Parajumpers Brand Guide

The OD's Parajumpers Brand Guide

Performance Outerwear for Every Journey

Written by: Chris O'Dea

Published: October 2025

Reading Time: 10 minutes

1 | Brand Overview — Rescue-Grade Performance, Italian Design

Parajumpers is Italian-engineered outerwear born from rescue-grade performance standards, now extended across women's and youth collections for everyday adventure.

Since its founding in 2006, Parajumpers has bridged utilitarian function and elevated design. At OD's, we curate Women's and Kids collections — from lightweight transitional jackets to full down expedition pieces — all calibrated to real-world conditions and family needs.

Price position: Premium technical outerwear — competitive with Canada Goose and Moncler, with superior Italian design sensibility.

Core Philosophy

  • Rescue-grade engineering for everyday life.
  • Italian craftsmanship meets functional innovation.
  • Modular design: detachable hoods, removable linings, adjustable features.
  • Temperature-rated systems for real-world guidance.

OD's View: Parajumpers delivers technical integrity without logo-driven status — performance proven by rescue professionals, refined for family adventures.

2 | Heritage & Philosophy — Rescue Roots, Global Vision

Parajumpers was conceived in Italy in 2006 by designer Massimo Rossetti in partnership with Ape & Partners SpA, inspired by a chance encounter with a member of the 210th Rescue Squadron based in Anchorage, Alaska.

The 210th Rescue Squadron — known as "PJs" (Parajumpers) — are elite search-and-rescue specialists trained for extreme missions in the world's harshest environments: stranded climbers on 4,000-meter peaks, ships adrift at sea, submariners in peril. Their courage and technical gear requirements became the foundation for the brand.

Brand Motto

"That Others May Live" — the official motto of the 210th Rescue Squadron, adopted by Parajumpers to honor this legacy of protection and performance.

Modern Philosophy

"For Your Journey" — extending the rescue ethos beyond extreme missions to everyday exploration, urban adventures, and family outings where reliable protection matters.

Production: Design, R&D, and quality oversight remain based in Italy under Ape & Partners, with manufacturing in Italy and select European workshops maintaining strict quality standards.

3 | Materials & Construction — Technical Engineering

Parajumpers treats each jacket as a technical system — not fashion first, but engineered performance wear.

Insulation Technologies

  • Down fill: 700-800+ fill power for warmth-to-weight efficiency.
  • Strategic placement: more fill in core, less in movement zones.
  • Baffle construction prevents down migration and cold spots.

Shell Performance

  • Polyamide (engineered nylon): durable, tear-resistant.
  • DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings shed rain and resist stains.
  • Windproof and breathable treatments.
  • Tighter weaves naturally block wind better.

Design Features

  • Extended cuts and drop-tail hems for cold exposure coverage.
  • Detachable hoods with adjustable volumes.
  • Storm flaps over zippers eliminate air infiltration.
  • Multiple pocket systems for secure storage.
  • YKK heavy-duty two-way zippers.
  • Reinforced stress points with bar-tacked seams.

Temperature Rating System (4-Tier)

1. Moderate — Mild climates, spring/autumn transitions.

2. Medium — Cool weather, light winter conditions.

3. High — Cold climates, full winter protection.

4. Very High — Extreme cold, expedition-grade insulation.

OD's Guidance: Temperature performance depends on wind chill, activity level, layering, and personal tolerance. We help customers select based on their specific needs, not rigid numeric claims.

Signature Design Elements

  • Yellow elastic collar strap — inspired by parachute rigging.
  • Rescue hook clasp — quick-release mechanism borrowed from climbing harnesses.
  • "That Others May Live" patch on shoulder or sleeve.
  • Modular construction — detachable linings, removable synthetic fur trims.

Seasonal Materials

Spring/Summer

Lightweight nylon shells, breathable and packable, water-resistant, UPF sun protection.

Autumn/Winter

High-loft down, heavier shells, full windproof/waterproof construction, synthetic fur alternatives.

4 | Cultural Impact — Technical-Luxury Positioning

Parajumpers occupies a unique position in technical-luxury outerwear, recognized for bridging military-grade functionality with contemporary Italian design.

Media Recognition

  • GQ UK featured Parajumpers parkas in "Fall into Winter" editorial spreads.
  • Appeared in technical gear roundups alongside Canada Goose, Moncler, and Arc'teryx.
  • Fashion media recognition for "Right Hair, Right Now" fur-free initiative (2022).

Retail Presence

  • Premium department stores: Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom.
  • Technical outdoor retailers and luxury fashion boutiques globally.

Brand Positioning: Parajumpers appeals to customers who prioritize authentic technical performance over logo-driven status — those who value Italian craftsmanship, functional innovation, and understated confidence.

5 | Sizing Hub — Women's & Kids

Women's Sizing

PJS Size IT UK US Chest (cm) Waist (cm) Hip (cm)
XXS 38 6 2 78-82 60-64 86-90
XS 40 8 4 82-86 64-68 90-94
S 42 10 6 86-90 68-72 94-98
M 44 12 8 90-94 72-76 98-102
L 46 14 10 94-99 76-81 102-107
XL 48 16 12 99-104 81-86 107-112
XXL 50 18 14 104-109 86-91 112-117

Kids / Young Sizing

Size Age Range Height (cm) Chest (cm) Waist (cm)
4Y 4 years 104-110 56-58 52-54
6Y 6 years 116-122 60-62 54-56
8Y 8 years 128-134 64-67 56-58
10Y 10 years 140-146 70-74 60-63
12Y 12 years 152-158 78-82 66-69
14Y 14 years 164-170 86-90 72-75
16Y 16 years 176-182 90-94 75-78

Fit Philosophy: Generous cut for layering — Parajumpers designs allow space for thermal base layers and mid-layers without restriction.

OD's Sizing Advice

  • Winter jackets: If between sizes, size up for layering room.
  • Spring/transitional jackets: True to size offers better proportions.
  • Kids' rapid growth: Consider sizing up for multi-season wear.
  • Try before you buy: In-store fitting ensures proper sleeve length, shoulder fit, and overall comfort.

6 | Care Guide — Protect Your Investment

For universal washing, drying, and storage protocols, see OD's Master Care Guide. Below are Parajumpers-specific care requirements only.

Down-Filled Jacket Care (Critical)

  • Tumble dry LOW heat with 2-3 clean tennis balls or dryer balls.
  • Tennis balls break up clumps and restore loft.
  • Check periodically and redistribute fill by hand if needed.
  • May take 2-3 hours for full drying.
  • Jacket must be completely dry before storage (any moisture = mildew).

Why this matters: Down loses insulating properties when compressed or damp. The tennis ball method is essential — skip this step and your £500+ jacket becomes a flat, cold shell.

Synthetic Fur Trim Care

  • Detach fur components before washing jacket.
  • Hand wash synthetic fur separately in cool water with mild detergent.
  • Air dry flat, gently brushing to restore texture.
  • Reattach once both jacket and fur are completely dry.

Professional Cleaning Warning

NEVER dry-clean down jackets — solvents strip natural oils from down, destroying insulation permanently.

If professional cleaning needed:

  • Seek wet cleaning specialists experienced with technical outerwear.
  • Provide care label information to cleaner.
  • Verify they understand down-specific requirements.

Long-Term Storage for Down

  • Hang on wide, padded hangers — prevents shoulder bumps.
  • Use breathable garment bags (cotton or mesh) — never plastic.
  • Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
  • Never compress long-term — damages insulation loft and reduces warmth.

Why proper storage matters: Compressed down loses its structure. A jacket stored in compression for months can lose 20-30% of its warmth permanently.

7 | Authenticity & Sustainability — Real Actions, Not Just Claims

Certilogo Authentication System

Parajumpers combats counterfeiting through Certilogo authentication technology, implemented since Fall/Winter 2017.

How It Works:

  • Every authentic Parajumpers garment contains an internal label with a 12-digit CLG code and QR code.
  • Customers verify authenticity at certilogo.com by entering the code or scanning with a smartphone.
  • System confirms: "This is an authentic Parajumpers product" or flags potential counterfeit.

Why Authentication Matters: Counterfeit jackets use non-sanitized down (health risk), contain toxic dye substances, lack proper water-repellent treatments, use unsafe synthetic fills, and support illegal labor practices.

Red Flags of Counterfeits

  • No Certilogo label or non-functional code.
  • Incorrect or spotted synthetic fur.
  • Missing rubber gaskets around buttons.
  • Poor-quality zippers without brand marking.
  • Significantly lower price than retail.

OD's Guarantee: Every Parajumpers jacket sold at OD's includes a verifiable Certilogo authentication label. We are an authorized retailer, and all products ship directly from legitimate supply chains.

Sustainability Initiatives

1. Fur-Free Commitment (2022)

Complete transition to high-quality synthetic alternatives. All fur trims are now synthetic, maintaining warmth and aesthetic without animal sourcing.

2. Eco-Friendly Headquarters (2012)

6,000 m² facility in Segusino, Italy with A+ energy efficiency rating, 115 kW solar power plant, recycled materials in construction.

3. Biodegradable Packaging

Liquid Wood hangers (100% biodegradable), reduced plastic, recyclable garment bags.

4. Longevity as Core Sustainability

Timeless designs, high-quality construction, repairable components, care instructions designed to extend product life.

Philosophy: One jacket worn for 10+ years has far less environmental impact than multiple cheap jackets replaced annually.

5. Italian & European Production

Short supply chains, strict EU environmental and labor regulations, support for regional textile artisans.

8 | FAQs

For shipping, returns, payment methods, and order tracking, see OD's Master FAQ Hub. Below are Parajumpers-specific questions only.

Where are Parajumpers made?

Design, R&D, and quality oversight are based in Italy under Ape & Partners SpA. Manufacturing occurs in Italy and selected European workshops.

Does OD's stock men's Parajumpers?

No — OD's curates exclusively Women's and Kids/Young collections. We focus on family outerwear needs with full technical parity across both lines.

Can I verify my Parajumpers jacket is authentic?

Yes — every authentic jacket has an internal Certilogo label with a 12-digit CLG code or QR code. Enter the code at certilogo.com or scan with your smartphone to confirm authenticity instantly.

How do I interpret the temperature rating?

Parajumpers uses a 1-4 scale (Moderate to Very High) rather than fixed temperature claims. The right jacket depends on wind chill, your activity level, layering, and personal cold tolerance. OD's staff can help you choose based on your specific needs.

Are Parajumpers jackets machine washable?

Yes — follow care instructions carefully. See OD's Master Care Guide for universal protocols, and the Parajumpers-specific care section above for down-specific requirements including the tennis ball drying method.

What's the difference between Parajumpers and Canada Goose?

Both offer premium technical outerwear, but Parajumpers emphasizes Italian design sensibility and European manufacturing with fashion-forward styling, while Canada Goose focuses on Canadian heritage and Arctic-tested utilitarian aesthetic.

Do you offer eco-friendly Parajumpers options?

All Parajumpers jackets since 2022 are fur-free (synthetic alternatives). The brand focuses on longevity and responsible Italian/European production.

9 | The OD's Difference — Why Buy From Us

  • Authenticity Guaranteed — Every Parajumpers jacket includes verifiable Certilogo authentication.
  • Women's & Kids Focus — Curated collections for family outerwear needs.
  • Expert Guidance — Our team understands technical specifications and helps match jackets to your lifestyle.
  • Authorized Retailer — Direct from legitimate supply chains, never grey market.
  • Full Warranty Support — We stand behind every purchase with manufacturer warranty backing.

The Parajumpers Promise at OD's: Whether navigating city streets in unpredictable weather, walking school runs in winter cold, or planning family mountain getaways, Parajumpers provides rescue-grade protection engineered for real life.

Status: Platinum Canonical Master
Editorial Integrity & Attribution
Sources: Parajumpers Official Website (2025); Ape & Partners SpA Sustainability Report; Certilogo Authentication Database; 210th Rescue Squadron Historical Archive; Technical Product Specifications; GQ UK Editorial Features (2023–2025).

All technical, sustainability, and historical data verified through official Parajumpers documentation and independent publications. Authenticity details confirmed via Certilogo verification standards.

Verification: Chris O’Dea — October 2025
Next Review: April 2026 (6-Month Cycle)
Schema Tags: Article • FAQPage • Product (Technical Outerwear)
Version: 2.0