Coats & Parkas

A wool coat can suit dry journeys around town, but its fibre composition does not establish waterproofness. An insulated parka with a protective outer separates warmth from weather resistance. Down often offers compressible bulk; synthetic filling may make care simpler. The name of a filling alone cannot tell you how warm the garment will feel: its distribution, wind exposure and the way the coat closes also matter.

A longer garment covers more when you are stationary, but may get in the way on stairs, while cycling or when sitting down. Try it fastened over your usual middle layer and stretch your arms forward. Pulling across the shoulders or back is not always solved by a larger size. A two-way zip opens from the bottom; a rear vent gives some tailored coats more walking room.

Water-repellent is not the same as waterproof in prolonged rain. Check the manufacturer's statements about the fabric, seams and fastenings instead of trusting a technical-looking design. A hood should follow your head without obstructing peripheral vision. Adjustable cuffs and a storm flap can reduce openings for wind, but may make gloved use awkward or leave the garment feeling more enclosed. Test these details together rather than separately.

Read the care label before buying: repeated specialist cleaning changes the cost of a coat, and bulky insulation may not fit your washing machine. Check whether the hood or trims detach and how the garment must be dried. For daily wear, pockets reachable when seated and a lining that slides over knitwear may matter more than decoration. Choose the balance of protection, weight and upkeep that you will actually use.