Men's coats and parkas for winter and rain

What men's coat to choose?

This page mainly brings together pieces for protection against cold and rain, rather than city coats made of wool.

• The parka, long and hooded, often lined, is the coat for wet winters.
• The long waterproof jacket, with a membrane, protects from rain without making you too warm.
• The padded coat, either synthetic or down, is aimed at below-freezing temperatures.
• The trench and long aviator jacket are suitable for mid-season.

Parka or down jacket for winter?

The parka protects against wind and rain thanks to its durable outer fabric and hood; it falls to the thighs. The down jacket, lighter for the same warmth, is more susceptible to moisture if it is filled with down.

In the city and in the rain, the parka is preferred; for dry cold, a men's down jacket is often enough.

How to choose a waterproof coat?

A men's waterproof coat combines a coated fabric or a membrane, sealed seams, and closures protected by a flap. The hood should be adjustable to avoid falling over the eyes.

The breathable membrane prevents a sauna effect when walking for long periods; for a short trip, a coat that is simply water-repellent may suffice.

How to wear a men's coat?

A khaki or navy parka is worn over a jumper and a men's jean, with ankle boots. A long men's coat in a simple style, over a men's chino, easily transitions from the office to dinner.

Keep bright-coloured technical jackets for the mountains and hiking.

What coat size to choose?

Try it on over the jumper you will wear underneath: you should be able to cross your arms without pulling at the back. If you are between sizes, a winter coat is better taken in the larger size, provided the shoulder seam doesn’t slip down the arm.

Which coat brands to choose?

These coat brands are specialists in cold and rain.

• Waterproof for both city and sea: Helly Hansen has retained its Norwegian roots for rainwear.
• Aigle, a French brand born from the work with vulcanised rubber, offers parkas up to Gore-Tex versions.
• Schott, a New York house of the Perfecto, also offers hooded parkas.
• Founded in Sweden with rainwear for fishermen, Didriksons has specialised in waterproof jackets and parkas.
• Superdry, an English brand from Cheltenham, dresses winter with military-style parkas.

What other coats to choose?

The men's parkas have their own page. For mid-season, the jackets and blousons take over from the coat.

When to find coats at reduced prices?

A winter coat can be identified in November and sought after during promotions at Black Friday, followed by winter sales: two opportunities to buy a men's coat on sale in peak season.

Coats discounted in November can be found on the vests and coats of the Black Friday page, those from the sales on the men's clothing sales page, and other discounts on the Promotions page. Fast delivery and the best price guaranteed.

Frequently asked questions

Can you wear a raincoat in winter?

Yes, a long waterproof jacket can be worn over a fleece or a lightweight down jacket. This layer system adapts better to temperature variations than a single thick coat.

Gore-Tex: what does it change?

It's a waterproof and breathable membrane integrated into the fabric that stops rain while allowing perspiration to escape. Other membranes from various brands serve the same purpose.

How to wash a parka?

Follow the label: many can be machine washed at 30 °C with zippers closed, without fabric softener. Remove the removable synthetic fur before washing.

Long coat or short coat?

The long coat provides better protection from wind and rain, while the short coat allows more freedom when driving or cycling. For winter in the city, a mid-thigh length is a good compromise.

How to store a padded coat in summer?

Clean and dry, on a hanger, in a breathable cover, without compressing it. A compressed filling for too long loses some of its fluffiness.