What You Need to Know when Buying a Parka

‘Tis the winter season once again, and are you ready for it? Whilst we grudgingly prepare to face the cold, wet, windy weather by ransacking our wardrobes and taking out those dreaded sweaters, jackets, and other winter wear, it doesn’t mean that we have an excuse to look sloppy. On the contrary – even if you are set to wear bulky winter clothing, you can still look stylish and put-together with hardly any effort. The trick is to wear something that is well-made and well-designed, and this goes for your jackets – specifically, your parka – as well.

Climate change has made the weather quite unpredictable nowadays, hasn’t it? Some places are experiencing colder weather, and it’s also time for you to be prepared with your outerwear. If you are looking for something to keep you warm outdoors, a parka will do the trick nicely.

Choosing a parka

There are plenty of parka designs and styles out there. But before choosing one, you have to know your options first. You actually have the choice between a light or heavy parka, and this may also depend on where you live. Light parkas are usually made with wool and have one single layer of insulation, while heavy parkas are often equipped with extra thick pockets that are attached to the layer of insulation to prevent warm air from escaping. If you are planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, perhaps doing a bit of skiing or other winter sports, then go for a heavy parka. If you simply want a parka to keep you warm whilst you walk a few blocks in the city or countryside, then a light parka can do the job.

Types of parkas

Aside from light or heavy parkas, you also have a choice between the different types of parkas. There are waterproof parkas which are ideal for keeping out moisture, but some are too heavy for everyday wear. However, you can also choose a lightweight parka which can also work as a raincoat so you can stay dry. For better protection from the rain, you can opt for a light parka with a hood, such as the ones featured in this interesting piece.

Another type of parka is the modular parka, which is designed to change the parka into three distinct pieces. The modular parka usually has a zip-out jacket, and it can be taken apart to form an inner jacket and an outer part. One aspect that’s useful about a modular parka is that it can be adapted according to the weather you will be facing for the day. Modular parkas typically include pockets that are zippered and velcro straps.

A third type of parka is the military parka, otherwise known as a fishtail parka. This type of parka normally features a hood which is lined with fleece or fur, and is a bit longer (ending at the thigh) than other types of parkas.

But one thing you should keep in mind when you’re in the market for a parka is that it’s better to get a good quality one which you can use for years. Stay warm and dry, and, more importantly, stay stylish as well!