Which is better for skiing?

The Snow Country Gemini. It has pit zips, critically taped seams and an internal snow skirt, which the Sun Valley parka lacks. The Sun Valley is a casual parka, not a ski shell.

The Eddie Bauer Sun Valley. Its 650 fill down and heavyweight rating plus 37-inch length hold more warmth than the lightly quilted Gemini, especially when you are standing still.

Is the Sun Valley worth the extra money?

Yes if you want one warm coat for daily winter wear. At $163.24 at Amazon as of November 3 it costs about $95 more than the Gemini at $67.94 at Walmart, and you get down insulation and much more coverage.

Down parkas like the Sun Valley can last many seasons if washed and stored properly, but wet down clumps. The Gemini's synthetic fill keeps warming when damp, though its lighter shell may wear faster with heavy use.

Does either come in larger plus sizes?

The Gemini goes up to 5X. The Sun Valley plus sizing tops out lower, but it offers petite and tall lengths the Gemini does not.

Which packs smaller for travel?

The Sun Valley. Down compresses well, and the Gemini's synthetic insulation and sport features take more room in a bag.

Snow Country Outerwear Women's Plus Size Gemini Insulated Winter Snow Ski Jacket Coat vs Eddie Bauer Women's Plus Size Sun Valley Down Parka

Buy the Snow Country Outerwear Gemini if you need a cheap, purpose-built ski jacket with pit zips, taped seams and a snow skirt. Buy the Eddie Bauer Sun Valley if you want a long, heavyweight down parka for everyday cold-weather wear. The price gap is wide: $67.94 at Walmart as of November 3 versus $163.24 at Amazon as of November 3. The Gemini also hit $39.99 on November 1, so watch its price history before you buy.

Today the Snow Country Outerwear Women's Plus Size Gemini Insulated Winter Snow Ski Jacket Coat costs $95.30 less at its best price.

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