This jacket really is as nice as everyone says. Because I wear a 2XL Tall, most of my winter jackets are heavy and burdensome, but this thing really is featherlight and wonderfully comfortable. I wore it for four hours straight while repairing my barn in 30 degree weather and was not slowed down at all (unlike wearing a wool jacket which starts to feel heavy after a few minutes). I like so much that I also bought the vest version.
Had a chance to compare this jacket directly to a competitors jacket. I was replacing an ancient LL BEan down jacket that had more patches than a quilt. The LL Bean actually seemed to be somewhat better made; stitching, quality zipper, just as warm. The only problem and the reason I retuned it is that even with the "trim" fit, the Bean jacket has way too much material and space around the midsection. You can draw it tight but there is still too much airspace. Fine for walking the doggie or driving around town but for a product priced near the technical gear range and for staying warm in the backcountry this is not acceptable. And frankly if you don't need the high loft down, the regular 550 Bean jacket is a screaming deal. As always Beans return policy was great.
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
I didn't think this jacket would be warm enough because it is so light-- but we just had our first snow of the season and even with the wind, I was very warm. It is amazing how many people comment on this jacket....
ProsComfortable, Performing as Expected, futuristic
Growing up in Buffalo, we are used to down for insulation, but I have never owned anything with 850 fill. The jacket easily handles bitter winds and biting cold. You would not believe it, though, from holding it, because it is much much lighter than a similar jacket with a lesser fill-power down. It is sort of miraculous that it can be so warm, and light, and even fashionable for such a price. Although it's made of rip-stop nylon, I wouldn't want to be around things that cut or snag, but if you're looking for something that can get you through the winter and become your new staple, this is probably it. It is mine.
