Men often pack their winter wardrobes with big outerwear—for a good reason. After all, it’s a big-coat season, so male consumers will always reach for their trusty parka or puffer. However, things are changing in 2024 as more men shift toward slimmer, cropped winter jackets to stylishly handle the dropping temperature.
Offering men a varied winter jacket selection is now more important than relying on heavy-duty cold-weather coats. These lighter, low-profile jackets are quickly becoming favorites for their versatility. This article will highlight five trending winter jackets for men worth selling in 2024.
Table of Contents
A brief look at the winter wear market in 2024
Winter jackets: 5 styles to help men beat the cold in 2024
3 things to keep in mind when stocking winter jackets for men
Bottom line
A brief look at the winter wear market in 2024
Experts predict the global winter wear market will grow to US $440.5 billion by 2030, growing at a 5.2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the forecast period. According to the report, leather winter wear recorded the highest growth in 2022 due to the material’s longevity and wear and tear resistance. Coats and jackets generated the most revenue as more consumers sought trendy options each year.
In addition, the winter wear market benefited the most from men, with most male consumers paying more attention to their style and appearance. Lastly, Asia-Pacific accounted for the most sales in 2022.
Winter jackets: 5 styles to help men beat the cold in 2024
1. Thick-pile fleece
Fleece has become a huge sensation for men for several seasons, evolving from an aging birdwatcher favorite to fashion week runway-worthy styles. Despite being the opposite of stylish, fleece is now one of the top choices for a “cool” winter outfit, which is good news for the average man’s wardrobe. However, thick-pile fleece is more expensive than regular high-performance mid-layers.
The winter jacket is inspired by the past, offering thick-pile fabric and vintage styling. Fashion retailers can focus on variants with retro-inspired styles and subtle throwback nods. Business buyers will want men to rock their purchases for multiple seasons without ridicule.
Hence, consider stocking thick-pile fleece with the odd chunky zipper or stylish (but minimal) color blocking and avoiding extreme bold prints and over-the-top designs that scream 1990s nostalgia. Also, retailers should focus on cuts too. This winter jacket style is usually roomier, so offer sized-down versions if consumers want a more fitted look.
Thick-pile fleece jackets are a big trend in 2024. According to research from Wordstream, they have a 49,500 search volume.
2. Down vests
Styling outfits for the biting cold always involves layering. But men can only pull off a killer layered look if they have the right pieces. One of these incredibly versatile pieces is the down vest.
This sleeveless beauty has one major purpose: creative layering. Hence, men can easily rock interesting layered looks with a down vest. They can throw it over a classic tee, sweater, button-up, or hoodie and wear a heavy coat over the vest when the weather becomes even more unbearable.
Fashion retailers have two options when stocking down vests: top-layer variants or mid-layer styles. The top-layer variants are often puffy and filled out for the most insulation. In contrast, mid-layer styles are often more lightweight and lower-profile to fit snugly under outerwear. Down vests may not be dominating searches, but they remain a trend with a 6,600 search volume.
3. Denim jackets
Workwear remains one of fashion’s biggest inspirations. Its perfect blend of practicality and durability transitions easily into the average everyday wardrobe, and its timeless appeal is a major bonus. Denim jackets are one of the few pieces that embody this aesthetic.
These rugged workhorses have simply refused to go out of style. They have evolved from being unappealing to being winter wardrobe must-haves. Denim jackets are the classic piece every man must have in their winter collection.
Usually, denim jackets have cropped hems that sit just above the waist. Hence, businesses can market their offerings as the perfect layering pieces for winter, as most outer layers will cover denim jackets easily. Fashion retailers must also consider the fabric. Although denim is obvious, there are multiple types to consider.
For instance, rigid, raw denim becomes stiff and uncomfortable but transforms into something more natural after men wear it over time. On the other hand, pre-washed denim will be softer on the first purchase but have less character. Denim jackets remain one of the top trends, as research shows they have a 60,500 search volume.
4. Leather jackets
Leather jackets are way more than transitional outerwear. When retailers stock variants with a few seasonal tweaks, leather jackets can look amazing on various winter outfits. Forget those cafe racers and biker looks; aviation-inspired designs are getting all the attention for their extreme warmth.
Variants like shearling-lined aviators and bombers have amazing insulation. Plus, they are durable and timeless, making them a top choice for men looking for long-term winter outerwear. Although these leather jacket styles are more pricey, the quality more than makes up for the initial price.
But if genuine leather is too expensive for the target audience, brands can use a good alternative: faux leather. It looks just as good and appealing as genuine leather at a lower cost. However, faux leather winter jackets are not as insulating and durable as their genuine counterparts.
It’s tough to beat leather jackets when it comes to popularity. According to Wordstream, leather jackets have an impressive 165,000 search volume.
5. Heavyweight overshirts
There are only a few outfits as versatile as the overshirt, and many may still argue that it takes the crown. This humble all-rounder is the average man’s go-to for all seasons. However, stepping into the winter weather means switching inventories to wool or flannel variants.
Why? Wool or flannel overshirts are thicker, warmer, and heavier than cotton variants. The best part? They still have that seasonal adaptability despite being heavyweight. If men are going to invest in one jacket in A/W 2024, it will most likely be heavyweight overshirts.
Nevertheless, business buyers must consider a few things before stocking overshirts. First, the hem should be around the hip level. Second, the sleeves should fit snugly around the shoulder without making the wearer uncomfortable. Lastly, the cuff should sit just below the wrist when men rest their arms side by side. These factors help ensure consumers get the perfect fit.
In addition, heavyweight overshirts can have different closures. While button closures remain the classic option, some modern styles come with zip fastening for a simple upgrade. Retailers can also market overshirts as tops and mid-layers. Heavyweight overshirts registered an 8,100 search volume in 2024.
3 things to keep in mind when stocking winter jackets for men
1. Consider the weather condition
Winter coats are more than just style. Practicality is also a big part of men’s choices. For instance, lighter jackets are fantastic for milder weather, but heavier options are more suitable for colder winter conditions.
2. Consider the target occasion
Winter is not an excuse to dress inappropriately. Men wouldn’t wear casual bomber jackets to business meetings, so fashion retailers must consider the target occasion before stocking winter jackets. Remember that formal events are often restricted to coats, while casual outings allow more outfit freedom.
3. Comfort is still key
No matter how stylish a coat is, men won’t like it if it’s not comfortable. Hence, to avoid return requests and unhappy customers, business buyers must stock the proper fit and only go for jackets with high-quality materials.
Bottom line
With the chill of winter fast approaching, the average man will find himself shopping for the perfect winter jacket to remain fashion-forward and protected. Each of the five jacket styles discussed above uniquely blends warmth, style, and versatility, making them fantastic options to sell in 2024. Help men embrace the chill and let their outerwear make a statement with thick-pile fleece, down vests, denim jackets, heavyweight overshirts, and leather jackets.
