Puffer jackets and parkas: warm jackets for winter

Serge Blanco Piumino and Stormer: two answers to the cold

The doudoune Serge Blanco Piumino, whose name means puffer in Italian, features a quilted filling; its sleeveless version keeps the body warm while leaving the arms free, useful in the car or during mid-season. The parka Stormer, longer in style, combines a fleece lining and a water-repellent fabric: it targets damp and windy days, particularly during winter matches in open stands. At Superdry, the Fuji, with its hood, and the Everest, which also comes in a longer version, are options for both men and women, while the JOTT Seda, sleeveless and lightweight, fits under a jacket.

The brands

Doudounes and parkas are available by brand:

• Serge Blanco.
• Jack & Jones.
• Force XV.
• Kappa.
• Macron.
• Puma.

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Down, feather or synthetic: understanding the filling

Down is the underlayer of geese and ducks: its filaments trap air and offer the best balance of warmth and weight. Its quality is measured by the loft power, expressed in cuin: above six hundred, the filling is considered very effective. The label also indicates the ratio of down to feathers, the latter being heavier and less insulating. However, down is sensitive to moisture, which flattens it. Synthetic filling, made of polyester fibers, insulates slightly less at the same weight but retains heat even when wet and dries quickly, an advantage for stands in the rain.

Length, hood and size: adjusting your winter coat

Length changes the level of protection: a short puffer stops at the hips and allows for free movement, while a parka falls to mid-thigh and covers the lower back on a cold stadium seat. The hood, either fixed or removable, can effectively replace an umbrella on the sideline. The heated parka from Sixth June features warming zones powered by an external battery, which must be supplied by the wearer. In terms of size, stick to your usual size if wearing a thin layer underneath, or go up a size for a thicker garment. A puffer can be washed at thirty degrees on a delicate cycle and then dried with two dryer balls that fluff up the filling.

Good deals

Great deals can be found in promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections. Items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours. The major events of the year follow a steady order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, winter sales, spring’s French Days, followed by summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

What does the RDS label on a puffer mean?

The Responsible Down Standard certifies that the down comes from birds that have not been live-plucked or force-fed, with traceability from the farm to the garment. It reassures those looking for naturally sourced filling from a controlled supply chain.

What does water-repellent mean on a parka?

A water-repellent fabric has been treated to cause water to bead on its surface rather than allowing it to soak in. It protects against a shower or drizzle, but isn't waterproof under heavy and prolonged rain.

How do you store a puffer in summer?

Wash it, let it dry completely, then hang it on a hanger or lay it flat in a bag made of breathable cotton. It's best to avoid keeping it compressed in a cover for long periods, as this flattens the filling.

Does a sleeveless puffer really keep you warm?

It keeps the torso and back warm, where the core of the cold sensation is felt, while freeing up the arms. It's worn alone during mid-season or as a mid-layer under a parka when the temperature drops.

Why does a puffer lose feathers?

Small feathers can pass through seams or loosely woven fabric, especially in the first few weeks. Don't pull them, as this enlarges the opening: push them back inside and lightly rub the fabric to close the fibers.