7 Insulated Waterproof Jackets for This Cold, Wet Reality

We’d all love to be living in a reality where “atmospheric river” isn’t part of our daily vocab. But we’re living in Vancouver in 2023, and getting some very extreme weather that doesn’t look to be letting up anytime soon. Here are the best waterproof jackets and parkas for living in the city—in rain, sleet, snow, and all that’s in between.

1. Helly Hansen’s Adore Insulated Raincoat

This new jacket from Helly Hansen is warm and waterproof but without the bulk of the traditional parka. It’s lightly insulated and cut for movement, so ideal for busy days out and about. The fold-up reflectives allow for a sleek all-black look or extra visibility (what we’re calling “safety mode”). $300, hellyhansen.com

2. Arc’teryx’s Therme Parka

This parka brings mountain-friendly chops to the city. It’s waterproof, windproof, and made with goose down that’s contoured to form to your body (fancy). The insulation in the cuffs, hood and underarms is synthetic, though, so you won’t be sweating into feathers. $850, mec.ca

3. Canada Goose’s Standard Expedition Parka

Made with un-dyed fabrics and recycled materials, this is the latest step in Canada Goose’s eco-friendly journey. According to their Thermal Experience Index, this jacket is ready for the extremes (think 30 below zero).

$1,950, canadagoose.com

4. Vallier’s Eira Down Parka

Clean-lined but cozy, this parka from Vallier goes with everything. It’s made with 100-percent recycled polyester fabric and RDS certified 800-fill grey goose down. The adjustable hood and chin pocket make it a worthy opponent for the wind. $850, altitude-sports.com

5. Lululemon’s StretchSeal Sleet Street Long Jacket

This goose-down jacket is waterproof with two-way stretch (which is what we’ve come to expect from Lulu). Seams are sealed, it’s totally breathable and the down is 100-percent responsibly sourced. From $548, lululemon.com

6. Aritzia’s Powder Parka

The brand’s Super Puff jackets are as popular as avocado toast in this city, but we’re not here to hate on the basic. This is a more technical and waterproof version of Aritzia’s iconic puffy jacket, with a detachable faux fur trim and waterproof and windproof design. $350, aritzia.com

There’s also a short version.

7. Kanuk’s Patrouilleur Winter Jacket

While past years have gone into brillian blues like above, this year’s version is leaning into faded black. It’s ready for -30°C and has four deep pockets for all your essentials (you know, phone, wallet, keys, mask, hand sani). The concealed hood is a modern take on the Canadian brand’s traditional design. $890, kanuk.com

READ MORE: Too Hot for a Parka? Picky Picky! Here’s 10 Rain Jackets for Milder Days

This story was orginally published in January 2022.