I purchased this for my husband who has been wanting a quality rain jacket for football games. This was a great choice, the stadium length provides good coverage, and the fabric is waterproof but very comfortable a far cry from stiff slickers that are hard to move in and hot.
I bought this parka because I was dissatisfied with the Marmot jacket I'd bought (for $98!!!). The Marmot's outer lining from the forearms to the cuffs absorbs rain. That weighs the sleeves down so they are pasted to my skin. That keeps my sweat from evaporating through the "breathing" layers and my hands get wet from the condensed sweat. At least that's my retailer's explanation. Me? I think the Marmot just leaks!
Anyway, the Bean parka hasn't done that. It' took me until yesterday to get an opportunity to wear it in anything but light rain. When I got home, it was pouring so I ran inside, put on the parka, and went outside to stand around in the rain. It beaded up and ran off, just like it's supposed to do. I ran back in, switched to the Marmot, ran back out into the rain. It still absorbed rain.
I did, earlier, wear the Bean parka on a dog walk when I was expecting rain. But the sun came out and, in the mugginess, the parka seemed kind of hot and muggy. So I suspect it may not be all that well ventilated and breathable. Can't say for sure because I wasn't walking around quite long enough.
BUT.... it kept me dry in the real rain while I was just standing around!
Good: – To date absolutely waterproof (first month's use) – Hood design greatly improved over earlier models. It shields face and eyes well (including keeping glasses dry). Could be better: – Ventilation. Perspiration accumulates in warm weather; can be clammy when cold. (This could be improved with underarm vent zippers, and/or ventilation slit in back.) – Main zipper. A sturdier model would be helpful and maybe less prone to jamming. – Snaps instead of velcro on storm flap. The lowest snap impedes stride, but a snap where the zipper ends would keep the flap closed better.
