Choosing fashionable clothes can be an all-year affair. Whether it’s summer or winter season, everyone wants to look good all the time. There’s even a wide assortment of outdoor apparel for adventurous men out there.
Shell jackets are one of the staple outfits during the winter season. It is specially designed for people who are into winter sports. Brands, such as Descente, have great shell jackets. Likewise, a lot of brands also offer outdoor winter apparel for adventurous men like you.
Hard-shell vs. Soft-shell jackets
There are two common types of winter jackets — hard shell and soft shell. Both offer warmth and comfort in the winter outdoors. Each has distinct features. Nonetheless, this is something that you should have in your closet.
Hard-shell
Hard shell jackets are made from waterproof, windproof, and breathable material. It might be a little rigid to wear, but offer warmth from the cold winter weather.
These types of outdoor winter jackets also come with protective hoods to protect your head from rain, wind, and snow. You can wear hard shell jackets in the entire winter season.
Soft-shell
Like hard shell jackets, soft shell jackets are breathable and water-resistant. It is also made from stretchable material so you can move more.
But make sure to check what kind of soft shell jackets you buy. For example, there are soft shell jackets that are waterproof but are less breathable. Hence, these jackets may be heavy and uncomfortable to wear.
Layering
A winter jacket’s ability to provide comfort and warmth depends on how you layer your clothes. For example, wearing too many layers of clothing underneath your jacket can make you sweaty despite cold weather.
But not applying warm layers underneath your jacket may make you shiver with cold. Basic layering is divided into three parts – the base layer, middle layer, and the outer layer.
Base layer
Also called the “underwear layer,” it absorbs the sweat off your body. Thus, it helps make you feel dry and more comfortable. For base cloth materials, you can wear clothes made from nylon, wool, and polyester.
Middle layer
Also known as the “insulating layer,” this helps maintain your body heat and offers protection against cold. For middle layer clothing, you can choose synthetic or natural polyester fleece and insulated jackets.
Outer layer
This is also referred to as your outdoor jacket. It serves as your protection against snow, rain, and wind. For shell jackets, choose ones that are waterproof or water-resistant and breathable.
Laundry and Care
Here are some tips on caring for and maintaining your outdoor winter clothes.
- Check the cleaning instructions. Use a gentle detergent to wash the jacket.
- Check the pockets of any small items left inside before washing the jacket.
- Avoid dry-cleaning your outdoor winter jacket, as it can damage its fabric.
- If there is a stain on your winter jacket, treat it first before proceeding to wash.
If the jacket can be machine-washed, set it in a delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid washing it with other fabrics as much as possible, and then air-dry.
Proper care for outdoor winter clothing is as important as taking care of your non-winter clothes. This is to ensure your winter clothes will last for many seasons.
