The headline says it all today, my friends, as we dive deep into perfecting that tricky balance: That is, blending utility and style points in one package, with a focus on one of the best jackets for men this season.

There’s no time quite like the present, as Los Angeles-based Aether Apparel just opened up the vault for its Aether Apparel Black Friday Sale, and many key styles from the performance-minded retailer are still in stock and yours for the taking. That includes the Aether Apparel Alto Jacket, and folks, when it comes to the right blend of form and function, it’s nearly a home run for all your winter layering needs.

The retailer, now in its 15th year of making city-ready gear that also performs on the trail, touts the Aether Apparel Alto Jacket’s “streamlined design and slim-fitting cut,” flattering specs that take any jacket from merely good to being one of the best down jackets for men out there.

It’s more elevated in every way than plenty of other puffer jackets on the market, with a box-quilted design the brand says draws inspiration from English hunting jackets. Crucially, PrimaLoft Gold insulation adds a premium touch, delivering warmth without added bulk (always a tricky balance when layering up with a puffer jacket, at least in my experience).

The Aether Apparel Alto Jacket comes with helpful added features like a stand-up collar for added warmth, a zipper “hood” to keep the top zipper in place, and front side slant hip pockets to stow your everyday carry essentials. The Aether Apparel Alto Jacket is streamlined enough to wear on the trail and back into town, or to use as a travel jacket — think comfort and easy access to your valuables, rather than added bulk.

And the relatively minimal design of the Aether Apparel Alto Jacket makes it an easy pairing alongside pieces more technical — like stretch hiking pants or canvas work pants — as well as more casual, like five-pocket pants or even blue jeans.

The rich blue color is more visually appealing than the typical black seen so widely when it comes to winter jackets, too. In every way possible, from warmth to performance to style, this jacket proves it’s worth every penny — your winter wardrobe depends on it.