GEAR SPOTLIGHT: FJALLRAVEN’S POLAR GUIDE PARKA
Winter is winding down. And its been a good one.
Although I live in LA where it’s never cold enough to wear a parka, I did make it to colder temperatures in Amsterdam, New York and Central California this winter. With me on those trips: the Fjallraven Polar Guide Parka.
Since I won’t be taking any more cold weather trips for awhile (although I’m dreaming of a ski trip in New Zealand this summer / their winter), I’m about to put my Polar Guide Parka away for a few months.
In thinking about how well it treated me this winter, and in thinking about how well it’ll treat me for countless winters to come, I realized — every man should really own a good parka. Even if you don’t live somewhere freezing cold, it’s nice to be prepared for those cold moments with a parka that is well-made, warm and timelessly stylish.
In fact, you should think of a parka is an investment piece. Like a tailored suit or a quality watch.
But well made parkas don’t come cheap — which is why I’m putting the idea of buying one on your radar right now — right before winter clearance sales begin. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to snag one at a good price and have it ready to go for next winter. So remember, this March, April and May, keep an eye out for winter clothing sales online and at stores like REI.
Now unfortunately I can’t guarantee you’ll find the Polar Guide Parka on sale anywhere (although there is a limited stock of discounted ones currently available on Amazon) — but I can say it’s worth paying full price for.
Everything You Need To Know, As Stated By Fjallraven
•Wind and waterproof winter parka insulated with Supreme Microloft.
•Made from hardwearing polyamide with Hydratic membrane.
•G-1000 Original reinforcements on the shoulders, hood, pockets and sleeves for extra durability.
•Developed together with and tested by the guides and mushers of Fjällräven Polar.
•Adjustable storm hood with detachable Arctic fur edging.
•Two-way front zipper covered by a wide protective flap.
•Vertical chest pockets with zippers.
•Additional chest pockets on top.
•Two top-loaded bellows pockets, with extra fleece-lined side pockets for warming hands.
•Zippered inside pocket, plus two large inside mesh pockets.
•Drawcord adjustments at the waist and hem.
•Velcro adjustments at sleeve cuffs.
Sizing: I find Fjallraven runs big. I’m 6ft tall, 160lb and I’m wearing a size small.
Price: $600
Buy It Here
Also pictured: Fjallraven Ovik Rib Hat // Shwood Francis Titanium Sunglasses
Trevor Morrow
Very nice parka but i have question for what degree that coat can make you warmth ?? do you test i in some winter time ??
Hi Adrian, I don’t believe the coat lists a specific temperature rating, but in the photos in this article is was about 31 degrees F (-0.5 C). The jacket is very, very, warm.
Hi Trévor,
Which color is the Polar Guide you wear ?! It’s à nice one. Thanks, Jérôme
Hi Jerome, this color is called “Dark Olive.”
Hi Trevor,
The jacket looks great and unique.
If its around 5-8 degrees Celsius, the jacket might be too hot for walking around?
My body measurements are identical as yours – small size seems a bit bulky, should you suggest giving a try to XS? I don’t like it too baggy. Thanks
Hey Boe — yes, for 5-8 degrees Celsius the jacket would most likely be too hot for walking around (maybe unzipped it would be fine). And for size, it depends on your chest/shoulder measurements, but I think you’d want a small so it’s not too tight.