Your choice of coats, jackets and other outerwear shapes your comfort in winter. 

Choose wisely and you’ll remain toasty, comfortable and happy even when spending hours in the cold outdoors.

This is your guide to choosing the best outerwear as the winter months and holiday season approaches.

Winter Calls for More Than a Coat

A single winter coat will not suffice.  Coats get wet, weathered and torn. 

Moreover, winter temperatures are becoming increasingly inconsistent.  Some winter months drop down toward the single digits while others fluctuate between the 30s and 40s.

Ideally, your wardrobe will consist of several winter coats, jackets and other outerwear.  The best collections are one part function, another part form. 

Complement some thick, well-insulated, waterproof and breathable coats with a couple fashionable pieces and you’ll take pride in your winter outerwear.

Mind the Jacket Types

No two winter jackets are exactly the same.  Each winter jacket has a unique insulation type, material and practical elements.  Factor in the differences in aesthetics and there is even more to consider.

In general, jackets fall into the following categories:

• Puffers
• Ski/Snowboard
• Parkas
• 3-in-1s
• Ultralight insulated

Winter jackets also differ by insulation with synthetic and down as the primary options.  Down is optimal for cold and dry climates.  This light material is highly compressible.

In short, if weight/size is your primary concern, down is the right choice as creates warmth with efficiency. 

The only downside to down is it doesn’t fare well when exposed to moisture as it tends to clump and lose its insulation properties.

Synthetic insulation is optimal for cold, wet climates.  Though synthetic insulation weighs more than down, it fares well when subjected to heavy snow, sleet, hail and rain.

Ideally, you’ll have a minimum of two such jackets; one with down for cold and dry days and one with synthetic insulation for wetter days.

Weather Resistance

Weather reports aren’t always accurate.  Moreover, there will be days when you forget to check the weather forecast before an outdoor adventure.

Instead of carrying two coats in your vehicle, opt for outerwear with the right weather resistance.  A sufficient outer shell that has a finish or waterproofing serves as an essential line of protection against mother nature’s wrath.

As an example, DWR, short for durable water-resistant treatment, is resistant to the harsh elements.  Such outerwear repels precipitation including snow and rain. 

Coats and jackets with GORE-TEX membranes are optimal for especially wet environments as they are waterproof.

Sweat the Small Stuff Before Buying

If you are on the fence, consider the subtleties of the coats and jackets you have in mind. 

Heat tends to escape through the extremities including the head.  An adjustable hood will help keep you warm.  The best hoods have adjustable straps around the chin/neck area for security when the winds pick up.

The best coats and jackets also feature pockets.  Choose outerwear with at least a couple pockets and you’ll have convenient enclosed spaces for your winter sundries.

All the Outdoor Gear You Need is at Lotz

Check out our outdoor store and you’ll find everything you could possibly need for outdoor adventures and fun.  Whether you hike, bike, hunt, fish, climb or camp, we’ve got all your needs covered.

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