice winter coat. As opposed to having a collection of mediocre jackets that take up room in your closet, it’s better to have one or two reliable winter jackets that can keep you toasty warm and stylish all winter long. Here’s how to make the right choice.

Make Sure It’s Waterproof & Windproof

Even though it might not snow that often here in Australia, rain is a common part of winter. So, in order for your coat to perform well all winter long, it needs to have a waterproof outer shell. For a coat to be waterproof, it needs to be made of waterproof materials or have been treated with a DWR coating. In addition, a waterproof winter coat should also come with a protective hood that will help keep your head dry in case it rains. If the hood is detachable it makes it all the more convenient as you can remove it on the days you don’t need it. Plus, if you want to stay cosy warm even on windy days, normal jackets simply don’t cut it. You need a winter coat with an outer shell that’s both waterproof and wind-resistant.

Check How Breathable It Is

When a jacket is waterproof and windproof but not breathable, it’s not worth the money. Why? Just think about it. If a coat is so thick and impenetrable enough to keep the rain and wind out, it won’t allow your body heat to escape. So, although you may be protected, you’ll still end up drenched in your own sweat. For that reason, it’s important for a windproof and waterproof winter coat to be breathable as well. Currently, Gore-Tex is the most well known waterproof/breathable technology, other options include System Three, HyVEnt, PreCip and similar.

Venting also allows for the heat to escape and can help you stay cool when needed. A coat with a durable front zipper allows for instant breathability. Underarm zippers and core vents on the side of the jacket can allow airflow and help excess heat to escape when opened. This is a convenient way to regulate your temperature when you’re active outside during the winter.

What About Internal Insulation?

If you’ve managed to find a waterproof winter coat that’s also breathable and wind-resistant, internal insulation isn’t usually something to worry about. A coat with ample inside insulation is usually needed when you’re heading out to locations with sub-zero temperatures, like for instance when skiing. Otherwise, here in the city, all you need is a winter coat with standard insulation, usually down or fleece. Down jackets are lightweight and compressible, meaning they can be packed into very small spaces. It’s also very resilient and will retain its ability to insulate for many years. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, performs better than down in wet weather, but it’s not as compressible and doesn’t have as long a life span.

Invest in Neutral Colours

Winter coats are an investment, and you only really need one or two if you choose right. To make sure that your winter outerwear perfectly matches most pieces in your wardrobe, try opting for neutral colours. For instance, black is a classic and elegant choice that you can wear in a variety of occasions. Other neutrals such as beige, grey, brown, navy and even white (if you don’t mind frequently washing your coat) are all great options. You can pair a neutral coat with boots, handbags, scarves and other accessories in a bolder colour and it will look entirely different every single time.

Is It Practical?

Practical pockets are a must for all winter coats. Having secure, convenient pockets will save you from carrying around an extra bag that will weigh you down even more on top of your layers. Look for a coat that has a variety of external and internal pockets, allowing you to neatly organize your things. A jacket with an audio pocket will make it convenient to listen to music while on the go. A zipped, hidden pocket can be a safe spot for your wallet, phone and other important things, preventing them from accidentally falling out.