Anorak or Parka
- Nov 14, 2012
In many parts of the country, different terminology is used for different things. There's the obvious ones like soda vs. pop, but what about when it comes to high visibility, or hi vis cold weather gear, like parka vs. anorak?Wikipedia says that the words anorak and parka are now often used interchangeably, but when first introduced, they described somewhat different garments, and the distinction is still maintained by some.
Basically, an anorak is a waterproof jacket with a hood and drawstrings at the waist and cuffs, and a parka is a knee-length cold-weather jacket or coat; typically stuffed with down or very warm synthetic fiber, and with a fur-lined hood. Originally an anorak specifically implied a pull-over jacket without a zipper, button or frogged opening, but this distinction is now largely lost, and many garments with a full-length front opening are now described as anoraks. The anorak and parka have been developed from their traditional forms into a number of different designs using modern materials.
The word 'parka' is derived from the Nenets language meaning "animal skin". It first entered the English written record in a 1625 work by Samual Purchas.
The word 'anorak' comes from the Kalaallisut word anoraq, transliterated circa 1924. Its real meaning is "gay beaded item worn by Greenland women or brides in the 1930s". As a fashion statement, it was originally made from nylon, then poplin by 1960, when it featured in Vogue magazine as a fashion item.
The 350 Pro Series Parka has seam sealed construction with thermal insulation for added warmth. The parka features 2" 3M brand silver reflective tape. The storm cuff keeps wind and snow out of critical areas. Also includes a hidden collar hood and adjustable cuffs. Pockets: two outside lower slash pockets with zippers and storm flaps; one outside upper radio pocket; one hidden inside wallet pocket with storm flap; and on inside general pupose pocket. Parkas are available in both high visibility lime (9662) and orange (9663), in sizes M-5XL. ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 3 compliant.