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It’s finally starting to feel like winter here in Toronto, which means it’s time to pull out the parkas once again.
I’ve previously researched winter jackets quite a bit, in an effort to rank coats in order of temperature protection. When temperatures dropped down to -17 C, a balmy -27 C with the windchill, I coated up and headed into the unknown.
I was interested in testing Canada Goose’s jacket temperature rating system. It’s called Thermal Experience Index (TEI), and it ranges from a TEI1 to TEI5, protecting wearers from temperatures -5 C to -30 C and below, respectively.
I intended to test out a parka with the highest TEI5 rating because -27 C is no joke. After trying on the Marlow Parka, a lightweight TEI5 jacket, I decided that it was likely too warm for my lifestyle. I tried on most of Canada Goose’s women’s parkas and ended up testing the classic Shelburne Parka Heritage, which has a ranking of TEI3, providing protection up to -20 C.
The Shelburne provided enough warmth as I walked outside for an hour during the -27 C temperature. Everywhere the parka touched, I was warm. Everywhere else, namely hands and calves, completely numb. The team at Canada Goose recommended longer styles to protect my calves, but I’m a writer in a city, so I’m not often faced with extreme temperatures and didn’t take their advice. I go over all lessons learned below.
The product:Shelburne Parka Heritage
Temperature rating: TEI3, up to -20 C
The price: $1,875
Where to buy:Canada Goose
About the TEI
Canada Goose very clearly labels its coats, garments and footwear according to temperature protection. Now that I’ve tested the rankings, I can speak to rating effectiveness, specifically, to real-world applications.
My interpretation of each category
TEI1 – What to rock during spring and fall.
TEI2 – Winter is coming. Great for those who have dogs or spend time outside and don’t want plummeting temperatures to get in the way.
TEI3 – Winter is here, and it’s packing a punch. This is the sweet spot that should be okay for most Canadians throughout the entire winter. If you’re outside for large portions of the day or live in more extreme parts of Canada, head to TEI4.
TEI4 – For those cold snaps in Montreal or other uber-cold cities. A calf-length parka in a TEI4 will ensure you’re ready for anything winter has to offer.
TEI5 – You’re outside for long periods of time in extreme temperature conditions. Canada Goose’s iconic Expedition Parka Heritage was developed for scientists working in Antarctica.
Canada Goose Shelburne Parka review
The Shelburne Parka is made in Canada, specifically at one of the Canada Goose factories in Toronto (learn more about the manufacturing process in my factory tour story).
Parka specs
- Down-filled hood (available with or without fur trim, Canada Goose is ceasing manufacturing with fur)
- Interior backpack straps. Wearing a jacket as a backpack doesn’t necessarily scream “cool”, but the functionality is key and comes in very handy when you have to carry your coat indoors, like at an airport or a mall
- Fleece-lined pockets with snap closures
- Two interior pockets, one zippered, one that has a little flap closure
- 625 fill power Responsibly Sourced Duck Down
- Water-resistant
- Dry clean only
My experience: I’ve always been one to underdress for the weather. I don’t like heavy jackets, feeling upholstered like the Michelin Man or overheating indoors. So I didn’t enjoy being outside during the winter. Wearing the Shelburne, I felt completely unaffected in a -27 C freeze. It’s also light, not bulky and has the built-in backpack straps so I won’t overheat indoors.
The zipper is easy to use. I find many winter jacket zippers to be difficult because they’re long, finicky two-way zippers. But this one, which is also two-way, is easy to zip and it’s nice and large.
I like the classic appearance so I can confidently wear the parka winter after winter and know that it will be in style.
Lessons learned: I’m a large. Who knew. I’m a large in the Shelburne but a medium in Kenton. Fit comes down to style and material. The Shelburne is a bit more tailored than the Kenton so I needed to go up a size; I’m usually a medium. I’d still be a medium in the Aurora Parka and Marlow Coat because it’s made with this really lightweight material that has a bit of give. The Shelburne material is stiffer.
Just a reminder: the hood, like many winter hoods, is large and can obstruct peripheral vision, so be careful when crossing the street.
My favourite features: The warmth, the cut and the heritage. I love that I can confidently face Toronto on its coldest day of the winter and feel warm and protected. I like that the style is tailored but not in an overly dainty way. I don’t want my coat to make me look like an hourglass but also don’t want to look like a sleeping bag.
Canada Goose was founded in 1957 in Toronto. The parkas are still manufactured in Canada. Canada Goose is an iconic brand that is enjoyed globally, making it pretty unique. All parkas come with a lifetime warranty.
My least favourite feature: I prefer the cuffs of the Kenton Parka over the Shelburne. They’re longer, more fitted and have a thumbhole. I would love if the Shelburne had Kenton cuffs.
Overall recommendation
I love the Shelburne Parka and know it will keep me warm, protected and comfortable outside for many winters to come. Because I tried on so many of the coats, here are my top five favourites that would suit different wearers. Also, because I’m female, I asked Canada Goose sales reps for the “male version” of each jacket and they provided recommendations.
Top 5 women’s parkas
Overall top pick:Shelburne Parka ($1,875 | TEI3) – classic style, neutral fit, warm enough for most
Runner up:Kenton Parka ($1,750 | TEI 3) – a bit of a sportier style, A-line fit, warm enough for most
– Tip: there are reflective strips on the armbands, if you don’t like that look, easily button the straps the other way and they’re gone
Outdoorsy pick: Trillium Parka Heritage ($1,875 | TEI4) – boxier, lots of pockets, warm enough for more extreme environments
Most shapely: Aurora Parka ($1,450 | TEI4) – style accentuates the waist, very lightweight, warm enough for more extreme environments
Most protective (and still fashionable):Mystique Parka Heritage ($1,950 | TEI5) – classic style, long and protective, ready for the most extreme environments
Top 5 men’s parkas
Overall top pick:Langford Parka Black Label Heritage ($1,875 | TEI4) – the style is sleek and warm, perfect to wear in the city but great for a winter hike as well
Runner up: Wyndham Parka Heritage($1,795 | TEI3) – also a classic style but ideal for those who prefer a quilted look
Sleekest: Chateau Parka ($1,575 | TEI4) – this style is slim-fitting, but don’t let its sleek looks trick you, it’s still super technical and cozy
Best bomber:Chilliwack Bomber Heritage ($1,675 | TEI3) – the bomber is shorter than the other styles, but is still ready to protect against winter weather. Ideally worn with aviator sunglasses
Most protective:Expedition Parka Heritage ($2,095 | TEI5) – if you’re exploring some of the coldest areas of our planet, this parka will keep you snug. Pair it with the Tundra Bib Overall to protect your bottom half
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rmann@postmedia.com