An anorak is typically a hooded, waterproof, pull-over jacket, while a parka is a longer, weatherproof jacket with a fur-lined hood. Both anorak and parka are hooded coats, originally worn in polar regions and made with seal or caribou skin. In modern fashion, these terms are often used interchangeably to refer to a weatherproof jacket with a hood.
Key Takeaways
- Anoraks are typically waterproof, hooded, pull-over jackets.
- Parkas are long weatherproof jackets with fur-lined hoods.
- Both terms are often used interchangeably in modern fashion.
What is an Anorak?
An anorak is a hooded, waterproof, pull-over jacket that offers protection from harsh weather conditions. Traditional anoraks did not have a front opening and sometimes had drawstrings at the waist and cuffs. In today’s fashion industry, the term anorak can refer to any type of weatherproof jacket.
What is a Parka?
A parka is a large weatherproof jacket with a fur or faux-lined hood, designed for cold weather. Parkas are usually longer than anoraks, covering the hips, and most have a front opening. There are various styles of parkas, such as snorkel parka and fishtail parka, both of which have military origins and are effective in cold and windy weather.
What are the Similarities Between Anorak and Parka?
- Both terms are used interchangeably in modern fashion.
- Anorak and parka are both weatherproof jackets.
- They can be worn in cold weather.
- Both garments were invented by the Caribou Inuit.
What is the Difference Between Anorak and Parka?
In a traditional sense, the key difference between an anorak and a parka is that anoraks are typically waterproof, hooded, pull-over jackets, while parkas are longer, weatherproof jackets with fur-lined hoods. Parkas are usually longer than anoraks and may not have drawstrings at the waist or cuffs, unlike anoraks. Additionally, most parkas have a front opening, while anoraks do not.
Summary- Anorak vs Parka
Though the terms anorak and parka are often used interchangeably in the modern fashion industry, there is a difference between the two. Anorak is typically a waterproof, hooded, pull-over jacket, while parka is a long weatherproof jacket with a fur-lined hood.