Parka coats

When the temperature outside drops, the time will come to either stay indoors more or “zip up” and brave the winter weather.  Well, if you plan to have an active life at all, it will be necessary to trodden outdoors from time to time, and having the proper outer wear becomes relevant.  While there are many styles of coats available, having a parka coat in your wardrobe for its unique styling and effortless warmth and comfort should be a must.

While the styling of modern parka coats are varied and strayed, the original parka, or Anorak jacket has Inuit roots.  Originally made from caribou or seal, parka coats were invented by the Caribou Inuit of the Arctic region.  Being a heavy jacket, it typically had a fur lined hood to help protect its occupant from the freezing temperatures and wind of the far north.  Often the parka would have a knee length cut to help insulate nearly the entire body. While the terms Parka and Anorak can be used interchangeably, an Anorak is specifically a waterproof jacket with a hood, and drawstrings at the waist and wrists.  They were often regularly coated with fish oil to maintain its water repellence.

Parka coats of today can be of the pullover design with a frogged hood, or a zippered and/or buttoned front.  The full length design is still common, as is the fur lined hood, but not synonymous with the name.  Made now with typical outerwear fabrics, these coats are typically insulated with synthetic fibers or a fleece lining and the outer shell will usually be a water resistant, but breathable fabric such as nylon.

A plethora of “his and hers” styles and colors are in abundance online or in your local outlet stores.  Whether you are looking to make a style statement or looking to stay warm in winter with a heavy coat, there is a parka coat made for you.  Although the original roots of classic parka and Anorak coats have greatly branched out, a cozy fleece lined parka with a drawstring hood is sure to keep you warm and comfortable this winter season.