It feels like my neoprene snorkel gear. I guess that's what makes it wind and waterproof, but I don't care for it. Size-wise, I'm 5'6" and 112 lb, size SX plenty big.
I have this jacket in 3 colors, and use it fall through spring for all different kinds of activities. This weekend it was great over two light layers for snowshoeing. In spring and fall I use it for long walks along the coast where it blocks the wind to keep me comfortable. I like the placement of the exterior and interior pockets, the high collar that allows room for a light scarf, and the neat appearance. My oldest one is now a few years old and still looks like new. Of the many LL Bean items I own, I consider this one of the best!
Doesn't fit me - too small in the chest, too small around the arms, and the sleeves are several inches too long. I wear the same size Bean shirts without these issues, which seem to be the same ones that I've had with all of the Bean coats & jackets that I've tried. I guess I didn't love it enough to try a larger size in petite although I'm not convinced that would fix the fit issues - honestly trying to get the size right via mail is too frustrating.
Looked long and hard for a petite soft-shell jacket. It is well-contructed, not too boxy nor fitted. The plus side to this style is that the neck and facing is the same color. It is windproof and waterproof (at least the top half of you will be dry). Water drops roll right off. The stand-up collar is stiff, as is the body of the jacket, but I imagine it will soften up in time. The not-so good - the inside of the cuffs is gray. Come on! Ya'll took the trouble to to have the neckline match the shell exterior, but used gray on the inside of the cuffs and hem?! It would be no big deal except the sleeves go down to my knuckles (like most LLBean clothing these days), rolling them up exposes that hideous gray and takes away from the clean lines. Rolling them inwards looks dorky. Leaving as is looks like the jacket is too big. Have not had it long enough to say whether it is "breathable," but I suspect it is not. It is what I want but it is a hit and a miss. Depending on how expensive it would be to have the sleeves shortened, I have not decided whether to keep this yet.
