It's time to get a new trench coat – these are our 7 favourites
Winter is coming. Our advice is to get ahead of it and keep yourself warm by investing in a trench coat now
By Cayle Reid
A PERVASIVE CHILL swept through the Esquire office a few weeks ago and has been lingering ever since. This prompted a shamelessly materialistic epiphany: with winter rapidly approaching, I realised it was time to invest in a new trench coat.
With autumn setting in and daylight savings over, the temperatures are dropping and our wardrobes are transitioning. There are myriad ways you can combat the cooler weather via heavier clothes, but few are as effective as a trench coat. Favoured by everyone from gangsters and fictional inspectors to soldiers and Alain Delon in Le Samouraï, trench coats offer both practicality and an elevated sense of suaveness. And, much like a white T-shirt or blue jeans, they work in almost everyone’s wardrobe, from the conventional to the esoteric.
Our advice to you, dear reader, in your pursuit of the perfect trench coat, is to pay close attention to how it sits on your body. Movement is key here; you want it to sit loose and flowy, rather than tight and restrictive. We also advise that you assess your trench’s practical credentials. Given that it was popularised in the trenches of World War I, the trench coat has always been, first and foremost, a practical garment. You may not need water resistance, epaulettes to signify your rank or a gun flap at the shoulder to support your rifle, but these are the hallmarks of high quality!
We’ve surveyed the market for the best men’s trench coats around. These are our favourites.
The best men’s trench coats in 2026
Marks & Spencer, The Trench
British high street brand Marks & Spencer makes a very good and very affordable signature trench. It’s made from breathable cotton and features a checked pattern on the underside of the collar. There’s also an internal pocket secured with an envelope flap, glossy mock-horn buttons at the front and cuffs, and a vent at the back for all-weather readiness.
Uniqlo Men’s Trench Coat
A classic trench coat at an affordable price point. it’s hard to argue with that. This Uniqlo trench gives you the aesthetic you’re going for and is a solid choice for those who aren’t looking to break the bank on outerwear.
Burberry Mid-Length Kensington Heritage Trench
If you want the best of the best, you’ll find it in the iconic Burberry trench coat. Yes, the price tag is high, but there’s good reason for it. The heritage Kensington trench is made from shower-resistant cotton gabardine and lined with Burberry’s traditional checked motif. It leaves more room at the chest and through the body to allow for layering. It also includes signature details like epaulettes and leather-wrapped buckles, harking back to the trench’s military origins.
M.J. Bale Carrara Trench
A more modern take on the traditional trench coat, M.J. Bale’s Carrara trench is made from a lightweight cotton blend and has a water-repellent finish. It features a single-breasted silhouette with a concealed placket and a clean, deconstructed finish. Fully lined with Cupro Bemberg and detailed with horn buttons, AMF stitching and internal double-jetted pockets, it has everything you want from a premium trench coat at a mid-tier price.
Polo Ralph Lauren Lightweight Twill Trench Coat
A strong – and slightly more affordable – alternative to the Burberry trench is this one from Polo Ralph Lauren. Twill is the primary material here, offering a more durable and lightweight feel while maintaining warmth. The suede-covered buckles are a nice touch, as are the long raglan sleeves with adjustable buckled tabs on the cuffs. Again, the epaulettes are a big plus.
Zara Oversized Fit Flowing Trench Coat
If you like your trench coats to be free and flowing, then this one from Zara is the right fit. It’s made to be oversized, dipping below the knees with long sleeves, notched lapels and flap patch pockets at the hip.
Hawes & Curtis Navy Trench Coat
Crafted with a luxurious cotton blend that’s rain resistant but still breathable, this navy trench coat looks great over a suit. You’ll notice the epaulettes, as well as the adjustable buckle cuffs and subtle check pattern lining. Wins all around.
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