Best Materials for Big and Tall Winter Coats, 2XL to 7XL

The material inside and outside a coat decides whether it keeps you warm and dry or just looks like it should. For big and tall men it matters twice, because a coat that is warm but stiff, or waterproof but heavy, gets left in the closet. Here is what each material does and what to look for.

The outer shell: waterproof, breathable and able to move

The shell is your first line against rain, wet snow and wind. Look for a stated waterproof rating. A 10K rating, for example, means the fabric resists 10,000 millimeters of water pressure, which is enough for heavy snow and steady rain. A durable water repellent finish makes water bead and roll off, and taped seams stop water getting in at the stitching, which is where most jackets leak first.

Stretch matters too. A mechanical stretch or soft shell fabric gives when you reach, bend or shovel, so the coat does not pull across your back.

Insulation: synthetic keeps working when it gets damp

Down is light and very warm, but it loses much of its warmth once it gets wet. Synthetic insulation keeps most of its warmth when damp, dries faster and is easier to care for, which is why we use it in our winter coats and snow bibs. If you run warm, look for a coat with pit zips so you can let heat out without taking it off.

Linings: what you feel first

A mesh lining keeps air moving so you do not overheat. A fleece or brushed lining adds warmth and feels soft against your skin. A removable soft shell liner, like the one in a 3 in 1 jacket, lets one coat cover more of the year.

The layer underneath

The warmest coat works better over a good base layer. A brushed, moisture wicking base layer moves sweat away from your skin, so you stay dry and stay warm.