Great winter attire is all about layering. It also pays to invest in clothing featuring high-end technology and premium fabrics, as these designs are tailormade for you to fight the cold. And while it seems the big-name designer brands are creating the best winter menswear, there are also lesser-known brands creating some of the most impressive winter gear too; you just need to know what to look out for.
A warm base layer proving heat retention and moisture-wicking properties is ideal. But, if you’re looking for a looking base layer that feels super soft on the skin, consider flannel or an organic cotton long sleeve top. Outerwear with water and wind-resistant finish is essential too. Also, jackets that come with detachable hoods provide versatility for a range of weather conditions. Make sure your winter attire is highly insulated without being bulky. You want to make sure your clothing is high performance, allowing you to move with great ease.
Style Editor and Fashion Associate at The New York Times, George Kotsiopoulos once said, “winter dressing is all about having chic outerwear”. With this in mind, ensure your clothing will not only keep you warm but have you looking and feeling great too. Though it may feel like an endless task upgrading your winter apparel, it’s also an excellent opportunity for you to show off a range of pieces with so many outfits to mix and match.
Men’s winter clothing FAQs
How should a man dress warm?
Layering is essential when putting together a winter outfit. A moisture-wicking underlayer is excellent, especially when paired with a knit sweater or jumper over the top and a highly insulated jacket. For a casual look, throw on a pair of versatile black jeans and some sneakers. For additional accessories, you may want to consider wearing a scarf and beanie too.
What is the warmest winter fabric?
There's a massive selection of fabrics to look out for when upgrading your winter wardrobe. Wool, cotton, nylon cashmere, hemp, flannel, faux fur, and fleece are all fine high-quality materials to keep you warm.
We’ve rounded up which brands make the best winter menswear clothing, with designs promising to be protective and warm, while also being super stylish.
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Smartwool
Smartwool was launched in 1994 by a team of outdoor enthusiasts who wanted to design clothing inspired to get you moving and exploring. The initial concept of Smartwool was to manufacture socks that would help you ski longer without your feet getting cold. Since then, they have remained industry leaders creating performance-enhancing clothing; and were even the first company to develop merino wool socks, revolutionising the ski and snowboard industry.
Smartwool's winter collection is sure to keep you warm and protected in some of the coldest weather conditions as their clothes feature advanced technology. Many of its designs are merino wool, designed to keep the cold out for outdoor exploration. Smartwool has combined PhD Ultra Light technology in their clothing to make movement effortless.
A few years ago, surfing legend Kelly Slater and creative director John Moore set out to create a sustainable lifestyle and ethically sourced sportswear brand committed to serving athletes, outdoor enthusiasts and preserving the planet. If you're searching for a brand that's redefining the sustainable clothing industry, then look out for Outerknown as they're putting fast fashion to shame. This brand responsibly sources materials and fabrics without compromising quality.
Outerknown has a whole range of sustainable pants, knit sweaters, jumpers, coats and trousers, geared to upgrade your wardrobe. Outerknown has a collection of winter shirts that are organic cotton, made to feel super cosy and soft on the skin. This company also produces clothes out of Econyl - fishnets turned into endless regenerative fibres.
As Saturdays NYC is located on the East Coast, you know you're in good hands when it comes to winter clothing as they face the iciest temperatures. Saturday NYC is a global lifestyle brand creating some of the most well-made timeless pieces, and to think, this business was launched merely on a quiet, cobblestone street in SoHo a few years back.
Saturday NYC has some of the warmest winter jackets for you to add to your collection. The range is diverse as it features quilted jackets, insulated parkas, leather jackets and windbreakers with water and windproof properties. Also, they have a collection of premium sweatpants and sweatshirts, ideal for lounging around when escaping cold temperatures.
Aether was founded by Palmer West and Jonah Smith in 2009 after the two-spotted a gap in the outdoor apparel market. Displeased with the mediocre equipment offered to outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, West and Smith set out to buckle this trend by creating better quality sports products. Aether not only has great outdoor and activewear, but its apparel can seamlessly blend into any casual wear too.
Aether constructs their clothes out of the most technologically advanced fabrics, perfect when tackling cold weather. They're primarily known for making excellent outerwear as their jackets are highly insulated and include extra padding. These coats come with detachable hoods, adjustable cuffs, sealed seams and flexible materials, making them high-functioning all season long.
Relwen makes some of the most durable, functional and comfortable winter clothing. If you're looking for designs that tick every box, Relwen has you covered. The American clothing brand constantly strives to make rugged and tough clothes built to last a lifetime. Relwen is influenced by the field, farms and great lakes of Ohio and Michigan, so they know how to make properly insulated and warm clothing for cold weather.
Relwen's winter collection is also highly stylish as they represent a classic Americana, vintage hunting aesthetic that includes modern technology upgrades. Relwen manufactures the best winter jumpers and knits that feature fine details such as bar-tacked seam ends, reinforced pockets, and triple-needle over stitching, providing durability; these pieces are great to add layers with. Also, make sure you check out their jackets, windbreakers and wind vests as they're water and wind-resistant.
Canada Goose launched a small warehouse with a collection of vests, raincoats, and snowmobile suits. Since starting in the late 50s, Canada Goose has become a famous brand creating the world's finest luxury apparel for the past 60 years. This brand creates high-quality outerwear and has a whole collection of the best winter jackets, vests, parkas and raincoats.
Canada Goose has a versatile collection of lightweight and durable jackets that will keep you dry and warm in the most unforgiving conditions. Their filled down outerwear is of exceptional quality as it includes premium fabrics and materials. Check out their puffers as they come in various colours, sizes and styles while providing removable hoods and adjustable cuffs. But if you're looking for a coat with additional coverage, their parkas are cut above their thigh and feature articulated sleeves and underarm gussets, to add a range of motion.
Icebreaker was created by 24-year old Jeremy Moon, whose aim was to design the perfect garments for the outdoors. Icebreaker was one of the first companies to establish a long term partnership with merino wool growers, helping the business to source their materials sustainably.
Icebreaker clothes are durable and soft, thanks to their merino wool that provides insulation for optimal warmth. Icebreaker offers different fabric weights so that you can perform in a range of weather conditions. Also, their fabrics are made out of natural fibres, bucking the trend of fast fashion.
Founded in 1907 in the French Alps, Rossignol revolutionised winter and snow sports as they invented plastic skis. If you're searching for a reliable brand built for you to endure the coldest temperatures, check out their collection, as their clothes are super stylish and feature cutting end technology.
Rossignol has set an industry benchmark for winter apparel as their clothes are made from the finest materials. Rossignol offers some of the best ski jackets and pants, as these designs are fully taped at the seams ensuring ultimate heat retention while the cold stays out. Their ski jackets and pants are waterproof and have a breathable membrane, ensuring you don't get too sweaty when hiking on those snowy mountains.
Arc'teryx was founded on the idea “there is always a better way”. Leaning into this theme, the brand construct the best winter apparel as the coastal mountains serve as both inspiration and testing ground. Arc'teryx is also one of the only clothing manufacturers with independent manufacturing facilities, treating their design centres like an engineering lab. Due to this, their designs incorporate a lot of high-end technology, guaranteed to keep you warm and dry through all of winter.
Arc'teryx has a collection of insulated jackets, raincoats and puffers that are highly breathable and lightweight. However, if you're after a range of winter accessories to build to your winter wardrobe, you may want to check out their gloves as they have insulated Gore-Tex gloves that feature PrimaLoft so that your hands won't even feel a shudder of the cold.
prAna is another brand changing the way the industry works by manufacturing sustainable designs. This brand offers eco-friendly materials, including Global Organic Textile Standard cotton, helping to limit the number of chemicals, water and wastewater used in retail production. However, their clothes are not only sustainable but super warm and comfortable too. They also feature pants and long-sleeved shirts made from super stretchy fabrics, allowing you to move freely. Their winter range is geared for high performance and functionality.
Columbia was founded in 1938 by Paul Lamfrom. This company is a leading global outdoor brand tailoring clothes that reflect their Pacific Northwest heritage while incorporating groundbreaking technologies tested in their own backyard. Columbia is known for manufacturing the warmest, well-built jackets that have a high waterproof rating.
Columbia offers all kinds of winter outerwear, from interchangeable shells to 3-in-1 raincoats; they have it all. If you're looking for lightweight jackets, perfect for layering, have a look at their windbreakers, as these jackets come in a sleek design available in multiple colours. However, if you're searching for something a little more durable, opt for one of their insulated and down jackets that features Omni Heat technology built to keep you extremely warm.
The North Face has remained the gold standard ever since 1966, as they've always provided top-tier gear. The brand is most commonly known for its puffer jackets constructed out of goose down fill that's extremely warm and compressible.
The North Face are an extremely fashion-forward and sustainable brand, as they manufacture winter apparel responsibly and ethically. By improving the welfare of animals, North Face ensure animals are not subjected to any unnecessary harm, such as force-feeding or live-plucking. If you want to support a brand making a difference, make sure you check out their online store.
Kathmandu is one of the best leading outdoor and lifestyle brands. Starting over 30 years ago in Aotearoa, New Zealand, Kathmandu's vision was to create inspiring apparel designed for outdoor expedition and exploration. The business started with a fleece jacket and later developed a vast collection of winter clothing.
Kathmandu has a range of men's winter jackets and pants that are comfortable, stylish and functional. Kathmandu has long length hiking pants with soft lining at the waistband, making you feel at ease. Also, their jackets and vests are made from all kinds of soft materials, including fleece, merino, cotton, down and polyester, designed for you to stay extremely warm.
Flint & Tinder is an American-crafted in house line at Huckleberry. Flint & Tinder are known for their fantastic winter clothing, especially their outerwear, as it provides optimal warmth and shields you from the cold. The brand's rugged and refined designs are not only highly functional but fashionable too. Check out their range when upgrading your winter collection.
Flint & Tinder has endless outerwear styles, from tucker jackets, parkas to waxed and quilted jackets; they have it all. Whether you're out for dinner on a chilly night or staying active in icy temperatures, they have a versatile collection available. These jackets are breathable yet highly durable, guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Todd Snyder launched his self-titled brand in 2011, infusing his love of New York into his designs. Transforming how modern men present themselves, this brand is all about pushing fashion boundaries creating impeccable stylish yet, playful clothing.
Todd Snyder has an extensive winter menswear range that features the finest sweaters and knitwear that will have you looking incredibly sharp. Many of their sweaters are fine merino and cashmere, made to feel super soft on the skin. These jumpers are ideal for layering, especially if you add on an overcoat.
Hugo Boss is a luxury fashion line headquartered in Metzingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The company has been an industry leader for almost a century now through their game-changing and stylish designs that are the pinnacle of men's style. If you're looking for winter apparel that combines excellent fashion and protection, then look no further.
Aside from producing quality winter clothing, Hugo Boss is also home to some of the best winter accessories as they make the finest scarfs, hats and gloves. Hugo Boss make the best Italian cashmere scarves for a luxurious, cosy feel. It's a perfect finishing touch to add to your winter attire as you head out the door.
Marmot founders Eric Reynolds and Dave Huntley initially dabbled in design to avoid classes U.C Santa Cruz. Reynolds and Huntley began makings parkas and sleeping bags in their dorm and soon launched their own label. Marmot has always been ahead of the curve and was even the first to build Gore-tex into its products. Still to this day, many of Marmot's designs are Gore-tex as they have a massive collection of Gore-tex jackets, pants and gloves.
If you're looking for the warmest pants in the industry, check out Marmot's designs. These pants are a minimalist and classic style, able to go with anything as they're super versatile. These pants are also extremely light and come with a water-resistant finish, great for wearing on those wet, rainy days or on the mountains.
Since 1960, Fjallraven has been manufacturing the most impressive outdoor clothing and equipment. This brand was born out of one vision: to make nature more accessible to people. The founder of Fjallraven, Ake Nordin, grew up hiking on the mountains of Västerbotten, where his love for the outdoors first began. Fjallraven manufactures the best winter clothing and accessories that are adored by outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. Their well-built jackets, trousers and long-sleeve tops will step up your winter game.
Eran Elfassy founded Mackage in 1999 after being inspired by his brother’s experience in the leather industry. Today, Mackage is one of the most highly respected brands, primarily known for its well-manufactured outerwear. When Elfassy began his business, his mission was to develop jackets that were both functional and fashionable. These jackets continue to do just that as they have an exceptional breathable yet durable membrane. Mackage winter jackets come with extra details with designs featuring removable hoods, insulated hand-warming pockets and added ventilation.
Mission Workshop began in 1994, founded by Mark Falvai and Doug Hudson. Initially, the company known as "Chrome", set out to create lifestyle-driven technical cycling apparel and bags. Mission Workshop has since expanded its brand, offering all kinds of sportswear clothing and equipment. Their line is highly well-tailored, made from high-performance fabrics. They have some of the most striking button-down winter shirts and flannels available in many different styles and colours. These shirts are versatile and great for layering, throw over a boxy jacket, and you've got a superb winter outfit.
J. Crew is one of the most well-known clothing brands around as they are committed to creating modern designs that feature advanced technology. They have set a global benchmark for their accessible and high-quality products. They have the best casual winter apparel on offer, designed to make you look effortlessly cool and trendy. There range features super soft sweaters and cardigans that are incredibly durable in the cold. Pair these jumpers with one of J. Crew's utility jackets to achieve impeccable winter style. Also, J. Crew designs some of the most fashionable leather winter boots, the perfect footwear if you're going for a formal, polished look.
Banana Republic was founded in 1978 by two Californian creatives who had a zest for life and the outdoors. Wanting to capture this youthful essence into the brand, its founders began creating clothing with a touch of decadence. Their designs are delivering classic winter pieces with a slightly modern twist.
They have an incredible selection of men's winter wear from stylish jackets, trousers, jeans, shirts, jumpers and loungewear; you can't go wrong. If you're striving for a preppy, traditional look, check out their chore and utility jackets, as these jackets are 100% cotton, guaranteed to last.
Orvis is a family-owned company that offers fly fishing, hunting and sporting goods. The company was founded in 1856 in Vermont by Charles Orvis. Orvis opened his first shop and sold fishing tackles but soon expanded the Orvis Line to include a range of men's sportswear. They have everything from sweatshirts, long pants, vests, fleece jumpers and jackets that feature wind resistant and moisture-wicking fabrics. Orvis is essential for the colder seasons and is perfect for wearing while you partake in winter sports.
Founded by John Rich in 1830, Woolrich is the "Original outdoor clothing company" that has produced high-quality outdoor garments for over 190 years. They even provided clothes and blankets to U.S soldiers as Woolrich offer premium insulation. Woolrich manufactures their winter clothing out of the best textiles, so it keeps you protected against cold weather. If you're after soft, durable fabrics that feel amazing on the skin, Woolrich has you covered as their winter collection is crafted from the finest and warmest wool out there.
New Zealand-American company, Allbirds, is dedicated to creating eco-friendly footwear and apparel made from sustainable resources. Founded in 2016, this eco-friendly company is renowned for their extremely comfortable and stylish shoes that are made with only renewable and recycled materials.
Allbirds has recently branched out into apparel and now stocks a small range of men’s apparel made out of cosy, soft Merino wool. Extremely stylish yet sustainable, and above all warm; perfect for winter.