This Parka Will Have You Exploring Cold Destinations in Comfort For Years to Come

Photo: Arcteryx

Here’s the key features of the Arc’teryx Liatris Down Parka:

• 850-fill European goose down insulation: Provides exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio.
• DWR-treated down: Maintains loft and insulating properties in wet conditions.
• Pertex Quantum outer shell: Lightweight, durable, wind and water resistant.
• Helmet-compatible hood: Adjustable for a customized fit.
• Two-way front zipper: Allows for easy ventilation.
• Multiple pockets: Provides ample storage space.
• Baffled construction: Prevents down from shifting and clumping.
• RDS-certified down: Ensures ethical and sustainable sourcing.
• Lightweight and packable design: Easy to carry and store.

Arc’teryx, renowned for its technical outdoor gear, has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation. After trying out its summer hiking gear (which I’m still using into fall, thanks to its incredible insulation), I looked to the brand for a jacket suitable for a recent trip to Norway.

I wanted a parka that I could wear outdoors and around town. That means it had to be chic in design and practical. I also wanted something lightweight, and although the Liatris feels like you are wrapped in a comforter, it does not weigh you down. If anything, you puff up like a little cloud when sitting in it.

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

It’s also incredibly warm. I usually layer a light gilet under my outer jacket, even in fall, but there’s no need with the Liatris. This is thanks to its 850-fill European goose down insulation. The high-quality down is renowned for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal choice for cold weather conditions. It’s treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) to maintain its loft and insulating properties even in wet conditions.

The jacket’s outer shell is crafted from Pertex Quantum fabric. This material provides excellent wind and water resistance. I’ve been caught in many heavy rainfalls recently, and I was shocked at how dry my undergarments were, even after an extended period of wet weather. The fabric is also very soft. It almost feels like water-proof brushed cotton.

The hood is helmet-compatible and can be adjusted horizontally and vertically for a customized fit. This is a godsend in Scotland, where the rain has a canny ability to come at you from all directions.

Photo: Katie Scott Aiton

Aside from comfort and style, there are two other design features I had not considered, but I’m sure glad Arc’teryx did. The first is the two-way front zipper, allowing for easy ventilation and flexibility. I’ve read others say the parka is too long, which was a concern for me, too. But because you can un-zip from the bottom, you can easily maneuver, and the jacket still keeps its shape — it looks nothing like the boxy sleeping bag-style jackets I’ve seen elsewhere. The second is the pockets. Now, I must admit, I’ve lost my car keys a few times in the depths of this parka. It took me a minute to work all the pockets out, to determine which ones I should use for everyday stuff and which I could store valuables in the internal jacket. There are beautifully lined hand pockets, chest pockets, and internal pockets. The side pocket is even deep enough for a water bottle.

If you’re in the market for a high-performance jacket ideal for various outdoor activities, this gives other parkas a serious run for their money. You might need to put dollars aside, but the payoff will be worth it.