Buying a jacket seems simple until you discover that the style does not suit the way you use it in Dutch rain, wind or cold weather. A lightweight jacket can be comfortable during an autumn walk, but may not provide enough warmth when cycling. A padded winter jacket can feel cosy, yet become too warm during an active walk.
If you are looking for women’s and men’s jackets, it is therefore worth looking beyond the brand, colour or discount. Pay particular attention to the material, construction and sizing. Below, you will find the key points to consider, along with several product options for different situations.
An outer layer with a DWR treatment can temporarily cause raindrops to bead and roll off. This does not automatically mean that the jacket will keep out prolonged or heavy rain. Look for terms such as:
According to PELLIOT’s product description, the women’s fleece-lined 3-in-1 jacket has a stated hydrostatic head of 35.900 mm H₂O and breathability of 16.000 g/m²/24 hours. These are the brand’s product specifications; always check that the figures apply to the model and size you have selected.
A puffer jacket, padded jacket or fleece jacket can offer plenty of comfort for everyday use. For cycling, walking or outdoor sports, however, freedom of movement is also important. Consider:
A jacket that feels tight across the shoulders can be impractical, even when the size matches the measurements in the table.
An M is not the same in every brand. Some charts use EU sizes, while others use UK or US sizes. Chest, waist and hip measurements are also sometimes given in inches. Measure yourself with a flexible tape measure and compare the figures with those on the product page.
Do you often wear several layers? Do not automatically choose a larger size. Instead, check the product measurements, particularly the chest width, sleeve length and back length. With a 3-in-1 jacket, you should also check whether the outer and inner jackets are measured separately.
A waterproof jacket provides better protection from rain when not only the fabric, but also the seams and fastenings, have been designed for wet weather. A windproof jacket often has a tightly woven outer material, a membrane or adjustable closures.
Breathability is generally shown in grams per square metre per 24 hours. A higher figure may mean that, under certain test conditions, more water vapour is transported through the material. This is not a guarantee of comfort in every situation: fit, exertion, temperature and base layers also make a difference.
For commuting and everyday use, a winter jacket with polyester filling can be a practical choice. According to the product information, the Urban Classics Basic Puffer Jacket has a polyamide outer layer, polyester filling and a polyester lining. The model also has a hood and is designed for cold days.
For changeable conditions, a 3-in-1 jacket can offer greater flexibility. According to the product description, the inner and outer layers can be worn separately or together. This is useful if you want to wear the same jacket on a chilly morning, rainy afternoon and drier evening.
When choosing a walking or travel jacket, look for secure pockets, a hood that does not obstruct your vision and an adjustable hem. For working by the roadside, on a site or in traffic, a reflective safety jacket may be more suitable than a standard outdoor jacket.
According to the product information, the Dunlop Safety Jacket Reflective has reflective bands, zipped pockets and fleece in the material. Check the stated class and standard on the label and current product packaging before using the jacket for professional safety work.
Why it suits this profile: A practical padded jacket for everyday wear, shopping and commuting on cold days.
The product information lists the material, filling, lining and washing instructions, so you do not have to judge it by appearance alone.
100% polyester filling according to the description, a polyamide outer layer, hood and machine washing according to the stated programme.
Why it suits this profile: For anyone who wants one system for travelling, walking and changeable weather conditions.
According to the product description, the two layers can be worn separately or together. This means you do not need to buy a separate jacket for every type of weather.
3-in-1 system, adjustable hood, taped seams, zipped pockets and an inner jacket filled with 550 fill power insulation according to the description.
Why it suits this profile: A women’s walking jacket for those who regularly spend time outdoors and want a hooded jacket for rainy conditions.
According to the product description, the jacket has a windproof and waterproof DryVent layer with sealed seams. Check this information when purchasing and follow the care label.
Adjustable hood, elasticated cuffs, adjustable hem, mesh lining and two zipped pockets according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: For adults who need extra visibility while travelling, on a worksite or carrying out outdoor tasks.
The reflective bands are explicitly listed in the product details. Before professional use, check the markings and standard information on the product itself.
Fleece/polyester material, two reflective bands, zipped pockets and a weight of 432 grams according to the product information.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
A 3-in-1 jacket is practical when you want to wear different combinations. For light rain, a waterproof shell may be enough. When it is cold, add a fleece or padded inner layer. Do check that the jacket provides sufficient ventilation and freedom of movement.
Its lifespan depends on the material, how it is used and how it is cared for. Wash the jacket according to the label, fasten the zips before washing and avoid products that could damage the water-repellent treatment. Hang a wet jacket up to dry completely before storing it. With outdoor jackets, reproofing according to the manufacturer’s instructions can help maintain water repellency; it will not replace a worn membrane or damaged seams.
Not necessarily. A The North Face jacket may have technical features suited to walking or intensive outdoor use, while a women’s trench coat may be a better fit for the office and city life. Compare the specifications, fit, care instructions and intended use. A jacket with features you do not use does not automatically offer better value.