Gear Review: Fjällräven Anorak No. 8
Anorak: A Greenland Tradition
Anorak is derived from the word “Annuraaq”, an Inuktitut term for, well, an anorak. A garment traditionally in use in Greenland, a territory under the rule of our Danish Bros, as well as in other Arctic/Polar regions.
We found the use of a Fjällräven Anorak No. 8 as part of a multi-layer system to be more practical, more comfortable, and warmer than wearing a typical heavy duty, full length, down parka.
A parka is indeed too bulky for freedom of movement if you are active. A parka also doesn’t really allow efficient layering, doesn’t breath, has no venting, meaning you may end up on the verge of a heat stroke after some strenuous activity, or sweat so much that you may later die from hypothermia. A typical parka also has a front zipper, which allows drafts and heat loss, no matter how well it is designed.
The Fjällräven Anorak No. 8, on the other hand, allows you to have multiple layers, including down, as required, and to take the layers off as needed. Without a front zipper, there is no heat loss to the wind. It is also a more durable shell than most parkas would be. The side zippers are normally less exposed to the wind, due to position and sleeves, so they do not lead to significant heat loss. They however allow to vent when you are getting warm, which you cannot do with a parka. The side zippers also make taking the anorak off much easier. The anorak can also be waterproof, and is wind-proof. The adjustable hood with foldable visor is massive, allowing for your own little ecosystem around your head, particularly suitable in case of blizzard or other difficult weather conditions. High collar also keeps your neck warm. A kangaroo pocket is also very practical to carry maps and other large items.
The Fjällräven Anorak No. 8 is also much more versatile than a full size parka as it can be used year-round in any environment, based on simply modifying your layers depending on the conditions.
Ultimately, there is a reason why Norwegian explorers, including Amundsen, have always used Anoraks. They are just the way to go when you are active in the far north.
The Fjällräven Anorak No. 8 is best with the Fjällräven Gaiter No. 1 pants (we don’t care about the gaiters but we like the trousers turning into shorts). Both are also made in Europe, so you don’t support enemies when you buy your gear. Of course, the fact these are not made in China explain the relatively high cost.