By Trip Type

The Best Winter Gear for Men

Winter is coming—in fact, as of December 21st, it’s technically here. With the impending downturn in temperatures and upswing in all things snowy and icy, there’s no time like the present to take stock of your winter arsenal. The thing is, it can be tricky to find winter weather men's gear that is neither too bulky and insulted nor too streamlined and insubstantial. Hitting the mark is a fine art, and that’s why we’ve sorted it all down to 15 of the most essential pieces every guy should include in his cold weather closet. From a classic pair of winter boots, to a luxurious merino and cashmere scarf, and some of the best jackets you’ll find anywhere, we’ve done most of the heavy lifting, so your cooler months will be less of a frozen nightmare and more of a winter wonderland. 

See recent posts by Todd Plummer

1

Best Men’s Winter Boots

Men's Limited-Edition L.L.Bean Boots, 8" Shearling-Lined.

LL Bean Boot, 8” Shearling-Lined

It’s hard to think of a more classic, quintessential winter boot than L.L. Bean’s iconic 8” “Bean Boot.” Beloved by hearty New Englanders for generations for their preppy profile and hearty waterproof durability, these boots are built to withstand the toughest winter conditions. For those of us prone to cold feet, this iteration comes with an extra dose of warmth thanks to a plush, cozy shearling lining. But don’t wait, L.L. Bean makes a limited supply of these boots every year, and they often sell out.

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2

Best Men’s Winter Scarf

Merino Wool & Cashmere Scarf BARBOUR.

Barbour Merino Wool & Cashmere Scarf

If anyone knows how to fend off a chilly draft with a good scarf, it’s English heritage brand Barbour. This tartan scarf will prove to be an indispensable part of any man’s winter wardrobe—especially given its classic-with-a-twist color pattern and durable yet luxurious merino and cashmere blend. So warm, so stylish. 

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3

Best Men’s Winter Parka

Langford Slim Fit Down Parka with Genuine Coyote Fur Trim CANADA GOOSE.

Canada Goose Langford Slim Fit Down Parka 

Don’t let sticker shock get the best of you—a Canada Goose jacket is an investment that will keep you warm winter after winter. The brand is known for expedition-quality parkas that keep adventurers warm in the most frigid parts of Antarctica. While your winter needs might not be quite so demanding, this Langford parka features the same toasty-warm all-natural goose down filling and coyote fur collar. The best part? A slim fit makes this jacket look less like a giant sleeping bag, and more like a sleek, ideal option for everyday life.

4

Best Men’s Winter Gloves

L.L.Bean Rangeley Waterproof Gloves.

LL Bean: Rangeley Waterproof Gloves

Just say no to frozen fingers this winter—these gloves are arguably the “Bean Boots” of the mitten world. They have a classic-looking style that delivers serious warmth thanks to a double-whammy of modern features: waterproof and breathable TEK2 inserts combined with ThermaTek insulation keeps your hands warm and dry even in the most intense of blizzards. And the red plaid details? Perfect. 

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5

Best Men's Winter Jacket

Carhartt QUICK DUCK SAWTOOTH PARKA.

Carhartt: Quick Duck Sawtooth Parka

There’s a reason Carhartt is a preferred brand for outdoorsmen of all kinds—it delivers serious protection from the elements at unbeatable value. This heavy-duty winter jacket is made from Carhartt’s signature Quick Duck canvas for a waterproof yet breathable construction. Whether you’re standing in a blizzard for hours on end, or just trying to stay warm on your commute to work, you’re going to look (and feel) good doing it.

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6

Best Men’s Winter Fashion Jacket

BOGNER JONES DOWN COAT IN SUN YELLOW.

Bogner Jones Down Jacket

When it comes to winter coats, it’s so easy to get lost in the same old repertoire of boring neutrals. This year, just say no to drab winter gear with this spectacular Bogner parka, in a dazzling shade of sun yellow. It has ample padding to keep things cozy, and features water-repellant materials so it’s more than just a statement piece. You’ll definitely get noticed.

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7

Best Men’s Fleece-Lined Pants

MEN HEATTECH WARM-LINED PANTS.

Uniqlo Men Heattech Warm Lined Pants

Ever crave the warmth and winter-readiness of a snow pant but want the look and feel of your favorite khakis? We’ve got you. Consider these pants from Uniqlo, which incorporate a layer of their enormously popular Heattech technology. They’re made from a ripstop material that’s durable enough to last, but with just enough stretch to fit in all the right places. So warm, so cool. 

 

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8

Best Men’s Ski Pants

Arcteryx SABRE AR PANT MEN'S.

Arc’teryx Sabre AR Pant

It’s all about the details with these best-in-class ski pants from Arc’teryx. They’re lightweight enough to be worn for all sorts of winter activities, but durable enough to shield you from the elements. There’s a lightweight flannel lining, adjustable boot cuffs to keep snow out, and thigh vents to modulate your heat—all useful features whether you’re trekking in the backcountry or just taking the kids out sledding.

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9

Best Men’s Winter Hat

Mack Weldon Tech Cashmere Hat.

Mack Weldon Tech Cashmere Hat

For a go-anywhere, do-anything winter hat that works with any and all outfits, look no further than this Mack Weldon beanie. It’s made from luxuriously soft cashmere blended with water-resistant merino and nylon so it remains stretchy, soft, and warm for many winters to come. 

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10

Best Men’s Long Underwear

Men's Merino 250 Base Layer Bottom.

Smartwool Men’s Merino 250 Base Layer Pattern Botton 

Don’t mess around when it comes to base layers, because the right pair can make or break your entire winter wardrobe (and attitude). These Smartwool bottoms are made from high-quality merino wool, known for its natural warmth and wicking properties. They’re the perfect weight to retain heat during cold conditions and stay temperate on those bluebird winter days—and they’re so plush to the touch that you just might find yourself making excuses to lounge around in them all morning.

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11

Best Men’s Winter Socks

Men's Premium CHUP Polar View Crew Socks.

Smartwool Men’s Premium CHUP Polar View Crew Socks

Remember as a kid when you despised receiving socks as a gift? Well, times have changed and any guy would be lucky to get their hands (and toes) on these Smartwools. They’re made from a warm, moisture-wicking merino wool, with just enough nylon and elastane to stay stretchy and keep their shape all day long. Plus (admit it), the fair isle reindeer pattern is pretty sweet.

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12

Best Men’s Flannel Shirt

Patagonia Fjord Flannel Shirt - Men's.

Patagonia Fjord Flannel Shirt

We love the thickness of this flannel shirt. It’s perfect for long aprés-ski sessions by fire, and also substantial enough to be worn as a lightweight jacket on those sunny spring skiing days. And since it’s Patagonia, it’s sustainably made from some of the world’s finest organic cotton. Not only will you look good—you’ll feel good, and this shirt will last in your rotation for years and years of winter warmth.

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13

Best Men’s Waterproof Jacket

Arc-Teryx BETA AR JACKET MEN'S.

Arc’teryx: Beta AR Jacket

There are GoreTex jackets, and then there is this Arc’teryx GoreTex jacket. From the waterproof zippers, to the hood with internal collar, to the elastic waist pulls, every single detail of this jacket has been designed with performance in mind. Whether you’re ice climbing in the Yukon or just trying to take your dog for a February walk, this jacket has you covered (and dry).

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14

Best Men’s Winter Mittens

Hestra Embla Mitten.

Hestra Emblem Mittens

The Swedes are good making many things—especially men’s winter gear. Pretty much anything from Hestra’s gloves and mittens lineup is a foolproof purchase, but we’re especially enthusiastic about their iconic Embla mittens. They’re made from a high-quality Scandinavian Elk leather, insulated with a toasty PrimaLoft Gold layer, and designed to look good whether you’re on the peak of Kebnekaise, or just shoveling the driveway.

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15

Best Men’s Winter Vest

Patagonia Classic Retro-X Vest - Men's.

Patagonia Classic Retro-X Vest

The award for coziest vest goes to this charming Patagonia option. Not only does it come in an impossibly soft high-pile fleece, but it also has a hint of windproof protection to really amp up the warmth factor. The best part? Patagonia has somehow cracked the code on making its sherpa fleece pieces breathable, so you retain warmth without overheating. Just be warned—wearing this cuddly vest might result in numerous unsolicited hugs.

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