Tested: The Best Field Jackets for Stylish Utility

The age-old adage “history repeats itself” rings true in all areas of life, and men’s fashion is no exception. As designers endeavored to innovate on classic men’s outerwear, many found inspiration in the annals of our country’s military history. The field jacket is a prime example of history weaving itself into the zeitgeist. Its tough aesthetic, army-caliber practicality and simple design allowed it to be the perfect punctuation mark for many men’s wardrobes. And that’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best men’s field jackets on the market based on our own hands-on testing with each one.

How We Tested

With so many field jacket options out there, you’ll need to do some serious legwork to find the right one. Luckily, we’ve done it for you in this guide. To get started, we surveyed the landscape, visiting our favorite brands and revered names in the space. We took note on different attributes, including aesthetic, design, pockets, materials, durability, and price.

From there, we acquired our units for testing and proceeded to spend significant time with each coat, paying attention to how they looked and felt on our bodies, as well as how they held up to temperatures and what it was like to use their features, if relevant. These results and more are detailed below.

Measurements: I’m 6’0″ tall and wear an XL on most occasions, and almost every jacket I tested is an XL. My body type is a bit large with broad shoulders, so I also prefer jackets that are a bit slimming, especially around the belly area when the coat is buttoned/zipped up.

What Exactly Is a Field Jacket?

While modern-day field jackets aren’t geared for military use like their predecessors, they retain the rugged silhouette, durability, and functionality that made them iconic in the first place. For the most part, we are basing our criteria on what a field jacket is off of the classic M-65 field jacket, which has several outer pockets, a concealable hood, and snap buttons. Of course, some exceptions on this list deviate from the traditional M-65, but all pay homage to the legendary garment through its quality, style, and utility.

What to Look For with Field Jackets

Aesthetic: Based on personal preference, as with any piece of clothing, the style of a specific field jacket will make or break your purchasing decision. However, these coats will all have loose interpolation from one to the other since they all fall within the field jacket umbrella.

Material: As with most garments, the material is generally the most important step in the process. Field jackets, in particular, are meant to be durable and versatile pieces so this information is important. Generally, they’re made mostly with quality cotton or a cotton/synthetic blend, usually with nylon or polyester. Tight weaves and chemical treatments can make these jackets quite windproof and waterproof, just to name a few advancements in the space. Today, you may find some changes here and there but the blueprint has been set, so variations will often be justified (like wool collars or waxed cotton).

Fit: Much like other clothes, fit can vary widely based on stitching, seams, construction, etc. But one of the main things to look out for regarding a field jacket is if it’s made for military use or not. If so, they’re going to be bigger and roomier so make sure that’s what you want.

Weight: If you’ll be wearing your field jacket all day, you’ll want to be aware of the weight you’ll be carrying on your body.

Hood: While traditional field jackets have a concealable hood, it’s no longer a requirement. Nevertheless, a hood can be a desirable attribute depending where you live and where you’re headed.

Insulation: A field jacket doesn’t need to be insulated but the heavier options will indeed have some sort of insulation, whether synthetic or animal down. This will also aid you in keeping warm in colder conditions.

Pockets: A hallmark of field jackets is their several, typically large pockets on the front side. However, if you’re into EDC or just like having pocket options, look for a coat with some interior pouches as well.

Care: Since a majority of the material found in most field jackets is cotton, a cold wash, and (sometimes) gentle drying is recommended. Take note of what the company making the jacket recommends.

Carhartt Men’s Loose Fit Firm Duck Blanket-Lined Chore Coat

Best Chore Coat-Style Jacket: Carhartt is an iconic workwear brand. Their no-frills jackets are an extension of the dependability, honesty, and trust on which the company prides itself. The Chore Coat is a particular standout among the brand’s stellar line of outerwear. It has a blanket-lined interior and a wind-resistant, water-resistant exterior that will keep users warm in virtually any cold weather. The jacket is made with 100% cotton, has four outer pockets, and sports the signature corduroy collar that has remained on the brand’s jackets since the 1930s.

The Good

Blending the chore coat ethos with a field jacket aesthetic, the Carhartt Chore Coat has a ton of charm, especially for the price. Very affordable, the jacket doesn’t sacrifice any style or construction integrity in the process. And with the brand’s reputation, this is one “budget-friendly” brand that won’t lose you any points. Incredibly warm thanks to the extra weight and quilted insulation, the coat is one of the heaviest options here. I also loved the pocket selection, which had the most of any we tested.

While you wouldn’t want to wear some of the more expensive jackets on this list when doing any actual work, the Carhartt Chore Coat is affordable enough that you wouldn’t fear getting it as dirty. Similar to your average quilted down jacket, the extra padding inside makes it more accessible. Wearing better than most that we tested, the Carhartt cotton duck shell is expectedly durable too, which you’ll notice right away.

The Not So Good

It’s difficult to find flaws with a $120 jacket. Pricey enough that it’s made with meticulous methods and affordable enough that any flaws won’t really be an issue, the chore coat is admittedly a bit long compared to the competition, while also running a bit large, especially in the torso. Fortunately, this doesn’t affect how it looks on your body. Also, since it’s so insulated, this won’t be a great option in warm weather. My biggest issue, however, is perhaps the lack of color options, with only the single brown colorway available.

Verdict: Despite only being available in one colorway, the Duck Chore Jacket is par for the course for Carhartt. Incredibly warm and “cheap” enough that you won’t be afraid to actually use this for what it’s intended for, the jacket admittedly runs a bit large but the insulation inside will keep you plenty warm for working in the wintertime –– and without breaking the bank in the process. A plethora of pockets will also ensure that you’ll have plenty of options when in the field.

L.L.Bean Upland Hunter Field Coat

Best for Hunting: It may not be as affordable as the Carhartt above, but L.L.Bean’s Upland Hunter Field Coat is still a great field jacket for those just getting into the style and wanting something a bit more traditional. Sporting a 100% nylon shell, this jacket is then treated with a water-resistant laminate for added protection from the elements while also being stain-resistant. Other features include underarm gussets, articulated sleeves, a bi-swing back, hidden back vents for extra airflow, and, yes, plenty of pockets. Also, there’s a front-loading game bag for stuffing what you’ve hunted.

The Good

Intended for hunters, this aptly-named Upland Hunter Field Coat from L.L.Bean will also appeal to fans of pockets, with a whopping 10 pockets, including eight on the front, one zipper compartment on the inside, and a large zipper pouch on the back. Almost all of these are large enough to get creative with, and the interior option can fit smaller items you wouldn’t want to have buried in the others. There’s also a loop on the back to hold your license and a Velcro loop in front to help support a shoulder mount.

I loved the comfort of this jacket. Lined with corduroy mesh, the interior is incredibly soft. And while there’s no insulation stated on the brand’s site, this jacket is also really warm without being too cumbersome on the body; it’s not too heavy. Plus, the vents do their job and helped me not to overheat when I had this on inside as well.

The Not So Good

As fantastic as this field jacket is on the utility side, it struggles a bit with everyday style. Fitting very baggy for its size (I tested a proper XL), the Upland Hunter looked sloppy on my body. I also didn’t love the collar on this jacket, which lacked structure and also looked rather sloppy. However, the corduroy fabric brought some style to the ensemble.

Verdict: Not terribly expensive and built with tons of features for hunting, the Upland Hunter Field Coat from L.L.Bean may not be the most form-fitting jacket around but it’s incredibly warm and comfortable, while also being highly utilitarian. Baggy enough that it looks rather sloppy on-body, the jacket might be better if you go a size lower but this will definitely appeal to those looking for a new hunting jacket.

Flint and Tinder Stretch Ripstop Waxed Field Jacket

Best Waxed Jacket: Flint and Tinder has been buzzed about a lot in recent years due to its rabidly popular Waxed Trucker Jacket. However, if you want a bit more utility in your wardrobe, take a look at the company’s Stretch Ripstop Waxed Field Jacket, with plenty of pockets on the front and retaining the same hardwearing ethos you’ve come to expect from them. Inspired by vintage Mackinaw jackets worn by lumberjacks, trappers, and longshoremen, this field jacket sports an 8oz waxed canvas shell with 2% spandex in the build for stretch and a soft 4oz flannel lining. Great for enduring wind and rain, the shell can also be rewaxed over the years.

The Good

Undeniably durable, the waxed canvas shell is about as obviously tough a jacket can be without beginning to look and feel unappealing. This thing is like cotton armor. However, the interior of the jacket is incredibly soft. I legitimately didn’t want to take this thing off when I got home. Likewise, it’s pretty darn lightweight for how rugged it is.

The pocket options are similar to that on a chore coat, with four squares on the front, with the bottom two featuring side-entry compartments as well. Not many of these jackets have interior compartments, but I liked the one inside of this coat. It’s not zippered or buttoned like others. Instead, it’s open up top for easy access. I actually used it for my phone, which felt easier to grab than if it were in one of the outside pockets.

The Not So Good

Although the Waxed Field Jacket fits pretty true to size, it’s admittedly tight around the upper arms initially. Luckily, this seemed to stretch out a bit over the course of the day. Also a bit boxy when unbuttoned, the look gets better once you snap a few buttons together. After that, I actually liked how this jacket looked on me, with a refined appearance despite the rugged nature of the silhouette. I should also mention that the rigid shell material causes the jacket to be a bit noisy when you move around, which might irritate people in certain scenarios.

Verdict: Made with a re-waxable cotton canvas with a touch of spandex, the Waxed Field Jacket from Flint and Tinder is about as durable as you can get with cotton material. Surprisingly stretchy and very soft on the inside, this coat is fun to wear and looks good, especially when buttoned. Unbuttoned, however, we noticed some boxiness on the body, and the upper arms felt restricted at first. However, it’s hard to complain about a jacket that’s this well-made.

Alpha Industries M-65 Field Jacket

Best Classic Field Jacket: Does the company name ring a bell? It should. Making a “best field jacket” list and not including Alpha Industries is akin to making a “best pickup truck” list and not including Ford. The Alpha Industries M-65 is the most iconic on the market for good reason. While Alpha Industries stopped designing clothes for the military some time ago, their current M-65 Field Jackets stay true to their roots. They retain all classic elements: the front pockets, the concealed hood in the collar, and even their signature wire zipper. It’s practical. It’s rugged. It’s just plain awesome.

The Good

Legendary status aside, the M-65 Field Jacket from Alpha Industries deserves to be in any conversation about the best field jackets. Arguably the most comfortable jacket I’ve worn in a while, this coat also looked good on my body. It’s baggy by design (to fit weaponry underneath) but its material also ensures that it doesn’t look super boxy. The longer length helps too. I was going to say I felt like Travis Bickle from Taxi Driver but I realized that might not be a good thing. I digress…

The 50/50 nylon-cotton blend is an interesting one but helps with both durability and comfort. What matters most here, however, is the interior comfort, which is superb here, as I mentioned, thanks to the softness of the cotton-polyester lining as well as the structure of the arms and back. There was plenty of room but not too much room.

The Not So Good

While the hidden hood doesn’t make the collar feel bulky, its lower profile does signify a size that’s a bit too small for my head. Likewise, it’s a bit of a challenge to get this hood out of the compartment as well.

It’s important to note that this coat also features two interior pockets, which is a nice touch compared to the one or zero pockets on most field jackets. However, now that I had 2 on the inside, I realized why it’s not super common; you only really need one. Nevertheless, I found myself utilizing the bottom outside ones the most here. Unlike the L.L.Bean option above, with lowered top pockets, the top pockets on the M-65 are a little too high for any real practical use.

Verdict: The most iconic jacket on this list, the M-65 from Alpha Industries needs no introduction. However, regardless of its legacy, the jacket performs exceptionally well and was one of the most comfortable options we tested. We found some issues with the pockets but nothing major that would deter anyone from purchasing this coat. Also, the hidden hood was a little tricky to deploy and small for the head. However, if you keep it tucked in, you won’t even notice it’s there.

Orvis Heritage Field Coat

Best Pocket Selection: Orvis seeks to continue its tradition of making excellent coats with its Heritage Field Coat. The Heritage Field Coat boasts a 100% waxed cotton canvas exterior to handle the rigors of nature, flannel-style interior lining, gusseted underarm panels with grommets to provide ventilation, and adjustable button cuffs with corduroy trim to match its corduroy collar. For storage, the field jacket boasts a whopping seven pockets, both inside and out, each with its own purpose.

The Good

The first thing I noticed on the Orvis Heritage Field Coat was how lightweight it was compared to other jackets I tested. I loved the zipper option, which most of these don’t have, but also the buttons on top of the zipper to cover drafts and add a traditional sense of style. This was complemented with the asymmetrical front pockets, bringing a slightly unique touch to the silhouette. Also, please keep in mind that the Heritage Field Coat runs large. I tested out a size large, even though I almost exclusively wear an XL. Even then, there was a lot of room in this one.

Pocket variety is another plus for this jacket, with not only seven options for storage but seven unique options. You have the “basic” hand pockets with buttoned flap pockets on top. And then there’s the single chest pocket, which actually has some suggested utility built in for pens, knives, or something of that nature. I also loved the left interior pocket, with a side-entry zipper. This fit my phone perfectly and I didn’t have to worry about it falling out at all. I will say, however, that the right-side interior pocket was a bit small for my fingers to reach all the way down so make sure you don’t put anything small in there.

The Not So Good

When wearing the Orvis Heritage Field Coat, your torso will surely be warm, especially with the flannel lining and added buttons over the zipper closure, which blocks out extra drafts. However, I couldn’t help but notice that my arms were a bit cold. So much so that I double-checked the sleeves for the flannel lining as well, of which there was none. Perhaps this would have made the sleeves bulkier and thus tighter, because as of right now, there was a lot of room in the arms; they didn’t feel restrictive. Likewise, the back is a bit bulky, which made the coat stick out on the sides when zipped up on me.

Verdict: Despite running pretty large and not being terribly warm in the arm area, the Orvis Heritage Field Coat is a coat that blends utility and style, with seven pockets, each giving you a unique option for storage, and a zipper-button combo front for a unique visual appeal. The asymmetrical front pocket configuration also adds a nice flair to the aesthetic. This is a classic field jacket with an original identity.

Barbour Classic Beaufort Wax Jacket

Best City Jacket: If you’re looking for a jacket that’s equally as useful in the city as it is out in nature, then look no further than Barbour’s Beaufort Wax Jacket. It has a (not too) relaxed fit and a corduroy collar, making it a stylish piece. The moleskin-lined hand pockets provide some needed warmth in cold weather, along with 100% cotton lining. And since it’s a waxed coat, it’s also ready to handle some rain.

The Good

For better or worse, there’s an extra waxiness to the Barbour Beaufort Wax Jacket compared to the others we tested. This gives it a boost in the weather-resistance area. It’s supplemented by an intricate front closure system that includes two zippers and snap buttons. If you want a more laid-back look, you can just opt for the inner zipper, which has a gold tone that elevates this coat in general. But if the weather gets rough, you can close up the front one or two more times. Likewise, the studded collar gives you the option for an add-on hood and the inner sleeve cuffs keep out water and wind really effectively. Plus the pockets have drain holes at the bottom so that any water that does get in doesn’t just sit there. The interior lining is also quite stylish, with a five-colored plaid flannel that brings some dimension to your look if you’re wearing this open.

The Not So Good

With the Barbour Classic Beaufort, we enter into the $400 range, which will determine whether or not you spring for the jacket. Admittedly, it does come with some solid features and adds an edge of style but the coat does run large, baggy even, with a boxy look when zipped up. However, if you’re wearing this over a suit or sweatshirt, it will fill it out much better.

For those who care, there’s a lot fewer pockets here (4) than on your average field jacket. However, there’s an interior zippered option that’s truly hidden, which I was a fan of for my phone. There’s also a lingering wax smell that some users might not love, along with some more wax residue than you’ll get with other jackets.

Verdict: Admittedly pricey, the Barbour Beaufort Wax Jacket is a step up in terms of both style and function, with exceptional weather-resistant attributes such as pocket drains, inner sleeve cuffs, and a triple-closure front. It may be a bit boxy on the body but we loved this jacket as an option over sweatshirts or suits, which makes up for the lack of pockets.

Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket

Best Short Jacket: While field jackets usually feature a longer silhouette, sometimes shorter options are better for a more tapered, refined look. And sometimes longer jackets mean baggier jackets. Filson’s Tin Cloth Field Jacket has its in-house oil-finished tin cloth, providing warmth and water resistance. The hand pockets and collar are both lined with 24oz 100% virgin Mackinaw wool for extra warmth. There’s also an interior compartment for extra gear you’re carrying.

The Good

In terms of fit, the Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket was the most accessible. I loved the shorter appearance, which was never boxy or baggy, whether opened or closed. Filson’s website says that this runs large but I didn’t have that experience at all. The sleeves came down at a perfect point and the coat ran true to size overall. Unlike other upper-tiered field jackets, this pick aims for a more straightforward, traditional aesthetic, eschewing the inner flannel lining for gray cloth. Nevertheless, this heavy coat is surprisingly warm considering the lack of insulation.

I thought the front buttons would be tricky to snap on and off but I was pleased with how little of a hassle this was. There’s also the ability to tighten the cuffs, which I did even though they weren’t long. However, they were thick and sunk low when I was sitting down. Despite not having a lot of pocket options, the ones that did exist were pretty useful. I especially loved the deep drop-in pocket on the inside. This coat sports a simple design and I love it.

The Not So Good

Like the Barbour jacket, this is really waxy and smells waxy too; I felt like I could still smell it on my hands after I took it off. However, unlike the Barbour, the Filson is intended more for the actual field, so you won’t be as likely to wear this to work in an office every day. Despite the lack of true insulation, this coat is quite heavy. Fortunately, this doesn’t really affect comfort but it does make it really warm, so your seasonal opportunities might be limited. Likewise, the heavy material is a bit stiff, so movement isn’t very free.

Verdict: Heavy, waxy, and thick, the Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket is great for cold, wet weather. It won’t give you a ton of pockets but does a lot with what it’s given, favoring a more simplistic design that we loved. It’s also the most form-fitting on this list, with a short-cut silhouette that’s not boxy or baggy. While $465 is a lot, you’ll have this jacket for a long, long time.

Mission Workshop Eiger WX Waxed Canvas Field Jacket

Best Modern Jacket: For a completely modern rendition of the M-65 field jacket, look no further than the Eiger: WX. The jacket maintains the traditional M-65 silhouette while boasting modern amenities like six outer pockets, a three-point adjustable hood with anatomic construction and an integrated visor, custom YKK weatherproof zippers, and Italian Riri snaps. Its exterior is made from Halley Stevensons’ world-renowned wax canvas, while its interior is lined with 100% cotton to keep you dry, warm, and comfortable for a lifetime.

The Good

If you thought $400 was a lot for a jacket, you’ll surely balk at this $785 option from Mission Workshop. While it’s truly a lot for a jacket that’s meant to get dirty, you’re still getting premium materials and intuitive construction. I love all the zippered closures on the lower four pockets, which are typically open or sporting button closures. Meanwhile, the upper pockets are easier to access with their flap tops. Plus, you have a pair of internal zippered pockets that are perfect sizes for your phone.

In terms of looks, this Eiger WX is more along the lines of the Filson above but with more of a commuter aesthetic. It sports a fitted look (although the website says “relaxed fit”) that’s quite flattering when zipped up. Compared to other heavy-duty waxed canvases, the shell on this coat was incredibly soft and didn’t feel like I was wearing a sailcloth.

The Not So Good

As much as I love the fitted look of the Eiger WX, I must note that it does feel more like it runs small than intentionally fitted like the Filson. I had lots of trouble moving my arms and taking this off. It’s a shame too because I actually felt like this was the most flattering on my body. I just had to take it off before sitting down. The tight fit also made the front zipper, which was already low in profile, quite tricky to engage down below. As for the hood, it wasn’t tight but it was really stiff as an extension of the 280gsm cotton canvas and looked kind of silly when I put it over my head.

Verdict: Form-fitting-turned-small, the Eiger WX from Mission Workshop employs super premium materials and intuitive construction but was uncomfortable in the arms and tricky to zip up. However, we loved how the jacket looked on-body as well as the pocket design. If you have some $800 to spend on a field jacket, we highly recommend this one, but you might want to go up a size.

Field Jackets Comparison Chart

A Brief History of the Field Jacket

As its name suggests, the M-65 field jacket started out as a military-issued jacket for soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War in 1965, though military field jackets can be traced as far back as WWII with the M-41 field jacket. Much like its fashionable counterparts such as chinos, bomber jackets, and aviator glasses, the M-65 Field Jacket was forged in a crucible of practicality and efficiency. Four pockets – two on the chest and two on the hips – maximize storage for soldiers, while its durable, windproof exterior helped protect troops from the harsh Southeast Asian climate. The jacket even featured a hood that wearers could roll into the collar.

While Alpha Industries originally designed the M-65 to be a war-time, utilitarian field jacket, its popularity quickly boomed as the soldiers returned home and wore their field jackets in the streets, oftentimes to protest the war that created it. The jacket gained so much visibility from protesting veterans that it became a symbol of anti-war protests. However, its comfort, versatility, and simple rugged look made it a coveted garment for men and women alike. Nowadays, the field jacket is a staple in most wardrobes, and companies throughout the world have put their own spin on this Swiss Army knife of jackets.

Honorable Mentions 

Banana Republic has some nice higher-end field jacket options but our favorite is this unique-looking Heritage Suede Field Jacket. The only issue was its availability. However, if you can find one in the wild, give it a go.

Buck Mason is a brand most field jacket fans will know. Its Blanket Flannel Field Jacket is a solid everyday option made from soft brushed cotton twill. Yet, availability issues once again prevented us from getting hands-on with a unit for testing (in our size at least).

The folks over at Tom Beckbe kept utility at the forefront of their minds when designing the dapper Tensaw Jacket. With the rolling Alabama hills as its muse, the Tensaw Jacket offers a red clay cotton liner that stays true to its Southern roots. Aside from the standard four front pockets, the jacket offers a hidden Napoleon pocket for extra storage. Its waxed shelter cloth shell and antique brass hardware provide an aged finish that will only get better over time. As much as we love this pick, it was too similar to the Barbour Beaufort above, which had a slight edge up for us.

Tested: The Best Chore Coats for Men

Similar but still notably distinct, chore coats should appeal to most field jacket lovers. In our recent guide on the best chore coats, we were able to get hands-on with our favorites.