Practical winter jackets

Here in the UK we all know how important it is to have a good quality jacket for winter. We have long winters year after year and I believe it’s good to have a jacket that will stand the test of time. I have a few that have been knocking about for years and years and I still wear them today (the boy has stolen my favourite Barbour though). To get something of worth you’re going to have to spend a little more and you’re going to have to avoid the usual high-street shops (you know the ones I mean). Some of my favourite shops do fantastic fashion coats but they’re best kept for when you need to look smart or when it’s not so cold. They aren’t the practical kind and in this post that’s what we’re focusing on.

If you want to save a few pennies then hold of ’till the January sales. Winter warmers don’t always make it into the sales but if you’re lucky and look hard enough you might find some discounts.

When buying a practical winter coat you need to ask yourself 3 things:

1 – Can you wear layers underneath it?

2 – Does it cover your lil’ bum?

3 – Will it keep you dry?

If the coat in question ticks all the boxes then go ahead and try it on.

I’m sure some of you will be wondering why I’ve not included a hood in the list. Well, I’m never desperate to have one because I’m a big fan of hats and find they do a better job. It’s an added bonus if a coat or jacket has a good hood.

I’ve put together some of my favourite practical jackets for men and women. I’ve had good experience with the 3 brands included but I have to say that Barbour wax jackets are my favourite because they really do last a lifetime.

Coats for men

1 – Barbour – Classic Northumbria Waxed Jacket         2 – The North Face – Evolution TriClimate® 3 in 1 Jacket

Ladies coats

1 – Barbour Heritage – Repaired Bedale Waxed Jacket         2 – Timberland – Earthkeepers® Waterproof Lightweight Jacket

I’m in the process of putting together a post about smart winter coats. I think it’s good to have a few options of practical and smart coats because you’re not likely to rock up for an evening meal with friends in your wellies and waxed coat (though they seem to do that here in Norfolk). I’m quite a fan of the pea coat so expect to see lots of those.

xx