Men's knitted jackets are a very popular category of knitted clothing in men's wardrobe. The knitted jackets are front open sweaters or woolen garments for men, available in various styles and designs and colors, suitable for both formal and casual occasions. Fleece and wool are popular materials for knitted jackets.

Patterns of knitted jackets
Knitted jackets may be double knit construction with a brushed or napped back. This type of knitted fabric retains shape and resists runs. Compared to single knits, double knits are firm, less stretchable, and they resist wrinkling. Double knitted jackets have a rib like appearance of vertical loops on the surface.

Another knit variation is a pique stitch which gives a honey-combed or diamond effect. There are jersey single knitted jackets. These are generally less expensive than double knits. This is because they require less yarn and can be produced more quickly. The fabric is lighter in weight, it stretches, and may not retain the shape like double knits. The amount of extra yarn added into the knit structure to form the backing affects shape retention and stability. Better quality knitted jackets have more yarns incorporated into the structure which thereby increases weight, firmness, and shrinkage control. There is also tricot knit structured jackets which is popular pattern. These knits often are made of fine yarns from synthetic fibers, and have a very smooth surface of smaller loops. Again, here also the more compact the knit the firmer the knit fabric.

Materials used in knitted jackets

• Fleece: This is popular woolen fabric, having been brushed or raised on one or both sides.
  
  
• Jersey Knits: The jersey knit fabrics have stretch in the crosswise direction.
  
  
• Stretch knit velour: They feature a spongy hand with a velvety soft, thick surface.
  
  
• Terry knits: They are lighter in weight, with a loop terry surface.
  
  
• Cotton: The cotton knitted jacket feels comfortable against the skin and is more absorbent than blended fabrics.
  
  
• Acrylic: This fabric is soft against the skin and has good insulating qualities.
  
  
• Polyester: This fabric has good abrasion resistance and has low moisture absorption.
  
  
• Nylon: This fabric is strong, durable, resilient and abrasion resistant. Low moisture absorption leads to static build-up and quick drying properties. Napping helps the nylon jackets feel more comfortable against the skin.
  
  
• Blends: The blend fabric has the properties of each particular fiber. For example: Polyester/cotton blends are durable and more wrinkle resistant. Cotton/polyester blends have more cotton and are comfortable and more absorbent than all synthetic garments. In polyester/acrylic blends, the polyester provides additional strength and durability and the acrylic contributes loft.
  
  
• Wool: Different types of wool like cashmere, merino etc. are used to make hand knitted jackets.

Styles of knitted jackets
There are various styles available in knitted jackets in a range of color combinations. Most jackets feature a front open, long sleeves and matching rib knit at the neck, sleeve and bottom edges. For fastening zippers or buttons or velcro are used. Most knitted jackets are full sleeves. But sleeveless jackets are also available which is worn over a shirt or a pullover. There are hooded jackets as well. There are partial zip jackets with stand-up or convertible collars. Some jackets are styled with a two, three or six-button front placket, with or without collar. There is a close fitting rib knit or elastic cuffs at wrists and convertible collars that zip into turtlenecks. Some jackets offer convenience features such as wrist wallet with Velcro closures and zip pockets to hold keys, coins or valuables.

Buying Tips
Factors that contribute to product attributes are:

• Texture
• Contact or feel against the skin
• Moisture absorbency
• Weight relate to comfort
• Fabric and fiber combinations
• Examine how the jacket has been cut, sewn and finished.
• Check trim detail.
• The side seams should be perpendicular to the floor, rather than twisted to the front or back.
• Stitches should be of even length, straight, and fastened securely.
• Stitching should permit enough stretch without breaking.
• Top stitching on the knitted jackets should be even, smooth, and free from distortion.
• Look at other garment details like self-ribbing used for necklines, lower edges, and sleeve finishes.
• Collars, pockets, and zippers should be properly stitched.