Another winter storm, another winter coat review.
Single-digit weather made impossible any outfit that doesn’t include at least one bulky item, which isn’t to say that you should resign yourself to looking like Michelin Man (but it’s not like you are committing some kind of sartorial sin if you do; just do you).
As promised, I am going to quickly review a Canada Goose classic: the Trillium Parka.
FIT Trillium, like the Mystique Parka I reviewed earlier this month, has a regular fit–which means that, in your “normal” size, you will have room for heavy sweaters and scarves. Sizes run from XXS to XXL (translated into numerical sizes 0-20). I am wearing a standard size XXS here, which zips up easily with two heavy layers and a scarf underneath. It’s not the most slimming style, but there is a waist drawcord that allows you to adjust the fit slightly.
(I don’t have plans right now to review more Canada Goose coats, so will include this tidbit now: Canada Goose offers a range of sizes called “Fusion Sizing,” which is designed for “smaller body frames.” Fusion sizes run XXS-L, and have slightly narrower–generally just one to two inches–shoulder, hip, bust, waist, sleeve, and overall length measurements compared to standard sizes. If you are on the shortest end of the height spectrum, definitely look into this range of sizes; the Trillium is available in these specialty sizes.)
MATERIAL Because this fact endlessly amuses me, I am going to mention it again: the down in nearly all Canada Goose coats is duck down (the 625 Fill Power variety), not goose down. The fur trim on the hood is coyote fur and can be removed (the hood itself further detaches from the coat). The outershell is a polyester-cotton mix and is mostly water repelling with some wind-resistant properties.
PRICE It isn’t likely that you will find the Trillium marked down much from its retail price of $895, though it can happen (check outlets of department stores like Nordstrom Rack or Bloomingdale’s Outlet). If you won’t buy something unless it’s on sale, this coat may not be for you. Even gift card events often exclude Canada Goose, so unless you are prepared to wait an indeterminate amount of time for an event to come, you can save yourself some trouble by just paying retail for it (maybe choose a source that doesn’t collect sales tax in your state).
APPLICATION The Trillium is rated to withstand temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F), so it’s a coat made for harsh conditions. But because it falls at mid-thigh (and might be even shorter on taller people), you will need to wear fleece-lined tights, wool socks, and insulated boots to keep your bottom half warm.
Canada Goose is polarizing, primarily because of its ubiquity and price. There are many similar coats out there that are much more affordable, but are imperfect in their own ways. This is just a reliable coat without many of the frills that date certain designs within seasons, so I would recommend it to those who are looking to “invest” in a coat to wear for potentially 3-4 weeks a year for 10+ years.
Buy the Canada Goose Trillium Parka with Coyote Fur Trim at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Altitude Sports, Backcountry, and Amazon.
