We’re becoming increasingly aware that people are using the phrase ‘big coat‘ in contexts where it’s not warranted. We’re here to remind you that a big coat isn’t just any old puffer jacket. There are rules to this game, and we’ll clarify them for you now…
Firstly, it might sound obvious, but a big coat should be genuinely big. Falling a little bit below your arse and becoming a total hindrance when walking through doorways is ideal. Secondly, all big coats should have a fair bit of heft – down fill preferably, but thick wool & other fabrics will also suffice. And finally, a big coat should be truly special – only worn once in a blue moon when the temperature dips its head below freezing.
Just in case you’re still not clear, we’ve put together a list of properly big coats for you down below. Each of these pieces of outerwear could carry you through the apocalypse and back. Or just down to the pub when everything has frozen over.
Arksen Foul Weather Waterproof Jacket
Favoured by hardy explorers and recently Sleaford Mods vocalist Jason Williamson, Arksen’s Foul Weather Jacket is a serious piece of outerwear. One look at that hood should tell you everything. 3-Layer waterproof shell. Fully taped seams. Cordura reinforcements. Fleece-lined collar. And an abundance of pockets. 10/10.
Nanga AuroraTex Down Field Coat
Based on old U.S. Air Force jackets, Nanga has broken the space, sound and time barrier with this Down Field Coat. This looks so warm that it could genuinely pass as military issue – the sort of jacket that doubles up as a sleeping bag should you need it to.
Khakis x Gloverall Monty Duffle Coat
What this Khakis x Gloverall coat lacks in feathers, it makes up for in hefty wool fabric, proving the case that big coats aren’t restricted to down jackets. Designed in Korea, made in England, worn wherever you desire.
Nanamica GORE-TEX Long Down Coat
Nanamica might be our favourite brand to ever work with GORE-TEX, and this long coat proves exactly why. Typically minimalist styling with a relaxed cut, and plenty of technical capability. If you’re after a big coat that’ll outlive you, this is the one.
Fjällräven Expedition Down Jacket
Sometimes the only thing that’ll impress your mates is a big coat that you could wear to the Arctic Circle – and the Fjallraven Expedition Down Jacket is exactly that. Boasting a mix of goose down and synthetic microloft, this jacket is ready for anything, but still looks smart enough that you could wear it about town. Undoubtedly a hall of famer.
Norse Projects Rokkvi 8.0 GORE-TEX Parka
Appearing as a distant relative of the Nanamica Down Coat, this Norse Projects Parka packs a similar amount of heft. And thanks to Norse’s meticulous attention to detail, you could comfortably wear this parka in just about any scenario… Out for dinner, after work drinks, or just waiting at the train station when it’s pissing it down in minus five degree weather.
