Best N-3B PARKA, Bronson or Real McCoys

[WolfofStateSt]

Three years ago, I bought an Alpha Industries N-3B Parka. It works alright, but I am considering upgrading to something better. For one thing, I am not convinced the Alpha Industries Parka is any warmer than my Alpha Industries MA-1 (which I will probably replace next after this), except for the hood.

I would be curious to know if any of these higher-end brands are warmer than the Alpha Industries N-3B from people who have owned both.
Ideally, I want something that can work between 25 and -25 degrees Fahrenheit. I know these jackets are more about style than function, but I was hoping that at least one of the higher-end ones could perform close to that range, especially if companies like Buzz and McCoys pride themselves on accurate reproductions down to the last button.

I have two McCoys leather jackets, which are fantastic quality; I never really considered spending that much money on a nylon jacket, which is why I am coming here.

I have narrowed down the contenders to Bronson or Real McCoys. Real McCoys makes the best jackets, but I am wondering how much better they can be than a company like Bronson when it comes to a nylon shell Parka. Is the Real McCoys really $1300 better than the Bronson? I know they both use real fur, which is a huge upgrade over Alpha Industries.

I am open to suggestions for other brands, too, if you think they make truly exceptional N-3Bs. I would really like to avoid buying a Canada Goose. I hate the style and would much prefer an N-3B or N-3A snorkel parka, which, in my opinion, looks ten times cooler.

 

[Aloysius]

They won't be warmer. The later spec, which modern ones have, is rated for much more warmth than the 50s spec with the pile lining. If you don't find the Alpha warm enough, get a surplus one which will be made to spec and if you want real fur you can probably get a real coyote ruff added for not much money.

I own the Buzz repro FWIW. I like it far better than the RMC version. The Bronson is likely to be a copy of the BR.

But none of those three is going to be warmer than your Alpha. If you'd like that more repro style but with modern warmth, you can check some of the JDM non "luxury" brands you'll find for N-3Bs on Amazon Japan.

 

[WolfofStateSt]

They won't be warmer. The later spec, which modern ones have, is rated for much more warmth than the 50s spec with the pile lining. If you don't find the Alpha warm enough, get a surplus one which will be made to spec and if you want real fur you can probably get a real coyote ruff added for not much money.

I own the Buzz repro FWIW. I like it far better than the RMC version. The Bronson is likely to be a copy of the BR.

But none of those three is going to be warmer than your Alpha. If you'd like that more repro style but with modern warmth, you can check some of the JDM non "luxury" brands you'll find for N-3Bs on Amazon Japan.

I was thinking about the added warmth, and while I suspect that the luxury parkas are ever so slightly warmer than the modern Alpha, I agree that there will not be a noticeable difference. I can always wear a heavy wool sweater or an M65 liner underneath if I need more warmth.

I would be very interested to hear about your thoughts on the Buzz vs. the RMC's parka. I've decided to upgrade from my Alpha to something with a real fur ruff and better stitching.

Also, what does JDM stand for? I'm sorry, but I'm unfamiliar with that abbreviation.

 

[Aloysius]

I was thinking about the added warmth, and while I suspect that the luxury parkas are ever so slightly warmer than the modern Alpha, I agree that there will not be a noticeable difference. I can always wear a heavy wool sweater or an M65 liner underneath if I need more warmth.

No, I'm saying the opposite. The switch from wool/cotton pile to synthetic was to increase the warmth rating.

I would be very interested to hear about your thoughts on the Buzz vs. the RMC's parka. I've decided to upgrade from my Alpha to something with a real fur ruff and better stitching.

I prefer Buzz for nylon flight jackets. (I also think their patterning is generally better, though this is down to deliberate decisions from each company.)

IIRC Valley Apparel is the operation that took over what was previously Alpha's US factory operation.

Also, what does JDM stand for? I'm sorry, but I'm unfamiliar with that abbreviation.

Japanese Domestic Market, so items that are sold to the Japanese market. These aren't necessarily luxury items, either; they have a good stable of midrange brands that would appeal to the TFL minded.

 

[WolfofStateSt]

I didn't realize synthetic was warmer! That's mainly polyester fill right, or are synthetic and polyester different fills?

This was partially what attracted me to the Bronson Parka, since it had polyester and wool: 50% wool, 50% polyester.

I'm curious about that, I have a few RMC leather jackets because I like the Shinki Horsehide better than any other leather, but for nylon? I can see four figure jacket prices for something made from horsehide or shearling, but nylon?

$2,700 seems expensive for a nylon jacket, and that's more than double the Buzz IIRC.

What would be some JDM brands?

Leaning to the Bronson, since it also has a water proof coating.

 

[Peter Mackin]

I bought an alpha about 15years ago from Costco here in Scotland, absolutely brilliant jacket. Unfortunately I lost it during a house move,so I sent off to buy another one couple of years ago.i knew something was off as soon as it was delivered. Very lightweight, poorly made jacket, different sizing, it was returned immediately. If I was buying again it would be Bronson.