Skip to main content

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

Beat the Polar Vortex with These Cool Winter Clothes for Men

It’s bearing down on all of us, slowly but surely. Well, most of us, anyway. We’re talking, of course, about the polar vortex – that unholy combination of frigid air and wind that swoops down from the arctic and seemingly parks itself right over your city.  When the polar vortex comes, this is not the time to dress poorly.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

When it comes to what to wear for the polar vortex, we think the basics actually work just fine, and more than fine in the case of a rugged flannel work shirt, a nautical-inspired deck jacket and slim jeans. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to our picks for what to wear for the polar vortex. Read the rest below, and then prepare accordingly.

Abercrombie Deck Jacket – $140
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Channel rugged, nautical, and utterly classic style the next time you battle the polar vortex with this weather-ready deck jacket from Abercrombie. A more streamlined option than a parka, the ribbed cuffs and handsome navy color (plus the quilted fleece lining) make this jacket a major winner in our book.

Shop Now

Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt $145
Image used with permission by copyright holder

A burly, heavyweight flannel shirt from a timeless brand like Filson is just the ticket when it comes time to dress for the polar vortex. This shirt is so well-made, you’ll have it for years and years to come. It’s idea for chilly winter mornings when you just need to get work done or when you just need to start a fire and put on another pot of coffee. We also love the classic grey, red, and black pattern.

Shop Now

Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee$45
Image used with permission by copyright holder

A tough, vintage-style flannel work shirt calls for an equally rugged layer beneath it — especially when the temps are well below freezing. That’s where this tee, made from heavyweight cotton, comes into play. 

Shop Now

Buck Mason Slim Jeans in 3-Month Wash – $175
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Snow on the ground doesn’t mean you have to stomp around in actual snow pants. A slim pair of tailored denim, made in a perfectly faded wash, is more than agreeable. This pair is polished enough for the office and ready for weekend adventures. 

Shop Now

Bombinate x Oliver Cabell Boots – $228
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Again, the polar vortex doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. And that means you can certainly wear a handsome pair of chukka boots if you’ve only got a short commute to the office. The key here comes with waterproofing your winter boots first. The profile of these is slim and refined and we love the light clove color for its potential to look crisp and clean while repelling snow and slush (again, if you’ve properly treated ‘em).

Shop now

Darn Tough John Henry Boot Socks – $23
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The right socks are positively critical this time of year, especially if you’re battling chilly temps and dangerous roads. Darn Tough makes just that — a darn tough pair of socks that combine straightforward, classic style with a performance fit and merino wool.

Shop Now

Finisterre Fjord Beanie – $40
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Winter is no time to let your accessories fall by the wayside. With a history rooted in making gear to keep English coastal surfers warm after chilly early morning sessions, Finisterre knows a thing or two about keeping you dry and warm when conditions get nasty. And the Fjord Beanie just so happens to be reasonably priced and highly functional, too. It’s also made from wool and alpaca blended with yarn, which will keep you warm, even when wet. 

Shop Now

Editors' Recommendations

Beau Hayhoe
Beau Hayhoe is a freelance men's style writer, consultant and PR pro based in Brooklyn. Beau's menswear and gear writing has…
Get the Best Men’s Winter Vest to Stay Warm and Fashionable
Man Wearing Vest

With winter in full swing, it's time to up your layering game! A vest is a great way to add style and warmth to your wardrobe. These men's winter vests are made from down or synthetic material and range from stylish pieces perfect for the office to rugged workhorses suitable for your next outdoor adventure. No matter what you're up to this winter, we've got you covered.
If you're shopping for vests but aren't planning to buy just yet, check out our list of spring vests perfect for the shoulder season.

Best Men's Winter Vests
The best winter vests will do well in a number of different contexts. Stylish enough to wear to the office, warm enough to actually help you in cold weather, and durable enough to last you multiple seasons. Read on to discover the best winter vests for men.

Read more
The Best Men’s Cable Knit Sweaters For Winter
Man Wearing Knit Sweater

With winter in full swing, you're likely considering how to upgrade your wardrobe, stay warm, and look good. While ironic holiday sweaters are great in December, you're going to want something slightly more comfortable, rugged, even sophisticated, for your winter attire. While you might think it hard to achieve a garment both rugged and sophisticated, you may not have worn a cable knit sweater before. This stylish garment originated in Ireland where it was popular with fishermen. The unique cable knitting of the fabric added warmth and, when left untreated, wool has natural waterproof properties.

Read more
What to Wear: The Best Men’s Outfit for a Summer Weekend Getaway
what to wear mens outfit weekend getaway winterclothes

If the phrase “rugged summer weekend” conjures up images of freshly bloomed flowers and the sun's warming rays well … that’s exactly what it should conjure up. We’re talking about the type of summer weekend (and the sort of accompanying gear) that involves going off the beaten path and exploring a new locale. Be it a retreat to the mountain top or a quick getaway to your favorite campsite, these gear picks are primed for 48 hours (or more) of stylish adventure.
Flint and Tinder Waxed Trucker Jacket

There might not be a casual-yet-tough summer jacket we recommend more than the Flint and Tinder Waxed Trucker Jacket (lined with flannel for added warmth). Available in a range of colors and crafted from a custom waxed fabric, it’s tough enough to stand up to the elements and stylish enough to wear to grab a beer after your work is done.

Read more