The parka jacket is a type of coat that originates from the Inuit people of Greenland. Traditionally, it is knee-length, lined for warmth, and comes with a hood trimmed with fur. The original was used for hunting and fishing, with the fur trim protecting against the cold and biting wind. It was waterproof and made from seal skin, regularly treated with seal oil to maintain its water-resistant properties. Fortunately, modern parkas don’t require this – you get all the benefits of a classic jacket style with minimal maintenance.
Parkas became very popular in the Nordic countries back in the 1960s.
During the 60s and 70s, a classic variant emerged, designed for everyday wear rather than extreme climates. This model featured an orange quilted lining. Later, production of these variants stopped, and today they hold high value on the vintage market.
Parkas – classic jacket in several variants
One version is the snorkel parka, named because the hood can be zipped almost completely, leaving only a small opening for the eyes and mouth. It’s highly effective in extreme cold but can be somewhat bulky. Like many other garments, the parka has evolved from purely functional to fashionable, and the snorkel parka is now popular in hip-hop circles and among indie music fans.
Another version that has undergone a similar transformation is the fishtail parka, which features a fish-tail-like extension at the bottom of the back. This can be fastened between the legs for better protection against wind and weather. The model comes from the U.S. military in the 1950s, where it was used during the Korean War. It became a cult item in the 1960s when British fashion embraced it as signature clothing, as it offered excellent protection from dirt while Mods rode their scooters around town.
At Bubbleroom, you’ll find a solid selection of parkas online, including brands offering women’s parkas such as Chiara Forthi, Truly Mine, and Happy Holly. A tip: order a matching scarf, hat, and a pair of warm gloves at the same time. You can also find great deals in our parka sale section. Hurry to our sale page and face winter in style with a new parka!

