Indispensable for any outdoor work, the ideal jacket needs to be both functional and easy to wear. Features to look out for include levels of insulation and water-proofing: do you want a warm layer, full rain protection, or a mix of the two? A good choice would also include reinforced material on stress areas such as elbows to ensure a longer life, and reflective details for visibility in bad weather. A close-fitting jacket will keep warmth inside, but consider the need for layering on cold days, whilst thumbholes in the sleeves will add to wearability.