The Obtainer - 8/21/24, Wednesday

Cory Ohlendorf
August 21, 2024

Are you ready for cooler weather? For the possibility of pulling on a lightweight layer? Us too! Let’s talk lightweight jackets.

- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor in Chief ⋯ @coryohlendorf

Good Better Best

Chore Jackets

When it comes to easygoing style and versatility, nothing beats the chore jacket. The lightweight layer can tackle almost any situation and style: It's truly the go-anywhere, goes-with-everything jacket that you absolutely need for transitional weather going into fall. As versatile as it is practical, the old-school workwear staple has been the go-to cover for a myriad of men, from mechanics and construction workers to photographers and outdoor sportsmen. And why not? The jackets are big on storage and easy to care for.

Right now, the jacket—with its oversized pockets and slightly boxy fit—feels incredibly modern, especially since it's returned in fresh fabrications from a range of brands. But with so many on the market, we tried on a handful to bring you three solid choices, no matter your budget.

The Ripstop Jacket

+ Made from a lightweight yet fortified cotton ripstop fabric, with double stitching for added durability

+ A more open, camp-style collar

+ Raglan sleeves for added ease of movement

+ Four pockets: two spacious exteriors, one snap-closed on the left chest and one right interior

Cooper chore jacket,
$98 by Line of Trade

The Rugged Canvas Jacket

+ Made from organic cotton canvas twill that's washed for added softness and finished with reinforced stitching

+ A boxy, relaxed fit

+ Oversized vintage-inspired buttons and a hang loop on the back neck

+ Three pockets: two oversized front pockets and one left interior

Organic chore jacket,
~~$148~~ / $104 by Everlane

The Moleskin Jacket

+ Made from a 100% cotton moleskin fabric that's naturally water resistant

+ Finished with the brand's historic hand-numbered label of authenticity

+ Corozo buttons are made from a natural palm seed

+ Three pockets: two front patch pockets and one left chest

Work jacket,
$275 by Le Mont St Michel

Stuff We Swear by

The Ever-Lasting Tank Top

You've likely been wearing tank tops like this under your shirts all summer, right? But if they've been stretching out or simply not hugging your torso the way you'd like, allow me to present the best of the best. Mack Weldon's take on the timeless ribbed tank is pretty much perfect. It has a tailored fit that feels both supportive and comfortable. It's also got the perfect shoulder strap width to flatter the muscle definition of both your shoulders and chest.

If you're wondering about the 18-hour name, it has to do with how the brand makes the tanks. The factory actually waits 18 hours before cutting the fabric into a tank silhouette, which is how long it takes for the material to fully expand, creating the perfect fit that won't lose its shape (even after repeated wear). And speaking of the fabric, Mack Weldon's breathable material utilizes soft cotton with silky-yet-durable modal and just a touch of stretchy Lycra, creating a killer combo that puts any cheap undershirt to shame.

18-hour tank tops,
~~$84~~ / $75.60 (for a three-pack) by Mack Weldon

The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.

This lightweight flannel from 3sixteen has a soft, washed and worn-in feel right from the beginning. The textured jacquard fabric will last you decades. ~~$245~~ / $159 by 3sixteen	Today's the last day for Design Within Reach's Herman Miller sale. So take advantage and pick up this iconic Eames molded plywood chair for 20% off. ~~$1,795~~ / $1,436 by Herman Miller	Is it time to start thinking about lightweight jackets? We think so. Get a jumpstart and save some money with this lightweight Harrington jacket. ~~$219~~ / $149 by Bonobos
Want more? See all 37 sales »