THE KANUK FORMULA

Kanuk stands steadfast in its use of polyester fill rather than down for its cold-weather parkas. That’s because synthetics tend not to absorb humidity, says president and chief executive officer Richard Laniel. Montreal and many Canadian cities are on lakes or rivers and have damp climates. The coats are also front-load washable, with quality and workmanship that allows them to keep on going for decades, he says. The warmest coats are rated to minus 40. Bernard Tremblay, director of product development, names the characteristics that make Kanuk parkas winter worthy:

A tight weave for the outer fabric, which is also coated to cut the wind.

Continuous fibre polyester, allowing for air space between the shell of the jacket and the body. Short fibres or down can pop out of the lining, which in Kanuk’s case is porous lining with silver threads. This allows for thermal regulation.

Seaming techniques that create two coats in one, using the best thread available. It is the same sewing technique since the start 40 years ago. This means the coat is 100 per cent insulated.

A double-flap front, hiding the zipper.

A high back collar, lined in polar fleece.