Après Layers That'll Make You Look Like a Million Bucks

Published October 10, 2019 12:00AM

Icebreaker Lumista Hybrid Sweater Jacket ($320)

This merino-insulated hybrid is a nice cross between sleek-and-modern and ready-for-the-backcountry. With knit merino panels on the back and sides, the Lumista is efficient on cold days, while DWR on the front helps it shun moisture. Its urban style works whether you’re in Telluride or Chicago.

Howler Brothers Lightning Quilted Jacket ($185)

Extremely light and packable at 12 ounces, the Lightning nevertheless brings the insulation. While its PrimaLoft Gold synthetic lining isn’t quite as warm as down, it still works when wet and costs less. With a snap-front chest pocket, the Lightning has some class.

Untuckit Puffer Vest ($128)

With poly insulation, the Puffer isn’t too puffy—great under a jacket. But its nylon shell, which is water-repellent, means it works as an outer layer. The insulation packs down for stuffing the Puffer away on flights.

Myles Apparel Farallon Fleece ($138)

Designed with Bay Area surfers in mind, the Farallon is made with fast-drying polyester. It’s supremely warm and cozy—don it when you come out of the waves. What’s amazing is how functional Myles managed to make such a sharp-looking, heathered jacket.

REI Co-op Norseland Shirt Jacket ($149)

The vintage-leaning Norseland is one of the warmer shirt jackets we’ve encountered. A mix of polyester and wool fibers, it has a rugged feel on the outside and a silky lining inside. With all the trappings of a dress shirt, it’s the rare piece in its category with the heft to serve as a true jacket.

Kathmandu Epiq Down Jacket ($200)

The best lifestyle puffy we tested comes from New Zealand. Stuffed with 550-fill down and graced with windproof, DWR Pertex Quantum Eco fabric, the Epiq is warm enough for winter camping. Nice touches include a headphone port leading to an inner pocket and soft brushed fabric at the chin.