This item adds to a black one I bought from L.L. Bean nearly 15 years ago. That one is now a bit frayed, but too comfortable to let go of. Now I will spend a few years wearing this one out. It's a fine fit ('L' equals 40-42, that's me) and warm on chilly desert morning dog walks. The neck band doesn't chaff, which is my number one complaint with other mass-manufactured sweatshirts. The sleeves are ample and stay easy at the wrists during movement--no "short-sleeving" or continuous tugging like lesser brands. The color (navy) is rich; inside is soft but requires a couple of washings to get the fuzz to stop transferring to a t-shirt or other shirt. My expectation of L.L. Bean quality was met with this garment.
The sweatshirt is high quality. It's durable and thick yet soft at the same time. The fit itself is quite relaxed, so if you're looking for a slim fit this isn't it. The armholes are big and low creating a baggy armpit. The sizing guide is off as well, the small fits like most other brands' medium. I have not put it through the wash yet so I can't comment on shrinkage. This is a wonderful sweatshirt for doing work in the garden or working out when it's chilly, but not all that flattering for casual wear with jeans. I can already tell that it will last a long time and is definitely a good value, more so than other brands' offerings.
My husband could not find any good quality crewneck sweatshirts in retail stores, so we decided to try LLBean. He loves these sweatshirts. When we first received them he thought they were a little thin, but they actually got thicker once he washed them and they fit very well. He loved them so much I bought one for my Dad!
