Winter parka is an essential part of any cold-weather wardrobe, especially if you live in a cold climate. I really love the 'old-school' aesthetic when it comes to outerwear. These designs often have more details than modern versions and come in brighter, more colorful styles. I have a soft spot for orange, yellow, and royal blue options, as they bring some color to winter outfits, brightening up a season when most people stick to darker tones. Unfortunately, finding a well-made parka these days isn’t easy, which is why I’d like to share two of my favorite style options.

Kara Koram Parka

This classic parka style was originally designed for a 1953 K2 mountaineering expedition. Three Americans from Seattle asked Eddie Bauer to create a warm, down-insulated parka for the journey, which led to the creation of the Kara Koram Parka. Its heritage-inspired design brings together warmth, functionality, and a rugged aesthetic that reflects its roots in high-altitude exploration. If you would like to learn more about the history of the Kara Koram Parka and its role in mountaineering, check out my previous article. Below are some of the best quality Kara Koram style parkas currently available:

Modern Sleeker Parkas

Modern parkas are designed with lightweight materials and an updated, sleek silhouette. Inspired by classics like the Woolrich Arctic Parka, originally created in 1972 to withstand working in sub-zero temperatures, today’s versions use advanced fabrics like Gore-Tex for enhanced weather protection. They’re designed to be easy to layer, with a functional and minimalist look that keeps things simple and practical. They are perfect for outdoor activities but still have a sleek style that fits well both in the city and nature.You can read more about the history of iconic pieces like the Woolrich Arctic Parka in article about history of parka. Below are some of the best-quality, sleeker parkas currently available:

Many of these pioneering brands, like Eddie Bauer and Woolrich, are still around, but their products no longer match the quality they once had. These brands became symbols of innovation and excellence, but they compromised this legacy by closing local factories and moving production overseas to cut costs and increase profits.

All of the jackets mentioned in this article are some of the best quality examples available today. I believe they perfectly align with the “timeless style aesthetic” I always aim to achieve in my wardrobe. Since there aren’t many quality makers left, I’d love to hear your suggestions if there’s a brand or a model I should add to this list.

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