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The arrival of spring is often celebrated by shedding layers and relegating your heavy knits and winter outerwear to the depths of your closet, (hopefully) not to be seen for many more months. That doesn’t always mean you can go completely sans jacket come spring, but finding the right one for every occasion and the sometimes unpredictable weather the season entails is no easy task. Luckily for you, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to compile a comprehensive list of the best men’s spring jackets — that’s 61 of the best chore coats, rain jackets, Harringtons, blazers, windbreakers, and, of course, denim jackets. We’ve quite literally got you covered.
Chore Coats
The beauty of the chore jacket is that you can literally wear it with anything. If you feel like your outfit is missing that certain je ne sais quoi, a chore jacket will bring it to completion. They work in any sartorial situation, all while managing to feel fresh and classic. Of course, what more would you expect from the French?
Gap Chore Jacket
Gap’s version of a chore jacket is the quintessential cut, upgraded in an unexpected color. Don’t think of it as pink, think of it as salmon.
Corridor Natural Canvas Overshirt
Technically an overshirt, this Corridor piece has all the makings of a chore jacket (the pockets, the cut, the collar) just in a slightly lighter fabric, perfect for dipping your toes into the chore jacket waters.
Uniqlo U Denim Work Jacket
Uniqlo has taken some artistic liberties with their denim work jacket in their U line. The fit is a little more oversized than your run-of-the-mill version, and the lapel is wider, lending it a 70s feel. Groovy.
Taylor Stitch The Ojai Jacket
Taylor Stitch took a note from the original chore jackets and crafted theirs out of moleskin, meaning it’s both soft and durable, and will reflect the life of the wearer.
Everlane Chore Jacket
What do you get when you combine a military jacket with a chore jacket? The answer is this twill chore jacket from Everlane. It’s what you would call a wardrobe essential.
Universal Works Patchwork Denim Chore Jacket
Sure, you could settle for yet another basic denim jacket. Or, you could get just not a denim jacket, but a patchwork denim chore jacket. It’s a little bolder, but the denim fabric aids in preventing it from being too out there. Plus, it’ll match practically any wash of jeans.
Bode Tan Beaded Workwear Jacket
This may very well be the chore jacket to end all chore jackets. Although relatively simple in appearance, this jacket from Bode is all about the detail: look closely and you’ll notice the open stitching along the collar, pockets and wrists, as well as the beaded logo. It’s also worth mentioning that Harry Styles is frequently spotted wearing the brand, so, need we say more?
Freemans Sporting Club Denim Chore Jacket
Freemans Sporting Club describes this as a fall staple, but we think it spans seasons. The Kuroki Mills Denim will be a nice reprieve from all the light washes that tend to dominate spring.
J.Crew Wallace & Barnes Chore Jacket in Duck Canvas
If you can’t get an original French chore jacket from the 19th century, J.Crew’s Wallace and Barnes version comes pretty damn close to the real thing.
Vans Stripe Drill Denim Chore Coat
You can really lean into the whole workwear look with Vans’ stripe denim chore coat, who’s hickory stripes resemble something a train conductor might wear. But, you know, a chic train conductor.
Noah Rugby Chore Jacket
Once you get your basic chore jackets out of the way, this is what you move onto. Leave it to Noah to make a chore jacket inspired by 80s prep and crafted not out of twill or cotton or canvas, but Practice Cloth, their sustainable rugby-jersey fabric.
Best Made Indigo Pick Stitch Chore Coat
Best Made describes their chore coat as “their number one throw-it-on-and-go later” which is a pretty apt description. It’s a pretty standard chore coat, so if you’re an expert chore coat wearer and looking for something a little more advanced, we recommend their Indigo Chore Coat, but covered in dots.
Rain Jackets
Rain sucks. But it can suck a little less if you manage to find the perfect rain jacket. In fact, rain jackets can be fun! In addition to the functionality they provide, they can add rather than detract from an outfit. If anything, rain jackets are becoming highly covetable items due in large part to their popularity among streetwear enthusiasts. They’re now officially cool, and thus, so are you.
J.Crew Brunswick Rain Jacket
J.Crew’s recently launched raincoat is pretty much exactly what you’d expect a recently launched raincoat from J.Crew to be. It’s a classic design that’ll work just as well on your way into the office as it would on a rainy Sunday morning trek to the coffee shop. It’s available in three snazzy colors, and you can basically guarantee it’ll always be on sale.
Stutterheim Yellow Stockholm Raincoat
The quintessential raincoat in the quintessential raincoat color. You’ll be a ray of sunshine on an otherwise cloudy day. And feel free to top it off with a matching bucket hat for the full effect.
A.P.C. Beige Phil Micro-Checked Cotton-Twill Trench Coat
If the occasion really calls for looking well put together despite the rain, there’s no coat more suited for the occasion than this micro-checked trench from A.P.C. In fact, this coat is cause enough to make someone look forward to the rain, just so they have an excuse to wear it.
GAP Upcycled Rain Coat
You can never go wrong with black, especially when it comes to an item of clothing that’s probably going to take a battering. It’s simple, yes, but sometimes that’s what’s best.
Only NY Packable Waterproof Transit Shell
Even hypebeasts and skaters aren’t immune to the rain, so Only NY has crafted the solution to the dilemma with their transit shell jacket. The plum color is streetwear worthy, but you don’t have to skate to pull it off. Plus, whenever you need to make some extra room in your closet, you can just roll it up in stash it in its mesh bag.
American Trench Belted Trench Coat in Dark Navy
With a name like American Trench, you’re going to expect some top notch trenches. Luckily, that’s just what American Trench does, and their Belted Trench is no exception. While still remaining classic, the silhouette has been ever so slightly updated from the traditional double breasted style.
Penfield Halcott Jacket in White Sand
White is a bold choice when it comes to outerwear, but we’re willing to take the risk for Penfield’s Halcott jacket. It’s an item of clothing you’ll be reaching for, rain or no rain. I mean, just look at that turquoise detailing.
Rains Track Jacket
Most rain jackets hit around hip length, which is nice and all, but it still leaves a lot of leg exposed to the elements. For those in want of a little extra coverage, Rains’ Track jacket extends beyond the hip. The color is different without being overwhelming or impractical for everyday use. What else would you expect from the Scandis?
Uniqlo Trench Coat
The trench is generally spoken of as a wardrobe requirement, yet it always feels like an item of clothing people say they’re going to buy but never seem to get around to it. Now you have no excuse to procrastinate on purchasing the classic when this one is currently available from Uniqlo. It doesn’t get more trench-ier than this.
Harrington
While the Harrington looks unassuming, that’s largely where its coolness lies — in its subtlety. Unlike the leather jacket, the Harrington is inconspicuous but still speaks volumes to those who know. And, admittedly, it’s an easier piece of outerwear to pull off, one that requires considerably less thought and effort. So if you wanna look cool, but not too cool, a Harrington jacket is your best bet.
J.Crew Harrington Jacket
We would expect nothing less from J.Crew than to create a classic Harrington. Their version stays pretty true to the original, save for the subtle tortoiseshell button details. If you’re at a loss for where to start when it comes to the style, look no further.
Random Identities Green Workwear Harrington Jacket
Random Identities has taken a little more creative liberty when it comes to the silhouette, but that’s what makes it worth purchasing. The two front pockets have been moved so they sit above the chest, lending the piece more of a workwear feel. Besides, who wouldn’t a jacket in this color?
Uniqlo Harrington Jacket
No one does basics better than Uniqlo, and that is proven once again with their take on the Harrington. It really needs no explanation, other than that at $50, you should get it.
Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Twill Jacket
It’s only natural that a brand as classic as Ralph Lauren would throw their hat into the Harrington game, and they did not disappoint. While it comes in other, more subtle colors (like gray, tan and navy) with a silhouette so streamlined, there’s no harm in going for a shade that’s a little more conspicuous, like Sistine Blue.
Flint and Tinder Harrington Jacket
Huckberry in-house brand Flint and Tinder’s version of the Harrington will prove to be a faithful and reliable option in your closet, one you can throw on with practically anything.
Club Monaco Harrington Jacket
Most Harrington jackets tend to have a slight slouch to them, so if you’re in the market for something a little more on the structured side, Club Monaco’s iteration in Poppy Red is constructed from a sturdier cotton that is less likely to lose its shape.
Everlane The Modern Harrington Jacket
A Harrington jacket can also make a great rain jacket (if made from the right fabric). Everlane’s checks off all the boxes: it’s made from water-resistant 5 oz cotton that’ll withstand the elements, and true to Everlane’s ethos, it’s supremely simple. It also lacks the traditional plaid lining, if that’s not your thing.
Baracuta The G9 Harrington Jacket
Baracuta’s G9 is as classic as it gets. They’re the brand that started it all, and their Harringtons are still the best of the best. If you really want to commit to the silhouette, this is where you start. And peep the classic tartan lining, that’s how you know it’s the real deal.
Aimé Leon Dore Harrington Jacket
Okay, this jacket is sold out but we would be remiss not to include it on the list. I mean, how often do you come across a pink Harrington jacket? It doesn’t get more spring than this.
Fred Perry Reissues Made in England Harrington Jacket
Fred Perry is up there with Baracuta when it comes to making tried-and-true Harringtons. Another Harrington in an unexpected color, the pistachio green feels simultaneously 1960s mod and modern. It’s the perfect throwback, without feeling or looking dated.
Blazers
Contrary to popular belief, blazers don’t have to be boring or solely reserved for stuffy business meetings. Rather, they can be fun and casual. Take the blazers below as prime of examples of jackets that don’t lean too far in either the casual or buttoned up direction, but fall somewhere right in the middle, ideally for wearing them with both jeans and slacks. Either way, you’ll look sharp.
Uniqlo Lightweight Cotton Jacket
Uniqlo might refer to this as just a jacket, but we know a blazer when we see one. Like most of the brand’s goods, this lightweight cotton number is uncomplicated and bound to become something you continually reach for. If you’ve never ventured into the world of cotton blazers before, there’s no better place to start.
J.Crew Ludlow Slim-Fit Unstructured Suit Jacket in Portuguese Cotton-Linen
Sometimes you want a little variety in your wardrobe and why shouldn’t that extend to your blazers? Contrary to popular belief, not all blazers have to be navy. J.Crew’s unstructured suit jacket from their Ludlow collection is just the right pattern for switching it up every once in a while without turning you into an eyesore for others, and if you’re really into it, you can get pants to match.
Orvis Traveler’s Hopsack Blazer
When it comes to spring blazers, any kind made from Hopsack will prove to be a life saver. Not technically a fabric but rather a method of weaving that renders fabric loose, the result is a jacket that’s breathable and thus conducive to warmer temps. In addition to being Hopsack, Orvis’s Traveler’s blazer is a standard, everyday option, complete with their Orvis blazer buttons, for just the right amount of prep.
Aspesi Burgundy Slim-Fit Unstructured Garment-Dyed Cotton Blazer
You can’t go wrong with Italian-made clothing, especially when it comes to suiting, and this Aspesi burgundy blazer is sufficiently sophisticated without feeling like a straitjacket.
Alex Mill Mill Blazer
Another cotton blazer, but now in black! Everyone needs a black jacket in their repertoire, so why not make it this unstructured and unlined blazer?
Brooklyn Tailors Unstructured Jacket in Bright Blue Hopsack
Not navy blue but bright blue. While it might be tricky to pull off with most shades of denim, it’ll look great with white or khaki. Plus, you can’t beat a once $525 jacket now less than $200.
Corridor Flecked Indigo Striped 5 Button Blazer
If you’re style sensibility leans more towards workwear, but you require something a little less casual than a work or chore jacket, Corridor has managed to strike the perfect balance between both work and suiting with their flecked indigo blazer in hickory stripe.
Bonobos Unconstructed Italian Wool Blazer
Bonobos is known for their suiting, so naturally they would throw their hat into the unstructured blazer game. Granted, theirs is unconstructed, but it’s essentially the same thing and will serve the same purpose.
Taylor Stitch The Everyday Blazer
Taylor Stitch calls this The Everyday blazer for a reason. Its simplicity lends it well to being worn with everything from a button down and slacks to just jeans and a plain ol’ white t-shirt. And since you’re a very busy businessman who travels a lot, the wrinkle-resistant fabric its crafted from will allow you to throw it in your suitcase and go.
Polo Ralph Lauren Unstructured Garment-Dyed Stretch Cotton-Twill Blazer
To round off the list is this Polo Ralph Lauren unstructured number. The garment-dyed fabric means it will resist fading more easily and thus last longer in your closet, while the khaki will look especially nice with dark-wash denim.
Windbreakers
If you count yourself among those who frequently find themselves running outside or want to become an outside runner or are just outside a lot for some reason, there’s a plentiful market of jackets made just for the job. Besides protecting you from the elements, they’re also handsome pieces of outerwear. You can show people that you’re both active and stylish — you contain multitudes.
Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody
If you’re going to wear a jacket while exercising, you want something that will actually allow you to move. Arc’teryx’s Incendo is made for moving (a lot) thanks to the gusseted underarms.
Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover
Patagonia’s Airshed Pro pullover is extra-light, meaning it won’t hinder your movements and it drys fast, so if you do happen to get caught in a torrential downpour, you won’t be completely chilled to the bone.
Nike Windrunner
The majority of activewear jackets out there predominantly come in fairly dark colors, like black or blues. But why waste a perfectly good opportunity to wear something that’s a little more fun? Nike’s Windrunner in yellow is ideal for running, but you also stand out from the pack wearing it.
Saturdays NYC Tatsu Packable Windbreaker
In the event you find yourself running at night or anytime it’s dark, you might want to consider wearing something that’ll alert, say, someone driving a car, to your presence. You’ll certainly be hard to miss in this neon chartreuse windbreaker from Saturdays. It’ll look equally cool as day-to-day wear, too.
Hill City Active Jacket
This jacket gets straight to the point: it’s black, it’s lightweight and it’s made for running. If that’s all you want out of a jacket then look no further.
By Parra No Mountains Windbreaker
While this windbreaker is probably the least athletic out of the list, that doesn’t mean you still can’t wear it while being active. You probably don’t want to run a marathon in this thing, but you could wear it on a brisk walk or a light hike. Let’s be honest though, if you’re buying this, it’s purely for its looks. And we wouldn’t blame you one bit.
The North Face Flight FUTURELIGHT™ Jacket
Most windbreakers and are made from nylon, which isn’t exactly a quiet fabric. So if you’re easily annoyed by the sound nylon makes while moving, or you’re trying to be stealthy and wanna sneak up on someone, The North Face’s Flight FUTURELIGHT™ jacket is designed specifically to be quiet, so you can run in peace.
Uniqlo Pocketable UV Protection Parka
Uniqlo makes pretty much every piece of clothing imaginable, so naturally they also make a jacket for running. The added benefit of theirs, however, is the UV protection, meaning your chances of getting sunburn through the fabric are less likely. Better safe than sorry.
adidas Own the Run Hooded Wind Jacket
Another jacket ideal if your preferred time of working out or running is when it’s absolutely pitch-black outside. We just don’t want you to get hit by a car, people! And you shouldn’t want that either!
Lululemon Sojourn Jacket
Lululemon specifies that this jacket is designed for both running and commuting to the office, so why not kill two birds with one stone and wear it as you run to work?
Denim
Why does the jean jacket make everyone look so goddamn attractive? Sure it elevates a look, but at the same time, it exudes almost the opposite. There’s a ruggedness about it. Most importantly, though, it’s casual. You’re not trying too hard when you wear a jean jacket. And the sheer effortlessness of it all begs the real question, why aren’t you wearing one right now?
J.Crew Classic Denim Jacket
Here is your classic jean jacket — in style, in color and in label. If you can only fit one of these in your closet, make it this one.
Uniqlo Men Denim Jacket
A darker denim jacket with vintage-style stitching and buttons. Primed for fall and fall-related festivities, one-hundred percent.
Tiger of Sweden Jeans Blue Crust Denim Jacket
This denim jacket isn’t like other denim jackets because instead of buttons it has…a zipper. How convenient.
Todd Snyder Japanese Stretch Selvedge Denim Jacket in Stone Wash
Todd Snyder is calling this jacket the “ultimate third layer,” and we have to agree. You could literally wear a pair of sweatpants with this light-washed jacket and I’d probably say you look good.
NEED Denim Jacket in Judd Wash
If you’ve searched high and low for a denim jacket that’s a happy medium between a light and dark wash, look no further.
H&M Denim Jacket
Don’t be afraid to venture away from blue. A black washed denim jacket will have you looking even sharper in those black washed denim jeans.
Naked & Famous Natural Seed Denim Jacket
So you have your light wash denim jacket and your black denim jacket, but what about a white denim jacket? It’s often a neglected color when it comes to outerwear, but it goes with practically with anything and is perfect for the warmer months.
Remi Relief Distressed Denim Jacket
There’s a wide market for vintage denim jackets but finding one that’s just right is no easy task. So the easiest solution is to simply buy a denim jacket that looks like it’s vintage but is brand new. Besides, you can always fib a little and tell others it is.
Levi’s Type 2 Worn Trucker
What’s a list of the best denim jackets without the inclusion of a Levi’s trucker? Incomplete, that’s what it is. Levi’s has monopolized the denim trucker field and for good reason. Their Type 2 Worn Trucker has a vintage feel to it and, of course, the classic longer silhouette. It’s lightweight and stylish—the perfect spring jacket
A.P.C. x Carhartt WIP Talk Jacket
A.P.C.’s collaboration with Carhartt WIP produced a marriage of two of our favorite kinds of jackets: denim and chore. It’s everything we’ve ever wanted in a men’s spring jacket and more.
We've put in the work researching, reviewing and rounding up all the shirts, jackets, shoes and accessories you'll need this season, whether it's for yourself or for gifting purposes. Sign up here for weekly style inspo direct to your inbox.
