I recently bought the ascent shell and after two ski trips and some snow blowing I love it. I am a big guy (52" chest) and was having difficulty finding a shell that fit right but the LL Bean shell fits great even over a polar tec jacket.
I have had two LL Bean Parka before the Ascent Parka. All were excellent, my favorite was my LL Bean Mtn. Guide Jacket or I should say WAS my favorite as it has been replaced with the Ascent. It is light, durable, breathes well. I took it to on winter backpacking trips and summit attempts and it was "Excellent". 3 parkas over 19 years isn't bad, I expect this parka to last just as long.
This is a very high quality shell and worth the price if you spend considerable time outdoors. Well vented and extremely breathable while remaining completely waterproof. I am however disapointed in the fit. I'm 6'2" and ordered a large tall. Even in the tall size I find the sleeves and the overall length of the jacket too short. My personal preference would be an extra couple of inches in the sleeves.
