Why is it called anorak jacket?

If you’ve ever reached for a lightweight, hooded pullover that shrugs off wind and rain, you’ve likely reached for an anorak. But why is it called an anorak jacket—and why has this humble outerwear become a favorite for branded uniforms and street-smart team gear?

A quick origin story (and why the name stuck)

“Anorak” comes from the Greenlandic Inuit word anoraq, a hooded, weather-fighting pullover traditionally crafted to keep out icy wind and snow. The defining traits—a pull-over body, a protective hood, and weather-resistant fabric—made the style a natural fit for explorers and everyday folk who needed dependable outerwear without the bulk. As the silhouette traveled and evolved, the name anorak stayed with it, eventually becoming shorthand for a hooded, hip-length, water-resistant pullover with a front half-zip and a roomy kangaroo or flap pocket.

In short: the name nods to craftsmanship with a purpose—precisely the spirit we live by at Craft Clothing.

What makes an anorak… an anorak?

Think of an anorak as the sweet spot between a windbreaker and a full raincoat. Signature features include:

• Pullover construction with a half- or quarter-zip for easy on/off

• Integrated hood to shield from showers and gusts

• Front utility pocket (often zippered or with a flap) for quick access to essentials

• Lightweight, weather-resistant fabrics that layer well over uniforms or tees

These details deliver function first—then style steps in through color blocking, piping, panel cuts, and crisp embellishments. That balance is exactly why customized anorak jackets make sense for teams and brands: they look sharp on-duty and off, in sun or surprise drizzle.

Anorak vs. the rest: quick style check

• Hoodie: soft knit, casual, and not built to shed rain.

• Windbreaker: zip-front shell for breeze control, but often lighter on pocketing and pullover identity.

• Parka: longer, heavier, typically insulated; great for full winters, less ideal for tropical commutes.

The anorak’s pull-over DNA and weather-readiness set it apart—functional without feeling bulky, sleek without sacrificing storage.

Why brands choose customized anorak jackets

Whether you’re outfitting a sales crew, campus org, sports committee, or café staff, the anorak checks all the practical boxes—and then some:

• One piece, all conditions. Perfect for air-conditioned offices, outdoor runs, or rainy school days.

• Big design canvas. Panels, pockets, and hood lines give your logo and graphics premium placements that stand out while staying tasteful.

• Unified look, easy sizing. The relaxed shell silhouette flatters most body types and layers over uniforms without fuss.

• Built for repetition. Ideal for events, fieldwork, deliveries, or daily commuting—exactly where your brand deserves to be seen.

How Craft Clothing elevates your anorak

At Craft Clothing, we’re artisans at heart. We obsess over the tiny details so you can focus on the big picture—a cohesive, long-wearing jacket that represents your brand with pride. Here’s how we bring your anorak to life:

• Thoughtful fabric selection. We pair light yet durable shell materials with breathable linings for comfort in tropical weather. The result: jackets that move with you, resist surprise showers, and hold their shape wash after wash.

• Embroidery that lasts. For crests and logos that need a premium, timeless look, our embroidery holds crisp edges and keeps its color through repeated wears.

• Screen or digital prints for impact. Want gradient blocks, bold graphics, or subtle tone-on-tone marks? Our print options ensure your design stays vivid and clean.

• Smart construction. Reinforced seams, neat top-stitching, smooth zips, and well-placed drawcords—little touches that add up to big durability.

• Inclusive sizing & fit guidance. We’ll guide you on size runs and fits for mixed teams so everyone looks and feels confident.

Design cues that work brilliantly on anoraks

• Monochrome with a pop. Keep the shell neutral and let the logo embroidery or drawcord tips add brand color.

• Color blocking. Use shoulder yokes, pocket flaps, and hem panels to echo your brand palette without overpowering the silhouette.

• Oversized front pocket branding. The classic kangaroo or flap pocket is prime real estate for a clean mark that reads from a distance.

• Subtle tone-on-tone patterns. Think micro-prints or faint camo that reveal themselves up close—elevated but understated.

Care tips to keep your anoraks looking new

• Wash cold, gentle cycle. It protects stitching and keeps colors true.

• Hang dry. Preserves fabric performance and the jacket’s clean drape.

• Avoid harsh bleach/softeners. They can dull finishes and weaken fibers.

• Fasten zips and turn inside out. Minimizes surface abrasion on logos and prints.

Your next uniform staple starts here

If a jacket’s job is to work hard and look good doing it, the anorak is a natural. Its name honors weather-ready craftsmanship; its modern form showcases your brand with clarity and style. Ready to kit out your team in customized anorak jackets that go the distance?

Explore our collection and start your project today:
Shop customized anorak jackets

We’ll take your brief, craft a free mockup, and build jackets your people will be proud to wear—rain or shine.