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Think of outerwear as the conversation starter of your wardrobe — it’s the piece people notice first and the one that saves you on a windy morning or a sudden downpour. Whether you commute to work, head out for a weekend run, or just want a smart layer for nights out, the right coat or jacket changes the whole experience. In the UK, where the weather can swing from breezy to torrential in the span of an hour, choosing outerwear that balances style, warmth, and weather protection isn’t optional — it’s essential.
I’ll walk you through the best stores selling men’s outerwear you should know about, including specific styles to look for like padded jackets, microfleece layers, and windproof running vests. You’ll get practical tips for fit and performance, easy ways to shop smart, and pointers on sustainability — all aimed at helping you pick pieces that fit your life and your wallet.
Lindex might not be the first name men think of for outerwear, but their range shows a knack for practical design. Expect easy-to-wear padded coats, lightweight jackets with detachable hoods, and microfleece layers that slide under a heavier coat on colder days. Their selection often blends simple Scandinavian aesthetics with kid-friendly durable fabrics — great if you’re after clean lines and fuss-free maintenance.
If you want a jacket that gives warmth without bulk, padded jackets are a good bet. Lindex tends to offer options that are lightweight yet insulated, making them ideal for layering. A padded jacket can be your go-to for city walking or weekend errands when you need warmth but don’t want to look like a walking sleeping bag.
Microfleece is a quiet hero: it’s soft, breathable, and pairs well beneath a shell jacket for damp days. Detachable hoods add flexibility — take it off for a cleaner silhouette or keep it on when the forecast predicts wind and showers. Those two simple features can transform a jacket from “just another piece” into a multifunctional staple.
RunningXpert zeroes in on technical running apparel — think windproof vests, ultra-lightweight running jackets, and thermal layers you can wear for long miles. If you run in mixed weather or train year-round, their range of items from brands like Odlo and New Balance gives you functional pieces that prioritize movement and breathability.
Products such as windproof vests and “zero-weight” warm layers are engineered to feel like nothing on your body while still blocking wind and locking in heat. These are perfect when you’re logging long runs in cool conditions and need a packable option you can stash in a pocket when things warm up.
Look out for jackets with weatherproofing and built-in reflectivity — small details like taped seams or reflective trims make a big difference on dark mornings. A running jacket that shields from drizzle and gives you visibility can be the difference between a comfortable run and a cold, soggy one.
ASOS and Next are great if you’re after style variety. ASOS leans toward trend-driven pieces and collaborations, while Next offers reliable everyday coats and smart overcoats. Both stock padded parkas, trench coats, and lightweight shells, letting you match your outerwear to a wide range of outfits.
ASOS is where you can experiment — brighter colors, unusual cuts, or sporty silhouettes. Next tends to keep things classic, which is handy when you want a coat that will still look sharp in a few years. I like mixing a trendy piece with a timeless coat so you can switch moods without a full wardrobe overhaul.
John Lewis is often the pit stop for shoppers who want a balance between quality and price. Their menswear outerwear includes technical jackets, insulated parkas, and smarter overcoats from established brands. If you want dependable material quality and thoughtful details — like inner pockets for valuables — it’s worth a look.
For stuff you expect to keep for years, John Lewis’ range often features better materials and cut, so you get a more polished look and longer life. If you’re opting for a wool coat or a down-filled parka, you’ll likely see better construction here than at fast-fashion outlets.
Marks & Spencer is synonymous with everyday practicality. Their outerwear often focuses on comfort, easy-to-wear styles, and features like warm linings or water-resistant finishes. If you want reliable value — a jacket that handles daily life and looks decent for office or casual wear — M&S is an excellent place to shop.
Think classic quilted jackets or sleek raincoats that aren’t trying too hard to be trendy. These are the kinds of items you can rely on through a blustery commute or a rainy weekend market stroll.
If you’re prioritizing price while still needing function, Sports Direct and Decathlon are hard to beat. You’ll find breathable running jackets, waterproof shells, and insulated layers that keep performance high without the premium price tag. The trade-off is often fewer high-end finishes, but for many people the performance is more important than the label.
Budget brands are ideal if you need multiple functional layers for outdoor activities, or if you’re often outdoors and don’t want to worry about scuffs and scrapes. They’re also a smart choice for kids’ outerwear, where outgrowth is constant.
For serious weather protection, head to outdoor specialists. Stores like Cotswold Outdoor and Blacks focus on jackets for hiking, camping, and mountaineering — think waterproof shells with taped seams, insulating mid-layers, and technical hoods. Mountain Warehouse gives you excellent value and functional details for the casual adventurer.
Features such as fully taped seams, adjustable hoods, and durable water repellents make a jacket cope with consistent exposure to the elements. If you spend weekends in the hills or walk long distances, these features are worth the extra investment.
Before you buy, ask yourself: do I need warmth, weather protection, or both? A lightweight shell is perfect for rainy days where layering is possible, while a padded jacket is better when you want immediate warmth. For running, you’ll want breathability and movement; for commuting, a smarter silhouette and weather resistance matter more.
If you ride a bike, look for jackets with longer backs and high collars. If you commute by foot, a coat with deep pockets and a hood is priceless. Running jackets should be lightweight and ventilated, while hiking jackets must stand up to wind and repeated abrasion from packs and straps.
Fit is everything. A jacket that’s too tight will restrict movement and feel uncomfortable with layers underneath, while one that’s too loose will let cold air in. Aim for enough room to fit a thin sweater or microfleece underneath. Check sleeves: they should hit right around the wrist bone to keep warmth in and wind out.
Think of your clothing like building a sandwich: base layer, midlayer, and outer shell. A thin merino or synthetic base wicks sweat, a fleece midlayer traps heat, and a shell keeps the rain and wind at bay. This system lets you adapt to changing conditions without packing multiple heavy coats.
Outerwear is an investment, so treat it right. Follow washing instructions, reapply durable water repellent (DWR) to shells when water starts to bead off, and store jackets on wide hangers to keep shape. Zippers and toggles are easy fixes; a little maintenance keeps a good jacket looking and performing like new.
Small repairs — restitching a seam, replacing a zipper pull, or patching a small tear — keep a jacket out of landfill and save you the cost of replacement. Many outdoor shops offer repair services, or you can do simple fixes at home with a needle and thread.
More brands are using recycled fabrics, responsibly sourced down, and lower-impact dyes. Look for certifications like bluesign or recycled-content labels if sustainability matters to you. Choosing a durable, repairable jacket often has a bigger environmental benefit than picking the cheapest item available.
A well-made coat you wear for years cuts down waste more than a trendier piece you ditch after a season. Consider neutral colors and classic cuts if you want maximum wear down the line.
Seasonal sales, outlet stores, and end-of-season clearances are your friends. Signing up for newsletters from your favourite stores can net you early-bird discounts or exclusive codes. Also, mix and match: buy a technical shell from an outdoor specialist and a casual quilted jacket from a high-street store to cover all bases without overspending.
If possible, try on jackets with the layers you’ll actually wear underneath. Walk around, zip up, raise your arms — if it feels good in motion, it will work in daily life. If you’re buying online, check size guides and reviews for fit advice from other buyers.
Aim for a small collection that covers your needs: a packable running jacket or vest for active days, a water-resistant shell for commutes, and a padded or wool coat for colder months. Mixing items from stores like Lindex, RunningXpert, Next, and the outdoor specialists gives you flexibility, performance, and style without cluttering your wardrobe.
When in doubt, prioritize fit and weather protection over labels. A simple, well-fitting jacket that keeps you comfortable in the rain and on chilly mornings will earn more wear than a flashy piece you use once in a while.
Enjoy the process of finding outerwear that matches your life — after all, the right jacket can turn a miserable day into an achievable, even pleasant one.
