Alpha Industries N-3B Slim Fit Parka vs Patagonia Downdrift Jacket

The Alpha Industries N-3B Slim Fit Parka is the heavier, more protective piece: a thigh-length flight-nylon shell, polyfill fill and a fur-trimmed hood built for extreme cold. The Patagonia Downdrift is a lighter down vest with a high collar and two-way zipper, better as a mid-layer or for milder days. Reviewers rate the Alpha higher (4.9 from 158 ratings versus 4.6 from 314), and owners of the N-3B praise its warmth and military build, though the slim fit runs close and it is dry clean only. Buy the Alpha for real winter and the Patagonia for layering.

• Choose the Alpha N-3B Slim Fit Parka if you face extreme cold, want a thigh-length hooded shell and prefer a fitted military silhouette.
• Choose the Patagonia Downdrift if you want a lighter down vest for layering under a shell or wearing on cool city days.