My husband and I purchased the former model of this jacket nearly 20 years ago for field work. They continue to be the best jackets we have ever purchased. They are warm, washable, extremely well-constructed, and has all the features we want. Although we have worn them winter after winter for nearly two decades, they are only recently showing their age. Based on this, there was no question we wanted to try the new model.
We ordered one for my husband but unfortunately, we were extremely disappointed.
This new model did not fit correctly and did not come anywhere near the quality of the older model. The inside lining is too short, the jacket has overly long sleeves and body but a small chest (we ordered a medium - the same size as my husband's old Maine Warden Parka). The outershell picked up lint and cat hair almost immediately out of the box. The pockets of the old jacket were perfectly made for easy accessibility and storage and we loved the warmer packets - all were invaluable in the field. The pockets on this new model simply do not compare in terms of style and functionality. We immediately returned the item and continue to wear our now-fraying old jackets in the field and for work around the house.
We hope that you will offer the old model again. We would each buy one immediately.
This is the first time I've been deeply disappointed with a product from Bean. It was meant to be a birthday gift for my husband. The zipper is impossible. The jacket is tight across the chest, and could not be worn with a sweater underneath.
It doesn't matter if its +25F or -25F with 25 mph wind...this jacket laughs at the weather. The Gore Tex shell with the down liner is the best combination! The outer layer has a wind blocker toward the bottom of the jacket that completely seals out the weather/wind. Detachable hood, plenty of pockets and so much more. If you hadn't yet guessed I love the jacket.
