The History of the Parka
A mainstay of practical outerwear, the parka is a coat with serious history — born in the harshest of climates, adopted by the military, claimed by counterculture, and now reimagined as a piece of modern-day utility with lasting style. It’s that rare thing: a garment built for function, but with an enduring place in the world of considered clothing.
A Coat With Cold in Its Bones
The story of the parka begins in the Arctic. Originally designed by the Caribou Inuit to withstand the extremes of life in the Canadian north, early versions were made from caribou or seal skin, often coated in fish oil to provide a natural water-resistant barrier against wind and snow. The name itself is thought to come from the Nenets people of Siberia — translating roughly to “animal skin.”
These early parkas were essential — not just clothing, but survival. Thick, insulated, and hooded, they were engineered by necessity, with every detail answering a need. That sense of function remains central to the parka's identity today.
Source: Vancouver Maritime Museum - Leonard McCann Archives // Inuit Women
Military Standard, Mod Staple
By the mid-20th century, the parka had been adopted by military forces around the world. The U.S. Army introduced versions for troops stationed in cold climates — most notably during the Korean War, where the now-iconic M-51 “fishtail” parka made its debut. Its long back hem could be tied around the legs for added insulation, while the oversized fit allowed it to slip easily over bulky uniforms. Fur-lined hoods and ample front pockets offered further practicality.
Source: The National WWII Museum // US soldiers in Reykjavik, 1943
But as is often the case with utilitarian design, what begins with function often ends with fashion.
In the post-war years, military surplus parkas found a new audience: Britain’s mods. Stylish, scooter-riding, and sharply dressed, they wore the parka not for camouflage, but for protection — slipping them over tailored suits to stay clean on the move. Customised with badges and patches, the parka became a symbol of subculture. Quadrophenia sealed its status in 1979. Britpop revived it in the ‘90s. And still today, it remains a coat synonymous with movement, energy, and independence.
Source: Unknown // Mods at Brighton Beach, 1964
Gloverall’s Modern Parkas
True to that lineage, Gloverall’s parkas honour their heritage while refining the details for a modern setting. Technical performance meets timeless design — outerwear you’ll rely on, season after season.
The Coleman Parka
Crafted from Ventile® cotton — a tightly woven, naturally water-resistant cloth originally developed for WWII pilots — the Coleman Parka is all about functional refinement. Lightweight yet durable, it’s made to move easily through shifting weather and shifting schedules.
A generous hood and storm flap provide protection from the elements, while four roomy front pockets nod to the coat’s utilitarian roots. Inside, a breathable buggy lining keeps things comfortable, even when layered. Named for Bessie Coleman, the pioneering aviator who redefined the skies, it’s a piece that quietly embodies confidence, adventure, and the importance of being prepared.
Also cut from Ventile®, the Stanley Parka brings a more structured silhouette to a time-tested style. Named in tribute to Henry Morton Stanley, the British explorer and journalist, it captures the spirit of outdoor practicality with a refined edge.
A classic collar snaps neatly into a detachable hood, while raglan sleeves offer ease of movement. Large bellows pockets and a concealed internal pocket keep essentials close at hand. It’s smart enough for city streets, rugged enough for a weekend walk — and built for every weather forecast in between.
