What Is a Parka?

A parka is a winter jacket with a large, snug hood that can be pulled up over the head to protect against wind and snow.parka The hood is often lined with fur for warmth and may have a drawstring to tighten it and seal in warmth around the neck and head. A zippered front closure is typical for this type of coat and the sleeves can be rolled up or tucked in as needed.

This type of garment was originally worn by Indigenous Arctic Peoples to keep them warm and protected from the cold, but it has become popular for everyone who wants to stay cozy in the winter.parka A well-made parka provides protection and comfort while keeping the wearer feeling light and agile.

The best parkas are made with high-quality insulation materials such as premium down feathers or unique synthetic fibers that insulate efficiently while remaining lightweight. They also have a tightly-woven, water resistant outer shell fabric that reduces the penetration of cold air and maintains the loft of the insulation. Other features such as adjustable drawstrings, interior storm cuffs, and an insulated hood help to seal in warmth and prevent moisture leaks.

In addition to high-quality insulation, a good parka is long enough to reduce heat loss around the body. The insulated hood is typically big and bulky to trap heat around the head and neck. Other features like a chest pocket, hand warmer pockets, and a zippered chest pocket are designed to make the coat easy to put on and take off.

Caribou or reindeer fur is the traditional insulation material for parkas because they are extremely warm and dry quickly. These furs are woven in such a way that they look similar to bubble wrap, which traps warm air and keeps the animal or person wearing them warm. Museum scientists have used scanning electron microscopy to study the structure of caribou hair and found that it essentially functions as a breathable waterproof membrane.

However, if caribou or reindeer fur becomes wet, the water molecules seep through and saturate the insulation, reducing its warming potential. For this reason, Indigenous Arctic Peoples would beat the pelts of these animals to remove any snow or ice crystals before using them for clothing.

The selection of a parka is a personal choice and reflects individual needs, climate conditions, activities, and style preferences. The right parka can provide comfort and confidence while keeping the wearer warm, dry and cozy for years to come. Taking time to select the right jacket will pay off, especially when you enjoy your warm winter parka for a lifetime of adventures! When researching parka models and brands, it is helpful to look for reviews that incorporate objective lab testing data like fill weight and insulation value. This quantifies warming performance and helps the buyer to compare different jackets based on real-world warmth and durability. In addition, it is helpful to read reviews from people who have tested the parkas in harsh winter environments.