Move beyond the truckers and Harringtons you already own with these slightly offbeat alternatives for light-jacket season.
A few weeks back, one writer noted that menswear appears to be returning to nice, normal clothing—and celebrated that shift. But he also argued for occasional experimentation. In that spirit, here are five light jackets that stray from the familiar staples most men already own.
The Type 1 trucker
You likely own a Type 3 trucker with its front darts, chest pockets, and hip pockets. The Type 1 predates it, rooted in old-school workwear with pleated front panels instead of darts, a single pocket on the left mid-ribcage, and a rear cinch to tighten the typically boxy shape. Wear it exactly as you would your Type 3—with virtually anything.
The L-2B flight jacket
This military piece is the lightweight sibling of the MA-1 bomber. Originally specified for temperatures between 42 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, it shed the MA-1's insulating padding while keeping its visual DNA. The result is more comfortable for mild days, with a less pronounced rounded fit that proves easier to wear proportionally. For those who like the MA-1 concept but never found the right execution, the L-2B may solve that problem.
The pullover anorak
Centuries ago, Arctic indigenous peoples crafted anoraks from animal skins with minimal seams to block wind and water, requiring them to be pulled overhead. The design migrated to military use by the early-to-mid 1900s, then to civilian life. While full-zip parkas descended from this lineage, a true anorak today remains a pullover. Modern versions use technical fabrics or waxed cotton rather than hides. Yes, pulling it on and off demands effort—though no more than a hooded sweatshirt—and the blend of traditional, military, and mountaineering aesthetics justifies the minor inconvenience.
The un-blazer
Not quite formal, not quite conventional: the un-blazer sits adjacent to tailoring without obeying its rules. It might feature extra pockets, an unconventional fit, or unusual lapels. The effect is pulled-together without stiffness—unsuitable for boardrooms but evocative of blazers and sport coats. As the writer put it, "The un-blazer is, in short, a vibe. And you'll know it when you see it."
The multi-pocket jacket
During a Japan trip, the writer acquired a Real McCoys jacket modeled after one Andy Warhol wore in China in 1982. Its defining trait: overwhelming pocket space. Items can disappear for minutes of unzipping and unsnapping before surfacing. This hyper-practicality becomes almost impractical—and deliberately so. The writer endorses this approach, suggesting such jackets let you leave your bag behind on weekend outings. Or simply enjoy the absurdity of the treasure hunt.