Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
I love leather and denim jackets as much as any reader of Heddels, but when the weather warms up those can just be too hot and confining. Plus, they just don’t offer great protection against the rain, and as a proud Seattleite, there’s no way I’ll be carrying an umbrella with me. That’s why I’m a fan of Anoraks. They’re lightweight, easy to throw on or off, easy to fit over whatever you’re wearing, and offer great protection against even the most blustery of weather.
1) Liberaiders: Half Zip Anorak in Navy
Where most anoraks fail is their lack of pockets, but that’s something Liberaiders has definitely fixed with their Half Zip Anorak. Featuring three large pouches on the front, this hooded anorak offers all the protection against the elements you could hope for plus the ability to easily access your stowed items. In an attractive navy/red colorway, this piece is finished with a half zip to help easily slip it on and a drawstring hood to ensure optimal water resistance when necessary.
Available for $300 from Hatchet Supply Co.
2) Battenwear: Packable Anorak
Battenwear‘s Packable Anorak is a staple of the style. Available in eight different colors and fabrics, it’s easy to find one that fits into your wardrobe, both stylistically and physically, as the packable nature of this garment makes it easy to squeeze into the smallest of spaces. Shown here in Aqua, this anorak is made from water-resistant nylon with a mesh, kangaroo pocket in front, drawstring waist and hood, and a button 1/2 chest closure.
Available for $285+ from Battenwear.
3) Uniform Bridge: Fatigue Anorak
Uniform Bridge‘s Fatigue Anorak is a bit more stylized than some others on the market, but if you like this re-imagining of the style it’s an excellent, inexpensive option. Made from an 80%/20% cotton/polyester blend, this anorak won’t be quite as water resistant as a fully synthetic one, but the oversized hood and elasticated cuffs make for a compelling option nonetheless. Finished with two check pockets and two hand pockets, this anorak is functional enough to replace your everyday jacket if you are so inclined.
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Available for ~$120 from End.
4) FrizmWORKS Durable Essential Anorak
If you want a lightweight anorak then FrizmWORKS’ Durable Essential Anorak is a great choice from another rising South Korean label. It’s made from a 50%/38%/12% cotton/polyester/nylon blend and features a drawcord hood, elasticated cuffs, and full half-zip closure. Finished with a single kangaroo pocket, this anorak is available in several neutral colors which makes it easy to fit into a wide range of styles.
Available for ~$130 from End.
5) Filson: Ranger Anorak
Sure, synthetic fabrics offer great water resistance but they don’t have the warmth of natural materials, and they certainly don’t age as gracefully. Luckily, Filson‘s Ranger Anorak fills this gap nicely. Made from a washable 6 oz. waxed cotton, this anorak offers up water resistance, style, and functionality. It features a central chest pocket as well as two front hand pockets, a drawstring hood and hem, and snap button cuffs. Together, this makes for a well-fitting anorak with all the details you could possibly hope for.
Available for $275 from Filson.
Plus One – Alps & Meters: Alpine Anorak
Alps & Meters might not be a brand you’ve heard of, and we certainly don’t feature them often, but their Alpine Anorak is truly one of the most interesting ones out there. They’re a luxury ski-style brand, meaning they’ve got more than a few functionality tricks up their sleeves. This anorak features a waxed 8 oz. cotton exterior but with a waterproof and windproof lining membrane. It’s finished with two hand pockets, but the cross-laced drawstring chest closure is really the unique feature that differentiates this anorak from most others out there.
Available for $350 from Alps & Meters.
