Down jackets and parkas: the details that make all the difference

25 Avril 2025
Doudounes et parkas : les détails qui font la différence

From two-way zippers to interior shoulder straps and windproof cuffs... There are a multitude of functional details that allow down jackets and parkas to combine performance, comfort, and style, accompanying you on each of your adventures. La Canadienne teams decipher every tiny detail for you, revealing their usefulness and importance.

The windproof visor

Also known as a storm visor. This visor is characterized by being slightly wider at the top of the hood.
It provides better protection against capricious weather elements such as rain, wind, or even strong sunlight.

The fur-lined hood

The presence of fur around the hood provides better protection against water, air, wind, and cold. The fur traps air between its hairs, preventing wind penetration.

The wire in the hood

Some hoods feature a metal wire, allowing for better shape and adjustment.

Sealed seams

Sealed or heat-welded seams provide maximum waterproofing. Any garment with this type of seam is waterproof!

Reflective strips

Reflective strips on an outdoor garment enhance visibility in rainy weather or low light conditions.
They can be located on the front, sides, back, or hood of your garment. Present on a hood, they are useful even when the hood is not in use.

Internal elastic straps

These elasticated straps allow you to wear the down jacket or parka over your shoulders while keeping your hands free.
They can be removable or fixed, depending on the brand. There can be one or two of them.

Fleece-lined outer pockets

Some outer pockets may be lined with fleece. They help keep your hands warm or quickly warm them up.

Multiple interior pockets

Zipped, buttoned, snap-fastened, with wide mesh, or piped, the interior pockets allow you to store all your essentials discreetly and securely.

Internal drawstrings

Thanks to drawstrings or tightening cords, usually located inside at the waist, you can create a personalized and adjusted fit according to your desires and moods.
Adjusting the waist or hem with drawstrings also helps to retain body heat better.

Windproof cuffs

Often made of ribbed and elasticated jersey, the presence of windproof cuffs guarantees greater comfort and warmth. They provide good ease of movement while preventing cold air from entering your sleeve.

Thumbholes

Sometimes, windproof cuffs come with thumbholes. In these cases, comfort is maximized, and heat retention is optimal.

Ease gussets

Generally located at the back of your garment, on the sides, or under the armpits, ease gussets, as their name suggests, allow for greater freedom of movement and comfort.
Sometimes, they provide quicker access to interior pockets.

Underarm ventilation zone

These ventilation zones are usually zippered or eyeletted and offer better ventilation and airflow while maintaining protective attributes against elements and warmth.

Elbow reinforcements

These reinforcements increase the durability of the product, especially in areas prone to weakening more easily over time, such as the elbows.

Two-way zipper

Also known as a double-ended or double-zip closure.
This zipped closure can open in two directions, allowing great freedom of movement and ventilation.
Unzipping the bottom allows for good ease and mobility at the hips and buttocks, especially when sitting or moving (cycling, climbing stairs, etc.).

Magnetic storm flap

Also known as a storm flap. This flap provides extra protection and creates a real barrier against the elements.
The magnetic closure allows the garment to be closed quickly in one single motion.

Now you're an expert on every detail that will make up your future down jacket or parka.
You are now enlightened to choose, according to your daily use or occasional adventures, the outdoor jacket that will best accompany you. 

Our advisors are available to assist and advise you without obligation to purchase at 04 78 60 06 01.