The Best Men’s Gilets for Layering Like a Pro

Despite its deep associations with some of the more, shall we say, sartorially challenged tribes (the rugby lads, yachting dads and South Essex project managers, to name three), the gilet is a crucial component to a well-kept man’s wardrobe. And it always will be, since the right kind of gilet can be worn atop anything, anytime, to provide insulation and to add an extra dimension to an ensemble.

But what type of body warmer will you appoint? Some are generously padded to help you survive ski holidays, February trips to the football and climate change winters in general. Others are thinner, more packable and limber, intentionally built for spring and summer (think the cool fisherman kind). And then there are the in-betweeners: a class of sleeveless jackets that won’t take up a fifth of your clothes rack yet are warm enough to see you through autumn. Below you can explore gilets from each of these divisions.