What you need is a synthetic-fill parka that’s got as much loft as possible. For really, really cold weather, that will need to be supplemented by considerable layeringexpedition-weight long underwear, maybe a mid-weight fleece layerbut a good top layer is a start to keeping warm.
DAS ParkaSeveral pretty good choices. One is Patagonia’s DAS Parka ($265; ), a full-cut (room for layering), hooded parka that’s stuffed with Polarguard 3D for reliable, durable insulation. It’s not long on fashion, and comes pretty close to down-parka warmth. On the expensive side, but worth a look, is Arc’Teryx’s Fission Belay Parka. It uses PrimaLoft for insulation, which is a little softer than Polarguard so feels more natural when worn in a jacket. And it has a Gore-Tex shell so it’s both warm and waterproof. On the downside, it’s expensive at $500 (). Lastly, The North Face’s Morpheus Belay Jacket ($349; ) offers similar performance with a proprietary waterproof-breathable shell and Polarguard Delta insulation, so it comes in at a lower price.
Any one of these is about as warm as a non-down jacket can be. My first choice probably would be price-based, so I’d look first at Patagonia’s DAS Parka.
No idea what you’re up to in planning this theoretical Arctic standout, but whatever it is, keep warm!
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