What is the Difference Between Parka and Puffer Jacket

The main difference between parka and puffer jacket is that parkas usually have a fur-lined hood, a longer length and a heavier weight than puffer jackets.

Choosing a winter jacket can be a tough task since there is a multitude of jacket designs in the market. Parka and puffer jackets are two such popular winter jackets. Both are warm, lightweight jackets that are both waterproof and windproof. The choice between the two will depend on various factors such as how much time you spend outdoors and the features you prefer.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Parka 
     – Definition, Design
2. What is a Puffer Jacket
     – Definition, Design
3. What is the Difference Between Parka and Puffer Jacket
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Parka, Puffer Jacket, Winter Jackets

What is a Parka

A parka is a warm coat or jacket with a hood that is waterproof and windproof. Parkas are ideal for cold weather. They are knee-length coats made from warm synthetic fibres. The hood is typically lined with fur or faux fur and protects the face from wind and freezing temperatures. They often button or zip up right up to the chin, allowing additional protection. They are oversized, allowing for other warm clothes underneath. Parkas are both stylish and practical and have become a part of both men’s and women’s fashions.

We can trace the history of parka jackets to Caribou Inuits, who made jackets from caribou or seal skin, to wear during kayaking and hunting in the frigid Arctic. During the 1950s, they became popular in the west. At present, parkas are made from light synthetic materials, and there are various designs. However, the basic features – long length and fur hood – remain the same. Snorkel parka and fishtail parka are two common parka designs. Both these military origins. 

Another interesting fact about parka is that it’s not the same as an anorak, although many use these two names interchangeably. Parkas are usually longer than anoraks and have a front opening.  

What is a Puffer Jacket

A puffer jacket is a light, waterproof jacket that is filled with down or insulation or synthetic fibres, giving it a puffed-up appearance. This padded or puffed up design is their characteristic feature, which differentiates it from other jackets. Puffer jackets are also known as quilted jackets. Another major feature of puffer jackets is their lightweight despite being very warm. The warmth of the jacket comes from insulation materials.

If we look at the design of puffer jackets, the “puffs” of the jacket comes from the pattern of the insulation layer and stitching. Vertical and horizontal puffers are the most common in designs, but diamond and other geometric shapes can provide a more functional jacket that lasts longer. Furthermore, puffer jackets usually have a high neck, protecting the wearer from the cold winds. Moreover, some puffer jackets have hoods while some don’t.

Difference Between Parka and Puffer Jacket

Definition

A parka is a waterproof or windproof, warm coat or jacket with a hood that is lined with fur or faux fur while a puffer jacket is a light, waterproof jacket that is filled with down or insulation or synthetic fibres, giving it a puffed-up appearance.

Weight

Parkas are usually heavier in weight than puffer jackets, which have a lightweight.

Hood

Moreover, parkas usually have a big hood lined with fur or faux fur while puffer jackets may or may not have a hood.

Length

Parkas are usually longer in length ( mid-thigh length) than puffer jackets.

Conclusion

In brief, parkas and puffer jackets are two popular winter jackets. The main difference between parka and puffer jacket is that parkas usually have a fur-lined hood, a longer length and a heavier weight than puffer jackets.

Reference:

1. “How And Why To Choose A Puffer Jacket.” RefrigiWear, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “2557518” (CC0) via Pickpik 
2. “Smiling woman wearing parka coat near bare trees over snow ground” (CC0) via Pixabay