The Differences Between Parkas, Jackets, and Coats
Outerwear is outerwear, right? That depends on who you ask—and what you happen to call your outerwear in the first place. There are coats, and then there are jackets, and then there are parkas. Where the warmest winter coats are concerned, there’s definitely no lack of style, comfort, or variety.
But how do they differ, really? Is there a difference at all? Of course! Whoever said variety is the spice of life was definitely talking about outerwear. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they aren’t actually all the same at all. Breaking it down is key if you’re searching for comfortable layering pieces that will keep you warm during different times of the year. What’s what, and when should you wear which? Here’s a handy guide.
What Is a Jacket?
Jackets are among the most popular types of outerwear. These essentials are designed to be worn over another piece for added warmth. Depending on the weather, you might choose to throw on a lightweight jacket over a long-sleeve top or even a T-shirt if it’s just slightly breezy outside. But there are also winter jackets that are perfectly suitable to layer over turtlenecks or thin sweaters.
The average jacket doesn’t extend too far below the waist. All of them feature several distinct elements, each of which plays a vital role in keeping you comfortable. Whether it’s spring, fall, or winter, jackets can protect you from heavy winds and wet weather. If the latter is your goal, make sure that you choose one with a water-resistant or waterproof shell. The right type of filling can also elevate your jacket’s usefulness during the winter months. You’ll find more insulated styles that offer added warmth without the volume. Of course, many jackets are also equipped with plenty of functional extras you’ll appreciate when you’re on the go, like spacious pockets and hoods with adjustable drawstrings.
What Is a Parka?
You might look at a men’s or women’s winter parka and mistake it for a jacket. That’s not necessarily wrong—the two are inherently alike in that their primary purpose is to keep you warm when it’s cool outside. The key difference is in the length of the garment. Parkas are considerably longer than jackets, often extending well below the waistline. Some reach below the hips, while others may be even longer.
Which you choose all depends on how much coverage you desire. If you seek something that’s trendy and fashionable, you might favor a “longline” style that looks great with a pair of leggings or skinny jeans. But if you’re all about the classics, a standard hip-length parka is an excellent choice for regular wear. Most parkas are equipped with non-removable hoods and have adequate insulation so you’ll stay extra warm. These features generally make them a step warmer than the average jacket.
What Is a Coat?
If you want to go warmer than a parka, you’ll want to wear a coat. They are available in a range of lengths. A car coat is a shorter-length option that typically extends no lower than the mid-thigh area. You can also find styles that just graze the knee and those that fall below the knee. There are all types, from raincoats to down coats to trench coats.
Each type offers its own unique advantages, with some being casual and easy to throw on over jeans and a T-shirt and others more refined. Those are the styles you might reserve for a more special occasion, like a holiday party or a date night. Wool coats look fabulous over dresses, tights, and boots, and even typically relaxed styles like trench coats can take a dressier turn thanks to their structured finish. Some styles can be dressed up with the right accessories and shoes, while others are inherently more laid-back and simple. Those are the styles you grab on your way out the door on a snowy morning, but there are others that are so upscale and beautifully designed, you might even plan an outfit around them.
Which Should You Pick?
You’ll quickly find that owning a jacket, a parka, and a coat all at once brings you plenty of styling options. Each style is appropriate for a different time of the year. You can wear jackets year-round, even on mild fall and winter days. Parkas are more suitable for crisp fall and spring days, and you might find they come in handy during winter, thanks to their insulation. Coats, naturally, are a wintertime staple that you’ll love layering over cashmere turtlenecks or other warm tops.
So it pays to add a few different varieties to your wardrobe. You might want something more casual that you can throw on or toss in the backseat just in case it gets chilly outside. A more refined style is a great option, too, because you never know when the need for a dressier coat may arise. Pay attention to fabrics, as these can dictate your selection for any given day. Materials like wool and fleece are fantastic for cold weather wear because they’re soft and provide excellent insulation. Polyester and cotton are lighter-weight options that are more suitable for spring and summer wear.
There are plenty of jackets and coats out there. You’ll see them in styles reminiscent of the varsity jackets of decades ago, chic trenches that feel incredibly timeless, and denim jackets that look great with virtually everything. These are the kinds of options you crave in quality outerwear. With so many fresh and modern designs available coupled with looks inspired by the past, today’s outerwear is as stylish as it is versatile.