What Are Coats and Jackets?

Coats protect the wearer from rain, snow, wind, and cold temperatures. Often extending below the waist, they may be fitted with details like lapels, buttons, and belts or sashes for a more formal appearance. They work well in formal or professional settings, and can be worn over dresses and suits. Coats can also work as outerwear for casual gatherings and daily activities.

They can be made of a variety of fabrics, with or without hoods, and feature a range of pockets and designs to meet the needs of different climates, events, and fashion choices. Many coats have a quilted insulation for warmth, and some are lightweight enough to be carried around. They can be designed with a sleek, minimalist look or a classic double-breasted front that pays tribute to naval history. Some are even waterproof and have a removable lining to help keep the wearer dry.

The terms coat and jacket are commonly used interchangeably. A coat, however, usually extends below the hip and sometimes to the knee or ankle, while a jacket is shorter and may be designed with a more casual style or equipped with features like zippers and hoodies for added comfort and convenience. Coats are often tailored to suit a specific climate or event, and include trench coats, pea coats, overcoats, duffel coats, Chesterfield coats, and dinner jackets.

Coats are a staple of most wardrobes, with a variety of styles to choose from for every occasion. From a light jacket to fight off the chill of spring to a heavy parka to battle the depths of winter, there is a coat for every season and every weather condition.

To encourage children to explore the properties of the coats they wear, have them select their favorite coat and bring it to circle. Ask them to examine the coat closely, including its fabric and the material it is insulated with, and share what they notice. Then, invite them to use bottles of water as a tool for experimentation with insulation (keeping heat in) and ask them if they can observe how the different materials used in their coats affect how warm or cool the bottle feels to the touch. Finally, encourage them to share their results with the class and explain that winter coats insulate their bodies to keep them warm. They can also use this opportunity to point out that other objects provide insulation, such as thermoses, foam drink can holders, and windows and doors. This activity can be done individually or in small groups. For a longer version of this activity, have students work in pairs and conduct the experiment over an extended period of time. Students can then share their results and compare their findings with those of their classmates.