{Fashion} How to choose a men’s winter jacket

No one wants to face winter without the right winter jacket to keep the cold, wind and wetness at bay. The trouble is, how do you know which one is the right one? When it comes to choosing one for men winter jackets can seem like something of a mystery. Aren’t they all created equal? In a word, no. Use the guidelines below to help you choose a men’s winter jacket, whether it’s for yourself or for that special man in your life.

Fabric matters

One of the biggest consideration is the actual fabric out of which the jacket is constructed, and the quality of the construction itself. Higher-end fabrics like wool and cashmere are very insulating, which means the jacket will be very warm. More affordable fabrics like polyester blends and nylon will also keep you warm and have the added benefit of being water-resistant. Choose a jacket that offers freedom of movement so you don’t feel restricted, even when wearing layers of cold-weather clothing.

Consider the climate

Not all winters are alike. In some areas, winter means mountains of snow, driving winds and serious dips in the mercury. In other places, winter means lots of rain. In others, winter mean warm days and cool nights. Your choice of winter jacket should be determined in large part by considering the type of weather in which you will be wearing it.

Quality matters

It can be tempting to try to spend as little money as possible on your winter jacket, but that would be a mistake. It’s best to spend a little extra to get a well-made, high-quality jacket. Why? Because if you buy a high-quality jacket, you will get more than one season out of it. That means that you won’t have to buy a new one year after year, which will cost you more in the long run. Look for details such as waterproof material, insulated pockets, metal zippers and ribbed cuffs – these are indications of a higher-quality garment.

Be sure it fits

This may seem obvious, but if you are going to invest in a good jacket, it’s important to get the right fit. When you go shopping for the jacket, be sure you wear a sweater or something else similar to the types of clothing you will be wearing under the jacket once you purchase it. Otherwise, you won’t get the right fit. You should be able to move freely and comfortably while wearing the jacket.

Take care of your investment

Finally, the key to a great jacket is taking the necessary steps to maintain it. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning the garment, and always store it covered by a plastic garment bag during the summer months to keep it clean and dry.

**image credit to point zero