While the weather is part of the fun of outdoor winter activities, the cold and wet conditions can quickly spoil your excursion if you don’t have an effective jacket. Whether you’re replacing an old coat or looking for a great piece of apparel to add to your wardrobe, use this guide to discover how to choose the right jacket for winter activities.
Keep Your Activity Level in Mind
Winter activities range in intensity from hiking to snow sports such as skiing or snowboarding. For a hike, you might want a heavier jacket to keep you warm. If you need greater range of motion for a sports activity, opt for a lighter jacket and wear warmer layers underneath.
Choose a Coat With Waterproof Outer Materials
When choosing the right jacket for winter activities, ensure you get one made with waterproof materials; this waterproofing will keep you dry and warm. Water-resistant material keeps out a light level of precipitation for a short period, but waterproof material keeps out a greater amount of precipitation for a longer time.
Inspect the Jacket’s Insulation
Insulation keeps the cold out and helps you retain body heat. Winter jackets can come with down insulation made from duck and geese feathers or with synthetic insulation. Synthetic performs better in wet conditions but can also be more bulky and heavier than down.
Check Out the Lining
The material that lines the inside of the jacket also helps retain heat. Fleece-lined coats tend to feel particularly warm. The lining also reduces the strain on your clothes by helping the jacket slide easily over your outfit, increasing the jacket’s durability.
Consider Extra Features
Extra components, such as hoods, adjustment features, and pocket construction, help in practical ways and impact the style of the jacket. These features can keep you warm and make it easier for you to comfortably adjust your coat or access pockets in the frigid weather. If you’re thinking of gifts for the outdoorsman who has everything, consider giving them a winter jacket with upgraded features that combine practical utility and style.
