Which letterman jacket is best?
Letterman jackets, also known as varsity jackets, are a great addition to any closet and fit a range of styles, from classic American to streetwear. They’re also great protection against the cold, and in some cases can be worn while or during other intense outdoor winter activities.
If you’re in the market for a well-made letterman jacket that promises to keep you warm, stylish and comfortable, check out the .
What to know before you buy a letterman jacket
Fit and cut
Although letterman jackets feature the same general design, there are numerous fits and cuts. If you want something with a modern streetwear look, consider something with a boxy, oversized fit. If you want it to accentuate the width of your shoulders, opt for a cinched waist and a wider shoulder measurement. Or if you’re chasing the traditional look, consider something from a classic brand.
Level of warmth
Before you purchase a new letterman jacket, consider how much warmth you want it to provide. Although it’s not traditional, you can find puffer letterman jackets with down insulation, such as the from Tommy Hilfiger. If you want something you can wear during the milder months of fall and spring, consider one made from cotton or lightweight wool.
What to look for in a quality letterman jacket
Materials
Regardless of what type of letterman jacket you choose, premium materials are a hallmark of high-quality ones. If you choose a traditional varsity jacket such as the , keep an eye out for genuine leather sleeves and natural wool blends. If you want a puffer, consider jackets with certified animal-cruelty-free down or recycled synthetic insulation.
Quality buttons
Because letterman jackets tend to have buttons instead of a zipper, the quality of the buttons is important. High-quality letterman jackets have strong buttons that securely snap into place with a distinctive sound. Keep your eye out for bonuses, such as interesting contrasting colors or luxurious polished chrome buttons.
How much you can expect to spend on a letterman jacket
As with most clothing, there is a wide range of prices when it comes to letterman jackets. Expect to spend $50-$100 for high-quality affordable jackets and anywhere between $150-$400 for luxury ones.
Letterman jacket FAQ
Should I hang or fold my letterman jacket?
A. We’re often told to avoid hanging wool or folding leather, the two main materials in most varsity jackets — but avoid folding them at all costs. Because the leather is supple and the wool is thick, folding will create creases difficult to remove. To avoid hanger bumps at the end of the shoulder, where the leather starts, get a wooden hanger with large, smooth curves that won’t press against the leather.
What’s the origin of the letterman jacket?
A. They were first worn by Harvard University baseball players in 1865 and were popular with the athletes who wore them throughout the first half of the 20th century. They became a fashion trend in the 1950s, worn by such stars as James Dean and Elvis Presley, and later by Michael Jackson. Japanese fashion designer Nigo recently made the look trendy again.
What’s the best letterman jacket to buy?
Top letterman jacket
What you need to know: Boasting thick wool, genuine leather and a traditional slim-fit cut, this is ideal for anyone who wants a high-quality, versatile letterman jacket.
What you’ll love: There are 33 colorways to choose from, and a zip-out lining, lets you lighten the insulation. The cinched waist, which features the same contrasting cuff as the collar and sleeves, is ideal if you want to accentuate the contrast between the size of your waist and shoulders.
What you should consider: Although this jacket provides an excellent value for your money, some wearers felt it was too plain.
Top letterman jacket for the money
What you need to know: If you’re looking for a slim varsity jacket with a regular fit and don’t want to shell out a lot of money, look no further than this.
What you’ll love: It features the classic design but uses a comfortable cotton and wool blend for the sleeves instead of the traditional leather. Nonetheless, it maintains the classic silhouette thanks to the ribbed cuffs and outsized seams in the shoulders.
What you should consider: Although it’s quite affordable, the fabric quality is slightly lacking.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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