Bottom Line
The North Face Arctic Parka blends performance and style, making it a great choice for everyday winter wear. With 600-fill recycled down and a waterproof, breathable DryVent shell, if you only wanted one winter coat, this would be it. It can take on the nastiest winter conditions and keep you feeling like you’re in San Diego on the inside. If you’re headed to extreme winter conditions, it is worth packing, but it will take up a lot of space.
The Arctic Parka is ideal for those who like minimalist coats, and hidden baffles that provide hardcore warmth and weather protection for daily wear and outdoor activities. It was 4th out of 10 in our warmth test of the best winter jackets for women, lasting 139 minutes before the temperature dropped to ambient levels. Pretty darn impressive for a coat that doesn’t look like a sleeping bag.
How We Tested
We’ve had many CleverHiker gear analysts test versions of the Arctic Parka, and it holds its own year after year. We tested it around town in NW Montana. We wore it during recess duty while running errands and on neighborhood dog walks. We also lab-tested the insulation and water-repellency, revealing why this coat is a best-selling North Face staple.
Quick Specs
The North Face Arctic Parka
Best Warm & Waterproof Winter Parka
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $350
Weight: 2 lb. 13.5 oz.
Insulation: 600 fill-power down
Length: 35.25 in.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Highly protective hood with removable faux-fur ruff
- Warm
- Breathable
- Flattering fit
- Durable construction
- Comes in lots of colors
Cons
- Heavy
- Not the most packable
- Pockets aren't insulated
- Less insulated in the arms
Warmth
This coat will keep you alive while winter tries to do the opposite. Moisture didn’t penetrate the breathable DryVent shell in our soak test for over an hour. In field testing, it beads and sheds snow and rain well. With very few seams for moisture to sneak in, this jacket is pretty bomber.
The recycled down sandwiched between the waterproof shell and 50D 71 G/M² 100% Recycled Polyester inner lining ensures that the down performs in all winter conditions.
The Arctic Parka is ideal for those who need reliable warmth and weather protection for daily wear and casual outdoor activities. It breathes better than a waterproof hardshell, but if you start working up a hill or digging in the snow, you’ll quickly overheat.
Finally, it performed nearly as well as our oversized ultra-high loft parkas in our warmth test, lasting 139 minutes before the temperature dropped to ambient levels. The only weakness in the warmth department is the arms are less insulated than the body which makes it easier to move in, but we did notice it, especially at the transition from arms to shoulders.
Weather Resistance
Putting the word Arctic in its name is a bold move by The North Face, but they’re no stranger to wicked weather. They know that you don’t have to hike to the top of a mountain or go to the Arctic to face whipping wind, driving snow, and sub-zero temperatures. The result is a trustworthy coat that handles tough winter weather in style.
Its 2-layer DryVent shell is waterproof, breathable, and seam-sealed which keeps out snow, rain, and wind. The jacket’s outer surface has a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish that sheds moisture effectively, keeping you dry in wet conditions. The coat performed well in our testing, keeping moisture at bay for over two hours before any dampness reached the interior.
Comfort & Functionality
We were really happy with the comfort and functionality of the Arctic Parka. The parka’s mid-thigh length provides full coverage without feeling bulky, and its adjustable waist ensures a personalized fit. The faux-fur-lined, removable ruff offers extra warmth and protection from crosswinds and snow, though it can feel a bit oversized on smaller faces.
The interior features a roomy design with a couple of zippered hand pockets and an internal chest pocket for secure storage.
While the jacket’s insulation and water resistance are solid, it’s a bit heavier than some alternatives, which can make it less ideal for long walks or travel. That said, the warmth and weather protection it provides make it perfect for daily wear and casual winter activities.
The fit is relaxed, but a bulky sweater or fleece will feel tight in the arms/shoulders. This coat will betray you if you start breaking a sweat because while it says it breathes, the 50D inner lining and waterproof shell ventilate enough for vigorous activity.
Features
This best-seller is packed with useful features that enhance its practicality for cold-weather conditions. The jacket’s mid-thigh length provides ample coverage. The faux-fur-lined hood offers protection from frostbite-quality wind and snow. Soft fleece on the collar and chin is a lovely added touch. Dual inner and outer storm flaps aren’t letting any drafts in.
The DryVent fabric is highly weather-resistant, keeping out snow and rain while allowing moisture vapor to escape if you’re climbing, sledding hills, or walking with a little pep in your step.
The jacket’s durable, seam-sealed construction ensures that you stay dry even in wet conditions. Thoughtful details like zippered hand pockets and an internal drop chest pocket make it easy to keep your essentials secure. Minor hangup: we wish the hand pockets were insulated.
The internal wrist cuffs are pretty thick which is not the most comfortable while using the thumbholes.
Should You Buy the North Face aRCTIC pARKA?
This jacket isn’t popular just because it’s trendy, it’s popular because it works and it has a streamlined look that keeps you warm without any indication you’re wearing a sleeping bag level of down feathers.
The combination of 600-fill recycled down insulation and a weather-resistant DryVent shell ensures that you’ll stay warm and dry in most cold, wet conditions. It’s great for city streets, winter walks, or playing in the snow. If we had to find a fault, it’s a bit heavy and not very packable, so there are better jackets for longer walks or travel.
What Other Winter Jackets Should You Consider?
Take a look at our list of the best winter jackets for women or read more about specific similar models:
REI Norseland Parka Review: If you’re not planning on using your parka in wet conditions, but want similar insulation, the Norseland Parka by REI is a great buy.
REI Stormhenge 850 Hybrid Parka Review: A highly functional jacket for active winter use, with a combination of down and synthetic insulation for warmth and weather protection. Ideal for those who need performance in cold and wet conditions without sacrificing mobility.
Fjallraven Nuuk Parka Review: Not into the sleek look of the Arctic, the Nuuk is a more industrial workwear style that is more durable and just as weather-resistant. With its high-quality insulation and waterproof shell, the Nuuk Parka is perfect for those seeking a reliable jacket for snowy, cold adventures.
