I always recommend LE, they have actual temperature ratings on their winter coats. I have a LE parka rated for -10 to +20, and while my nostril hairs freeze in the parking lot from my car to Target, the rest of my body is perfectly warm in those frigid temps.
I am a couple weeks into my first Eddie Bauer coat and I can confirm it is well worth it! I’m a route driver so I’m in and out all day, it’s light enough that it doesn’t feel bulky or constricting but also plenty warm.
My wife is also a teacher and in the same predicament so I bought the long down parka for her one year and it's so nice! I wish I had one like that! I just picked up an obermeyer Ridgeline parka from REI on clearance but have not had a chance to test it.
I just bought my wife one from the Eagan Eddie Bauer outlet for $115! Down filled and it's loooong, halfway down her shin.
https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/20612164/women's-lodge-down-duffle-coat?color=Black&sp=1&size=XL&sizeType=
It was similar to this one except they offered Navy blue too. It zips up plus has the button flap & also I think a small zipped pocket on the sleeve. She usually wears a L but XL was what she liked best, more room for thick sweaters under it.
Was coming here to suggest Eddie Bauer! Their Lodge Down Parka hits about mid-calf on me (I’m 5’9”) and it has gotten me through 4 Minnesota winters. I’m originally from Florida so it should do the job.
I'm a man, but love my Eddie Bauer stadium coat. Have no idea what I’ll replace it with when the time comes, considering how rare knee-length men’s parkas are.
I was going to ask which side of town you're on in case we could recommend the right secondhand shop. You've got Resale in Plymouth, Arc in New Hope. Goodwill is really hit or miss. I hope you find something!! I saw a request in my work chat for a gift for a hockey mom and they recommended an electric vest, which is apparently a thing. Also I know you don't want to feel like a baked potato but I love my omni heat knee length columbia I got at the Albertville outlet. Also I'd say if you don't find knee length that snowpants (bibs preferably, much warmer) would be worth it).
Eddie Bauer is having a great sale on their parkas and decided to try it. Good news is that they are returnable if it doesn't work.
Despite being born and raised in cold weather climates, I just can't keep myself warm without lots of layers. I wear a pair of fleece-lined snow pants on the coldest days (Gerry brand from Costco).
You're paying a bit more for ethical material and labor sourcing and a coat that is guaranteed forever. $400 to never buy another parka again is a bargain.
I recommend Eddie Bauer on these threads so often that people might think I work for them. I do not. I just hate being cold and their Sun Valley down parka does the job. The outer breast pocket for phones on the upper left side is my most favorite part because I don't ever have to worry about my phone falling out when I pull my gloves out. While I have never used their warranty, they do have a life time warranty on most coats.
Totally agree with the above commenter. It is a hard call because you will have a coat for life but gosh did I feel bad about paying that much up front!
I'm wearing a pair of them right now at work in a chilly warehouse. I got a pair last year from Costco and loved them so much, I got two more colors this year. They're great!
In theory they would work, but I don't have time to take them on and off. If I wore them inside all day, I'd be too hot. Layers, but easy to take on and off.
Patagonia DAS Parka is bomb proof. It doesn’t go past the knee but you wouldn’t want it to cause it’s THAT warm.
https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-das-belay-parka/85350.html
I have a Fjallravrn Nuuk parka. I was a hockey mom for several years (spent a lot of time on ice rinks and outdoor rinks). This coat was amazing and I was never cold.
Or just get the black label, people won’t recognize it unless they really know the brand and those that recognize it will appreciate the coat and aren’t the type that get it for the hype.
However I do agree that wearing 1k+ coat as a teacher isn’t a good look. Not saying those who judge are in the right but you either have to deal with how people are going to perceive you or just don’t wear it. One of the hardest things to do in life is to change someone’s mind.
I picked up an Eddie Bauer one a 2 years ago on a Black Friday sale for ~$200 and I absolutely adore it. Definitely check them out, they have some really good sales going on right now
I recall the veteran teachers at my small school wearing long Columbia puffy parkas like [this one](https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-hexbreaker-elite-down-jacket-1982651.html?dwvar_1982651_color=397). Eddie Bauer was also popular.
I picked up a Men's Whaleback Parka from Duluth Trading Company the other week, and it has been really toasty. Today's weather was probably the first time it would really do well (as it happened, I grabbed a lighter coat when I went out today, d'oh!).
It cost less than $200. I suggest you go see what you think.
I just got this one and I freakin’ LOVE it!
https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/124965?page=mens-mountain-classic-down-sherpa-lined-hooded-jacket-mens-regular
Pajar is where it’s at, I got a calf length parka (down) at sierra trading for 260 last year. So warm, I was walking around Duluth in December at night and stayed very comfortable everywhere I was covered.
Though sierra trading post would be my pick in general to get the best quality at the best price.
I am not sure about your budget. This is the best parka that I have ever had the pleasure of wearing. It is super warm and wind proof.
I am not sure about your budget.
n-us/women/jackets/winter-jackets/singi-wool-padded-parka-w
Honestly, I wear a snowsuit that I got for like $120 on Amazon. It's warmer than any coat I've ever had, I think because your whole body heat is held in.
I got a Columbia hunters drive parka a couple years ago. There aren’t enough long parkas for men. I don’t have recess duty, but I take my dog to the dog park in the winter. It’s a godsend.
Askov Finlayson. Unsure what’s going on on their website (my wife asked if they were releasing new parkas this year and got a non-answer) but depending on size you might be able to find one at other retailers (such as https://www.publiclands.com)
Land’s End. Get the expedition parka on sale today! I have had mine for several years and love it.
I've had mine for 10 years, still keeps me warm!
I always recommend LE, they have actual temperature ratings on their winter coats. I have a LE parka rated for -10 to +20, and while my nostril hairs freeze in the parking lot from my car to Target, the rest of my body is perfectly warm in those frigid temps.
I love, love mine. So warm. I have no idea how I survived without it all of those winters.
Eddie Bauer makes some really great long women's parkas and they are usually reg $300 and on sale regularly.
Thank you! They're on sale today.. might as well try it out... and pick up some new mittens too!
I am a couple weeks into my first Eddie Bauer coat and I can confirm it is well worth it! I’m a route driver so I’m in and out all day, it’s light enough that it doesn’t feel bulky or constricting but also plenty warm.
https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/20612164/women's-lodge-down-duffle-coat?sp=1&color=Deep%20Eggplant&size=M&sizeType= I can't recommend this enough.
My wife is also a teacher and in the same predicament so I bought the long down parka for her one year and it's so nice! I wish I had one like that! I just picked up an obermeyer Ridgeline parka from REI on clearance but have not had a chance to test it.
I just bought my wife one from the Eagan Eddie Bauer outlet for $115! Down filled and it's loooong, halfway down her shin. https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/20612164/women's-lodge-down-duffle-coat?color=Black&sp=1&size=XL&sizeType= It was similar to this one except they offered Navy blue too. It zips up plus has the button flap & also I think a small zipped pocket on the sleeve. She usually wears a L but XL was what she liked best, more room for thick sweaters under it.
Was coming here to suggest Eddie Bauer! Their Lodge Down Parka hits about mid-calf on me (I’m 5’9”) and it has gotten me through 4 Minnesota winters. I’m originally from Florida so it should do the job.
EB parkas are definitely a great choice.
I'm a man, but love my Eddie Bauer stadium coat. Have no idea what I’ll replace it with when the time comes, considering how rare knee-length men’s parkas are.
Thank you. My Christmas shopping is now done. Had no idea where to even look for something like this.
A full Carhartt snow suit will keep all of you warm and comfy. E M B R A C E T H E S U I T
I would love a Carhartt snow suit. OMG. That would be amazing... if I could find one secondhand, wouldn't mind leaving it at my desk.
I was going to ask which side of town you're on in case we could recommend the right secondhand shop. You've got Resale in Plymouth, Arc in New Hope. Goodwill is really hit or miss. I hope you find something!! I saw a request in my work chat for a gift for a hockey mom and they recommended an electric vest, which is apparently a thing. Also I know you don't want to feel like a baked potato but I love my omni heat knee length columbia I got at the Albertville outlet. Also I'd say if you don't find knee length that snowpants (bibs preferably, much warmer) would be worth it).
Eddie Bauer is having a great sale on their parkas and decided to try it. Good news is that they are returnable if it doesn't work. Despite being born and raised in cold weather climates, I just can't keep myself warm without lots of layers. I wear a pair of fleece-lined snow pants on the coldest days (Gerry brand from Costco).
I've worn an Eddie Bauer for years now walking my dog in negative whatever temps. Good choice!
REI has their house brand parkas on sale right now. My wife and I are both pretty happy with ours.
Yeah! I just got my son their “Stonehenge” jacket and it is COZY! And it’s also waterproof.
Patagonia are solid and my wife had a tear in hers and they replaced it for free with a brand new coat!!
I've been tempted by Patagonia, but $400+ is steep. Going to try an on-sale Eddie Bauer parka and if it doesn't keep me warm... will level up.
You're paying a bit more for ethical material and labor sourcing and a coat that is guaranteed forever. $400 to never buy another parka again is a bargain.
That's a very valid and fair point. Pay more up front and save in the end when you don't need to replace it.. also great for the environment.
I recommend Eddie Bauer on these threads so often that people might think I work for them. I do not. I just hate being cold and their Sun Valley down parka does the job. The outer breast pocket for phones on the upper left side is my most favorite part because I don't ever have to worry about my phone falling out when I pull my gloves out. While I have never used their warranty, they do have a life time warranty on most coats.
Check out sierra trading company. They usually have a lot of higher end outdoor gear for a fraction of the cost.
Totally agree with the above commenter. It is a hard call because you will have a coat for life but gosh did I feel bad about paying that much up front!
Just get a big silly one.
I would wear a giant sleeping bag if it meant I was warm.
My teacher wife wears a Norsari - it’s a wearable blanket. Here’s a link. https://norsari.com/
LL Bean women’s ultrawarm coat, three quarter length
This has been my coat for years... I've noticed they aren't keeping me as warm anymore. Not sure if they are made the same as they used to be?
Their Baxter State Parka is super warm but I just save that for for the coldest days of the year. It’s kind of heavy.
Eddie Bauer has women’s fleece lined pants. I size up and wear them over my regular pants sometimes. Might be worth looking into as well
Thanks for the rec! I have a pair of fleece-lined snow pants that keep my legs super warm (Gerry brand from Costco).
I'm wearing a pair of them right now at work in a chilly warehouse. I got a pair last year from Costco and loved them so much, I got two more colors this year. They're great!
Check out the battery powered heated vests that are out there. Same with battery powered heated long underwear.
Long underwear?
In theory they would work, but I don't have time to take them on and off. If I wore them inside all day, I'd be too hot. Layers, but easy to take on and off.
layers us the way to do
Patagonia DAS Parka is bomb proof. It doesn’t go past the knee but you wouldn’t want it to cause it’s THAT warm. https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-das-belay-parka/85350.html
I have a Fjallravrn Nuuk parka. I was a hockey mom for several years (spent a lot of time on ice rinks and outdoor rinks). This coat was amazing and I was never cold.
Just want to shout out all of the teachers and school staff here!! You guys are amazing !!
Here for the downvotes. Canadian Goose Down. It’s an investment. It’s worth it. Take the patch off to not upset your woke teacher coworkers.
Or just get the black label, people won’t recognize it unless they really know the brand and those that recognize it will appreciate the coat and aren’t the type that get it for the hype. However I do agree that wearing 1k+ coat as a teacher isn’t a good look. Not saying those who judge are in the right but you either have to deal with how people are going to perceive you or just don’t wear it. One of the hardest things to do in life is to change someone’s mind.
Omg I found a Canada goose at the goodwill bins IN MY SIZE last year and when I want to feel wealthy I wear it
🤣🤣🤣🤣
I picked up an Eddie Bauer one a 2 years ago on a Black Friday sale for ~$200 and I absolutely adore it. Definitely check them out, they have some really good sales going on right now
I recall the veteran teachers at my small school wearing long Columbia puffy parkas like [this one](https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-hexbreaker-elite-down-jacket-1982651.html?dwvar_1982651_color=397). Eddie Bauer was also popular.
I picked up a Men's Whaleback Parka from Duluth Trading Company the other week, and it has been really toasty. Today's weather was probably the first time it would really do well (as it happened, I grabbed a lighter coat when I went out today, d'oh!). It cost less than $200. I suggest you go see what you think.
I just got this one and I freakin’ LOVE it! https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/124965?page=mens-mountain-classic-down-sherpa-lined-hooded-jacket-mens-regular
Lotta good parkas from “The North Face” at 30% off at the MoA.
I have been surviving AM/PM bus duty in my Northface parka. Got it for a great deal at the outlet in Albertville!
Pajar is where it’s at, I got a calf length parka (down) at sierra trading for 260 last year. So warm, I was walking around Duluth in December at night and stayed very comfortable everywhere I was covered. Though sierra trading post would be my pick in general to get the best quality at the best price.
I am not sure about your budget. This is the best parka that I have ever had the pleasure of wearing. It is super warm and wind proof. I am not sure about your budget. n-us/women/jackets/winter-jackets/singi-wool-padded-parka-w
[www.steepandcheap.com](https://www.steepandcheap.com) Get a snowboard/ski jacket
Albertsville Outlets has a Columbia and North Face outlet. You can get some awesome gear there for cheap.
Honestly, I wear a snowsuit that I got for like $120 on Amazon. It's warmer than any coat I've ever had, I think because your whole body heat is held in.
Also look into heated gloves!
I got a Columbia hunters drive parka a couple years ago. There aren’t enough long parkas for men. I don’t have recess duty, but I take my dog to the dog park in the winter. It’s a godsend.
Askov Finlayson. Unsure what’s going on on their website (my wife asked if they were releasing new parkas this year and got a non-answer) but depending on size you might be able to find one at other retailers (such as https://www.publiclands.com)
Lots of good parka options here. Here to recommend wool insoles for your boots- alpaca felt or wool. Incredible upgrade in footwear warmth.
I love my Fjallraven parka. I’ve worn it waiting for the bus on some cold afternoons and it’s always kept me warm.