Although wool overcoats are seen as the classic winter wear, parkas stand out for their versatility. Which other style has stayed steadfast through human history after all? This outer layer has helped Inuits battle the Arctic winds and kept soldiers safe from mud and gore in trenches.
Manufactured originally out of sealskin or caribou, the parka has evolved a lot. When used by the military the coat is tailored from cotton-sateen blends. While recently it is also being crafted with plush cashmere.
The options in parka designs are basically limitless now. Every kind is available from lightweight unlined styles to the traditional fleece linings. We admit this can cause confusion when you are out there shopping for the perfect winter coat. To make it easier for you, lined here are the best parkas in menswear which will be worthy additions to your collection. But first, some background for this distinctive clothing item.
How did parkas come into fashion?
The parka is a toughened, zero nonsense, and most functional of clothing in all winter wear. So how did it become to slip into the glamourous world of luxurious fashion? Well, it wasn’t easy. It did not meet the same standards as the refined, sleekly cut jackets favored by modern fashion.
But recently with the drastic change in clothing trends, parkas have gained a more prominent role than just practicality. Streetwear is on the rise now, along with oversized designs and nineties styles. The parka fits perfectly within this fashion scene.
It is even stared in movies now as well like the iconic Mel Gibson’s Fatman parka leather jacket. The recently favored design of parkas being launched by brands is oversized and lightweight. Both sportswear and tailored outfits can be layered underneath it.
Top trending parka variations
Fishtail Parka
The M-51 parka closely resembles the original fishtail design. It was originally crafted from nylon or cotton in olive drab tones. It is meant to strongly resist cold winds. The style usually features two big front pockets and a patch on the upper sleeve. The name “fishtail” is derived from the longer section of fabric in the back to help one sit comfortably.
Similar to most staple wear in men’s clothing, this parka was worn commonly years after its introduction on the battlefield. From the year 1960s, it became synonymous with British fashion culture. Mostly because the extra fabric in the back kept you dry if caught in the rain on a Vespa.
People who are fond of the authentic style do not deviate from the traditional olive drab while parka shopping. But quality matters a lot where these jackets are concerned. Therefore, it is important to head for reliable brands that might even customize jackets for you to ensure value.
Arctic Parka
This is the warmest of choices when it comes to parkas. The designs can vary in arctic parkas. However, their roots can be traced to N-3B parkas issued by the US air force. The basic purpose of this piece is to provide warmth in extremely harsh climates.
Arctic parkas are also called snorkel parkas at times. Their original design is pile lined for extra heat. A furry hood is attached which can be zipped up till only a small opening is left. That is why they are referred to as snorkel parkas.
Some luxury brands have made this coat their signature product. There is basically nothing warmer when you desire a respite from extreme cold. In fact, it is better to take the Arctic parka off if you are traveling by public transport. Its dense nylon fabric and down/wool lining can keep you warm even if it is -40 degrees outside.
Tailored Parka
This style is a spin-off of the fishtail parka, just more on the minimal side. This means that you can wear them with more formal pieces like suits and dress shirts. They have a slimmer and smarter silhouette. Extra bulky details are removed from this design and colors are kept neutral to suit other clothing.
It can actually act as a perfect replacement for the classic raincoat. It is ideal for daily wear in winters, specifically those designs with lining. They are often available in luxurious materials like cashmere or merino wool. A tailored parka is particularly suited as an everyday work overcoat to layer your suit. For the weekends you can throw it on over a pair of jeans and a knitted polo shirt for effortless style.
These parka options will make the decision of investing in a winter coat much easier for you. Each of the designs is specifically styled with different purposes in mind so you can select accordingly. Make sure that you purchase the best quality parkas from reliable stores like ours. That way it will be able to withstand time and wear making it worth your money.