Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Our Top Picks for the Best Men’s Denim Jackets

A great denim jacket is an essential addition to every man’s wardrobe. Not only do they provide a classically cool look, but they’re practical, too, thanks to their durability and versatility. Most denim jackets work as a perfect middle-temperature layer during the spring or fall, some are light enough for a hot summer day, and others still are extra heavy to provide warmth in the winter. Whatever the case, a subpar Canadian tuxedo top won’t cut it, as they tend to fit poorly and fall apart fast.

man with sunglasses wearing fleece lined denim jacket.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

These recommendations have been selected based upon a combination of firsthand trials by the writer as well as reviews from top industry experts and actual customer ratings. In other words, these are suggestions you can trust.

Best Overall: Woodies Trucker Jacket

torso of a man wearing a denim jacket.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

When it comes to style, quality, and fit, Woodies hits on all points. What really makes the company stand out is its customization process, which allows you to select elements like the cut, color, buttons, and label. The end result is a casually cool denim jacket that is cut with a more refined edge.

Best Classic Jacket: Levi’s Trucker Jacket
Man wearing a trucker denim jacket.

One of the most classic jean jackets comes from the renowned jeans producer Levi’s. This particular jacket has been a mainstay for decades, offering durability, a vintage aesthetic, and a somewhat looser, old-school cut that can fit a wide range of body styles. It’s also relatively affordable.

Best Affordable Fitted Jacket: Calvin Klein Essential Denim Stretch Trucker Jacket

Calvin Klein Denim Jacket
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re shopping for a budget-friendly denim jacket that has a classic look but is somewhat more fitted, this jacket from Calvin Klein is a great pick. It’s well built and cut to fit a bit more around the torso. Keep in mind that it’s also made of thinner material than many of the other selections on this list, so it’s ideal for a warm day.

Best Classic Cowboy Jacket: Wrangler Men’s Western Unlined Denim Jacket

Wrangler Western Jacket
Image used with permission by copyright holder

So far we’ve looked at trucker jackets, which are among the most popular styles. Now let’s look at the other standout denim jacket style, the cowboy cut. Wrangler is definitely the unrivaled champion of all clothes Western in nature, and this jacket is no different. With its higher waist, durable build, and classic western-style stitching, it’s the perfect jacket whether you’re bustin’ broncos or living as an urban cowboy.

Best Chore Coat: Overland Silver Creek Cotton Denim Chore Coat

Man wearing overland denim chore coat.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re looking for a denim jacket with a slightly offbeat cut, this chore coat style jacket from Overland is an outstanding choice. Overland is known for making some of the best jackets around, and this one is no exception. It’s soft, fits perfectly, and has a unique style that is both casual and classy.

Best Colored Jacket: Paige Scout Jacket Vintage Soft Algae

Man wearing paige scout jacket.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Looking for a denim jacket in a more unique color? While the Scout Jacket from Paige comes in a variety of great colors, we think the Vintage Soft Algae is the standout. It also fits perfectly, is soft to the touch, and is the exact right thickness for mid-weather comfort.

Best Warm Jacket: Pendleton Men’s Harding Denim Ryder

Pendleton Men's Harding Denim Ryder.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

For a denim jacket that’s warm enough for chillier temperatures and offers a true one-of-a-kind aesthetic, check out the Harding Denim Ryder, which is made using Pendleton’s famously warm, cozy wool. What’s more, its Southwestern-inspired chest-piece gives it a unique edge. Like everything Pendleton produces, it’s built to last. This is the kind of jacket that gets passed down through the generations.

Editors' Recommendations

Nick Hilden
Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Hilden is a lifestyle and culture writer whose work has appeared in the Washington Post, Esquire, Rolling Stone, Afar, the Daily Beast, Popular Science, Men's Health, Thrillist, Scientific American, Salon, Fodor's, Vice, Popular Mechanics, Runner's World, and more. He's usually on some random adventure in some random corner of the world.

Send all editorial inquiries HERE.

The best men’s dress boots for your 9-to-5 wardrobe (and beyond)
These are the best men's dress boots for you in 2023
10 Best Men's Dress Boots

It's about time to switch out your favorite loafers for a more durable pair of shoes, and we don't mean any old shoes. We suggest a pair of rugged yet sharp dress boots. The nine-to-five footwear's style and function allow for extra durability even in the face of the elements that will come your way. They're perfect for formal events but can also be paired with your favorite denim jeans for a nice casual look.

When looking for the right boot, you should consider the material and sole—the thicker the sole, the more durable for facing the elements. Below we rounded up some of the best dress boots from some of the best men's online clothing stores that won't make you sacrifice style for comfort.

Read more
The 10 best corduroy pants for men (for when you want to be dressy and casual)
Upgrade your pant collection with these 10 corduroy classics
Best Corduroy Pants

Let's face it -- as much as you would like to, and the pandemic allowed you to, you can't live in sweats forever. We suggest turning to corduroy if you want to elevate your winter pants. Rethink everything you thought you knew about corduroy pants because the best ones are decidedly different than any pair you might have worn in the past. By that, we mean today's corduroy pants fit better than days gone by while also featuring more excellent fabric and refined styling potential.

Yes, the best corduroy dress pants for men merge designer sensibility with the old-school cool that seems to be everywhere these days. You can wear the right pair of corduroys like your favorite pair of jeans or treat them like a proper pair of dress trousers. There's no telling what the appropriate pick will do for your winter wardrobe, so get started with our choices below.

Read more
The best men’s sweatpants so you can live your comfiest life
Get comfortable in cold weather with these sweats
Man wearing athletic outfit while playing basketball.

The world of office dress has changed since the pandemic, with many of us working in home offices, making the need for suits and ties lessen and the need for comfort increase. We've gone lightweight and soft when it comes to our wardrobes, lounging about in hoodies, boxers, lounge pants, and, of course, sweatpants. However, that isn't an excuse to exert the bare minimum and not put your best foot forward with improved casual wear styles.

The rise of athleisure and pioneering streetwear designers have streamlined sweatpants' baggy silhouettes -- without sacrificing comfort -- into bottoms that are stylish enough for the office, happy hour, and summer vacations. With that said, we put together some of the best pairs of sweats you should consider wearing right now.

Read more