What is the difference between a parka and a down jacket?

women's down jacket parkaThe parka is one of the most popular outerwear options among women, men and children, and has been a stable trend for the last several seasons. However, few people know how to wear a parka, what is its difference from a down jacket and whether it is suitable as winter clothing. We will figure out how a parka differs from a winter down jacket, what features they have and what is warmer.

The main differences between parkas and down jackets

The characteristic appearance of the parka is a long-brimmed jacket with a khaki lace with a fur-lined hood. The fashion for them came in the seventies, when everyone wore such jackets - even schoolchildren. But in the nineties the fashion passed, and they began to be considered clothing for the poor. In Russia, such clothes were also not favored, but were simply called down jackets, preferring heavy sheepskin coats and fur coats to them.

In fact, calling a parka a down jacket is incorrect - each type of clothing has a number of distinctive features.

Park features:

parka

  • This is always a long jacket of a strictly defined style, which is adjusted to fit the figure using a cord belt.
  • The fabric from which it is made is also special, similar to denim, and has a characteristic greenish color.
  • The lining always contrasts brightly with the outer material, and the hood is usually lined with real fur.

Down jacket features:

down jacket

  • Usually quilted.
  • Does not have laces (but may have a belt).
  • Made from Bolognese fabric.
  • Has a down lining.

Some properties, such as water resistance, are common to both types.

What is better for the winter period, a parka or a down jacket?

winter parkaWhat should you stop at? It all depends on what purposes and climatic conditions you are purchasing winter clothes for. The parka, unlike other options, is more versatile. Usually it is filled with fur or padding polyester; the first option can be worn in the fall, and the second is perfect for winter. Due to its length, it provides good protection from the cold.

IMPORTANT!

Classic models are usually waterproof (it is better to check this feature with the seller when purchasing), so they are perfect for important climates, cities with rivers, and seaside settlements.

The appearance of such clothing implies that it will be paired with a pair of comfortable, warm boots, although some winter looks will include a parka and elegant boots. A down jacket is more versatile in this regard.: thanks to the variety of styles, you can create almost any look with a down jacket, from student to office and elegant.

What's warmer, a parka or a down jacket?

winter jacketThe principle of selecting winter clothing is its ability to retain body heat. In fact, both options protect equally well even from severe frosts. Depending on the quality of clothing, its properties also vary: when choosing, focus on:

  • filler;
  • length;
  • style.

Really good and warm down jackets can be purchased in specialized stores for sports and tourism - jackets filled with natural down will provide excellent warmth in all weather conditions and protect against moisture, snow and wind.

Pros and cons of parkas compared to a down jacket

benefits of parksAmong positive qualities of parkas as outerwear:

  • comfort;
  • a stylish image is one of the trends in modern fashion; it always looks relevant;
  • waterproof;
  • good protection from frost and precipitation;
  • nice appearance, good compatibility with heavy comfortable shoes.

The main disadvantage is that it does not go well with business clothes and evening wear., which means it is not suitable for constant wear by those who regularly transform into such images.

Pros and cons of a down jacket compared to a parka

bright down jacketAdvantages of a down jacket as protection against weather conditions:

  • variety of styles and finishing options;
  • versatility - a good model of a classic style will suit almost everything and can be used both for going to work and for outdoor activities;
  • protects well from bad weather and precipitation.

NOTE!

Among the disadvantages is that it is not nearly as comfortable and convenient as a warm and cozy parka. Also, if you settle on a classic model, you will have to make sure that the shoes match the image, perhaps not as comfortable as those that would be matched to the jacket.

Both a down jacket and a parka are two great options to protect yourself from harsh winter weather. If you are ready to sacrifice an elegant appearance for the sake of comfort and warmth, and you are not embarrassed by the laconic and slightly sporty look of the parka, then you can definitely go for it.And if you want a more versatile model, then among the variety of down jackets you will definitely find exactly what you need.

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