Eight of the best parka coats for men to lift a sombre season
Parkas have played a significant role in my life. As a child of the 1970s, a snorkel-hooded parka was obligatory if you were ever going to win approval from the cool kids. In the 1980s, as a fanatical Paul Weller fan, the parka (this time more military-styled) proved its relevance once again.
The Britpop-powered 1990s peak was perfectly age-appropriate for a man passing from his 20s into his 30s. Now, securely strapped into midlife and with no need of any tribe, my attachment to this evergreen style-staple remains resolute, forming the backbone to my wardrobe every winter.
Swedish brand Tretorn has resuscitated the traditional fishtail parka in a military green canvas, with large pockets and a drawstring protective hood. American Vintage’s Akocity is similar but much lighter and cut from a water-repellent polyamide fabric.
Old-school snorkels are back on the agenda with US outerwear specialist Schott NYC, albeit in a more luxe fabric and with greater attention to detail. Gap has one in fire-engine red filled with a high-performance insulation made from recycled polyester plastic bottles.
On the subject of colour, a parka is one of those items that you can afford to experiment with. It’s not a “serious” winter coat and its history is steeped in utilitarian workwear, so a pop of colour can uplift a sombre season.
Try Scotch & Soda’s padded parka in marigold orange, Next’s snorkel in plum or John Lewis & Partners’ shower-resistant Creek parka, available in a range of colours. The best in my opinion is amber – it would look great with dark denim.
Parka life
Ocean Net parka in field green, £239.95, Tretorn (nordicoutdoor.co.uk)
ColdControl Max parka in Lasalle red, £79.99, Gap
Beige parka, £49.99, H&M
Padded parka, £49.99, Zara
Shower-resistant Creek parka in amber, from £55, John Lewis & Partners
Shower-resistant parka in rum with removable faux-fur trim, £80, Next
Storm Army parka, £315, Baracuta
Thermal military parka, £556, Frahm
