FASHION /
MEN
March 12, 2015
Woolrich: A Deep Dive into the Timeless New Arctic Parka
Woolrich
A Timeless Down Jacket That Was a Huge Hit Last Year!
A Deep Dive into Woolrich's 'New Arctic Parka'
Woolrich, arguably America's oldest brand, celebrated its 180th anniversary last year. It's a brand that garners support for its tradition, quality, grounded warmth, and modern image, making it one to watch. The 'New Arctic Parka Short' pictured above features a shorter length. Its versatility, suitable for both work and leisure, is captivating, and its exquisite fit, designed to complement Japanese physiques and heights, is something you must experience firsthand. This enduring new classic is a lifelong investment piece that every man should own.
Text by OPENERS
This Year, New Khaki and Dark Grey Colors Bring the Total to Six
Woolrich's historical bestseller is the 'Arctic Parka.' Developed in 1972 for pipeline construction in the frigid Alaskan wilderness, it was designed to withstand temperatures of minus 40 degrees Celsius. It quickly gained popularity and has since been cherished by outdoorsmen across America. In recent years, the 'Arctic Parka' has become a massive hit not only in the US but also in fashion-forward Italy.
Then, last autumn, to commemorate its 180th anniversary, the 'Arctic Parka' was updated for the first time in 38 years, giving birth to the 'New Arctic Parka' in two lengths, which garnered significant attention. Notably, the design changes are virtually non-existent. The amount of down and the pattern have been adjusted, and the choice between long and short lengths now offers an optimal balance for urban wear. This year, new khaki and dark grey colors have been added, expanding the range to six colors in total.
Hata Kazuhisa, Editor-in-Chief of 'Begin,' Shares His Thoughts──A Tough Piece That's Both Wear and Gear
“Last year, the Arctic Parka, with its significantly slimmer silhouette, became an explosive hit. Riding that momentum, I finally acquired this legendary piece I'd long admired. I chose the beige, and it's incredibly versatile. It pairs perfectly with slightly faded blue jeans or military pants, as well as grey wool trousers or suits. On cold winter mornings, when you want to throw on something without much thought, the Arctic Parka is the first thing my hand reaches for. And it never fails. I'm genuinely impressed by its broad compatibility with various outfits and its sheer depth. Plus, it's exceptionally warm. It retains the authentic spirit of the workers who wore it to build pipelines in the harsh Alaskan cold, yet it's updated for real-life wear in Japan. It's both wear and gear, gear and wear. This tough piece instantly elevates your sense of luxury and masculinity.”
The December issue of 'Begin,' currently on sale, features an article titled 'Will Woolrich's Arctic Parka Sell Out Again This Year?'
Matsuo Kentaro, Editor-in-Chief of 'Men's EX,' Shares His Thoughts──The Meaning and Value of Being 'Authentic'
“At Pitti Uomo a few seasons ago, I saw an Italian gentleman, whom I consider one of the ten most stylish men in the world, casually wearing a Woolrich over his suit. The contrast between the delicate tailoring of his handmade suit and the heavy-duty parka was incredibly chic, and I couldn't help but admire his sophisticated styling.”
While wearing outdoor items in an urban setting is a common styling trick among the fashion-conscious, success hinges on the accompanying pieces being equally 'authentic.' In this regard, Woolrich, with its history spanning 180 years as arguably America's oldest brand, is an impeccable choice.
This is a styling approach I highly recommend, especially for executives who typically favor high-quality cashmere coats.
The December issue of 'Men's EX,' released on November 5th (Saturday), features a series titled 'Since 1830: The Evolved Woolrich.'
Kazuhiro Watanabe, Buyer at Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building 7F, Shares His Thoughts──
A Modern Insulated Outerwear Piece That Shines in Our 'World of Masterpieces' Floor
Photo by Emiko Hara
“The concept for the selection on the 7th floor of Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building, 'Authentic Casual & Sports,' is to curate basic, traditional masterpieces and gems within the world of men's fashion. It's akin to a 'World of Masterpieces Exhibition.'
Woolrich's Arctic Parka, boosted by the buzz of its 180th anniversary last year, sold out mid-season, causing inconvenience to our customers. This year, we've stocked it from the beginning of the autumn/winter season, and we're seeing high customer expectations, with it being our 'fastest-selling insulated outerwear.' The 'New Arctic Parka Short' is particularly popular, selling well as a versatile item that can be worn for commuting or on weekends.
On the 7th floor, which features many popular long-selling and bestselling items, we've expanded our Woolrich offerings this year to include not only the Arctic Parka but also trendy down jackets with wool exteriors and the 'B.A.E.III (Byrd Antarctic Expedition) Collection,' inspired by the gear used by Antarctic researchers (1939-1941), which shares similarities with the original Arctic Parka. We invite you to experience the grand stories and history behind these world-renowned pieces.
List of Major Retailers
Le Dome EDIFICE Marunouchi Store Tel. 03-6212-2460
BEAMS F Tel. 03-3470-3946
B’2nd Jiyugaoka Tel. 03-3724-8172
Designworks Ginza Store Tel. 03-3562-8277
Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building 7F Authentic Casual Tel. 03-3352-1111 (Main Operator)
Ginza Mitsukoshi 7F Authentic Casual Tel. 03-3535-9357
Supremes Incorporated
Tel. 03-3584-1919
This 'New Arctic Parka Short' is also available on our web shop, 'Rumors'!
