There are those days when you head out under blue skies... only to come home in a downpour. Between spring showers and fall storms, a windbreaker jacket is a discreet yet indispensable ally. Halfway between functional protection and refined style, it ticks all the boxes for the contemporary man's wardrobe.
Modern man has learned to cope with unpredictable weather. The windbreaker jacket is ideal because it is lightweight, versatile, and protects against rain and wind.
Initially designed for athletes and adventurers, it has gradually made its way into cities and urban locker rooms. At a time when comfort rivals aesthetics, the windbreaker has reinvented itself. Brands have understood this well: gone are the shapeless cuts and shiny materials, replaced by sleek designs, tailored cuts, and sophisticated colors.
Choosing the right windbreaker jacket: material, cut, color
Technical and breathable materials to prioritize
A good windbreaker jacket must first and foremost... block the wind. But that's not all. It must also be breathable enough to prevent you from getting too hot when you're exercising.
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 cut, fitted, or oversized: which silhouette should you choose?
It's all about body shape and style.
- For slim figures: a fitted jacket with a discreet zipper and high collar emphasizes the silhouette without creating a floating effect.
- For more athletic or stocky body types: a straight or slightly oversized cut, well structured at the shoulders, avoids a tight fit.
- For those who like to layer their clothes: a slightly looser fit makes it easy to wear a sweater or sweatshirt underneath.
Point to note: a jacket that is too long on a petite frame will make you look shorter. On the other hand, a mid-length style works very well on a slender figure, adding verticality.
Subtle or bold colors? Match your jacket to your wardrobe
Are you hesitating between a neutral model and a more striking color? Ask yourself how you will use it.
- For everyday, versatile wear: classic colors such as navy blue, khaki, charcoal gray, or beige are easy to mix and match.
- For a more fashionable or assertive look: dare to wear rust, burgundy, or moss green. Slightly faded tones work better than overly saturated colors.
Here's a little tip: take a look at the shoes you wear most often. This will help you choose a jacket color that's easy to match.
The windbreaker jacket, a versatile piece in any man's wardrobe
In the city: from the subway 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-tailored chinos
- Trendy sneakers
- A fitted, understated, discreet windbreaker jacket
This look is ideal for both going to work and for after-work drinks on a terrace.
Relaxing weekend in nature or by the sea
Aim for a more relaxed style, but still neat and tidy.
- A cotton sweatshirt
- Straight-leg jeans
- A windproof, water-repellent jacket with a slightly looser fit
- On your feet? Sneakers.
Welcome accessories: a simple cap, a compact backpack, sunglasses. And above all, choose materials that don't make noise with every movement: comfort also depends on what you hear.
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 is too tight or too loose can ruin the harmony of an outfit. Take the time to try it on and see how it fits, especially around the shoulders and waist.
- Overdoing the sporty look: if the jacket already has a technical feel, there's no need to add hiking boots and a very sporty bag. It's better to balance it out with more understated pieces, such as canvas pants or simple sneakers.
- Neglecting maintenance: even if it seems sturdy, a windbreaker jacket requires a minimum of care. Wash it in cold water, without fabric softener, and avoid the dryer. This will preserve its water-repellent properties and its shape over time.
- Mismatching colors: Bright colors can look great, provided they are well integrated into the overall look. If you opt for a colorful jacket, tone it down with more neutral-colored clothing. The reverse also works. It's not about banning color, but orchestrating it.