Bottom Line
The North Face Triple C Down Parka is built for the coldest winter conditions. The mid-calf length and high-loft down insulation keep you warm even in sub-zero temps, making it perfect for brutal cold.
The oversized baffles, large insulated hood, and gaiter cuffs trap warmth and block out the chill. It’s a heavy-duty parka, so it’s not the easiest to pack or wear every day, but if you’re facing harsh winters head-on, this coat is the winner on our guide to the best winter jackets for women.
We also just have to mention the zipper, it was by far the smoothest, easiest, and longest zipper we tested in our top women’s winter jackets. Even with cold fingers, we could open and close the zipper—a plus for those with low dexterity in freezing temps. The only downside? Its length can make it a bit of a dirt magnet when hopping in and out of the car.
How We Tested
We tested the North Face Triple C down parka in extreme winter conditions: windy passes, sub-zero night strolls, and any time we didn’t want to go outside because “it’s too cold.” We also put it to the test by sticking a thermometer on the inside of the coat and timing how long it took to drop 30 degrees and reach outdoor ambient temperatures. Finally, we did a soak-through test to see how well the shell and down repels water.
Quick Specs
The North Face Triple C Parka
Ultimate Warmth and Coverage Parka
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $350
Weight: n/a
Insulation: 600 fill-power down
Length: 46.4 in.
Pros
- Premium quality
- Smooth zipper
- Super warm
- Ultimate coverage
- Non-PFC DWR Finish
Cons
- Expensive
- Bulky for casual use
Warmth
We still can’t figure out why it’s named Triple C. Our research revealed that Triple C is slang for over-the-counter cold and cough medicine. Is this parka so good you won’t catch a cold if you wear it? We think so!
This parka will not let you get chilled while you wait for your kid to get off the bus, even in frigid temps. 600-fill down and oversized baffles slow heat transfer to a crawl as it moves toward the cold external air.
During testing, it took 190 minutes for the jacket to drop 30 degrees to ambient temperatures, which was only two minutes behind the best on our list. The mid-calf length adds extra warmth by covering more of the body, while the high-loft insulation works to trap heat effectively. Whether you’re standing still or walking through the chill, this jacket keeps you cozy for hours.
Weather Resistance
Could Triple C stand for calm, cool, and collected? That’s how we felt standing in 40+ MPH winds in NW Montana. We don’t expect a parka of this caliber to be used above freezing, so it makes sense that the fabric wetted through within 10 minutes of being soaked. However, the lining and shell polyester does a fantastic job of beading and repelling moisture, and it dried quickly. Throw on the Triple C jacket, and bring on the snow because there’s no excuse to stay inside when you have a parka like this.
Comfort & Functionality
In terms of comfort and function, Triple C probably stands for Triple Crown because this coat makes you brave, fierce, and tough. The Triple C makes -40 feel just fine, which is crazy. Temps like that are usually a fast track to hypothermia, but this coverage and warmth makes standing still in cold temps totally doable. It’s been the coat that makes us more tolerant of Montana’s gray winters.
We’ve mentioned it before, but it deserves more attention: we love this zipper. North Face thought this one through because it’s a very long zipper and if it wasn’t buttery smooth, it would be such a bummer. The only complaint we could come up with is we wish the pockets had both sides lined with fleece. Maybe a draft tube at the collar would also be an improvement, but we didn’t miss it.
We wouldn’t ask this parka to be our everything because that is not what it is designed for. This parka is for “parka-ing it” not for fast walking, running after a kid on a sledding hill, or running firewood loads to the shed. This is for standing in the cold or chilly strolls. If we look at this coat in that lens, it functions great. If we need to do anything more than a stroll, this jacket starts to be overkill.
Features
The North Face Triple C Parka keeps it simple in the features department, focusing on what really matters for extreme cold: warmth and coverage. It has a few basic but essential hand pockets and an interior zip pocket to secure small valuables.
The insulated hood can cinch easily and is roomy but not oversized. Signature North Face-sized baffles trap warmth efficiently. There’s no fluff here—well, actually, there’s a lot of fluff, but it’s the good kind in this situation.
Should You Buy the North Face Triple C Parka?
If you’re going to be standing or walking the dog in -10 wind chill and you want to enjoy it, then this is a great buy. Truly, this is a dream coat for those not-so-dreamy winter days and nights. For those who plan on being more active, or need advanced waterproofing, check out some of the more versatile options on our list.
What Other Winter Jackets Should You Consider?
See our complete guide to the best winter jackets for women for more options. Below are some parkas that are similar to the Triple C.
REI Norseland Review: A little more style, a smidge less warm, and a good bit shorter, the Norseland does a great job in the cold and the snow without restricting your mobility.
Outdoor Research Coze Down Parka Review: This OR’s warmest and fullest coverage parka and it is a beast. This coat is just a touch shorter, has a draft tube, and has better pockets.
Rab Deep Cover Parka Review: If you’re after a quick-drying down puffy parka that brings technical performance to everyday style, the Rab Deep Cover delivers.
