What is the right jacket for winter? Read the S’portofino guide

What to look out for when choosing a winter jacket?

The choice of winter jacket can be a real challenge, so we’ve distinguished 3 key elements to look out to during the selection process. A good winter jacket is an indispensable companion for winter adventures, it will protect you against cold, wind, and snow, so think carefully before buying it.

The type of insulation – it’s a very important element in winter jackets, which keeps warmth, ensures resistance to moisture, and can be compressed to a compact size. When you choose a winter jacket, take into account the circumstances in which it will be worn. Everyday situations, work, mountain hiking or activities on the slopes? The type of insulation should be selected according to the planned activities and thermal requirements.
Details – hood, zip closure, which prevents the cold from entering inside the jacket, adjustability, ventilation holes, pockets, and special details such as snow skirts directly affect the comfort and functionality of the jacket, so it’s worth paying attention to them before the purchase.
Weight and compression – they’re important when you need to pack your jacket inside a backpack. It’s also worth mentioning that the fabrics from which the jacket’s outer layer is made protect from rain, ensure air permeability, durability against the elements and wind resistance.

Woman in sunglasses and blue down jacket

Types of insulations in winter jackets -down or synthetic? Which are the best?

Choosing the right filling for a winter jacket - down or synthetic - depends primarily on the conditions in which you intend to use it and your preferences.

Jackets with natural down

Down, mainly duck or goose, is the best insulator used in winter jackets. It provides excellent warmth with minimal weight and bulk - provided, however, that it does not get wet. Down stands out above all because it is ultralight, very warm and compresses easily. Its disadvantages, however, are its lack of insulation in wet conditions and its long drying time. If you anticipate rain, snow, high humidity or intense physical exertion, it is worth considering waterproof down, synthetic down or a hybrid combining both types. The quality of down is determined by the fill power - the higher it is, the warmer the down. The fill power scale is between approximately 450 and 900 cuin (cubic inches); 900 cuin down offers the highest level of warmth. Down jackets are best suited to moderate activity (without much effort) or everyday wear.

Synthetic filled jackets

Synthetic-filled jackets are an alternative that performs well in wet conditions, as synthetic fibres retain their insulating properties even when wet. Synthetic fill is also more allergy-friendly and easier to care for than natural down. Although synthetic does not provide as much warmth in relation to weight, it is durable and a little heavier, but it is still great for everyday wear and activities in varying weather conditions.

Types of outer material in winter jackets

The outer fabric of a winter jacket is a key element that influences its protection against cold and moisture. It is the properties of the material that determine whether the jacket is lightweight, fits well and provides adequate insulation. Several popular fabrics are used for winter jackets. These are:

Polyester - this is a synthetic fibre with high durability and stain resistance. It is easy to care for, does not crease and provides good insulation against the cold and protection against moisture (it only absorbs about 1% of moisture). The disadvantage of polyester, however, is that it does not allow the skin to breathe.

Polyamide - is similar to polyester, but even more durable and less prone to electrification. It has the advantage of being able to produce intense colours and, thanks to the impregnation often applied to the surface, the material gains water repellent properties.

Spandex and Lycra - are used as admixtures that give the fabric elasticity and make it feel pleasant to the touch, similar to cotton.

Cotton - is a natural material, allows the free exchange of air, but does not provide adequate thermal insulation and is therefore rarely used in winter jackets. Rather, it finds its place in transitional jackets.

Fur - the most commonly used nowadays is artificial, although it provides less insulation than natural. It is also sometimes used as insulation in winter jackets. You can also find mixtures of artificial and natural fur.

Wool - a natural material, it insulates well and is pleasant to the touch. Wool is very breathable, allowing the skin to breathe.

Nylon - is characterised by its exceptional durability, which is why it is often used in sports jackets. However, nylon, like polyester, does not allow the skin to breathe.

How to choose the right size of my winter jacket?

Choosing the right winter jacket is much more than just a style decision - functionality and wearing comfort are key. Choosing the right size is crucial here, so it's worth paying attention to a few important aspects. First and foremost, the jacket should offer complete freedom of movement, so make sure the sleeves are the right length, do not restrict movement in the shoulders and the fabric sits well on the back. A comfortable jacket should be loose enough to fit under a jumper or sweatshirt, but snug enough not to look too bulky. A longer cut, reaching around mid-thigh, will better protect against the cold. The hood is an added bonus as it effectively covers the head and ears. The ribbing on the sleeves and at the hem further protects against the cold. It is also worth noting how the jacket looks both buttoned and unbuttoned so that it blends well with different layers of clothing, especially as layering is heavily emphasised in winter.

How do you choose a winter jacket to suit your body type?

The multitude of winter jacket styles on the market can be intimidating. Do you feel like bulky down jackets add weight and short furs accentuate your figure? We have some tips to help you choose the perfect winter jacket for your figure, so that you can enjoy both comfort and a fashionable look. No compromises.

Apple body type- shorter styles are best to emphasise the legs; for a bulkier jacket, consider models with a belt to subtly accentuate the waist.
Hourglass body type- choose almost any model, although the waistline will emphasise their proportions. For pear-shaped figures, we recommend jackets with a more accentuated top, e.g. with a large hood, which optically broadens the shoulders and balances the proportions.
Tuba body type, i.e. a more boyish silhouette, can opt for down jackets or models with a waist belt.
Inverted triangle body shape - bomber jackets or jackets with a flared hem are ideal, but without large epaulettes or hoods that could add bulk to the shoulders.

Woman in beige winter jacket and beige trousers

The most fashionable jacket styles for winter 2024 - trend overview

What are the biggest global brands promoting this season? There will be no shortage of fashionable flair, but also functionality. S'portofino's brand collections perfectly combine luxury with comfort, providing you with the perfect proposals for cold days.

Faux fur

Furs, preferably artificial of course, rank high this year and are definitely worth sourcing. Perfect after a day of activity on the slopes, when you can relax while admiring the winter landscape. Fur coats come in many forms this season - they can be models with short, dense bristles or with feathers or tassels. Hair is also happily replaced by a sheepskin fabric, such as at Stand Studio. The most important thing about fur is not that it is warm and necessarily oversize. What colours dominate? From warm whites and beiges to classic dark colours such as brown or black.

Woman in quilted beige jacket and beige winter hat

With collar

Jackets with collars aspire to be the most popular jackets for winter 2024. High collars not only add majesty to the whole silhouette, but are also extremely practical. In them, no cold weather will frighten you. Look for inspiration in the collection of the Goldbergh brand . The dignified collars, the classic colour palette evoke a style of quiet luxury and, thanks to the fabric imitating a felt, woollen finish, will keep you warm and looking fashionable during any of your activities.

Down coats

A winter classic - I think we can already call down coats by this name. They are ultra-warm, comfortable and stylish. We have long since said goodbye to shapeless, bulky jackets that were little nightmares of the winter scene. Some even believe that a good down coat is what determines a successful trip to the mountains, and it's hard to disagree. Light, soft and fluffy - that's how we would describe down jackets for winter. We particularly liked the proposals from Save the Duck. In the brand's latest collection you will find both short and long models, so be inspired. With these jackets, every winter adventure will become an extraordinary fashion story.

Woman in white ski jacket and orange trousers

For lovers of winter adventures and sporty looks - ski jackets for winter

Ski jackets are no longer just a practical wardrobe item, associated with functionality but often with a less attractive design. The world's biggest brands are going a step further, creating garments that combine top quality and modern technology with the latest fashion trends. Ski jackets become not only protection against the cold, but also an expression of style and individuality on the slopes.

Toni Sailer ‘s brand proposals fit perfectly into this concept. The company's products give every experience on the slopes a unique style. Metallic shades, modern designs and a classic colour palette create the perfect harmony between functionality and aesthetics. Thanks to the use of innovative materials and technologies, Toni Sailer jackets provide maximum comfort, thermal insulation and resistance to harsh weather conditions. At the same time, their sporty design will allow you to stand out on the slopes.

Bottom line - which jacket works best in winter?

Winter is a special time to explore new passions. With the right jacket, every outing, be it a long walk in the woods, a meeting with friends in a cosy café or an evening trip to the ice rink, will become a real adventure.

When choosing a jacket, remember to choose the right material, filling and cut. This way, it will not only protect you from the cold, but will also give you confidence on a daily basis.