We’ve noticed that most guys have a small repertoire when it comes to outerwear. Their selection usually includes items like light down jackets, leather jackets, wool overcoats, and possibly a jean jacket or heavy parka thrown in at opposite ends of the spectrum. The trusty field coat often gets overlooked, sadly, since it’s easily one of the most versatile and stylish pieces of outerwear a man can have in his collection.
Sometimes field jackets take the form of the traditional military staple, the M-65, a four-pocket cotton jacket issued to soldiers in the Vietnam War. Others are variants of the original, but no less stylish or practical, and the materials can range from ripstop cotton to duck cloth to ultra-rugged firehose material that can stand and deliver time and again.
Field coats in the modern age have also come to encompass forms such as the more rural barn jacket and more trucker-style versions. The level of cold-weather protection also varies; some are unlined single layer jackets meant more to shed moisture while others come with full insulation for winter usage.
No other outerwear combines a rough aesthetic with unrivaled function like the field jacket, so check out these 10 picks.
Flint & Tinder American-made Flannel Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket, $298
A melding of field length and utility with a trucker-style ethos make for one handsome American-made jacket that will look far better than you will with age. We loved the one the brand sent us, right out of the box. The material is a waxed 7-ounce sailcloth for element resistance and durability that will fade beautifully and uniquely.
Three exterior pocket utility juxtaposes nicely with its more trim fit, and the soft plaid herringbone lining gives it subtle sophistication and added warmth when the temps drop. This is a coat that gets better the more it's worn – like a pair of Red Wing boots, the quality of this field jacket is obvious the first time you put it on.
Fjallraven Greenland Jacket, $265
The Greenland Jacket is a hybridization of the field coat and the parka, coming together for an eminently practical jacket that’s both inclement weather capable and outdoor sporty stylish. Having originated from the Greenland expedition of 1966, this sucker’s as tough as it is attractive, using G-1000 thick poly-cotton with an extra layer over the yoke and shoulders to haul packs and also ward off the elements. It has the field coat’s utilitarian quad pockets and an incorporated hood to protect your gray matter, too. The material can take on wax to give less favorable conditions the finger. Throw it on while shod with a pair of throwback mountain boots, and you’ll be expedition ready, even if it’s just a country mile for a hot cup of joe.
Carhartt Field Coat, $200
As many men can attest you don’t have to be a construction worker or contractor to wear Carhartt, and it’s a good thing that the American brand has gone mainstream and more stylish for the everyman. The Field Coat is longer than their Duck Traditional Jacket and more versatile thanks to its field coat length and capacity. The tough 12-ounce cotton duck cloth will hold up for eons, and the body and sleeve poly lining will keep you toasty without looking like you’re the Michelin Man. The corduroy collar adds comfort and country panache, while the optional hood notches up the cold-weather capability. Pair with some revived dark jeans and you’re good to go for both field duty and that after-work drink.
Todd Snyder Italian Ripstock Field Jacket, $194
We like Todd Snyder's rendition of the field jacket because it’s just so damned simple. The classic color, uncomplicated aesthetic, and easy snap front make this a mild weather go-to. The tough ripstop cotton is about as complex as it gets, and with eight pockets total, six exterior and two interior, you'll easily hold just about all of your EDC. With a fuller fit that hits around mid-thigh, this coat will wear well to the office just as easily as it can the shed for some down-and-dirty work.
L.L. Bean Original Field Coat, $169
The motto, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is apropos because the Bean Field Coat hasn’t changed much since 1924 when the term “millennial” applied to a span of time, not an age group. The onetime hunter’s special with reinforced rifle-ready shoulders is made with heavy-duty 10-ounce cotton canvas that’s been treated for durability and weather-resistance. Add corduroy to the collar and cuffs for softness, a fully-lined body and sleeves, and five capacious pockets, and you’re set for a day out without stopping. Another classic from Red Wing will round things out nicely.
Heritage Suede Expedition Jacket, $700
Both rugged and chic, this luxurious suede jacket is a one of a kind masterpiece. The button front closure, notch collar, and lined back panel will help keep you warm without compromising the old-school style, while the tie waist belt gives this jacket a nicely broken in look. We recommend taking a cue here and styling this rich, olive green heritage jacket with an elevated neutral outfit.
Alpha Industries M-65 Field Jacket, $225
Call it the American original because it is. Born out of military needs in 1966, it’s barely changed from the original, and that’s a good thing for you since it evokes vintage cool without even trying. It was built for layering in Vietnam, allowing mild weather wear during the day and cold at night, so its versatility is proven. Military epaulets give it authoritative shape up top, and the four large pockets hold plenty of daily gear. The fit is generous, true to the original military spec, but you can downsize two sizes from your typical size for a trimmer look. The fact that it comes in more than just the original olive green means you can pick your best look with ease. Regardless of what you choose, the M-65 will go great with a solid pair of khakis. We first featured the Defender in our Amazon Outfit.
Brooks Brothers Ripstop Field Jacket, $298
If taking along your over-and-under out for an afternoon of sporting clays with the boys is your thing, this truly versatile and sophisticated field jacket is the right recipe for warmth and a style statement. The unadorned military-style has big flap chest pockets and a cinched waist for that rugged heritage style.
Kuhl Kollusion Jacket, $199
Proof Field Jacket, $248
Asket Field Jacket, $365
Belstaff Fieldmaster Jacket, $595
Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket, $465
Do you have a favorite field jacket? Share it in the comments below!
