Patagonia Jackson Glacier Parka – Gear Review

With the winter months in full swing, its time to start preparing yourself mentally and physically. For your mental health I suggest a hot totty and the latest Fresh New Music from Julie. And physically…the Patagonia Women’s Jackson Glacier Parka. Patagonia knows how to make clothes for outdoor use and we love the way their passion for quality products match their passion for protecting the environment as stated in their mission statement: Build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis. Recently we were able to test out the Glacier Parka to let you know how it holds up against some of the toughest winter weather.

Key Features:

• Durable, soft-to-the-touch 2-layer 100% polyester shell with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish and insulated with 600-fill-power Recycled Down
• Waterproof, PU-coated 2-way center-front zipper with zipper garage maximizes the jacket’s weather defenses
• Trimmer, more streamlined fit allows the down to conform closely to the body and trap heat more efficiently
• Two high-volume handwarmer pockets with hidden zippers; lined with ultrasoft brushed jersey for added warmth; media-compatible internal zippered pocket
• Insulated hood with hidden adjustment cords that cinch down for protective warmth

Comfort:

Cozy. Cushy. Snuggly. Basically you’re wrapped in a big hug while in this coat without feeling like you’re walking around wearing a bulky down comforter. It’s soft to the touch but durable enough to handle wind, rain and snow. I was able to wear it outside in weather varying from -5 to 50 degrees and them seamlessly transition inside to grab groceries without overheating. My favorite part of the coat are the hidden wrist cuffs which help keep warmth in and secure mittens. This coat also features no-stich, bonded quilt lines that keep all that 100% recycled down (duck and goose down reclaimed from down products) in place and not poking out of the seams, as I’ve experienced with other down parkas.

Design:

The shell is made of 2-layer 100% polyester with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish, which didn’t sound too impressive until I saw it in action repelling water off with ease in a pretty substantial rainfall. I wouldn’t trade it out for an actual waterproof jacket but knowing it can handle the rain, while keeping me cozy is a definite bonus. The 2-way center-front-zipper is waterproof and PU-coated with a zipper garage to help maximize it’s weather protection. And because of the length, a 2-way zipper is a must when wearing it during my 25 minute commute to ensure optimum comfort and leg movement. I wasn’t crazy about the hood and wish it came with the option to remove it. However, I did like how the adjustment cords were hidden and out of view when cinched tight. Other details that set this coat apart from others are the trim, streamlined fit to take away the bulky look while keeping in warmth, handwarmer pockets with hidden zippers and lined with super soft brushed jersey and the internal zippered pocket with an opening for earphone cords.

Style:

The Jackson Glacier Parka provides the classic winter parka style which is, knee length, hooded and puffy. It isn’t flashy, just a practical winter coat. What sets it apart is the trimmer, more streamlined cut of the coat. Providing a more snug fit to keep you warm while looking much less boxy than other parkas. I love the way this coat looks with my snow boots and a chunky winter hat as well as some fashion booties and a scarf. However, I do think some other color options would be nice.

Durability:

This jacket is tough enough to handle my weekly outdoor recess duty days as well as traveling off the beaten path searching for the perfect Christmas tree. The quality in materials used for the zippers and 2-layer shell are definitely apparent, and knowing they used the duck and goose down from reclaimed cushions, bedding and other used items adds to the positivity of the product. Thanks to the water resistant technology, spills are repelled and spot cleaning is very manageable. The cleaning tags indicate that it is possible to machine wash and dry with the recommendation that two clean tennis balls be used in the dryer.

Value:

If you are looking to finally make that down parka purchase and live in a region where weather conditions can get downright nasty-cold, this coat will not disappoint. However, if you don’t plan on staying outdoors for long periods of time, Patagonia has some other down options without the high price tag.

Buy Now $399 or to learn more, head over to Patagonia.com