The Best Winter Jackets: Rain, Down And Fleece

Now that the cooler months have kicked in, there’s no better time than right now to explore Australia’s winter wonderland (our alpine regions come alive this time of year, after all).

This article is sponsored by Mountain Designs. Their top-notch design and material choices will keep you warm on your next adventure.

Obviously you’ll need the right apparel on your side (and by side we mean body) to make the most of whatever chilly adventure you have coming up. Icy winter blasts affect a lot of our land that’s girt by sea, from Tasmania to Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands, but staying warm, dry and safe in cold climates is possible, thanks to innovative manufacturing and feature-rich clothing that are both stylish and weather-proof.

Below, we detail jackets worthy of your consideration.

Rain jackets

High-performance GORE-TEX rain jackets are tailor made for providing the ultimate protection when bad weather rolls in. A quality rain jacket is essential for hikers, campers and backpackers, and with a waterproof and wind resistant Men’s Cumulus GORE-TEX Rain Jacket on your side you will remain warm and dry even during the foulest weather. Special design features include PACLITE® technology for keeping wind and rain out while your hands, face and personal items stay dry.

In case you were wondering, it is completely possible to look fashionable in poor weather and a quality rain jacket. A Women’s Cordeaux Rain Jacket ticks all the right boxes with features that include a funnel collar, external storm flap, adjustable hood and zippered hand pockets. Whether you are heading out on the town or up into the hills, the contoured slim fit jacket shape will ensure you look your best at all times.

Down Jackets

For adventurous travel in cool climates, a down jacket is ideal. Highly compressible goose down provides superior insulation qualities and lightweight performance for hiking comfort. You will keep body heat inside and cold, wind and rain out with a Men’s Peak 700 Down Jacket designed for unbeatable comfort and performance.

The sewn-through baffle keeps the down in place for many years of faithful service in the coldest of climates. The best down jackets include elasticated hood and cuff bindings that hug your face and wrists. When investigating women’s down jacket options, it’s important to consider the fill rating for optimum warmth. The exceptionally lightweight and comfortable Women’s Ascend 600 Down Jacket, for example, contains 600 fill duck down insulation for guaranteed warmth and snug fitting comfort. You will also appreciate the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish and highly compressible materials for convenient packing of your garment.

Fleece Jackets

If you are embarking on an extreme adventure in cold climates, a fleece jacket will provide warmth without weight. Fleece is soft, breathable and durable, and a Men’s Pro Elite Climber Fleece Jacket will handle the toughest of conditions. The silicone grip hem plus velour lined collar and hand pockets seal in warmth for a comfortable, luxurious feel.

The best fleece jackets are wind-resistant, breathable and quick drying, allowing you to push on when others have to turn back. It is entirely possible to enjoy long-lasting comfort and warmth when wearing a luxuriant fleece jacket. Stylish cold weather jackets are adaptable for use around town or on the trail, and the Women’s Nome Full Zip Fleece Jacket is right up there with the best of them. The contoured lines and streamlined fit guarantees your apparel is on trend, offering superior flexibility, wind resistance and quick drying compatibility.

Special Jacket Features

Winter jackets need to resist wind, rain and cold to be truly effective. Materials such as GORE-TEX are impermeable and don’t require additional repellent properties. There are lots of built-in features to look for when investigating jacket options from outdoor specialists.

Here are a few considerations:

• Articulated elbows/knees built into jackets
• Cuffs that include cinches or Velcro closures to stop snow or rain entering
• Durable water repellent (DWR) coating used as primary or supplementary protection
• Customisable, adjustable and removable Jacket hoods that offer chin protection
• Gaiters that provide a protective interface for wrists
• Seam-sealing that prevents moisture from leaking in through needle holes
• Storm flaps on zippers and other openings for repelling snow, wind and rain
• Utility pockets and apparel stash spots for comfortably carrying all your essentials
• Vents or ‘pit zips’ in jackets for creating comfortable air flow
• Strong zippers designed for water-resistance and adjustment without removing gloves

There is a lot more to cover for complete protection in cold climates, including hiking boots, hiking pants and layered clothing options. Here is a comprehensive gear list for your next winter adventure.