This is the best parka I have ever owned! It is warm warm warm! Light, waterproof and has sufficient pockets for traveling through airport security. The extra length provides better protection from wet weather. It replaces an old Baxter State (pre Gortex) one I have used for many years.
My dad had an LLBean Maine Warden's parka from a number of years back which I've borrowed and loved -- his was thinsulate. I bought this parka in late 2007 and use it for commuting by train and bus in Chicago (sometimes waits as long as 20 minutes outside), dog-walking, etc. It's a little heavy/bulky for me for quick errands by car unless it's really blustery out and I know I'll be outside for any length of time. There are no issues standing in subfreezing (even sub-zero) temps and feeling toasty warm (the down is warmer than the Thinsulate from what I can recall), no wind enters because of the powder-skirt, and having those numerous pockets is very handy to pop my cellphone, train-ticket, gloves, hat, etc. in. I always leave the hood on, but it would be nice to have it designed a little easier to quickly attach and detach, but perhaps this is a compromise for better sealing. I like the zippered side slits for quick access to your pants pockets for your wallet. I read the complaints about the zipper being weak, but have yet to have any issues with it myself after over a year (1.5 winters) of use.
I have owned the Woman's version of this jacket for a number of years. I love it so much that I bought one for my husband. It's comfortable on very cold and windy days at football games and the hood is great. It has so many inside and outside pockets that no purse is needed! It's a great jacket and worth every cent.
