trencas

Trencas is a Spanish term that can refer to several things, most commonly a type of outerwear. Historically, it denoted a specific style of woolen coat, often associated with rural or practical wear in mountainous regions of Spain. These coats were typically thick, durable, and designed to provide protection against cold weather. The word "trenca" itself is thought to derive from the French word "trench," suggesting a connection to trench coats or similar military-inspired garments, though the Spanish trenca evolved with distinct regional characteristics.

In modern usage, "trencas" is frequently used as a colloquial term for a duffle coat. The duffle coat, characterized by its toggle fastenings (often made of wood or horn) and a hood, gained popularity in the 20th century and remains a recognizable outerwear style. The Spanish adoption of the term "trenca" for this garment reflects a broader international influence on fashion and terminology. While the original woolen trenca might be less common today, the duffle coat known as a trenca in Spain continues to be a popular choice for its warmth and distinctive appearance. The term can also occasionally refer to other types of heavy coats or jackets, depending on regional dialect and context.