The Winter Coat So Nice, They Patented It

A svelte way to avoid extreme weather

October 10, 2017 9:00 am

Everyone around here was wearing the same coat last winter.

You know the one: warm as the inside of a tauntaun … but also bulky, hooded and a bit drab.

This coat doesn’t have those problems.

New from Norwegian Wool, the City Active Parka is a svelte, decidedly handsome layer with some hidden — and patented — ideas that’ll help you stand out. And stay toasty, of course.

Norwegian Wool was started by former Wall Streeter Michael Berkowitz, who couldn’t find a warm coat that looked stylish and formal during the harsh winter months. So he looked to Italy for his fabrics and Norway for the cold-weather know-how. As he once told us: “They get cold weather there, and they get style.”

So with Norwegian Wool, you’re getting topcoats, trench coats and classic three-quarter layers that’ll keep you warm and protect you from the elements — without adding too much bulk. (They also do a great set of breathable wool/cotton waterproof blazers for transitional weather days.)

New to NW’s line: the City Active Parka, made in Italy from a wool blend fabric and featuring an authentic down lining that’s double-sacked to prevent leakage. It’s lightweight, water- and windproof piece with a two-way zipper, deep-lined hand pockets and a soft wool bib collar to keep your neck cozy.

It’s a looker, too, with a slender outer shell perfect for casual and formal occasions.

But it’s the stuff hidden inside the coat that’s a real game changer: there’s a removable/stowable hood you can hide when it’s not in use — simply remove from the back and zip into two clearly labeled interior pockets (that’s patented, BTW).

And there are straps to hold your scarf, solving one of your major winter conundrums.

Currently available in black, slate grey and charcoal cashmere, the City Active Parka goes for $1,595 — but since it can probably replace 2-3 of your winter layers, it’s worth it.

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