Autumn is here, winter is around the corner – and as the temperatures drop, the search for the perfect winter jacket begins. But which jacket is suitable for mild autumn days or freezing cold? When do I actually need a winter jacket, and which winter jacket really keeps you warm? In this blog post, we'll explore different camel active jackets and their thermal properties. Whether you're looking for a lightweight autumn jacket or the warmest winter jacket, we're here to help you make the right choice.
We all know the problem of sometimes feeling cold, even in the thickest winter jacket. But why is that? The ability of a jacket to keep us warm depends on its insulation. This insulation ensures that our body heat doesn't escape, and cold air stays out. But how exactly does thermal insulation work, and why do we sometimes still feel cold despite warm clothing?
Why am I cold even though I'm dressed warmly?
The insulation of jackets is key to staying comfortable outdoors on cold days. Essentially, it's about trapping your body heat while keeping cold air out. Our body heat constantly tries to escape and reach the colder air around us. When we wear an extra layer of clothing, it traps that warmth close to our bodies, keeping us warm.
Insulating materials or synthetic fillings create small air pockets that hold the body heat. Ideally, an outer wind- and waterproof layer will prevent cold air from penetrating and help retain warmth from within.
Choosing the right layers: What to wear under transitional jackets and co.
It's also important to layer properly under your jacket to regulate temperature effectively. Even the best winter jacket won't do much good if the layers underneath aren't chosen correctly. The key is the layering principle. Wear multiple thin layers that trap heat while remaining breathable to wick away moisture. The base layer sits directly on the skin and wicks away sweat – synthetic fabrics or merino wool are ideal for this.
As a mid-layer, lightweight fleece jackets or vests are great for holding heat close to your body. For the outer layer, it's best to choose wind- and waterproof jackets that are also breathable, protecting against wind, rain, and snow.
By combining these layers, you can adjust to varying temperatures and be well-prepared for any weather.
Proper care for autumn and winter jackets
A good winter jacket should not only be warm but also wind- and waterproof. If you notice that your jacket is absorbing moisture, it might be time to reapply waterproofing to maintain its protective qualities. Tips on re-impregnating your winter jacket can be found here: Prepare your jacket for the season.
Which jacket is suitable for temperatures above 10 degrees? Quilted jackets and transitional jackets – light protection for mild days
When temperatures are above 10°C, light protection is often enough to shield you from cooler breezes or mild winds. Quilted jackets and transitional jackets are perfect for this. They provide enough warmth without making you sweat. Particularly practical: their lightweight nature makes them easy to pack and ideal for on-the-go or as a backup jacket. Many quilted jackets are also water repellent and keep you dry in light rain.
Our tailored camel active lightweight quilted jacket for women, with a removable hood, zip pockets, and a practical two-way zipper, is perfect for these temperatures.
The lightweight material is breathable and provides plenty of freedom of movement, which is particularly practical for active days. There are also suitable models for men: a teddy fleece blouson, for example, which is not only comfortable but also warm enough. Although teddy fleece insulates well, it's relatively lightweight and less bulky than other materials. At the same time, it allows moisture to escape, which reduces sweating. The teXXXactive® blouson in quilted optic is another great option, offering not only warmth but also protection from wind and weather, thanks to its water- and windproof membrane.
Which jacket for 0°C – 10°C? Winter jackets & functional jackets – robust protection against the cold
At temperatures around freezing point, a lined winter jacket is recommended. A high-quality functional jacket that is both wind- and waterproof protects not only from the cold but also keeps moisture out, ensuring you're well-protected.
Coats of all kinds are also a great choice. Their long fit offers more protection from cold and wind than shorter versions, especially keeping the lower back and hip area warm, which is often not the case with shorter jackets.
For women, camel active quilted coats are particularly practical. You can either opt for a lighter version with knit cuffs and a two-way zipper, or choose the weatherproof teXXXactive® coat. The camel active wool coat with light padding is also perfect for these temperatures.
Thanks to its natural insulating properties, wool effectively retains body heat, is breathable and has naturally dense fibres that prevent cold wind from penetrating. With a looser fit, multiple layers can be worn underneath for extra warmth and flexibility in winter. Men are also well-equipped with camel active: thicker quilted blousons made from mixed materials with a high collar provide good insulation, while wind- and waterproof teXXXactive® coats and functional jackets ensure you stay dry and protected in harsh weather. Both jacket types are ideal for reliably keeping you warm during the colder months.
Which jacket for below 0°C? Puffer jackets and parkas – Maximum warmth for frosty times
When temperatures drop below 0 degrees and winter is really frosty, it's time to reach for jackets that offer best thermal insulation. Puffer jackets and parkas are ideal for this. With their thick insulating layers, they effectively trap body heat and offer reliable protection, even in freezing conditions.
For women, camel active offers the long puffer coat with a lined hood, which is perfect for freezing weather with its windproof cuffs and water- and wind-resistant properties. This coat is also completely down-free and made from recycled materials, making it a sustainable alternative. Another favourite is the teXXXactive® functional parka.
With a 5K water column, it reliably protects from moisture, while the ribbed cuffs and extended back panel offer additional protection. Thanks to the removable quilted inner jacket, this parka keeps you warm even in sub-zero temperatures. For men, the lined quilted coat with Thermore Ecodown padding is ideal for extra warmth. Its thick padding and hood with detachable lining offer flexibility and protection in extreme temperatures. The teXXXactive® parka with detachable teddy fleece lining and a high collar keeps you warm, while the weatherproof properties ensure you're ready for all outdoor adventures, even in strong wind and rain.