[Review] The Aspire Puffy Parka by Helly Hansen

This winter I was on the hunt for the perfect big ol’ puffy jacket to throw on for those cold dog walks, among other things. The Aspire Puffy Parka by Helly Hansen fit the bill perfectly and it has kept me warm this winter on dog walks and our recent blizzardy winter adventure. The Aspire Parka is warm, stylish, and affordable. 

To start with, the Aspire is built with synthetic insulation. I used to be pretty partial to down-only insulation, but what they are doing with synthetic insulation these days is pretty amazing. It’s also sweet because recycled materials can be used. In this case, the Aspire’s insulation is 40% recycled material. In addition, synthetic insulation is typically less expensive, bringing the price point down. The Aspire is a $320 jacket and if it was down insulation, I’m guessing it’d be around $500. There’s no question that this insulation works as it should, either. The Aspire Jacket is super warm. This jacket isn’t waterproof, however, it does have a PFC-free water repellent treatment. In a downpour, this likely won’t hold up but in snow, you’ll be just fine. We were in conditions where it was snowing several inches an hour and I had no issues staying dry. 

Keeping to that lower price point, this is a fairly simple jacket. It only has two pockets, hand pockets, but they are zip closures and are lined with an ultra-warm fleece. I wish they included one extra zip pocket on the inside of the jacket. Especially during whiteout conditions, I’d like to put my phone on an inside pocket so there’s no chance of it coming out accidentally and falling into the snow. 

As far as sizing goes, Helly Hansen markets this as an oversized parka and I would say that is spot on. I initially went with the Large, as I would typically do with an outer layer, but it was way too big. I stepped down to the medium and it was a much more appropriate fit. I’m 5’10 and 155 pounds. I can easily layer underneath the Aspire and I dig the side zips that give you a little bit of extra space if you need it or for comfortable sitting. 

The one complaint I have about the Aspire Parka is that the zipper doesn’t extend the full length of the jacket. In my opinion, it would be much warmer if it did. While there’s a snap there to keep it closed, I still feel the air through there and if I move in the right way, the snap easily comes undone. 

Overall, if you’re looking for an extra warm winter parka that is affordable, look no further than the Aspire Puffy Parka. It comes in a range of beautiful colors (green being my personal favorite). If you’re looking for a different style of jacket, be sure to check out all the options that Helly Hansen has. Anytime I’m wearing Helly I get loads of compliments all the while staying warm and dry. We’re also part of their affiliate program, so we earn a small commission if you shop with our links. We appreciate your support, as always. Leave any questions you may have below! 

*We received this gear for free in exchange for a review, however, it’s important to know that all thoughts are our own.