Lightweight and durable vests and jackets for men

A man can never have enough jackets. Especially when those jackets are designed for spending quality time outdoors! Paddy Pallin stocks a huge range of Jackets, including Insulated men's winter jackets, Gore-Tex and waterproof jackets, along with a variety of mid-layer jackets, pullovers and lightweight fleece jackets. Our jacket range comprising of options from leading brands, including Marmot, Khul, The North Face, Patagonia, Rab, Icebreaker, Royal Robbins, Arc’teryx, Exofficio, Helly Hansen and Mont. So no matter what kind of adventure you’re embarking on, we’ll have a jacket to suit. 

FAQ’s

What types of jackets does Paddy Pallin sell?

Our range jackets include men's waterproof jackets, wind-resistant and softshell jackets, insulated and down jackets, both heavy and light fleece jackets and pullovers. Along with a selection of 3-in1 modular travel jackets and a range of vests. Our jackets are suitable for a range of activities such as hiking, travel, climbing, alpine and mountaineering, expeditions and camping. As well as everyday use for people with an active lifestyle. If you’re not sure what kind of jacket will be best suited to your needs, our wonderful experienced shop staff and customer services team are always happy to assist and point you in the right direction.

For winter, will I need an insulated jacket and a separate waterproof jacket?

Our ethos when it comes to mens outdoor clothing is always: Layers, layers and more layers. In a clothing layering system, you’d have a jacket for warmth (insulated) and another outer jacket for weather protection (waterproof or shell). This allows for maximum versatility and options. Providing a solution for a wider range of temperatures and conditions than a single stand-alone combined option. However, for less strenuous travel to colder climates and cities, we stock a range of men's winter jackets that are both insulated and waterproof. In some cases, these might be a better option, especially when overheating and versatility is less of a concern.

What different types of waterproof membranes are there? 

The category of waterproof breathable jackets is a big one and can be a bit confusing. Some jackets feature a licenced technology from external brands like Gore-Tex, eVent or Pertex. Whilst others use their own proprietary technology. For example, The North Face’s DryVent, Patagonia’s H2No® and Marmot® NanoPro™ Eco are some examples. Paddy Pallin has a wide range of 2, 2.5 and 3 layer waterproof jackets, suitable for a range of activities and budgets. 

Do you recommend choosing a jacket or a vest?

If you’re only going to choose one or the other, we’d always select the jacket option. A jacket will provide significantly more warmth and protection than a vest. However, vests do have a place. With layering systems and for high output activities, a vest can be really useful. You’ll be less likely to overheat in a vest, and when combined with a jacket it can add just enough extra insulation to the vital torso region. 

Can I try on the Jackets at Paddy Pallin for size?

We’d love you too! All Paddy Pallin stores have change rooms and mirrors to help make choosing the ideal jacket an easy task. We also suggest trying on a mid-layer under jackets, to make sure you’ll have enough space to layer-up in really cold conditions. 

Do the men's winter jackets at Paddy Pallin have temperature ratings?

The short answer is no. There are so many variables when it comes to how warm a jacket will be. Factors such as: what else are you wearing? What activities use it for? How does your body react to fluctuations in temperature? What did you eat for lunch? and so on. However, there is a basic rule of thumb for the warmth of insulated clothing: The thicker or puffier a jacket is, the warmer it will be. Wind-chill is also going to affect this. So most insulated jackets will have wind-proof or resistant properties, which will inherently keep you warmer and protected from the wind. 

How do I care for my Gore-Tex jacket or waterproof jacket?

Taking good care of your new waterproof jacket is vital. If left unwashed for too long, dirt and oils from your skin will eventually damage the waterproof membranes that make your shell jacket so useful. If you notice that water is no longer beading off the fabric, and that rain soaks into the outer layer - it’s timer for some TLC! First you’ll want to wash the garment using a specialised cleaner such asNikwax Tech Wash as this will not damage the membrane or the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment on the garment. If you’ve had the jacket for a while, it might also be time to re-treat the DWR coating. After washing, you can then apply a topical treatment such as Nikwax TX Direct spray to revitalise the DWR properties. Storing your waterproof jacket hanging up in a dry and well ventilated area is also recommended, as is going on regular adventures! 

Why do I still feel wet under my waterproof jacket whilst hiking in hot rainy weather? 

A waterproof jacket isn't going to keep you dry in ALL conditions. The effectiveness of these garments very much depends on a few key factors: What jacket you’re wearing, The climatic conditions, and how you’re using the garment. The quality of Paddy Pallin’s range of mens waterproof jackets is very high, but not all jackets are designed equal. For example, higher specced Gore Tex 3-layer waterproof Jacket is designed to keep you warm and dry through prolonged periods of torrential rain. Some moisture might still creep in, near the arm and neck openings, but overall you should remain dry underneath. However, there are many factors that can reduce the effectiveness of a waterproof jacket. If you’re in a hot, humid rainy situation, and exerting yourself, the jacket’s membrane might not be able to function efficiently. Basically you’ll be sweating and feel wet because of the sweat build up inside the jacket. Not because the rain has leaked through the jacket. Likewise, if your jacket is well worn and needs a wash, it may no longer perform as it did when new. Paddy Pallin stock jacket options that will be suited to a wide variety of activities and climates. From super cold and snowy, to mega hot, humid and high-output adventures. Be sure to seek the advice of a paddy Pallin staff member if you’re unsure which jacket is right for you. 

Does Paddy Pallin stock sustainable men’s jacket options?

At Paddy Pallin we love sharing and experiencing the outdoors, but we’re also passionate about protecting the natural world. Part of this is working with brands who share and embody these beliefs. Many of the brands Paddy Pallin stock are industry leaders in producing  sustainable, ethical and recycled products. Patagonia for example is well known for producing top quality hard-wearing clothes, without doing unnecessary harm to our planet. Even the new Patagonia jackets are constructed with all recycled materials. One of the initiatives Paddy Pallin support is our Don’t Bag the Environment campaign. Where we donate 20c to an environmental or conservation effort, each and every time a customer declines to take a bag.