Jackets: The Latest Trends In Boating Outerwear

If you've paid any attention to the trends in sport and outerwear over the past few decades, you'll have noted that understanding fabric technology now comes with the need for a PhD in engineering. It can all be a lot to take in, so we've digested it so you'll stay warm and dry aboard, and still look like you're styling when you hit the dock or the yacht club, later.

Henri Lloyd Falcon Jacket

Where? Keeping you dry and warm aboard while making you look like that megayacht owner on dock B when you hop ashore.

What? This GORE-TEX® 2-layer jacket is waterproof, tear and abrasion-resistant, and has a separate lining that allows moisture to escape. All the seams are taped so water is sealed out. Raglan cut sleeves mean you won't get tangled up in yourself reaching for something aboard.

Bonus? You'll looked dressed wherever you wear it.

Cost? $250 | Available at westmarine.com.

Columbia EvaPOURation Jacket

Where? Onboard. In the city. Trekking through the wilderness.

What? Maybe the most versatile, this award-winning rain jacket with waterproof breathability and wicking technology keeps you dry and comfortable on both the exterior and interior.

Bonus? Underarm vents for breathability, and it packs into its own pocket for easy stowing aboard or traveling.

Cost? $99.99 | Available at westmarine.com.

West Marine Third Reef Jacket

Where? The one to grab for coastal cruising in moderate conditions, followed by a walk around town to check out the sights.

What? The Third Reef Jacket is waterproof, windproof, and fully lined, but it's also breathable and lightweight, has a high-visibility foldaway hood and angled cargo pockets for easier access, plus a nifty internal zip pocket with a headphone port.

Bonus? An adjustable waist so you don't look like a rectangular box, and it comes in multiple colors for both genders. Hand warmer pockets have been added at the upper chest to make access easy while wearing a life jacket.

Cost? $179 | Available at westmarine.com.

Grundens Sund 763 Waterproof Fleece-Lined Pullover

Where? Working on your boat in colder weather when you don't want to be restricted by a bulky jacket, but still need to make a coffee run without looking like you came out of the mines.

What? A new fabric that's a laminated combo of stretchy, waterproof polyurethane, with a polyester fleece lining that wicks moisture away from your body to keep you warm and comfy.

Bonus? Resists dirt, oil, and other stains while staying soft, flexible, and waterproof.

Cost? $185 | Available at westmarine.com.

Gill Inshore Sport Jacket

Where? Looking dashing at the local yacht club, and on day trips aboard where the weather can't decide if it's wet or cold, or both.

What? Highly breathable and soft to the touch, with a durable water-repellent finish and a mesh lining for cooling ventilation. The hems and cuffs adjust to ward off unwanted spray and pockets are zippered to help keep valuables out of the drink.

Bonus? The lightweight peaked hood packs neatly into the collar when not needed.

Cost? $159 | Available at westmarine.com.

West Marine Navigator Jacket

Where? For the hardcore outdoor boater. Whether you're hauling upwind, fishing all day, weathering stormy seas, or on a long night watch, it's designed to keep you warm and dry.

What? Waterproof with a breathable nylon microporous coating and top coat that draws moisture away from the body but keeps cold seawater out. It's contoured to fit and reduce windage.

Bonus? Adjustable closures for the hood, collar, cuffs and waistband and reinforced seams reduce wear.

Cost? $194.25 (sale price) | Available at westmarine.com.

Columbia Dotswarm II Jacket

Where? Your anywhere jacket, but especially perfect on those cool, crisp autumn days aboard, followed by lunch ashore.

What? The full-zip jacket keeps you toasty with thermal reflective lining to help regulate temperature by retaining body heat, while dissipating moisture and excess heat all at once.

Bonus? Rugged but soft, with a zip-closed pocket and stand-up collar.

Cost? $50 | Available at westmarine.com.

Atlantis Microburst Jacket

Where? On the dock, fishing, sailing, or just hanging out.

What? Windproof, waterproof, breathable and super light, it has a stowable hood, microfleece-lined collar, zippers with quick-grab pull tabs, and chin and neck chafe guards.

Bonus? Reflective logos on front and back and adjustable drawcords at side seams.

Cost? $150 | Available at atlantisweathergear.com.