What's the most functional yet stylish jacket for a college freshman?
My daughter has just begun her studies at the University of Chicago. Her dorm is quite a distance from the main cpus and, as a result, she'll be spending time waiting for buses and walking to classes. What jackets provide good protection from the cold and wet yet are stylish enough for her to wear? A hood seems to be a necessary part of the jacket. What do you recommend? Rowan Potomac, Maryland
Nolita Jacket
For really lousy conditionsand Chicago can produce them, heaven knowsL.L. Bean's Baxter State Parka might be the ticket. It's down-insulated and Gore Tex-lined, to withstand snow and wind, and its full hood has a zip-off synthetic fur ruff. Plus, at $209 it's an excellent buy (www.llbean.com). Bean has shaped it for women and offers colors that aren't camo, but it still has a certain hunting-garb appearance that may or may not be suitable. Maybe a little more fashionable would be Patagonia's Puffski Jacket ($300; www.patagonia.com), which is designed as a ski piece so has an outdoorsy look with a bit of panache. Its PrimaLoft insulation is warm, soft, and durable, and the Puffski has a waterproof-breathable shellplus a full hood. Very warm and not at all bad-looking as you're waiting for the number 33 bus to take you to class.
For more stylin' gear, check out Outside Online's all-new Guide to Urban Wear.
Support Outside Online
Our mission to inspire readers to get outside has never been more critical. In recent years, Outside Online has reported on groundbreaking research linking time in nature to improved mental and physical health, and we’ve kept you informed about the unprecedented threats to America’s public lands. Our rigorous coverage helps spark important debates about wellness and travel and adventure, and it provides readers an accessible gateway to new outdoor passions. Time outside is essential—and we can help you make the most of it. Making a financial contribution to Outside Online only takes a few minutes and will ensure we can continue supplying the trailblazing, informative journalism that readers like you depend on. We hope you’ll support us. Thank you.