No matter if a person loves the outdoors during the cold winter months or prefers to stay inside out of the chill, it is vital to have a good winter jacket that fits one's lifestyle. While versatility is an important feature to seek in a winter jacket, it is important to realize how many different types of winter jackets are available to choose from. From down jackets to parkas, a consumer should consider several aspects such as frequency of use, insulation level, and price when purchasing the appropriate winter jacket.
Understand Basic Needs
When choosing a winter jacket, it is important to purchase one that provides both functionality and versatility. If a person is seeking one winter coat to wear for every outdoor venture, the basic need for a warm and insulated jacket may be higher than a person who owns multiple winter jackets. Most jacket styles are available for both men and women and many times for boys and girls as well. Other variables such as style, level of warmth, and amount of cold-weather exposure all go into what type of winter jacket keeps a person warm and cozy.
Know the Fabric Protection Offered
No matter the winter coat, it is essential to find one that is going to keep a person warm and dry. One of the biggest factors in achieving this is the jacket's fabric, which should be lightweight and breathable enough to keep a person comfortable, even if moisture is trying to work its way in.
Water-Repellant Jacket
To ensure a jacket is water repellant, manufacturers tightly wind the jacket's fibers and may even treat the garment with a durable water repellant. A water-repellant jacket provides minimal protection against precipitation, and may not keep a person completely dry if exposed over a long period of time.
Water-Resistant or Waterproof Jacket
For better protection, search for a water-resistant or waterproof jacket. A water-resistant jacket generally keeps out moisture better and for longer lengths of time than a water-repellant jacket, but check with the brand to ensure the jacket provides the right level of protection. For the ultimate protection, a waterproof jacket ensures the consumer is safe from any water or moisture, even when exposed to rain or snow over long periods.
Learn About the Types of Winter Jackets
To fit a variety of consumer needs, several winter jacket styles are available in the marketplace. Factors such as insulation material, fabric, and finish determine the warmth level and build of a jacket, which are all things to consider before making a purchase.
Type of Jacket |
Description |
Warmth Factor |
Best Used For |
|
Soft shell jacket |
Non insulated Breathable Lightweight |
Comfortable to wear alone in a more temperate climate |
Activities in moderate temperatures Layered with other outdoor clothing in colder conditions |
|
Fleece jacket |
Generally made of synthetic fibers woven together to provide both warmth and comfort |
Varies depending on the weight of the jacket |
Works well when worn as a layered piece |
|
Down-insulated jacket |
Lined with special materials (natural or synthetic) to keep a person warm in very cold temperatures Lining generally consists of duck or geese undercoating |
Designed to trap body heat while remaining breathable |
Ideal in colder temperatures Works well for moderate- or high-energy activities |
|
3-in-1 jacket |
Zips together with multiple jacket layers to create a single piece |
Depending on the protection required, wear one to three layers at one time |
Perfect for a variety of activities depending on the amount of layers worn |
When it comes to choosing the right winter jacket, there are a number of options to choose from. For someone looking for a jacket to last the season, a 3-in-1 jacket may be a great option, as it is versatile enough to wear in mild or more frigid temperatures. On the other hand, a down-insulated jacket is going to keep a person warm even in the coldest of temperatures.
Source: http://www.ebay.com/gds/How-to-Choose-a-Good-Winter-Jacket-/10000000178674598/g.html