What is an anorak

Anorak, as a special type of jacket, is often confused with parkas, hoodies and windbreakers. But each of these types of outerwear has its own nuances.

The windproof, waterproof jacket was created for hiking enthusiasts, so it takes into account all the nuances that interest climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Gradually, anoraks became popular among fishermen and hunters, as well as representatives of youth subcultures.

Let's take a closer look at what this fashionable clothing represents.

What is an anorak

This stylish oversized windbreaker is both elegant and functional and has become a staple in fashionistas' wardrobes. The main visual difference of the product is that The clasp does not go all the way. It is long enough to pull the jacket over your head.

However, there are other features, which we will discuss in more detail.

Definition

An anorak is a special type of outerwear, a lightweight jacket for protection from rain and wind, made of thick fabric.

It differs from a windbreaker in that The zipper does not unfasten all the way, but only to chest level.

There are models with two zippers that allow you to quickly put them on over your head. Anoraks have drawstrings at the waist, on the hood and at the bottom for protection from the wind, as well as elastic bands in the sleeves.

Who invented the anorak

The model was not designed by couturiers or fashion design professionals. She created by Canadian Eskimos, which abandoned the full-length fastener in order to increase the effectiveness of protection from the cold.

All northern clothing is worn over the head like a poncho, and the anorak is no exception. Initially, the Inuit Eskimos made protective ammunition from dense animal skins or fish skins, materials that did not allow water to pass through. The main purpose of such things is to protect people while hunting on ice.

Important! Modern manufacturers do not use natural raw materials, but make jackets from high-tech synthetic materials.

Modern purpose of anorak

Now anoraks are used in various spheres of life: both in everyday wear and among military personnel, skiers, climbers, fishermen, hunters and sports tourism enthusiasts.

This is trendy clothing for people who choose an active lifestyle and extreme entertainment.

The uniqueness of the anorak

Classic models of windproof jackets are not long, but approximately to the middle of the thigh. They do not have side pockets.

However, demand creates supply. Therefore, manufacturers began to modify the original design and adapt the product to the tastes of different consumers.

Jacket details

Every detail of the anorak is thought out to the smallest detail and has its own purpose.

• The clasp is not traditional, but shortened to the chest area, which allows for maximum wind protection. It can be either with a zipper or with buttons.
• Spacious kangaroo pocket in the center and no side pockets. This solution is due to the fact that climbing equipment and backpacks are attached to the belt with belts. This makes traditional pockets inconvenient to use. Often there is an entrance to the pocket at the top, which is closed with a zipper or Velcro and covered with a flap.
• A hood is a must-have element for a windbreaker. There are models with collars, under which there is a zippered compartment for the hood.
• Drawstrings on the hood and hem, and elasticated cuffs are options for additional protection from the wind.
• Pockets on the sleeves for essential small items.

In jackets for snowboarders, you can see modified hoods in the shape of a helmet with goggles and a ventilation system in the armpit area.

In modern models for the city you can find side pockets, adjustable cuffs, double zippers on the collar, snakes on the sides for additional ventilation, a lining and an insulating layer. Designers make hidden zippers, complemented by buttons.

Features of the cut

Anorak is a universal model of a windbreaker with a loose silhouette without darts and a pronounced waistline. Thanks to the anatomical cut, the jacket does not restrict movement and provides complete freedom.

Standard length: mid-thigh or just below the waistline. Such jackets are usually not long, since ensuring ease of movement is their primary task. However, recently there have been women's elongated models that look like coats.

The material from which anoraks are made

The most popular fabric for sewing anoraks is nylon. It does a good job of protecting against wind and precipitation.

These are also used materials:

• rip stop - high-strength fabric that was developed for the needs of the army. The fabric is produced by weaving a reinforced thread consisting of nylon or polyester into the main yarn (cotton or synthetics). The fabric is lightweight and moisture resistant.
• natural cotton, which allows air to pass through and repels excess moisture due to special treatment or a membrane base;
• cotton muslin with polyurethane impregnation.

Thanks to the use of membrane fabrics, jackets can be used during training - they wick away moisture, preventing the athlete from freezing.

Prints and colors

Typically, anoraks are made in laconic colors.

• For the needs of the army, protective colors or camouflages are used.
• Storm jackets for tourists have tactical colors: khaki, olive, etc.
• It is important for hunters and fishermen that the item is non-marking, so they prefer shades of green.
• Climbers choose bright clothes that are noticeable in the snowy palette.
• Bright colors are used to create a modern casual look.

Anoraks are available in a variety of colors, from classic calm to trendy neon shades.

Women's models use floral or animal prints and embroidery, while children's models use various appliqués.

Often the brand logo is placed on the central pocket; the top and bottom of the product may have different colors.

Types of anoraks

Since the anorak has ceased to be exclusively military or tourist clothing, designers have made changes not only to the color scheme, but also to the cut of this wardrobe item.

It is still universal, but has differences based on gender, season and functional details.

By affiliation

Anorak is a universal garment.

• Most models are "unisex", gender can only be expressed by color.
• On women's jackets can use brighter colors, prints, and minimal decorations. To add a feminine silhouette to windbreakers, drawstrings are used at the waist.
• Men's models are often in discreet colors, they are practical, durable and functional.
• Anoraks for children have no differences in cut. They are worn over warm sweaters in windy weather, protecting the child from drafts and light rain.

By season

Anorak - clothing for the rainy off-season. But the designers have worked to create products for any time of year.

Depending on the seasonality, various fabrics, lining materials and insulation are used when sewing anoraks.

• Letnie jackets are thin models without lining. They are able to protect from wind and rain.
• Demi-season models can be made of thicker fabric, often lined with cotton or knitted fabric.
• Anoraks for winter have become popular recently. They are sewn from dense waterproof and frost-resistant fabric, insulated with padding polyester, Thinsulate, fur or other materials. They can protect their owners from winter blizzards and severe frost.

An important property of fabric for sewing windproof clothing is its resistance to dirt and temperature changes.

Sometimes in winter models the hoods are decorated with fur trim.

Reflective models

Safety of movement at night and in the evening is an important issue that is relevant for pedestrians, cyclists, and skaters. That's why reflective anoraks are very popular.

During their manufacture, reflective elements from a special fabric are applied to outerwear. Such details reflect even minimal light and make a person visible in the dark to vehicle drivers.

Important. In European countries, all children's jackets are required to be equipped with reflectors.

Characteristics of anoraks

A comfortable and practical jacket has firmly established itself in youth wardrobes. It is indispensable for street training, during cycling and in inclement weather. Anyone can appreciate its merits.

Advantages

The main advantage of the product is protection from wind and moisture during a hike or in everyday life. In addition, we can highlight the following advantages of jackets.

• Light weight. The jacket can be carried with you everywhere.
• Takes up little space. The climber can adjust his equipment and compactly put it in his backpack if necessary.
• Sewn from high-strength and wear-resistant fabrics.
• Waterproof. The kangaroo pocket allows you to safely carry your phone or MP3 player.

Thanks to the popularity of the model and the variety of colors, youth street jackets can be worn not only with sportswear. And also with regular jeans or joggers in the city. Any sports shoes and a backpack will complement the look.

Flaws

Despite all the convenience, anorak also has some disadvantages.

• You can’t quickly throw it off if it gets hot.
• It is impossible to wear it wide open.
• Quickly taking off and putting on a jacket over your head is not very convenient, especially in public places.

Popular anoraks manufacturers

Many well-known brands also produce anoraks in their collections. For each manufacturer, they have different nuances, reflect the company’s concept and have different prices.

Popular manufacturers are the following brands.

• Adidas is a popular sports brand that has proven itself to be of high quality, modern technology and comfortable fit. The cost of clothing from this brand is above average
• Nike is a corporation that produces sportswear made from revolutionary “breathable” fabrics. This allows you to ensure maximum comfort when engaging in active sports.
• Tommy Hilfiger - an American brand that managed to bring anoraks from the category of sportswear into everyday stylish clothing;
• Stone Island is a premium clothing manufacturer from Italy that produces military-style anoraks and also uses unique color-changing fabrics. Windproof jackets from Stone Island are popular among football fans, and the range includes insulated models.
• Skills is a Russian brand that produces lightweight windproof jackets made of durable nylon. The products are affordable and popular among young people.
• Fred Perry is a British brand famous for its iconic sportswear, including for tennis players. Over the years, the company's products have become true classics.
• Napapijri is a famous Japanese company that created its anorak with the participation of Karl Lagerfeld. Their iconic collection was called “66° 33’ Special Project”, where the numbers indicate the latitude of the Arctic Circle.

The world's leading brands annually present new modifications of sports and tourist clothing on the catwalks.

What to consider when choosing an anorak

• To choose not only a fashionable, but also a high-quality item, it is important to pay attention to the fabric from which the jacket is made. It should be light, but at the same time durable.
• When choosing a size, you should give preference to a loose silhouette in order to be able to wear additional layers of clothing.
• The color of the product should fit harmoniously into your everyday wardrobe. The shade of the jacket can match most things or, on the contrary, become the only bright accent in the image.

Check out the websites of reputable manufacturers before purchasing. From the photo you can determine which product you would like to purchase.

It is also worth focusing on the budget - an anorak from a popular brand will become a real decoration of a fashionable wardrobe.