Science-Backed Warmth
How Super Down Parkas Conquer Extreme Cold
At KUIU, not only do we rely on real-world hunts to prove our products, we leverage independent, third-party testing. Recently, we sent our two warmest offerings, the Super Down Arktuk Parka and Super Down Burner Parka, to an independent lab at Kansas State University for rigorous testing. The results? KUIU is among the warmest extreme cold-weather hunting gear ever tested.
The setup
A controlled chamber at 45°F (7°C) with low air movement (0.3 m/s) and consistent humidity. STAN wore a standard base ensemble—long-sleeve cotton shirt, jeans, briefs, socks, athletic shoes, fleece gloves, and hat—mimicking basic layering. Not what you’d wear on a hunt, but a baseline for the testing. Then, each parka was added, hood up, closures secured.
Insulation was calculated in "clo" units (higher clo = more warmth). From there, a whole-body heat loss model predicted comfort temperatures for two activity levels:
- 2 MET: Light activity, like slow walking or glassing.
- 4 MET: Higher activity, like hiking or trekking through snow.
These are modeled guidelines based on steady-state conditions—no wind, average humidity, no sun. For the full methodology and raw data, check the Arktuk Report and Burner Report.
This isn't marketing fluff. It's third-party validation that KUIU's designs hold up where it counts.
Arktuk vs. Burner:
The Results and How to Choose
Both parkas crushed the tests, but they're tuned for different extremes. Let's break it down.
Test Results:
- Standardized Insulation (Its clo): 2.57
- Modeled Comfort Range (°F): 29°F (2 MET) to -38°F (4 MET)
- °C Equivalent: -2°C to -39°C
At light activity, it's comfortable around freezing. Ramp up to higher effort, and it handles deep sub-zero like a champ. This parka is for those epic, multi-day hunts where cold tries to end your season early.
Test Results:
- Standardized Insulation (It,s clo): 2.23
- Modeled Comfort Range (°F): 37°F (2 MET) to -22°F (4 MET)
- °C Equivalent: 3°C to -30°C
Less weight and bulk than the Arktuk, but still unrivaled warmth—enough down to insulate a sleeping bag, as we like to say.
| Parka | Clo Value | 2 MET (°F) | 4 MET (°F) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arktuk | 2.57 | 29 | -38 | Extreme conditions, prolonged exposure, unmatched durability. |
| Burner | 2.23 | 37 | -22 | Weight conscious Arctic-like hunts when you need packability. |
Real-World Reality: Guidelines, Not Guarantees
These ratings are science-based benchmarks from a controlled lab, with an under-dressed manikin. In the wild, comfort varies. Factors like:
- Layering increases warmth (add Ultra Merino base and Kenai mid-layer jacket for extra warmth)
- Activity duration and intensity
- Wind (use wind-chill charts—10 mph drops effective temp by 10-15°F)
- Humidity, precipitation, and sun
- Your personal tolerance (body fat, fitness, acclimation)
We design for this. Our full-stack layering system ties right into the overall approach of these parkas. With a complete kit, like what’s outlined in our Fit & Layering guide, our product testers, guides and outfitters, and customers alike report surpassing well below lab conditions.
KUIU: Leading the Charge in Cold-Weather Innovation
This test isn't just data—it's proof of our commitment. We didn't settle for off-the-shelf down; we developed Quixdown® to outperform in wet, cold hunts. Higher fill power means more warmth per ounce, less weight in your pack. Combined with Hydura® and Torain® tech for weatherproof protection, these parkas redefine what's possible.
We're the brand that disrupted mountain hunting, and now we're owning extreme cold weather. By investing in independent testing, we give you confidence: KUIU gear keeps you warm, protected, and focused when others tap out.
Gear Up and Own the Cold
Whether you're in the Arctic on a hunt of lifetime or late-season elk, the Super Down Arktuk and Burner Parkas have your back. Science says so, and hunters agree. For the full lab reports, dive in here: Arktuk | Burner.
Ready to upgrade?
1. Super Down Arktuk Parka
Highly durable, waterproof, and down insulated parka for extreme conditions.
2. Super Down Burner Parka
The warmest, most packable parka ever made. Down insulated, windproof, and waterproof.
