The parkas used by Alaska Natives were made from which material?

• A. Caribou Hide
• B. Seal Skin
• C. Musk Ox Wool
• D. Puffin Skin

Answer: (D)

Parkas worn by Alaska Native communities were built from animal hides chosen for warmth, wind resistance, and availability in each region. Caribou hide is the classic choice because it provides a strong, durable outer layer, and the fur left on helps trap air for excellent insulation. The roomy design of traditional parkas creates space for air pockets that keep warmth in even in bitter cold. In coastal areas, seal skin was also used for its waterproof quality and warmth, but the overarching pattern is a reliance on hides rather than plant fibers. Musk ox wool is highly valued for warmth as a fiber, but it was typically used in knitted garments or as lining rather than as the outer parka material; puffin skin is not a standard material for parkas. So caribou hide best fits the traditional concept of Alaska Native parkas.