What could complement the rebel nonchalance of any style aficionado better than the best denim jackets? Because the denim jacket may have humble roots but has a modern allure that’s here to stay.
Such a timeless outwear deserves a special place into your wardrobe whether you’re a down-to-earth rocker or a modern metro guy looking to become the next fashion icon. Wondering how to find the perfect jacket to pair with your classic oxfords and rugged henley alike? This guide is taking the guesswork out of buying the best denim jacket for men.
The Best Denim Jacket
1Levi’s Men’s The Trucker Denim Jacket
Levi’s is a staple in the denim’s fashion world, a name that made history with their rugged workwear, and their Trucker Jacket is no doubt a garment destined to make history in your wardrobe. Pairing classic lines with modern utility in perfect harmony, this jean trucker jacket is ideal to match with a pair of rugged leather Chelsea boots and a tweed shirt for your relaxed evening stroll or with a classier oxford for a stylish everyday look. The classic button-front closure and rugged chest pockets complement the modern slim fit line, while the red logo tag on the pocket gives the final touch. As for the colors, Levi’s has it all, from classy denim shades to camouflage and metro pink. You may also like some of these stylish trench coats from our list, so check them out.
100% cotton
Regular fit
Machine washable
Multiple colors and styles
Classic button-up front
- BrandLevi’s
- Weight1 pounds
2Wrangler Men’s Western Style Lined Denim Jacket
Warm up your winter days with this Wrangler Denim Jacket that will make heads turn with admiration. A classic western style perfect for the colder days combines with the utilitarian lines of a timeless piece. The classic torso fit and elevated denim will add a touch of style to your wardrobe, while the Sherpa or blanket lining will keep you warm and cozy no matter what the weather is throwing at you. This winter jacket is perfect for everyday use in the colder days, closes with front buttons and includes two front and two side pockets for quick-access storage.
100% cotton
Sherpa or blanket lining
Machine wash
Button-up front
Two colors
- BrandWrangler
- Model080301
3Lentta Relax Fit Denim Jean Jacket Coat
If you’re daydreaming to going back to the 80s, this vintage style relaxed fit denim Jean Jacket Coat by Lentta could be the perfect one for you. It’s made of all denim cotton lined with thick fleece Sherpa and is designed to become your greatest ally during the coldest winter, keeping you warm and cozy while maintaining your badass look. Two hand pockets are perfect for the days when you forgot your gloves at home or in the car, while the long sleeve lapel collar reminds of the motorcycle coat style. Depending on your style, you can choose the light or classic blue variants for a vintage-chic look or the retro black if you’re after the perfect men’s black denim vest. Don’t forget to also check our top picks of the best rain jackets.
US sizes
Button-down closure
Short jacket style
Windbreaker lining
Hand and chest pockets
- BrandLentta
- Weight8 ounces
4Amazon Essentials Men’s Denim Trucker Jacket
We’re huge fans of Amazon Essentials, the clothing brand created by Amazon. If you’re looking for stylish, high-quality clothing, this is one of the best places to look. Take a look at the Amazon Essentials Men’s Denim Trucker Jacket. A simple denim jacket like this should feature in every man’s wardrobe. It looks great with most outfits, will last for years, and keeps you warm when the sun goes in. Made in Bangladesh, this jacket is made from 98% cotton and 2% Spandex, giving it a little bit of stretch.
You may also like these stylish casual blazers from our list. Take a moment tp check them out.
Made from cotton (98%) and Spandex (2%)
Made in Bangladesh
Available in five colors
Button-through flap chest pockets & slash hand pockets
- BrandAmazon Essentials
- ModelAE201478
- Weight1.64 pounds
5Levi’s Men’s Sherpa Trucker Jacket
The Levi’s Men’s Sherpa Trucker Jacket is the perfect denim jacket for cold weather. The soft quilted lining keeps you protected from the elements and the tough denim exterior provides that effortlessly stylish look. It says ‘relaxed fit’ on the label but it actually feels more fitted than you’d think. In fact, the Sherpa lining makes this jacket one of the most comfortable denim jackets on this list. For that perfect mixture of warmth, comfort, and style, this is the denim jacket for you.
Here are some cool shirt jackets you might like as well. Check them out.
Made from 100% cotton
Sherpa lining
Button closure
Two breast pockets
Available in 14 colors
- BrandLevi’s
- Model16365-0122
- Weight2.4 pounds
6Wrangler Men’s Rugged Wear Unlined Denim Jacket
Wrangler is one of those classic American brands. And this jacket is exactly what you’d picture if someone told you to close your eyes and think of a denim jacket. It looks like the kind of jacket actually worn by cowboys. It’s made from 100% cotton, has two breast pockets, and features a button closure. One of the main reasons customers love the Wrangler Men’s Rugged Wear Unlined Denim Jacket is the classic fit. It’s perfect to wear open with a shirt or buttoned up to hide that extra bit of holiday weight you might be carrying.
Made from 100% cotton
Classic fit
Two breast pockets
Button closure
Available in four colors
- BrandWrangler
- ModelRJK30VI
- Weight2.45 pounds
Denim Jacket Buying Guide & FAQ
How We Chose Our Selection of Denim Jackets
Denim jackets are a statement of style that shouldn’t miss from a man’s wardrobe. Personal considerations apart, there are few objective criteria to follow when deciding upon your selection. We let the factors below guide our choice.
Brand - A brand’s name is not always a guarantee of the quality, but some of the established men’s wear brands have the know-how to revive classic creations to fit the ever-changing times of the world we live in.
All denim jackets featured in this list are manufactured by reliable brands renowned for their timeless lines or bold reinterpretation of the traditional style.
Quality - The next criterion we considered is the quality. From the overall quality of the materials involved in the variety of the finishes. Most of the jackets in this list are made of 100% cotton, although we also included some jackets made of high-quality cotton blends.
These garments have classic denim stitches and button-up fronts and pockets, design elements encountered in the original workwear designed for lumberjacks and factory employees.
We also checked the material’s behavior during cleaning. Fitting the busy modern man, the jackets in our list are machine washable.
Reviews - It’s hard not to listen to the customer’s opinions when styling a list, that’s why we based our selection criteria upon existing reviews and only featured jackets praised by the consumers. The jackets in this list follow the Western sizing criteria, and most reviewers were happy with the model, material, and overall quality of the product.
Price - Last but not least, we considered the price. We believe a good denim jacket doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, even when designed by a more famous brand. The garments in this list offer an excellent value for the money and thanks to the wide selection, you’ll be able to find the right one for you regardless of your budget.
Features To Look For In Denim Jacket
Wearing a denim jacket means more than just protecting your body from harsh weather. It’s a statement of style; a tribute brought to the fashion industry. Choosing the right garment goes beyond preference. Here are the features you should look for in a denim jacket.
Style - Denim jackets are thought of as classic staples. Their style reminds of the original workwear garments with chest pockets and detailed stitches. There are also some modern reinterpretations out there, that lack the chest pockets and sometimes even the double-needle stitches.
It’s up to you which model to choose, but if you’re aiming to make a statement, we recommend going for a classic garment.
Classic jean jackets are easy to mix and match with formal and casual outwear alike. A dark blue or men's black denim vest can be turned into a fancy overcoat for your business appointments or into a casual garment for a night out.
Materials - Cotton is your best bet when it comes to materials. Traditional denim fabric is made of cotton, and the only exception to this is if you want a slim fit garment. In this case, a blend of cotton and elastane is acceptable.
Zip vs. Buttons - A never-ending debate is whether your jacket must have a zipper closure or buttons. If it were to follow fashion rules and stylist advice, ditch the zip. All respectable jeans jackets have button-up fronts and button chest pockets.
The zipper could be a more practical option, but we’d suggest you stay away from it.
Pockets - A great denim vest for men must have at least four pockets, two easy-access hand pockets and two chest pockets with flaps and button closure. Some brands fit their jackets with one or two internal pockets, which are great for your valuables, such as your slim metal wallet or business card holder.
Color - Denim jackets come in a rainbow of colors nowadays. Classic choices fall on the traditional denim blue, black, grey and brown. But you shouldn’t be afraid to make a statement with a jacket in a contemporary color.
Cream and beige are two alternatives you can pair with most of your outfits. The same goes for a coppery brown.
Pink, green, light blue, and even yellow are some of the most unusual options that will definitely make you stand out.
Fit - Traditionally, denim jackets have a regular fit. You should be able to wear your favorite sweater under the jacket without it looking stretched. At the same time, it must not look loose when wearing it over a tee.
Some vintage models inspired by the 80s have a baggy fit, and these jackets could be a great option for your casual outwear.
Slim fit jeans jackets are also an option, often preferred by those who need to dress stylish for work but want an alternative to the traditional office wear.
5 Essential Rules When Wearing A Denim Jacket
1. Pair it right
Your denim vest will lose all its charm if paired with baggy trousers. Opt for slim fit bottoms and upper garments to maintain proportions and achieve a perfect look.
2. Accessorize it
Hats, scarves, and gloves are must-have accessories depending on the season. Place your bet on suede gloves and a beanie hat in the colder season or a light men’s scarf in early fall and spring.
3. Mix colors
You don’t have to pair your denim jacket with a pair of color-matching jeans. Grey, beige, black, and off-white are only some of your options.
4. Layer it
Wear your denim jacket under a warmer tweed coat in the colder days to create just the extra level of warmth you need to feel cozy.
5. Match it to the occasion
The denim jacket is perhaps the most versatile garment you can own. Match it with a pair of chinos and camp boots for a casual look or with suede shoes, a shirt and slim fit trousers for an office-perfect look.
Denim Jacket FAQ
Q: How to wear a denim jacket?
A: A denim jacket is best worn with slim fit garments. You can pair it with both casual and more formal outfits, but avoid pairing it with baggy jeans or trousers and oversized sweaters.
Q: How to care for a denim jacket?
A: Most denim jackets are machine washable. Choose a cold water gentle cycle and add half a cup of vinegar to the detergent to maintain the color. Dry the jacket outside and avoid tumble drying it, or it may shrink.
Q: Are denim jackets supposed to be short?
A: Yes. Denim jackets are supposed to be cut right around the waist. Longer or shorter jackets look rather unflattering, either too rugged or too girly.
