Winner of the ISPO Award 2024: The Polar Workwear Parka by Bosideng

The polar regions of the world are not only challenging terrain for adventurers and extreme mountaineers. The people who research and work in these inhospitable regions also need adequate protection to perform. The jacket has been developed specifically for the harsh Antarctic climate, with an average temperature of -54°C, and is based on testing in a climate chamber at -50°C. 

Bosideng developed the Polar Workwear Parka to equip the China Antarctic Expedition Team. It features patented segmented and staggered down filling structures that are particularly robust and optimally retain heat around the body. The staggered down filling creates a larger filling volume, avoids the problem of freezing at the seams that occurs in conventional down jackets, and provides strong thermal performance even if a down chamber is damaged. 

A shell fabric with a Gore-Tex ePE membrane protects against the wet and cold, withstanding even the strongest winds, and an ultralight 7D lining with far-infrared print on the front. The latter prevents the body temperature from dropping in extreme winds and improves localized warmth. In areas where sweat accumulates – on the back and under the arms – a breathable metal mesh with PrimaLoft Gold has been used to increase air permeability. In addition, a patented water vapour transfer channel effectively conducts body heat through the armpits and the collar mesh to the outside. RDS-certified down (Responsible Down Standard) with 1000+ fill power ensures an effective balance between lightness and thermal insulation. 

Thanks to the innovative down filling system, the weight of the jacket remains low at less than 2,000 grams. In addition, Bosideng was inspired by outdoor backpacks and developed a novel carrying structure that shifts the weight of the garment from the shoulders to the hips to accommodate the long hours of walking during polar missions and to promote mobility. 

Other important cold-weather features include a removable synthetic fur collar to withstand polar wind and snow, and fleece-lined pockets to keep hands warm. The elbows are reinforced with recycled Cordura fabric. Repair patches are included to extend the life of the parka. 

The device pocket is insulated with aerogel to extend battery life at low temperatures. 

• sustainable materials: Gore-Tex ePE, recycled Cordura, RDS-certified goose down 
• innovative two-layer heat and moisture management system 
• staggered down filling to prevent cold spots 
• innovative design for load distribution