Culture & Lifestyle • Clothing

Parka

A parka is a hooded outer coat designed for cold-weather wear, often insulated and sometimes fur- or faux-fur-lined.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

A parka is a hooded outer coat designed for cold-weather wear, often insulated and sometimes fur- or faux-fur-lined. The garment originated in Inuit and other Arctic Indigenous clothing traditions and is now widely used in modern winter fashion and outdoor clothing.

Origin and traditional use

The parka developed from Arctic Indigenous clothing traditions, especially among Inuit peoples. Traditional versions were made from materials such as caribou or seal skin and were adapted for severe cold and outdoor survival.

Design and construction

A parka is typically a hooded coat with substantial insulation and weather resistance. Modern versions often use synthetic shells, down fill, and fur or faux-fur hood trim.

Modern usage

Today, parkas are worn as winter outerwear for everyday use and outdoor activities. They are commonly sold as long, warm coats for cold, windy, or snowy conditions.

Parkas are often discussed alongside anoraks, but the terms are not identical. In strict usage, an anorak is usually a hooded pullover with no front opening, while a parka is typically a longer cold-weather coat.

Key facts

Parkas are designed for warmth and weather protection in cold climates.
Traditional parkas were made from animal skins and furs, including caribou and seal skin.
Modern parkas are commonly made from water-repellent synthetic materials and insulated with down or synthetic fill.
Parkas are usually longer than standard jackets and often extend below the waist.
The hood is a defining feature and is often lined or trimmed for added warmth.

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Canadian context

Parkas are closely associated with Arctic and northern clothing traditions relevant to Inuit communities in Canada, and they remain important in Canadian winter wear and outdoor clothing.

Frequently asked questions

What is a parka?

A parka is a hooded coat or jacket made for cold-weather protection, usually insulated and often water-resistant.

Where did parkas come from?

Parkas originated in Arctic Indigenous clothing traditions, especially among Inuit communities.

What materials are parkas made from?

Traditional parkas used animal skins and furs; modern parkas often use synthetic fabrics, down, and faux fur.

How is a parka different from a jacket?

A parka is usually longer, warmer, and more heavily insulated than a standard jacket.

Is an anorak the same as a parka?

No. An anorak is generally a hooded pullover without a front opening, while a parka is typically a longer coat or jacket.

References

Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parka
Supports: Traditional origin, relation to Inuit clothing, typical length, and distinction from anorak.
Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/parka
Supports: Definition, traditional materials, and modern materials and uses.
Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/parka
Supports: Dictionary definitions of parka as a hooded Arctic garment and outerwear coat.
Cambridge Dictionary — https://www.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/parka
Supports: Modern definition as a warm, often waterproof jacket or coat with a hood.
Appalachian Mountain Club — https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/outdoor-resources/jacket-vs-parka-whats-the-difference/
Supports: Differences between parkas and jackets, including length and insulation.