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Living in the northeast (specifically, New York City) obviously has its perks, but winters aren’t one of them. Just a couple weeks ago, we went through 10 straight days of no sun—pair that with low temperatures, and you’re suddenly a hermit hiding in the confines of your tiny apartment. But like most people living in a bustling city, you can’t hide out forever. Therefore, I knew I needed to step up my winter gear wardrobe.
Nothing can replace the warmth of a sturdy winter coat, but on the days I don’t want to bundle up and feel so restricted, I reach for my Parks Project fleece jacket. Not only does the jacket feel extremely comfortable and look kind of retro (in a good way), but the brand behind it has an admirable mission.
Parks Project
Parks Project aims to support park conservation for the generations ahead by educating, advocating, volunteering and activating park supporters to get involved. They’ve donated over $2.5 million dollars to the cause, and purchasing one of its fleece jackets is one way to help—a portion of the cost will go towards aiding the mission.
I chose the Acadia Waves Trail High Pile Fleece, which like all of the available fleeces, features two high pile-lined pockets, elastic cuffs, and an elastic waistband to keep you protected against intense winds and low temperatures. It’s also made with 100% GRS Certified Recycled Polyester Sherpa that feels soft against your skin. Wearing it on its own is enough for me to comfortably step out my building’s door; while you can certainly layer additional pieces underneath (it has an oversized fit), I haven’t always felt the need to.
Courtesy of Maya Gandara
I’m not alone in routinely wearing my Parks Project fleece this winter—the jacket has gotten rave reviews from other shoppers. One person wrote that it feels “like a warm hug” everytime they put it on, and that it’s “worth every bar of gold I traded in to get this nest of comfort.” Others say the designs are “beautiful” in person and that the “quality is equally outstanding.”
“It’s a high price but you absolutely get what you pay for,” said another. “The quality of the fabric and comfort of wearing it is better than anything else I own. The design of each of these fleeces make me want to buy all of them, and maybe I will.”
Parks Project offers a handful of other fleece designs, like a Yellowstone Geysers High Pile Fleece Winter Jacket or reversible vest options. If you’re wanting a functional yet stylish jacket to wear for the duration of winter (and beyond), this is it.
