Some people don’t like it when fall rolls around because the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, but that’s also the perfect excuse to show off a stylish fall jacket.
Every man should have a fall jacket in his wardrobe, but if you don’t have a coat stashed in your closet for this time of year, it’s not too late to get one. There are plenty of terrific options to choose from, like the North Face Men’s Thermoball Eco Insulated Jacket, which customers love for its versatility and thermal insulation technology.
What to know before you buy a men’s fall jacket
Material
The best men’s fall jackets are made with high-quality fabrics that keep you warm but don’t restrict your movement. Some popular materials include fleece, cotton, denim, polyurethane, leather and nylon.
It’s important to stay warm and dry, but you should also feel comfortable wearing a fall coat. Plus, you can wear it as a complementary piece to an outfit, so it’s best to choose something versatile.
Protection
Certain materials are better at protecting you from inclement weather. If you live somewhere where it often rains or where there are often high winds, look for fall jackets advertised as moisture-resistant and wind-resistant.
Also, don’t underestimate the importance of a hood. Most fall jackets come with adjustable or removable hoods that can come in handy for rainy days but can also be removed for a more fashionable look.
Style
You want your jacket to keep you warm, but you also want to look good. Once you determine the style you find appealing, you can look for specific attributes that reflect it. Some fall jackets have ribbed collars, hems and cuffs, giving them a more streamlined look. In terms of how they look and fit, some jackets have more relaxed fits while others have a narrow, slim fit.
Men’s fall jacket features
Insulation
It may not be a desired feature, depending on where you live, but a fall jacket with added down or synthetic insulation is a good idea if you live somewhere in a colder climate.
Insulation is usually integrated in a clever way where the jacket can release heat when left open and contain it when closed. This feature makes them more breathable and versatile enough to wear on warmer fall days in addition to cooler days.
Pockets
Most men’s fall jackets keep things simple with a pocket on each side, but some also have inside pockets and additional front pockets. Some fall jackets are designed for specific outdoor activities like hiking, so they generally have several pockets.
If you’re someone who carries several personal items, it’s best to get a jacket with multiple pockets. Also, be sure to pay attention to the depth of each pocket to ensure you can store your belongings safely.
Closure
The kind of closure you want for your fall jacket is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few considerations. Full zipper closures are the most common for fall jackets since they provide superior wind and water resistance. However, some have multiple button closures that aim for a more sophisticated look.
Men’s fall jacket cost
If you’re looking for something that’ll keep you well-covered on rainy and windy fall days, you can find an excellent jacket for as low as $30-$50. If you want something a little more stylish or a coat with extra protection and other features, they can cost anywhere from $100-$250.
Men’s fall jacket FAQ
Are wool jackets suitable for fall?
A. Wool is one of the warmest materials used for clothing, and you’ll usually see it used for winter coats more than for fall jackets since it’s thicker and likely to cause sweating unless worn in very cold weather.
Are jackets with thermal insulation machine washable?
A. Generally, yes. However, it’s in your best interest to always check the label on the inside of any jacket since some may have delicate components that make them unsuitable for machine washing.
Which men’s fall jacket should I get?
Best of the best men’s fall jacket
The North Face Men’s Thermoball Eco Insulated Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: This stylish fall jacket is versatile enough for various weather conditions and is made with recycled materials.
What we like: It features synthetic insulation that’s great for providing warmth in all kinds of weather, and it’s available in several color styles. It also has an intuitive packing design that allows it to fold into its pocket, making it great for traveling and easy to store.
What we dislike: It has a slim fit, so it’s recommended to purchase one size up.
Best bang for your buck men’s fall jacket
Columbia Men’s Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0: available at Amazon
Our take: This fall jacket is light on the wallet, but it’s super-soft and goes great with various outfits.
What we like: Made from 100% polyester, this fleece sweater provides superior warmth during the fall and features two zippered security pockets for securely storing small personal items. It’s machine-washable and comes in over 25 stylish colors.
What we dislike: The waist-tightening drawcord sticks out a bit and can get caught in other objects.
Honorable mention men’s fall jacket
Levi’s Men’s Sherpa Trucker Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: This jacket boasts a traditional trucker design with a modern and fashionable twist, making it an excellent complementary piece for a fall outfit.
What we like: This jacket is made with 100% cotton and features a Sherpa-lined point color that gives it an edgy appearance. It has a relaxed fit with a button closure that hits at the hip, giving it a sharp and trendy look. Available in various colors.
What we dislike: The sleeves run narrow, so it might feel tight for those with bigger arms.
Kevin Luna is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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