7 Essential Utility Jackets for Men

Don’t believe the myth: style and practicality are not – nor have they ever been – mutually exclusive. Many of fashion’s greatest designs have their roots in practical applications. From military outerwear to athletic gear built for the playing field.

The utility jacket is a prime example of this. A catch-all term for collared jackets with robust construction and pockets aplenty, these functional pieces were made for hard labour, but their durability and classic looks have seen them infiltrate everyday wardrobes along the way.

We’re firm believers that every man should own at least one. And with that in mind, we’ve rounded up a few of the key styles below. From waxed motorcycle jackets to classic cotton-twill overshirts, here’s what you should be looking out for.

Buying Considerations

Fit

This is the biggest factor to consider when shopping for a utility jacket. You want something that sits nicely at the shoulders, ends slightly below the waist and leaves enough room for a layer or two underneath.

Remember, this is a garment you should be able to wear in three seasons out of four, so make sure it’s adaptable enough to work as either a standalone outer layer or a mid layer.

Style

From techy to traditional, there are many ways to approach this piece, which we have outlined below. Take your personal style into account to make sure you get something that will gel nicely with the rest of your wardrobe.

Fabric

For maximum longevity, stick to durable materials that can withstand years of wear. Cotton twill, drill, and duck canvas are the classic options, but some synthetics can work well too.

The benefit of natural materials is that they age nicely over time, meaning you end up with something that feels lived-in and unique to you and your lifestyle.

7 Utility Jackets You Should Consider

Cord-Trimmed Barn Coat

This country classic is experiencing something of a resurgence at present. Once the preserve of Northumbrian farmers and old Welsh men in pubs, these bellow-pocketed jackets are now being sported by young urban tastemakers and fashion insiders in the city.

But the real heads know so-called barn coats have always been a viable option – timeless, functional and perfect for tackling the awkward transitional weather.

Think Barbour for a dose of British charm, or Filson if you’re a fan of outdoorsy American style.

Denim Worker Jacket

A utilitarian twist on the denim jacket, this workwear favourite takes the classic three-pocket worker-jacket template and reimagines it in heavy denim for added durability.

You can go raw in order to develop a unique patina over time, or choose a washed version for a worn-in feel right off the peg. It’s a great alternative if the usual cropped trucker silhouette isn’t for you, offering another way to incorporate the blue stuff into your outerwear rotation.

Technical Overshirt

Overshirts are great, but the standard-issue khaki three-pocket cotton twill format has been done to death. If you’re looking for something that fills the same gap in your wardrobe but offers a little more aesthetic variety, a technical overshirt cut from synthetic fabric with utility-inspired details like zippers, hidden pockets, and poppers could be a good option.

We’re big fans of brands such as And Wander, Gramicci and Snow Peak, all of whom do this sort of thing brilliantly.

Classic Field Jacket

A bona fide menswear classic that can be dressed up or down with ease. The classic field jacket is practical by nature and stylish by design, providing a handy layering tool and plenty of deep pockets for all your essentials.

Dress it up with a pair of ecru jeans and Derby shoes, or style it casually with straight-leg blue denim and a heavyweight flannel shirt.

Belted Motorcycle Jacket

A firm favourite of some of the best-dressed men in history, this British icon was born for multi-day off-road motorbike races and repurposed for everyday life.

The traditional versions feature numerous roomy bellows pockets, a slanted chest pocket, a waxed finish for weather resistance, and an integrated belt to cinch the waist.

Belstaff and Barbour both make excellent options.

French Worker Jacket

A simple twill overshirt comes to life in vibrant royal blue. Known in France as ‘bleu de travail’ or ‘working blues’, this distinctly European spin on the worker jacket is great for adding a pop of colour to casual outfits.

It’s a statement piece, but it’s also timeless and classic, making it perfect for those who tend to shy away from bolder pieces but who still want something with a bit of visual impact. Pick one in a relaxed cut for easy layering and wear it with everything.

Take a look at Le Laboureur, Vetra and Drake’s for some of the best.

Insulated Chore Coat

An insulated chore coat is arguably the ultimate utility jacket. Built for a beating and fine-tuned for the cold, it’s a piece of outerwear that can comfortably carry you through the coldest winters, with a fit that’s perfect for layering.

A durable duck-canvas outer protects against scuffs and abrasions while the quilted lining seals out the elements. Wear it with knitwear on cold days and add a parka to tackle winter’s darkest depths.