Should You Buy a Coat One Size Bigger? Irish Fit Guide
Discover if you should buy a coat one size bigger in Ireland. Get fit tips, sizing guides, local brand advice, and real‑world examples for Dublin, Galway and beyond.
When it comes to Irish coat fit, the way a coat sits on your body to handle Ireland’s wet, windy climate. Also known as outerwear fit, it’s not about looking sharp—it’s about staying dry while walking the dog, commuting to work, or standing in a Galway downpour. A coat that’s too loose lets wind in. One that’s too tight restricts movement and traps moisture. In Ireland, where rain isn’t a forecast—it’s a daily expectation—your coat needs to work as hard as you do.
The best Irish outerwear, clothing designed specifically to endure Atlantic storms and damp ground. Also known as weatherproof jackets, it’s built with sealed seams, breathable linings, and enough room for layers underneath. Think waxed cotton, technical polyester, or wool blends—not just a trendy puffer you bought online. Brands like Barbour, Belstaff, and local Irish makers focus on durability, not just style. And fit? It’s everything. A coat that fits right lets you move freely, keeps your arms dry when you reach for your bag, and doesn’t ride up when you bend over to tie your boots. That’s why so many Irish people avoid off-the-rack coats from big chains. They’ve learned the hard way that a coat that looks good on a mannequin in Dublin’s Grafton Street can leave you soaked by the time you reach the bus stop.
Fit isn’t just about the shoulders or sleeves. It’s about the hem. A coat that ends above the knee lets rain soak your legs. One that hits mid-thigh gives you coverage without dragging in puddles. The collar matters too—it needs to sit close enough to block wind but not choke you. And don’t forget the cuffs. Tight elastic or adjustable straps keep water from creeping in when you’re holding an umbrella or carrying groceries.
People in Ireland don’t buy coats for the season. They buy them for the years. That’s why so many locals swear by second-hand waxed jackets or repaired gear from local tailors. A well-fitted coat lasts longer, performs better, and saves money over time. You’ll see it in the farmers’ markets, the school runs, the coastal walks—people wearing coats that look lived-in, not brand-new. That’s the Irish way: practical, patient, and proud of gear that holds up.
Below, you’ll find real stories from people who’ve tried every coat, returned half of them, and finally found what works. From how to measure yourself for the right size, to which brands actually deliver on their promises in Irish weather, to why a £200 coat might outlast two £50 ones—you’ll find the answers here. No fluff. Just what fits, what works, and what keeps you dry.
Discover if you should buy a coat one size bigger in Ireland. Get fit tips, sizing guides, local brand advice, and real‑world examples for Dublin, Galway and beyond.