If you spend the winter months doing more than just walking the dog or going to and from the office, you might need something with a little more oomph to suit your needs. We took a look at a selection of winter jackets and layers that would be just as at home on the golf course or mountaineering as they would at the local coffee shop. We haven’t tested them in the most challenging environments, but the season is still young…
M-Quandary Peak Hoodie by Artilect
£190
This super-lightweight hoodie is much more than it seems. Not only does it look good as everyday wear, it has been designed for multi-sport adventures, so whether you’re spending your winter skiing down mountains, training for a marathon, or just taking the dog for a walk, this one is for you. The high-performance fabric is designed to wick away moisture to ensure you stay warm and dry in all conditions, but we’ve not tested it in the most rugged of conditions to confirm that.
The M-Quandary Peak Hoodie is made from Nuyarn Fleece, a blend of high-loft, responsibly sourced, non-mulesed Merino wool and nylon. It offers exceptional warmth in an extremely lightweight fabric. Three zipped pockets are well-sized and easily accessible, and thumb loops at the wrists keep the sleeves neatly in place under gloves for snow-based adventures.
Whether you wear it as a mid-layer or an outer layer, thanks to its versatility and durability, you’ll look stylish and be warm and comfortable for many seasons — a great long-term buy.
Drive Pro Storm Lightweight Insulated Jacket by Under Armour
£100
Style meets practicality with this Under Armour offering. It’s lightweight and has plenty of stretch, making it very comfortable to wear as a mid- or outer layer. It’s primarily designed for wearing on the golf course, but we think it’s sleek and stylish enough for any activity, and you wouldn’t need to stop and change before heading out for the evening either.
It offers great insulation against the cold, wind and rain, although it is only billed as water resistant, so head for cover if heavy rain sets in.
It does come up a little small in sizing, and the sleeves are relatively narrow at the cuff, so you may find that sizing up provides a better fit, particularly if you have more muscular hands and forearms.
Men’s Odin Backcountry Lightweight Hooded Insulator Jacket
£250
The Helly Hansen Odin Backcountry Hooded Insulator Jacket combines rugged, lightweight warmth with an easy-to-wear style
for outdoor winter sports enthusiasts and city dwellers alike. Having a jacket dedicated to the few times a year you can head into the freezing mountains is great, but why not opt for one that doesn’t look out of place as everyday wear for the rest of the winter, too?
This two-layer insulated jacket has a lightweight and soft insulating lining that holds warmth in the breathable fibres without feeling bulky or restrictive. It’s quick-drying, too, so if you are working hard, you will stay warm and dry as you do.
There are plenty of pockets for storing everything you need on the go, and the outer is made from durable 20D ripstop material to prevent snags from bushes or rocks if you’re out in the wilderness or from over-zealous shoppers on that challenging last-minute Christmas gift run.
The lightweight fabric is perfect for wearing over a jumper for maximum warmth day to day without feeling restricted. It’s also compact enough to roll up and carry in a small backpack, ready for the cooler evenings in early autumn, making it an excellent option for multiple seasons.
Torren Jacket By Montane
£300
The Torrens jacket is new to Montane’s lineup this year. It features new levels of breathability and waterproofing thanks to the 100% recycled three-layer fabric, which incorporates Montane’s Petrichor Technology for coping with the most extreme conditions.
This high-quality fabric is not only super-breathable but also durable, with 30D Ripstop to protect against damage.
There are harness-compatible hand pockets and a chest pocket with a zip for safe storage. The fully adjustable hood is designed for wearing over a helmet if necessary.
The jacket is lightweight and comfortable, with articulated sleeves to allow complete freedom of movement. The fit has been tailored to allow for layering underneath the jacket to ensure maximum warmth and comfort, no matter where you are.
While it has been thoughtfully designed for wearing in an outdoor adventure scenario, it looks great everywhere. There are three zingy colourways alongside the more sedate black option, and a women’s version is also available.
- Late summer wines to toast the end of the season - 28 August 2026
- Havana Club Golden Mojito: Should you mess with a classic? - 10 August 2026
- Sipping summer spritz with a Cotswolds Distillery twist - 4 August 2026