Mountain Hardwear Absolute Zero Down Parka - Men's State Orange, M

"What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying:""I’ve tested plenty of cold-weather layers, but this parka is on another level. The warmth hits fast, even when I’m standing still on exposed ridgelines, and the welded baffles shed spindrift better than stitched alternatives. The cuff gaskets are a standout—they seal tight around gloves and keep drafts from sneaking in when I’m moving ropes or tools.""We trust the Absolute Zero Down Parka when winter turns truly unforgiving—when we’re climbing above treeline, crossing open faces in bitter wind, or stepping into the kind of cold that demands absolute commitment. Mountain Hardwear built this parka for high-altitude guides and alpinists who can’t afford heat loss, and we feel that intention in every detail. The down lofts quickly as we gear up at base camp, and the insulated hood settles in comfortably as we move toward the route. Technical elements reinforce that focus on survival-level warmth. The Pertex Diamond Fuse shell provides abrasion resistance on rocky approaches, while welded baffles boost waterproofing and prevent cold spots when the weather deteriorates. Underarm vents let us regulate heat on steep sections, and the cuff gaskets—with thumbholes—layer cleanly with expedition gloves. Every closure, adjustment, and panel is shaped for movement under load, giving us a barrier that holds firm through route-setting, belays, and summit pushes. The Absolute Zero Down Parka stands out as a partner for true alpine exposure, providing reliable insulation and a weatherproof build for missions where cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s consequential."

Price: $999.99 from Backcountry