The range of outdoor coats and jackets to consider when buying has increased somewhat over the few years, as new technology, fabrics and designs come onto the market and as it is your main barrier against the elements it’s important not to get too confused and get the right one for you.

One of the most common ways to commence your search is to set down a couple of parameters which will reduce the number you have to consider; such parameters include budget, what you need the garment for (work/leisure, both), even a favourite brand. So for example an insulated ski jacket may not be the right choice is you are looking for a general walking jacket as it would likely be too heavy and too warm.

You may be looking for a particular feature for the jacket, such as being durable, waterproof, lightweight or breathable. Waterproof/breathable garments are one of the popular and versatile available, because they can be combined with other items of outdoor clothing to combat changing weather conditions; which is always useful in the UK climate. A lightweight waterproof may be what you are looking for if you require something that is only going to be used when needed, and can be packed away when not.  

A softshell jacket or coat may be one consideration as they are wind and water resistant. These tend to be used for more active outdoor pursuits, such as cycling or climbing. They do not need to be fully waterproof or windproof as the activity of the wearer keeps them comfortable.

When you are walking uphill you generate excess heat and all you need is protection from the wind, so a windproof jacket or coat may be the answer, as this would give you the protection you need and help to keep the body temperature down so you would feel more comfortable. Most of this type are normally water resistant to a certain extent, if caught in a light shower, and they tend to dry quickly too.

The good old fleece is a ready stand-by item that we all have and is available in a variety of styles and weights so is a good layer item.

This is by no means an exhaustive list but just goes to show that there are as many choices to be made, by each and everyone of us when it comes to choosing outdoor coats and jackets.