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A woman in a winter coat in the snow

How to choose the right winter coat

Choosing the right winter coat can be a slightly difficult task, especially with so many different makes and models on the market these days.

If you want something reliable, that’s going to see you through the entire winter season, then it’s worth investing in a decent coat.

Choosing the right winter coat can be a slightly difficult task, especially with so many different makes and models on the market these days.

If you want something reliable, that’s going to see you through the entire winter season, then it’s worth investing in a decent coat.

If you’re not sure where to start, we can help with some suggestions and tips for the most important characteristics to look for in a winter coat.

Plus, if you want to save money, check out this Yours Clothing discount code so you can pick up a bargain too.

Materials

A winter coat or jacket’s inner and outer material will probably be the most critical factor.

Outer material – this absolutely must be waterproof. Especially in the UK, it’s impossible to get through winter without getting a fair bit of rain, so one of the first and most important considerations is that the coat is waterproof.

If there’s a coat you’re interested in but you’re not certain if it’s actually waterproof, simply check the tag or the online product description to make sure you don’t get caught out in the snow and rain this winter.

Inner material – this is slightly more complicated because there are more options to choose from and will make a difference to how warm and insulated your coat will be. The main types are:

  • Down – this is the material that comes from animal feathers such as a duck or a goose and so this type of coat may feel similar to a down duvet. They work really well as an insulating material to keep you warm but it is possible for them to change shape when they become wet.
  • Synthetic materials – otherwise known as polyester insulation this is another top choice for inner coat linings. Unlike down coats, they may not be affected by water but they are usually more affordable.
  • Wool – for an organic and sustainable choice, you could opt for wool. It’s definitely one of the warmest types of inner linings you can find because of its excellent insulating ability.

Extra features

  • Hoods – these are quite a common feature on most winter coats and are very useful. They’ll keep your head warm, dry, and protected from harsh weather. If for some reason you’re not too keen on hooded coats, the ideal solution would be a detachable hood that you can choose when and when not to wear.
  • Zips and buttons – these may just seem like essential extras but may also make a difference when it comes to heat insulation. For example, double-zipped jackets are more likely to keep the heat in.
  • Pockets – especially those with a fleece lining can really help keep your hands warm and toasty, with or without a pair of gloves. Plus extra pockets are always handy for storing stuff.

Choosing a style

This is obviously something you need to think about, based on your personal preferences, and the kinds of activities you’ll likely be doing this winter.

In terms of style, anything goes, so as long as you’ve thought about the important characteristics we listed above, you can go for absolutely any style you prefer.

As for colour, it’s usually recommended to go for a relatively neutral colour because this will make your coat more versatile and match your various outfits for different occasions throughout the winter.

You can also mix and match lots of other colours when it comes to accessories such as hats, scarves, and gloves.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this brief guide to picking the right coat this winter and that it will help you make your final decision.

Once you’ve got your new coat, you may be looking for new and exciting things to do during the festive season, so check out Time Out Magazine to find out what’s happening near you.

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