I’d have to say the two best months of the year weather-wise in the New York metropolitan area have got to be September and October. Growing up, I hated these months because it meant going back to school. As I’ve grown older, however, I’ve learned to enjoy the cooler, crisper air as well as the gorgeous fall foliage. Along with that cooler air means a transition from tee shirts and lightweight button downs to warmer, heavier shirts and light men’s fall jackets.
I’ve spent the past few years attempting to master the layering technique. This can be tricky, as it can be 35 degrees in the morning, but then warm up to 70 by the afternoon. Plus, it could start raining at any moment. Layering is definitely an art; if you have too many layers, you’ll find yourself sweating if the sun comes out in the afternoon. And, obviously, if you don’t layer enough, you’ll be freezing as soon as the sun goes down. After years of research, I’ve narrowed down the secret of layering to the light jacket. If you have a versatile jacket, you’ll be ready for the drastic changes in temperature. Personally for me, there is no perfect everyday jacket in the Northeast, however. The weather can vary every few hours, so you need to be prepared accordingly. Here are my five favorite men’s fall jackets that I believe are the most essential for whatever comes your way.
1. Rogue Territory Waxed Canvas Ridgeline Supply Jacket
This is my most recent pickup – I’ve been eyeing this waxed canvas jacket for a while now, and it was time to pull the trigger. I’ve been a fan of Rogue Territory since I bought my first pair of real selvedge denim from them back in 2014. I love their branding and the quality of their products, so I knew the canvas jacket would fit well and look great with all my fits. Here’s why I love it: the waxed canvas is durable and water repellant, so you can wear it in the rain and stay dry. It also fades and breaks in over time to give it a worn-in look with character. I’m a little disappointed in the length – it’s a bit short for me. However, I think with the right length flannel shirt it will look just fine.
2. Momotaro 03-051 “Going to Battle” 12oz Selvedge Denim Jacket
Every man needs a denim jacket – it’s just a matter of finding the right one. I’ve got to say – I’ve never had a denim jacket fit me as well as this one by Momotaro. I completely guessed on the size (38), and nailed it. I enjoy wearing this jacket either just with a tee shirt, or with a light oxford underneath. I also love pairing it with a pair of selvedge jeans. Some guys like to wear a lighter-wash jean or a black jean, but I like the way it matches with a jean of the same exact color. They call this the “Canadian Tuxedo” look, and I’m fine with it.
3. Schott Cafe Racer Oil Tanned Cowhide Leather Moto Jacket
Another essential for every man – the leather jacket. A lot of guys also like the look of the Perfecto, but for me the Cafe Racer is more subtle and can be more versatile. I picked up mine at a Lucky Brand shop in New York City about 6 years ago and wear it for about 7 months every year. It’s a bit warmer than a jean jacket or canvas jacket, and I pair it with a flannel or a black hoodie.
4. LL Bean Mountain Classic Anorak
The perfect lightweight men’s fall jacket for when you’re not sure whether it’s going to rain or not. I feel like the anorak has come back in a big way the past few years, and I’m all in. Not only is the anorak a nice change of pace from your standard hoodie or zip-up wind breaker, it also packs itself into a tiny ball so you can easily throw it in your bag when you don’t need it. All the LL Bean gear is starting to pile up in my closet, and I’m quickly realizing they are my go-to brand.
5. Rains Waterproof Hooded Long Jacket
My go-to fall jacket whenever it’s pouring outside. I bought this jacket at Galvanic last year. I was not planning on buying it, but the minute I put it on I fell in love with the fit and look. As the name suggests, this jacket is completely waterproof, so it’s great whenever you have to run out in the rain and don’t have an umbrella. It’s also dressy enough that you can pair with either jeans or a suit.
