Written by Kate Grandchamp, Copy Editor

Rather than beginning to pack on a layer of blubber for insulation in the onsetting cold weather, I have chosen to take the more socially acceptable route and dig out a somewhat more figure-flattering parka to protect myself from the chilly temperatures. Although Virginia’s winter is nothing compared to that of, for instance, windy Chicago or infamously cold New York City, the dedicated AHS students who walk to and from school daily–such as myself–are still subject to the elements, at least on the ‘wintry mix’ days FCPS remains open. It is during these outdoorsy treks that I have had the opportunity to forgo all fashion and weigh the pros and cons of various winter coats, specifically fur.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) promotes being animal friendly with gory propaganda of slaughtered animals whose short lives were desecrated by horrid living conditions and manually altered natural adaptations. The average person should not need to be left feeling like Luke Skywalker in “The Empire Strikes Back” whenever he or she dons a pellet to acknowledge that fur coats are largely unnecessary in the 21st century.

With technology like insulated removable liners, waterproof and moisture-wicking exteriors, down interiors and quick-drying fabric, there is simply no need for real fur anymore. To those who may suggest that this thought process is also applicable to the food industry, and therefore tofu should replace all meat, nutritional value’s equivalent in the coat category would be texture, and who would insist on wearing a soft rabbit muff over a North Face fleece?

The great fur debate is, and always will be, ongoing, and much light has been shed on it in recent years by vegan celebrities whose eco-friendly habits extend further than food. While one may conveniently rebut their choice clothing lines as world-peace promoters for only the rich, both types of outerwear vary largely in price and are available to all those wishing stray away from fur.