Men’s Fall Jackets & Layers for NHL Season

Hockey season is back—and with it comes those crisp pre-gaming, parking lot tailgates and that familiar walk into a roaring arena. It’s the time of year when the right layers make all the difference. At Johnnie-O, we believe you can bring the fandom and the style points with laid-back confidence from puck drop to the final horn.

Whether you’re tailgating, heading straight to your seats, or grabbing drinks before the game, here’s your go-to guide for fall layers that bring comfort, style and a little West Coast ease to NHL season.

Why the NHL Season Calls for Smart Fall Layers

Let’s face it: tailgates and hockey arenas are cold. That’s where a smart layering strategy comes in—pieces that look great together, move with you and keep you comfortable no matter where the night leads.

Seasonal staples like versatile jackets, lightweight sweaters and performance-driven layers are must-haves this time of year. They give you warmth without the bulk and polish without the fuss.

Explore the essentials:

Build Your Jacket-&-Layer Stack for NHL Game Day

A solid game-day look starts with three dependable layers: a base, a mid and a jacket. Each one should add comfort and style without slowing you down—especially when you’re walking to the arena, cheering in the stands or grabbing a bite before the game.

Base Layer: Comfortable & Breathable Foundation

Start with something soft, breathable, and easy—a long-sleeve tee, polo, or button-down that sits comfortably under heavier layers. It should handle everything from a pre-game tailgate to the warm seats inside the rink.

Shop Men’s Button-Downs
Shop Men’s Polos

Mid Layer: Warmth Without the Bulk

Your mid layer is where the style comes in. A quarter-zip, lightweight sweater or shacket adds warmth while keeping your look clean and purposeful. It should move with you and never feel stuffy under a jacket.

Shop Men’s Sweaters

Outer Jacket: Style Meets Function for Game Night

A fall game-night jacket needs to pull double duty: look sharp and keep out the cold. Think wind-resistant fabrics, durable materials and classic silhouettes. It’s the layer that ties everything together—rugged enough for tailgates, refined enough for the arena.

Shop Men’s Outerwear

Game Day Outfit Inspiration & Fall Color Palettes

Fall hockey style is all about layering textures and balancing colors. Darker tones like navy, charcoal and olive pair easily with lighter neutrals beneath. Fabrics like cotton, wool blends and soft flannels bring that fall feel without trying too hard.

Below are a few easy go-to looks:

Look #1: The Casual Tailgate to Arena Combo

  • Long-sleeve tee
  • Lightweight shacket
  • Classic jacket like a bomber
  • Slim chinos and clean white or navy sneakers
  • A subtle belt to tie it all together

Shop Men’s New Arrivals
Shop Casual Sneakers

Look #2: Classic Game Night in the Stands

  • Button-down base
  • Sweater or sweater vest
  • Wool-blend jacket
  • Dark denim or tailored pants
  • Boots for a polished finish

Shop Men’s Layering

Shop Men’s Pants

Look #3: Accessory & Footwear Details

Accessories finish the look without shouting for attention. Try a fall-toned hat, your favorite scarf, clean sneakers or a rugged boot for colder nights.

Shop Loafers & Boots
Shop Belts

Holiday-Ready Jackets & Layering Gift Ideas

With the holidays right around the corner, fall jackets and layering pieces make perfect gifts—whether you’re shopping for a hockey fan, a frequent traveler, or someone who just needs an upgrade. These pieces aren’t just for game day; they carry through the entire season.

Gift-friendly picks:

Fit, Fabric & Care Tips for Outerwear That Lasts

A good jacket doesn’t just look great—it works hard. Look for breathable fabrics, warm blends, and cuts that allow easy layering. Make sure sleeve and hem lengths give you room to move (you’re cheering, after all).

A few easy care reminders:

  • Follow label directions
  • Avoid fabric softeners on technical fabrics
  • Spot clean after tailgates
  • Store jackets hanging to keep their shape
  • Treat leather or suede footwear seasonally

Explore durable picks:

Summary – Own the Game Day Style This Fall

As hockey season kicks off, building the right layering stack sets you up for every moment—from tailgate to overtime. Think breathable basics, lightweight mid layers, and polished outerwear that handles changing fall weather with ease. And if you’re looking for a gift, a great jacket is always a win.

Explore the full collection of fall-ready pieces to get your game-day look dialed in.

FAQs

What kind of jacket should I wear for fall NHL games?

For chilly walks or outdoor tailgates, choose a durable jacket from Men’s Outerwear. If you’re staying inside most of the night, a sleek shacket from Men’s Layering does the trick while keeping you comfortable indoors.

How many layers should I wear under my jacket?

A classic three-layer system—base, mid, outer—is the go-to. Start with a polo or button-down, add a sweater or shacket, and finish with a jacket that matches the weather.

Which fabrics work best in fall?

Look for brushed cotton, wool blends, or light insulation. They offer warmth without overheating once you're inside the arena. You’ll find these across our Men’s Outerwear collection.

Can I wear sneakers instead of boots?

Definitely. Clean, minimalist sneakers work perfectly indoors. For outdoor tailgates or colder nights, a rugged boot adds warmth and polish.

What are good gift ideas for fall layering?

Jackets, mid-layer sweaters, or a go-to shacket. Explore Gifts for HimGifts Under $150, or opt for a Johnnie-O Gift Card.