Who Says Practical Jackets Have To Be Bland?
In the midst of the British winter, a strong, sturdy and waterproof jacket is a wardrobe essential. This doesn’t mean covering up in layer upon layer of padded polyester though – when it comes to outerwear, style is just as important as functionality.
The right jacket should fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe, all while keeping you protected from the great outdoors.
1. Berghaus Mera Peak Gore-Tex Jacket
With over forty years of experience in the outerwear industry, Berghaus can always be relied on for great performance wear.
We’re particularly enamoured with the colourful yet simple Mera Peak Gore-Tex jacket, which is both breathable and waterproof.
Available online and at Berghaus retailers worldwide, priced £270.
2. Baracuta G10 Raincoat
This is where practical design and British heritage really meet. Baracuta’s outerwear draws inspiration from the swinging sixties, with its classic G10 raincoat combining a waterproof covering with an ‘umbrella’ back vent.
If you don’t want to compromise on your look, but need to keep the wet weather at bay, look no further.
The G10 raincoat is available at Baracuta.com and select retailers globally, priced £425.
3. Patagonia Powslayer Jacket
Built for the slopes, yet perfect for the street, Patagonia’s Powslayer jacket is ready for whatever the weather throws at you.
It’s formed from a lightweight material with a zero-bulk construction, meaning you’re free to move while keeping sheltered from the rain. Plus, the strong colour-blocked panels give this garment a contemporary look.
The Powslayer Jacket is available at Patagonia.com and John Lewis, priced £540.
4. The North Face McMurdo Parka
The North Face has earned its fashion stripes collaborating with the likes of Supreme, Stussy, Junya Watanabe and Mark McNairy in the past, making it clear that great design is also key to its own practical, outdoors collections.
The McMurdo Parka is fully waterproof, down-insulated and finished with a faux fur hood for added warmth. Although it comes in a variety of neutral shades, we’re particularly fond of the simple yet effective black and blue panelled version. Pair it with your favourite pair of waterproof men’s boots.
Available at thenorthface.co.uk and select retailers, priced £360.
5. Arc’teryx Veilance Field IS Jacket
Canadian outerwear specialist Arc’teryx has really outdone itself with its fashion-forward ‘Veilance’ range.
The minimalist Field IS Jacket from the line sits at the more costly end of the spectrum (£950), but really delivers when it comes to style.
Prepare for a whole heap of compliments when you’re spotted in this rich mahogany version.
See this jacket and the full collection at the Arc-teryx Veilance webstore.
6. Canada Goose Canyon Shell Jacket
Inspired by Canada’s cold weather and military pilots, Canada Goose continues to combine practical design with regimented features.
The fully waterproof Canyon Shell Jacket comes in a variety of shades, with this khaki iteration perfect for those who love military-inspired pieces and streamlined silhouettes.
Canada Goose is available at select stockists worldwide, including Browns, Snow & Rock and Article.
7. Aigle Rainoak
Especially for the get up and go types, the Aigle Rainoak is an ideal everyday piece.
With technical features such as taped seams and an adjustable hem, hood and sleeves, this jacket is the only one you’ll need to see you through the spring showers. Plus, at just £110, this versatile piece won’t break the bank.
Pick up the Rainoak at aigle.com.
8. Mackintosh Toft Jacket
The original creator of waterproof outwear, British label Mackintosh has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years. The brand continues to utilise its signature rubberised fabric to produce an array of stylish and practical jackets right here in the UK.
The highlight from the current collection has to be the longline Toft Jacket (£995), which is a modern, sleek update on the traditionally bulky parka.
Browse Mackintosh’s full collection at mackintosh.com and try the jacket for yourself at its flagship store on 104 Mount Street, London.
9. Yellow Rains Jacket
With the tagline ‘drip, drip, drip’, Danish outerwear manufacturer Rains is all about the weather protection. This lightweight jacket comes in a statement yellow hue, providing a modern twist on the classic sailing anorak.
If the contemporary look and sunshine shade don’t draw you in, we’re sure the £75 price tag will.
The Rains Jacket in yellow is available in the UK at Urban Outfitters.