Prices are collected from third-party retailers and updated periodically. Always verify the price on the retailer's site before purchasing. We may earn a commission on purchases made through our links.

What does Penguin smell like?

Penguin by Zoologist is a masterclass in olfactory architecture, designed to mimic the stark, bracing atmosphere of the Antarctic. The opening is remarkably literal, utilizing a synthetic ice accord a...

Details

House: Zoologist
Gender: unisex
Year: 2024
Longevity: 7.3 / 10
Sillage: 6.8 / 10
Scent Profile: Fresh, Aquatic, Spicy, Leathery, Synthetic
Best Seasons: Spring, Winter
Best Occasions: Leisure, Daily
Perfumer: Chiaki Nomura

Community Insights

Based on 58 discussions

The community is divided on its complexity; while many appreciate the unique "cold air" realism, others find it more approachable and "designer-leaning" compared to more challenging entries in the Zoologist lineup.
Performance is widely considered reliable, with enthusiasts noting that the scent lasts through a full day while maintaining a polite, moderate sillage that won't overwhelm a room.
Frequent comparisons are made to other ozonic and watery scents like MFK Gentle Fluidity Silver or Kilian's Vodka on the Rocks, though Penguin is often cited as being more atmospheric and textural due to the suede and moss.
It is viewed as a highly versatile fragrance that defies traditional seasonal rules; while the "ice" theme fits winter, the crisp aquatic nature makes it a popular choice for spring and summer daily wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Penguin lean more masculine or feminine?+

It is a true unisex fragrance. The top notes provide a masculine, gin-and-tonic crispness, while the suede and musk dry down offers a soft, skin-like quality that is universally wearable.

How does this compare to Squid by Zoologist?+

While both are marine scents, they occupy different spaces. Squid is dark, salty, and ink-heavy, evocative of the deep ocean. Penguin is bright, airy, and icy, focusing on the atmosphere above the water rather than the depths below.

Is this suitable for the office?+

Yes. Unlike some of the more animalic or "challenging" scents from this house, Penguin is noted for being clean, inoffensive, and professional, making it one of the most workplace-friendly options in the collection.

How long does the "ice" sensation last?+

The sharp, cooling effect of the air and ice accords is most prominent in the first hour. As the fragrance wears, it evolves into a dryer, woodier scent where the sandalwood and suede become the dominant features.

Appears in Collections

Casual & Leisure Fragrances2484 Unisex Fragrances3693 Fragrances Starting With P354

Similar Fragrances

Zoologist

Panda

Zoologist

Dragonfly

Zoologist

Beaver

Zoologist

Bat

Zoologist

Rhinoceros

Zoologist

Rhinoceros

Zoologist

Bat

Zoologist

Dragonfly

No tracked prices yet

We are not tracking a current retailer offer for this fragrance yet.

View price details

No tracked prices yet

We are not tracking a current retailer offer for this fragrance yet.

View price details

What does Penguin smell like?

Penguin by Zoologist is a masterclass in olfactory architecture, designed to mimic the stark, bracing atmosphere of the Antarctic. The opening is remarkably literal, utilizing a synthetic ice accord a...

Details

House: Zoologist
Gender: unisex
Year: 2024
Longevity: 7.3 / 10
Sillage: 6.8 / 10
Scent Profile: Fresh, Aquatic, Spicy, Leathery, Synthetic
Best Seasons: Spring, Winter
Best Occasions: Leisure, Daily
Perfumer: Chiaki Nomura

Community Insights

Based on 58 discussions

The community is divided on its complexity; while many appreciate the unique "cold air" realism, others find it more approachable and "designer-leaning" compared to more challenging entries in the Zoologist lineup.
Performance is widely considered reliable, with enthusiasts noting that the scent lasts through a full day while maintaining a polite, moderate sillage that won't overwhelm a room.
Frequent comparisons are made to other ozonic and watery scents like MFK Gentle Fluidity Silver or Kilian's Vodka on the Rocks, though Penguin is often cited as being more atmospheric and textural due to the suede and moss.
It is viewed as a highly versatile fragrance that defies traditional seasonal rules; while the "ice" theme fits winter, the crisp aquatic nature makes it a popular choice for spring and summer daily wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Penguin lean more masculine or feminine?+

It is a true unisex fragrance. The top notes provide a masculine, gin-and-tonic crispness, while the suede and musk dry down offers a soft, skin-like quality that is universally wearable.

How does this compare to Squid by Zoologist?+

While both are marine scents, they occupy different spaces. Squid is dark, salty, and ink-heavy, evocative of the deep ocean. Penguin is bright, airy, and icy, focusing on the atmosphere above the water rather than the depths below.

Is this suitable for the office?+

Yes. Unlike some of the more animalic or "challenging" scents from this house, Penguin is noted for being clean, inoffensive, and professional, making it one of the most workplace-friendly options in the collection.

How long does the "ice" sensation last?+

The sharp, cooling effect of the air and ice accords is most prominent in the first hour. As the fragrance wears, it evolves into a dryer, woodier scent where the sandalwood and suede become the dominant features.

Is it a safe blind buy?+

Because of the polarizing nature of synthetic accords and the specific "shoe polish" or "suede" nuances some users report, sampling is highly recommended even for fans of fresh aquatic fragrances.

When is the best time of year to wear this?+

The community is split, making it a year-round choice. Its icy profile is refreshing in the summer heat, yet its literal theme feels perfectly synchronized with the cold air of mid-winter.

Where to buy Penguin

50ml

Checked Jul 6

Ministry of ScentOut of stock

$200.00Check

<5ml

Checked Jul 6

Ministry of ScentOut of stock

$6.00Check

Price history

50ml price trendAt tracked low of $200.00

Amazon

Price not trackedBuy

No price tracked yet. Join the list and we'll email you if one shows up.

Prices are collected from third-party retailers and updated periodically. Always verify the price on the retailer's site before purchasing. We may earn a commission on purchases made through our links.