The traditional pea coat was an item of clothing meant specifically for sailors and is sometimes known as a “pilot jacket”. It usually features a front that is double breasted, large buttons that may either be made from wood or metal, pockets that slant vertically or appear slashed and broad lapels.
Pea coats are considered a classic especially when the designers stick to the original style instead and do not make any alterations to fit modern trends.
Since the pea coat is no longer restricted for use by the navy or sailors, one can shop both online and in brick and mortar stores for this type of coat as long you remember a few tips to follow:
1. Get the correct measurements needed for you to pick out a coat which will fit you properly. You do not want to end up drowning inside a jacket which is too large or having your hands stick out of very small sleeves. An ill-fitting pea jacket doesn’t do your body any justice. Visit a tailor to get proper measurements and fitting for online shopping or try out the pea jackets physically at a store before buying them.
2. Decide when and for what purpose you will need a pea coat. For example, if it will be used in the winter, pick one made from wool or cashmere as these are warm fabrics. Cotton will be more suitable for less colder months as it doesn’t offer too much insulation and offers absorbency.
3. When going for a formal look, it is better to opt for the traditional design in navy or other dark colours. You can pair this pea coat with your shirt and tie and again, make sure it is the right fit for a clean, sharp look.
Some great looking pea coats for the modern man who likes to keep it classic are:
1. Diesel Mens Wittor Jacket
This pea coat from Diesel has the traditional look and feel to it with slanted pockets, double breasted design and comes in either black or charcoal grey.
This particular jacket is a great winter item as it has a leather strap around the neck which can be fastened to help hold the collar in and provide extra warmth. It is made from wool, nylon and acrylic which is also a good combination for insulating you against the cold.
For $288 to $320, you can pick from the wide variety of sizes to get that perfect fit for either your formal work outfit or a casual outfit.
Click here to buy this coat from Amazon.
2.Wesc Men’s Adelbert Check Pea Coat
If you want to move away from the traditional navy look but still maintain an old feel with a pea coat, then this checked harbour blue variation is just right for you.
The main features of this pea coat from Wesc are pockets at the chest area and at the bottom front area, material that comprises of wool and polyester and it is made for a slim fit.
This particular design deviates from the traditional aspect again in that it has one set of buttons instead of the double breasted button style.
It goes for $115.47 at Wesc saving you $82.53 down from the original price of $198.00
Click here to buy this coat from Amazon.
3. Hooded Pea Coat
This is another modern variation to the traditional pea coat and it gives off that street look with its contrasting detachable hood.
It comes in black as shown in the picture above and is made mostly of wool which provides for great warmth during the cold months, features two pockets made in the slash style at the front and one internal pocket.
This great casual jacket comes at $178 from Alpha Industries and also has an embossed decoration on its sleeve.
Click here to buy this coat from Amazon.
4. Nautical Sailor Denim Jean Pea Jacket
Yet another trendy and modern change up from the traditional pea coat look, this denim jacket from Ralph Lauren borrows some old features like the double breasted front, classic collar and fitting look.
It creates that mashed up look to leave you looking casual-formal and can be paired with your jeans for a great match.
It is greatly discounted from its original price of $998.00 all the way down to $699.00 saving you an entire $299!
Click here to buy this coat from Amazon.
5. Mens Black Leather Pea Coat – Leatherbull
This sleek jacket proves that you do not have to settle for wool, cashmere or cotton when picking out a pea coat. It is made from leather (cowhide) and has military inspired buttons, two flap pockets in the front and two breast pockets, one pocket on the inside and a faux detail for a belt at the back.
This is probably a jacket that even a biker can wear with a matching pair of leather gloves for a masculine look or it can even be worn with a formal outfit as it still gives off a clean, polished look.
Leatherbull carries this leather pea coat for $99.99 which is a rather good deal for such a great looking coat.
Click here to buy this coat from Amazon.
Important Tip
- Remember to always hang up your pea coat after use in a storage bag to protect it from creasing, dust and lint.
- When cleaning the pea coat, always consult the product label for best results and to ensure a longer life for the coat.