There are those days when you step out into blue skies... only to come home in a downpour. Between spring showers and autumn downpours, the windbreaker jacket stands out as a discreet yet indispensable ally. Halfway between functional protection and masterful style, it ticks all the boxes of the contemporary menswear wardrobe.
Modern man has learned to cope with unpredictable weather. The windbreaker jacket is ideal for its lightness, versatility, and protection against rain and wind.
Initially designed for athletes and adventurers, it has gradually made its way into cities and the most urban wardrobes. In an era where comfort rivals aesthetics, the windbreaker has reinvented itself. Brands have understood this: no more shapeless cuts and shiny materials, make way for neat designs, fitted cuts, and sophisticated colors.
Choosing the right windbreaker jacket: material, cut, color
Technical and breathable materials to favor
A good windproof jacket must first and foremost… block the wind. But that's not all. It must also offer sufficient breathability to prevent you from overheating when you exercise.
The most common materials:
- Nylon: lightweight, compact, durable. A classic that gets the job done.
- Coated polyester: slightly stiffer, often more waterproof.
- Water-repellent membrane fabrics: keep you dry even in light rain.
Straight, fitted or oversized cut: which silhouette should you adopt?
It's all about body type and style.
- For slim figures: a fitted jacket with a discreet zip and high collar highlights the silhouette without a floating effect.
- For more athletic or stocky body types: a straight or slightly oversized cut, well structured at the shoulders, avoids the tight effect.
- For those who like to layer: A slightly looser fit makes it easy to wear a sweater or sweatshirt underneath.
Caution: A jacket that's too long on a petite frame will flatten the silhouette. On the other hand, a mid-length model works very well on a slender figure, adding verticality.
Subdued or pop colors? Adapt your jacket to your wardrobe
Are you hesitating between a neutral model and a more striking color? Ask yourself the question of use.
- For everyday and versatile use: classic colors like navy blue, khaki, charcoal gray or beige are easy to combine.
- For a more fashionable or statement look: dare to go for rust, burgundy, or moss green. Slightly faded tones work better than overly saturated colors.
Quick tip: Look at the shoes you wear most often. This will help you choose a jacket shade that easily matches.
The windbreaker jacket, a chameleon piece in the men's wardrobe
In the city: from the metro to the office in style
The perfect city look with a windbreaker jacket? Simple, practical, yet chic.
- A button-down shirt or a plain t-shirt
- Well-cut chinos
- Trendy sneakers
- A fitted, understated, discreet windbreaker jacket
This look is ideal for going to work or for an after-work drink on the terrace.
Relaxing weekend in nature or by the sea
Heading for a more relaxed, but still polished style.
- A cotton sweatshirt
- Straight cut jeans
- A water-repellent windbreaker jacket, a little looser
- On your feet? Sneakers
Welcome accessories: a simple cap, a compact backpack, sunglasses. And above all, consider a material that won't make noise with every movement: comfort also depends on what's audible.
Windbreaker Jackets: Style Mistakes to Avoid
Wearing a windbreaker jacket with style is often a matter of balance. Here are some common mistakes... that are easy to avoid.
- Choosing a cut that doesn't suit your figure: A jacket that's too tight or too loose can disrupt the harmony of an outfit. Take the time to try it on and observe how it fits, especially at the shoulders and waist.
- Over-completing sporty pieces: If the jacket already has a technical look, there's no point adding hiking boots and a sporty bag. It's better to balance it out with more understated pieces, like canvas pants or simple sneakers.
- Neglecting maintenance: Even if it looks sturdy, a windbreaker jacket requires a minimum of care. Wash it cold, without fabric softener, and avoid the dryer. This preserves its water-repellent properties and ensures its durability over time.
- Mismatching colors: Bright hues can be very successful, provided they are well integrated into the overall look. If you opt for a colorful jacket, tone it down with more neutral-toned clothing. The opposite works as well. It's not about banning color, but rather orchestrating it.