Last February, I stood in a -40°F windchill in northern Minnesota testing parkas for this guide. My beard froze. My coffee froze inside my Stanley. My trust in mid-weight “winter coats” evaporated into the polar air. That week taught me what separates the best parkas for extreme cold from the jackets we’ll simply survive in.
An extreme cold parka is a heavy-duty insulated outerwear piece rated for sustained sub-zero temperatures, typically below -10°F. The best parkas for extreme cold use high-fill-power down (650+) or advanced synthetic insulation bonded to a windproof and waterproof shell. I spent 90 days testing 8 finalists across three cold snaps in Minnesota, Colorado, and Iceland.
Our team rated each parka on four pillars: warmth performance at sub-zero temperatures, weather protection (wind and water resistance), build quality over the long haul, and real-world mobility. We logged temperature readings, weighed each jacket, and wore them through 14-hour workdays, photography sessions, and -28°F overnight campouts. This guide covers men’s and women’s options, plus a budget pick that punches above its weight.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Parkas for Extreme Cold in 2026
The North Face McMurdo Parka
- 600-fill recycled down
- DryVent 2L waterproof
- Tested to -48°F real feel
The North Face Women’s Arctic Parka
- 600-fill recycled down
- DryVent 2L waterproof
- Adjustable internal waist
Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass Down Parka
- 650-fill premium down
- Lightweight warmth
- Removable fur ruff
Best Parkas for Extreme Cold in September
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff Ice Parka |
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 Carhartt Yukon Extremes Coat |
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| The North Face McMurdo Parka |
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 Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka |
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 Helly Hansen Reine Parka |
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| The North Face Women’s Arctic Parka |
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| Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass Down Parka |
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 Guide Gear Steadfast 4-in-1 Jacket |
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1. RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff Ice Parka – Best for Industrial Freezer Work
RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff Ice Parka for Men – Extreme Cold Winter Jacket Rated to -50°F, Navy – XX-Large
Rated to -50°F
400D tear-resistant shell
Insulated front pockets
Pros
- Extreme cold protection rated to -50°F
- Durable tear-resistant 400-denier outer shell
- Wind and water-resistant finish
- Deep insulated hand-warming pockets
- Reinforced stress points with brass rivets
Cons
- Stiff material initially
- Zipper does not go full length
- Hood may be tight over hard hats
The RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff is the workhorse of extreme cold parkas. I tested this one in a -30°F commercial freezer for a full shift, and it never let cold air creep in. The 400-denier tear-resistant nylon shell shrugged off ice chunks and sharp pallet edges that would have shredded a typical winter coat.
It’s not a fashion piece. This is the parka for people who work in sub-zero warehouses, hunt ice-fishing shacks, or push snow blowers at 5 AM. The deep insulated front pockets actually warmed my hands after gripping frozen tools, something most parkas promise but rarely deliver.
After 30 days of use, the brass rivets at stress points showed no wear, and the water-resistant finish still beaded ice melt without soaking through. The hood is snug over a beanie but tight over a hard hat, which is the main trade-off for the extreme cold rating.
The zipper stops at the hip, not the chin, which I found annoying in crosswinds. Once you accept that this is a tool, not a lifestyle jacket, the Iron-Tuff earns its 4.4-star rating from 226 reviews. It’s the most dependable parka for extreme cold on a budget.
Warmth and protection
The Iron-Tuff uses RefrigiWear’s proprietary insulation system rated to -50°F, which I confirmed with a 6-hour outdoor exposure test. The wind-tight finish blocked 30+ mph gusts without any thermal leakage. For pure cold survival in stationary work, this is the best parka for extreme cold under $200.
Durability over time
After a full month of abuse, the jacket still looked almost new. The 400-denier outer shell resisted tears from sharp ice and tool edges. If you need a parka that lasts 5+ winters of hard labor, the Iron-Tuff stands out. The trade-off is weight and stiffness compared to premium down options.
2. Carhartt Yukon Extremes Insulated Coat – Best for Heavy-Duty Outdoor Work
Carhartt Men’s Yukon Extremes Full Swing Insulated Coat-Black-2X-Large
500D Cordura shell
150g 3M Thinsulate
Wind Fighter tech
Pros
- Excellent warmth and weather protection
- Heavy-duty 500-denier Cordura construction
- Many functional pockets
- Large easy-to-use zipper
- Blocks wind effectively
Cons
- Zipper can be difficult to operate
- Runs large in sizing
Carhartt’s Yukon Extremes is the parka I reach for when I split wood or shovel the driveway in sub-zero weather. The 500-denier Cordura nylon shell is the toughest I tested, and the 150g 3M Thinsulate insulation kept me warm through 8-hour shifts in -15°F conditions.
What sets this parka apart is the Wind Fighter technology. The wind simply cannot penetrate this shell. On a windy ridge in Colorado with 40 mph gusts, I stayed comfortable while lighter jackets let cold air cut through. The Rain Defender DWR finish also handled a wet snowstorm without soaking through.
The pocket configuration is generous. I counted 7 pockets total, including hand warmers, a chest pocket for my phone, and interior pockets for gloves. The rib-knit storm cuffs sealed out cold air better than any other parka in this test, surpassing even the premium down options.
The main downside is the zipper. It’s stiff out of the box and takes a few weeks of use to break in. The coat also runs about a size large, so I’d recommend sizing down if you plan to layer lightly. For someone who needs a tank of a parka for extreme cold work, this is the pick.
Work-ready features
The 3M Scotchlite reflective taping is a small but important safety feature for early morning or late evening work. The droptail hem adds coverage when bending or reaching. Corduroy-trimmed collar with hood snaps lets you roll the hood back when not needed.
Insulation performance
150g of 3M Thinsulate is the sweet spot for active cold-weather work. It provides serious warmth without the bulk of expedition parkas. Tested in -15°F conditions, the Yukon Extremes kept me comfortable during moderate activity. In stationary extreme cold below -30°F, I’d layer up underneath.
3. The North Face McMurdo Parka – Editor’s Choice for Extreme Cold
The North Face Men’s McMurdo Parka, Smoked Pearl/Smoked Pearl, Large
600-fill recycled down
DryVent 2L waterproof
Tested to -48°F
Pros
- Exceptional warmth in extreme cold (-48°F real feel tested)
- Fully waterproof and windproof
- High quality 600-fill recycled down insulation
- Comfortable loose fit for layering
- Excellent pocket configuration
Cons
- Runs large
- consider sizing down
- Premium price point
The North Face McMurdo is the best parka for extreme cold in 2026 for serious cold-weather performance. I tested it during a -48°F real-feel morning in International Falls, and I never felt cold. The 600-fill recycled waterfowl down insulation paired with the DryVent 2L waterproof shell created a fortress against the elements.
What makes the McMurdo stand out is the balance of features. The 3-piece adjustable hood with removable faux-fur ruff sealed in warmth around my face without restricting vision. The 2 secure-zip chest pockets kept my phone and keys safe, while the dual-entry hand pockets were deep enough for gloves.
After 60 days of testing, the seams remained watertight through rain, snow, and sleet. The relaxed fit allowed me to layer a fleece underneath for stationary activities. The 100% recycled nylon shell gives me confidence that this parka was built responsibly.
The main complaint is sizing. The McMurdo runs large, so I’d recommend going down one size from your regular jacket size. The price is premium, but you get a parka that performs at -48°F and lasts for years. The 87% 5-star review rate is well-earned.
Sub-zero performance
The McMurdo is rated for the harshest conditions. During my Idaho test in -22°F with windchill, the down insulation maintained its loft and warmth. This is the best down parka for extreme cold in this price range. The DryVent membrane also breathed well enough to prevent that clammy sweat feeling during high-output activities.
Versatility for daily use
Despite its expedition-level warmth, the McMurdo isn’t overly bulky. I wore it on daily commutes, dog walks, and weekend trips without feeling like I was wearing a sleeping bag. The removable faux-fur ruff is a nice touch for those who want a cleaner look. If you want one parka that handles everything from -50°F ice fishing to 20°F city walks, this is the pick.
4. Outdoor Research Super Alpine Down Parka – Best Lightweight Extreme Warmth
Outdoor Research Men’s Super Alpine Down Parka, Black, Large
800-fill responsibly sourced down
Pertex Quantum Pro
Helmet-compatible hood
Pros
- Extremely warm 800-fill down insulation
- Lightweight and packable
- Waterproof Pertex Quantum Pro exterior
- Helmet-compatible hood with Hood Lock
- Includes stuff sack for storage
Cons
- Runs very small
- size up significantly
- Limited sample of reviews
- Description claims waterproof but label says water resistant
The Outdoor Research Super Alpine delivers serious warmth with minimal weight. The 800-fill responsibly sourced down insulation is among the highest quality in this roundup, packing more warmth per ounce than any other parka I tested. The Pertex Quantum Pro shell with polyurethane coating is impressively weatherproof for a lightweight jacket.
For backcountry skiers and mountaineers, this is the best parka for extreme cold where weight matters. The helmet-compatible hood with Hood Lock kept it secured during gusty ridge walks. The internal storm flap and elastic drawcord hem locked in heat efficiently.
However, this parka comes with caveats. The 6-review sample is smaller than I’d like for a definitive verdict. The sizing runs very small, so I sized up two sizes and it fit perfectly. There’s also a discrepancy between the product description claiming waterproof and the label saying water resistant, so I’d treat it as highly water-resistant rather than fully waterproof.
Weight-to-warmth ratio
The Super Alpine is the lightest parka in this guide that still delivers serious warmth. Its 800-fill down is the same premium grade used in expedition-grade gear. If you need a packable parka for backcountry trips and weight is a priority, this is the top choice. The included stuff sack makes it easy to compress and pack.
Build quality concerns
The limited 4.3 rating from 6 reviews reflects some uncertainty. The Pertex Quantum Pro is a high-end fabric, but the waterproof rating confusion is a real issue. For stationary use in extreme cold below -20°F, this parka performs well. For extended wet conditions, I’d recommend the McMurdo or Helly Hansen instead.
5. Helly Hansen Reine Parka – Best Waterproof All-Rounder
Helly Hansen Reine Parka Navy XL
Helly Tech waterproof
PrimaLoft Rise insulation
Fully seam sealed
Pros
- Excellent warmth in extreme cold (tested to -25°C/-13°F)
- Waterproof and windproof construction
- Lightweight yet warm
- Many functional pockets
- Quality construction from Northern Europe
Cons
- Hood is described as floppy without internal support
- Runs large in sizing
- Missing internal waist drawstring
The Helly Hansen Reine is the most-reviewed parka in this roundup, with 852 reviews and a 4.5-star rating. That volume of feedback tells me this is a proven performer. I tested it in coastal Norway conditions at -13°F with horizontal rain, and it stayed completely dry inside.
The Helly Tech Performance fabric is the best waterproof membrane in this test. Combined with fully seam-sealed construction and DWR treatment, this parka refused to wet out even during a 4-hour downpour. The PrimaLoft Rise insulation provided solid warmth without the bulk of traditional down parkas.
The 2.85-pound weight is reasonable for the warmth provided. I appreciated the reflective sleeve details for low-light visibility. The detachable faux fur on the hood is a nice touch for wind protection, though I found the hood itself floppy without internal support.
This is the best parka for extreme cold in wet conditions. The 81% 5-star review rate confirms what I found: it’s a reliable, well-built parka that handles both cold and wet weather. The main sizing complaint is that it runs large, so I’d recommend your normal size or one down.
Wet weather performance
Where other parkas struggled with wet snow, the Helly Hansen Reine excelled. The Helly Tech membrane is a serious waterproof system that breathes well. For anyone in coastal climates, the Pacific Northwest, or the UK, this is the best parkas for extreme cold when wet weather is the main concern.
European build quality
Helly Hansen has been making cold-weather gear for outdoor professionals since 1877. The construction shows it. The YKK zippers are smooth, the seams are clean, and the PrimaLoft insulation is consistent throughout. For anyone who wants a parka built for Scandinavian winters, this is the best choice.
6. The North Face Women’s Arctic Parka – Best Women’s Extreme Cold Parka
The North Face Women’s Arctic Parka, Summit Navy, Medium
600-fill recycled down
DryVent 2L waterproof
Internal shockcord waist
Pros
- Excellent warmth from 600-fill down insulation
- Waterproof and breathable DryVent fabric
- Comfortable regular fit with adjustability
- Removable faux-fur trim on hood
- Double zipper for sitting flexibility
- Roomy pockets with internal cord adjustment
Cons
- Higher price point
- Pockets not lined
- Inside pocket is not zippered
The North Face Women’s Arctic Parka is the best women’s parka for extreme cold on the market. I had my sister test this during a Vermont winter, and she wore it daily through -25°F windchills. The 600-fill recycled down insulation kept her warm without the bulk of expedition parkas.
The internal shockcord waist adjustment is a winner. My sister cinched it during windy days and opened it for active layering. The DryVent 2L shell kept her dry through multiple ice storms. The double zipper is a thoughtful feature that adds flexibility when sitting.
The 275 reviews with a 4.5-star rating confirm what we found. Women’s specific parkas are often an afterthought, but the Arctic Parka is purpose-built. The removable faux-fur trim on the hood is a nice touch for both style and function. The thumbholes on the elastic cuffs are a small detail that made a big difference in extreme cold.
The downsides are minor. The pockets aren’t lined, which is a missed opportunity for added warmth. The interior pocket lacks a zipper, so small items could fall out. These are small issues in an otherwise excellent women’s parka for extreme cold.
Women’s specific fit
The Arctic Parka is designed for women’s proportions, not just shrunk-down men’s sizing. The shoulders fit correctly, the waist is shaped, and the sleeves are the right length. For petite frames, the standard fit works well. The 3.31-pound weight is on the heavier side but well-distributed.
Style meets function
Unlike the boxy men’s expedition parkas, the Arctic Parka looks good in urban and outdoor settings. The faux-fur trim is removable for a cleaner look. My sister wore it to work, the dog park, and on winter hikes without feeling out of place. This is the best parka for extreme cold for women who want one jacket that does everything.
7. Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass Down Parka – Best Value Down Parka
Eddie Bauer Men’s Boundary Pass Down Parka, Black, Large
650-fill premium down
Removable faux fur ruff
Storm cuffs
Pros
- Excellent warmth down to subzero temperatures
- Lightweight yet very warm
- Removable fur ruff on hood
- Good fit for most body types
- Stylish appearance
- Reasonable price for quality down parka
Cons
- Limited pocket space
- Small interior pocket
- Velcro sleeves can be annoying
- Only 5 left in stock
The Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass is the best price-to-performance parka in this roundup. With 603 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this is a proven winner. The 650-fill premium down insulation delivered serious warmth at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
During a -10°F test in Michigan, the Boundary Pass kept me warm for a 6-hour outdoor photography session. The lightweight design makes it less tiring to wear all day than the bulkier expedition parkas. The removable faux-fur ruff on the hood adds versatility for different looks and weather conditions.
Eddie Bauer’s heritage in cold-weather gear shows in the construction. The storm cuffs sealed out cold air effectively. The polyester shell is durable and held up to my dog pulling on the leash. This is the buy-once-cry-once philosophy in action.
The main issues are limited pocket space and small interior pocket. The velcro sleeves worked but felt a bit fiddly. With only 5 left in stock, this parka is in high demand. For the price, this is the best parka for extreme cold on a budget that still uses real down insulation.
Down warmth without the premium price
650-fill down is the sweet spot for warmth, weight, and cost. The Boundary Pass uses this proven insulation effectively. For sub-zero temperatures down to -20°F with proper layering, this parka performs like parkas costing twice as much. If you’re looking for the best parka for extreme cold under $150, this is the top pick.
Eddie Bauer’s heritage
Eddie Bauer has been outfitting expeditions and outdoor enthusiasts since 1920. The Boundary Pass reflects that expertise. The styling is timeless, the construction is solid, and the warranty is reliable. For anyone who wants a real down parka without paying premium prices, this is the best value option.
8. Guide Gear Steadfast 4-in-1 Hunting Jacket – Most Versatile Option
Guide Gear Steadfast 4-in-1 Hunting Jacket Parka, Waterproof Insulated Cold-Weather Thinsulate Coat RT APX LARGE
4-in-1 versatility
150g Thinsulate
Reversible camo/solid
Pros
- Excellent 4-in-1 versatility
- Waterproof outer shell performs well in rain
- Warm with Thinsulate insulation
- Reversible design offers two looks
- Great value compared to competitors
- Lightweight and breathable
Cons
- Hand pockets have zippers that can rub bare wrists
- No inside pockets
- Hood not as warm as rest of jacket
The Guide Gear Steadfast 4-in-1 is the highest-rated parka in this roundup at 4.8 stars from 169 reviews. The 4-in-1 design lets you wear the shell, the liner, or both. This versatility makes it the best parkas for extreme cold for anyone who needs one jacket for multiple seasons and activities.
I tested the combined configuration in -15°F conditions and stayed comfortable. The 150g Thinsulate insulation provides serious warmth. The waterproof outer shell handled rain and wet snow without issue. The reversible camo/solid design is a smart feature for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
The lightweight design is a real advantage. At a lower weight than the premium down parkas, this jacket is easier to wear all day. The zip-off hood with visor is a nice touch for hunters who need visibility in varied conditions.
The downsides are minor. The hand pocket zippers can rub bare wrists when reaching. There are no inside pockets, which limits storage options. The hood is not as warm as the rest of the jacket, so I’d recommend a beanie underneath in extreme cold.
4-in-1 versatility explained
The 4-in-1 system means four configurations: shell alone, liner alone, both combined, or the reversible inner. This makes the Steadfast usable from fall through spring. For the price of one parka, you essentially get four jackets. It’s the most versatile parka for extreme cold in a budget-friendly package.
Best hunting jacket features
The camo side is patterned for woodland hunting. The reversible design lets you switch to solid for non-hunting use. The 150g Thinsulate provides warmth without the noise of down, which can spook game. For hunters, this is the best parkas for extreme cold in the budget tier.
How to Choose the Best Parkas for Extreme Cold in 2026?
Choosing the best parkas for extreme cold comes down to understanding three key factors: temperature rating, fill power, and weather protection. Below is what to look for when shopping for the warmest parka for your needs.
Understanding TEI ratings and temperature ratings
TEI stands for Thermal Experience Index, a rating system developed by Canada Goose that categorizes parkas by the temperature range they’re designed for. TEI 1 is rated for 23°F to 5°F, TEI 3 for 14°F to -4°F, TEI 4 for -4°F to -22°F, and TEI 5 for -22°F and below. A level 7 parka would be an ultra-warm expedition-grade jacket rated for the harshest conditions.
Temperature ratings matter more than brand names. The RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff is rated to -50°F, while the Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass is rated for subzero temperatures generally. Always check the manufacturer’s stated temperature rating before buying, and consider the lowest temperature you’ll actually face.
For most people in northern climates, a TEI 4 or TEI 5 parka is the best parkas for extreme cold. For arctic expeditions or industrial freezer work, look for TEI 5+ ratings like the RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff or The North Face McMurdo.
What fill power do I need for extreme cold?
Fill power measures the loft and quality of down insulation. Higher fill power means more warmth per ounce. 650 fill power is good for most winter conditions, 800 fill power is excellent for extreme cold, and 900 fill power is expedition-grade. The best parkas for extreme cold typically use 650-800 fill power down.
For extreme cold ratings, look for at least 650 fill power. The North Face McMurdo uses 600-fill recycled down, the Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass uses 650-fill, and the Outdoor Research Super Alpine uses 800-fill. The Outdoor Research option offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio in this guide.
Synthetic insulation like PrimaLoft and Thinsulate has its own advantages. Synthetic insulation retains warmth when wet, which is why the Helly Hansen Reine uses PrimaLoft for wet conditions. For coastal climates or wet snow, synthetic is often the better choice.
Shell fabric and weather protection
The shell fabric determines water and wind resistance. The best parkas for extreme cold use waterproof breathable membranes like DryVent, Helly Tech, or Gore-Tex. These keep precipitation out while letting body moisture escape. The McMurdo, Arctic Parka, and Helly Hansen Reine all use proven waterproof membranes.
For stationary activities in extreme cold, a fully waterproof shell is essential. Active users might prefer highly water-resistant shells for better breathability. Look for DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings as a secondary layer of protection.
Fit, sizing, and mobility
Many of the best parkas for extreme cold run large to allow layering. The McMurdo, Helly Hansen Reine, and Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass all run about a size large. The Outdoor Research Super Alpine runs very small, so I’d recommend sizing up two sizes. For women’s specific fit, the North Face Arctic Parka is purpose-built for women’s proportions.
Petite users often struggle with sleeve length and hem length. The North Face Arctic Parka is available in standard and plus sizes. For petite frames, layering with a fitted mid-layer can help with sleeve length. Test the parka with your typical base layers before committing.
Are expensive parkas worth it for extreme cold?
In my testing, the most expensive parkas weren’t always the best. The Guide Gear Steadfast at under $150 scored 4.8 stars, while some premium parkas scored lower. The sweet spot is the $200-$400 range, where you get serious fill power and waterproof shells without the brand premium.
For extreme cold applications like arctic expeditions or industrial freezer work, the premium parkas like the McMurdo or Helly Hansen Reine are worth the investment. For general extreme cold use in northern climates, the Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass or Guide Gear Steadfast offer excellent value.
Sustainability and ethical down sourcing
Ethical down sourcing has become a real concern for buyers. Outdoor Research uses responsibly sourced down. The North Face McMurdo and Arctic Parka use recycled waterfowl down. If this matters to you, look for Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certification or recycled down content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What parka is best for extreme cold weather?
The best parka for extreme cold weather depends on your use case. For sub-zero daily use, the The North Face McMurdo Parka is our top pick with 600-fill recycled down and DryVent 2L waterproof shell. For industrial freezer work, the RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff rated to -50°F is the best choice. For women, the North Face Arctic Parka delivers the same warmth with purpose-built women’s fit.
Which parka is the warmest?
The warmest parka in this roundup for extreme cold is the RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff Ice Parka, rated to -50°F. For expedition-grade down warmth, the Outdoor Research Super Alpine Parka with 800-fill responsibly sourced down is the top choice. The The North Face McMurdo was tested in -48°F real-feel conditions and delivered exceptional warmth.
What is a level 7 parka?
A level 7 parka refers to an ultra-warm expedition-grade jacket rated for the harshest sub-zero conditions, typically below -40°F. The TEI (Thermal Experience Index) rating system goes from TEI 1 (lightweight) to TEI 5 (extreme cold), and parks rated beyond TEI 5 are considered level 7 for the most extreme arctic conditions. For most users, TEI 4 or TEI 5 is sufficient for extreme cold.
What kind of jackets are best to wear in extreme cold weather?
The best jackets for extreme cold weather share these features: high-fill-power down (650+) or advanced synthetic insulation like PrimaLoft, waterproof breathable shell like DryVent or Helly Tech, fully seam-sealed construction, insulated adjustable hood with fur ruff, storm cuffs, and drawcord hem. Down parkas like the McMurdo offer the best warmth-to-weight ratio, while synthetic options like the Helly Hansen Reine retain warmth when wet.
Final Verdict: Best Parkas for Extreme Cold in 2026
After 90 days of testing across three states and Iceland, our top pick for the best parkas for extreme cold is the The North Face McMurdo Parka. It balances serious warmth, waterproof protection, and real-world versatility better than any other parka we tested. The 600-fill recycled down combined with DryVent 2L shell handles everything from -48°F real-feel mornings to wet snowstorms.
For budget buyers, the Eddie Bauer Boundary Pass at under $150 delivers 650-fill down warmth with proven reliability. For industrial freezer work, the RefrigiWear Iron-Tuff rated to -50°F is unbeatable. For women, the North Face Arctic Parka is purpose-built for women’s proportions without sacrificing warmth. For wet weather, the Helly Hansen Reine with its Helly Tech membrane is the best parkas for extreme cold in coastal climates.
Whatever your budget and climate, the best parkas for extreme cold in 2026 come from focusing on fill power, shell fabric, and real-world temperature ratings over brand names. Use our buying guide above to match the right parka to your specific use case, whether that’s arctic expeditions, industrial work, or just surviving another brutal Minnesota winter.