SEASON’S ESSENTIALS Vol.5

As Winter Draws Near, the Warmth of a Knit Jacket

As the weather grows colder, a full outer layer can feel like too much, while a knit on its own may not be quite enough. On days like these, a knit jacket offers an appealing alternative. With its generously relaxed silhouette, chunky knit fabric, and distinctive zipper placement, the Field Steep Knit Jacket is just the thing. The mixture knit fabric is made by knitting together three types of yarn—wool, mohair, and Japanese paper—using a substantial 3-gauge construction. It has the natural, warm texture of something hand-knitted, yet provides reliable insulation on cold days while allowing sweat and moisture to escape. Thick ribbing at the neck, cuffs, and hem fits gently against the skin. It also offers enough practical functionality to serve as a standalone outer layer for everyday city life.

The iconic zipper design is inherited from THE NORTH FACE Steep Tech 96 Apogee Jacket, introduced in the 1990s. This piece takes technical details rooted in ski wear and reinterprets them in knitwear rather than high-tech materials. Unzip the left side completely and wear it open like a jacket, or zip it up and throw it on like a pullover. Another option is to layer a lightweight windbreaker or Mountain Parka underneath to bring out its outdoor character. The three-dimensional, relaxed silhouette also feels distinctly contemporary, adding a welcome sense of ease to winter outfits that can otherwise become monotonous.