I bought this intended to replace the amazing Bean rain jacket I had for years. I was very disappointed with the quality of this jacket, compared to the old one at the same price. The jacket ran a bit small, but worse, it had no mesh lining or ventilation to speak of. Don't be fooled by the "pit zipper" - it did nothing for actually keeping me cool. The jacket felt like cheap plastic, and was stiff. IDK how it would be in a colder climate, but in a warmer humid area, wearing a jacket like this is about as comfortable as being trapped in a thick rubber trash bag. I was sweating in seconds just sitting there - forget about trying to actually do anything active in it! I had a jacket like that once before from LL Bean, but I had paid $20 for it, and figured I couldn't expect more for that price, so I went back and upgraded to the $100 coat (RIP). $20 is about what this jacket is actually worth. Don't spend your money on it. I'd rather get rained on then be soaked by my own sweat. It went back.
This was the only jacket I brought to Costa Rica in October which was rainy season. I am so glad I did. It rained everyday and all day. This kept me dry. The only thing I wish it had was soft/plush liner inside.
I bought this jacket to replace a worn-out Gortex jacket that had been all around the world with me. I love to have this type of jacket for hiking in all kinds of weather - with or without a fleece underneath.
I typically wear a petite large but even a women's regular large was too snug with a thin fleece. I just received a regular XL and it fits fine. The XL is not really all that large. It fits more like a PL.
The jacket is well made and has lots of nice features like velcro cuffs, deep pockets, 2 inside pockets, armhole zippers and a great hood. The violet/lilac combo is really pretty too!
Generally speaking I wish that LLBean offered more petite clothing and that the sizing would be more accurate.
I'm a little disappointed in the jacket. It does not breathe like my previous Goretex one (granted, it isn't Goretex); it feels and smells more "plasticky." It also fits more snugly; it'll be hard to get a sweater underneath. I'm debating returning it -- haven't decided yet. It's okay, but I'm disppointed.
