Image via Complex Original
Layers and warm weather don't necessarily go together, but when you're rocking superlight technical fabrics or traditionally breathable materials like cotton and nylon, the concept of a spring and summer jacket isn't as far fetched as it sounds. After all, for every heat wave or day that the temperature breaks a hundred degrees, you can bet on running into a few surprise summer storms, or breezy nights by the beach or on vacation.
That's why we've styled eight of the best lightweight coats to show you that yes, you can actually wear a jacket when it's hot out. Conveniently for you, many of the ones we've rounded up also pack up into a much, much, smaller pouch size—for those times when another layer is the last thing you need to throw on. So think breezy thoughts and check out How to Wear Jackets When It's Warm Outside.
Photographer: Akiko Higuchi
Stylist: Mitsu Tsuchiya
Groomer: Kiyonori Sudo
Stylist Assistant: Keisuke Yanagita
Isaora Parka, $485, available at isaora.com
This Isaora Parka takes the classic M-51 fishtail and reinterprets it in a 3-layer breathable fabric that's 100% waterproof. Laser cut for a precision fit and outfitted with taped seams up the wazoo, tech fabric nerds will appreciate the futuristic Japanese nylon, while the average dude will appreciate this jacket's ability to keep you cool and dry without any thought at all.
Outlier Slim Dungarees, $198, available at outlier.cc
adidas Originals Superstar Sneakers, $80, available at adidas.com
Fjällräven Backpack, $150, available at fjallraven.com
Topman Parka, $130, available at topman.com
Topman provides a fishtail parka that won't break the bank, clocking in at just $130. In a surplus-inspired mustard color, this jacket also has a lightweight jersey lining and ventilation holes under the arms. Pair it with a tee when the weather's warm, and when the autumn breeze starts to rear its head, throw a denim jacket or crewneck sweatshirt underneath and celebrate the return of layer weather.
7 for All Mankind Shirt, $128, available at 7forallmankind.com
Levi’s 501CT Jeans, $78, available at levi.com
Nautica Rainbreaker Jacket, $198, available at nautica.com
With sealed seams and a water-repellent finish, Nautica's Rainbreaker Jacket is the ideal outerwear for gray days that could lead to sudden showers. Lightweight enough to pack away when you don't need it, it's also breathable enough to wear as a layer without getting overheated.
Welcome Stranger T-shirt, $42, available at welcomestranger.com
Levi’s 501CT Jeans, $78, available at levi.com
WeSC Hat, $18, available at wesc.com
Canada Goose Timber Shell Jacket, $675, available at revolveclothing.com
The makers of some of your most reliable winter coats are also responsible for some of spring's most weatherproof outerwear. Canada Goose's Timber Shell Jacket features water-repellent zippers and a fully seam-sealed shell for maximum protection from the fiercest downpours. There's even details like reflective tape under the sleeve for nighttime visibility and an inner security pocket with a wireport for your headphones, so whether you're hiking in the wilderness or just braving the urban jungle, you can take your tunes with you.
Welcome Stranger T-shirt, $42, available at welcomestranger.com
J.Crew Sweatpants, $70, available at jcrew.com
adidas Originals Superstar Sneakers, $80, available at adidas.com
Fjällräven Backpack, $150, available at fjallraven.com
sage de crêt Painted M-51 Parka, $980, available at sagedecret.com
Cult Japanese brand sage de crêt offers a unique take on the M-51 that's worthy of menswear grail status. Each parka has a pigment coating applied to the surface that's painted by hand at the denim processing factory in Japan's Kojima, Okayama prefecture. Talk about painstaking attention to detail. Yes, the price of admission is steep, but the overall stunt factor and individuality of each piece might be that one big splurge you make all season.
Paige Shirt, $179, available at paige.com
Levi’s 501CT Jeans, $78, available at levi.com
Timberland Boots, $190, available at timberland.com
J.Crew Nylon Fishtail Parka, $218, available at jcrew.com
J. Crew takes the fishtail and makes it out of a lightweight waxed nylon. The result is a jacket that's durable enough to keep rain at bay but light enough to wear over a T-shirt or untucked button-down. The best detail? Undoubtedly the double zips that allow you to add a little extra steez to your spring wardrobe.
The White Briefs T-shirt, $57, available at thewhitebriefs.com
Nau Utilize Pants, $100, available at nau.com
Arc’teryx Veilance Apsis Windshell Coat, $455, available at veilance.arcteryx.com
The masters of high-performance technical outerwear at Arc'teryx Veilance offer up one of the best lightweight coats this season has to offer. The longer length Apsis Windshell Coat appeals to guys who love a dramatic layer, but the superlight textile fabric is thin enough to wear during a certified scorching day without putting you at risk for heat exhaustion. It achieves the impossible—a practical summer layer perfect for drizzly days. And when you don't need it? It all packs away into a tiny pouch. Isn't the future great?
Outlier Slim Dungarees, $198, available at outlier.cc
J.Crew Hat, $45, available at jcrew.com
Pure Fix Cycles Bicycle, $329, available at purefixcycles.com
Raf Simons Cotton Parka, $2,150, available at mrporter.com
Raf Simons' Spring/Summer 2015 collection is all about revisiting the past, while knowingly looking towards the future. That's why this screenprinted fishtail parka—a menswear and streetwear staple the star designer revisits often—is emblazoned with a nostalgic photo collage on the back. Pictures include a picture of a 19-year-old Raf Simons, and his dad firing a gun. Think of it as wearing Simons' personal Tumblr on your back. How steezy is that?
Herschel Supply Co. Lake Bucket Hat, $40, available at herschelsupply.com