I've had a parka just like this for several years but in a light blue (periwinkle actually). In winter's like this with the mess outdoors and walking the dog it takes a real beating. I got a darker color for the messy days and I appreciate the fact that it can go in the washing machine and dryer. I' m just as pleased with the new coat as I have been with the old coat. The Ultrawarm Coat really is warm too.
This is a warm coat. Some cold can still get under the bottom part around the thigh area. Fleece lining in the pockets and around the wrists is nice! My complaint is about the hood buttons. I exchanged the first coat I got because both buttons popped off. Without them, the hood comes unzipped. LL Bean, a company with great customer service, exchanged the coat quickly but i just noticed that both the hood buttons are gone. Again! I will just be sewing on some new buttons this time, but just be warned that this might happen to your coat so maybe reinforce them before you wear it.
I left a bad review for this coat in the long version, but the 3/4 length has worked out wonderfully. As has been happening with LL Bean, fit was inconsistent from coat to coat, and this one has a better line in front and fits snugger without being too snug. It is comfortably warm on cold days (have been out in the 20s but not yet colder, and I don't feel cold at all). The hood is especially wonderful, and I don't even need a hat - it adjusts for fit, is exceptionally warm, and doesn't give me hat hair.
For those who think the velcro sticks out when not fastened under your chin: fold it in half, and you will see that there are specially-crafted holes to tuck it into.
Negative: The back of the coat does not have a pretty/tailored line. It puffs way out at the middle of my back, giving me a puffy look if you view me from either the side or back. It's not a full sack like the long version because of the nice way the front lays, but it could use improvement.
Overall it's comfortable, doesn't look unfashionable in black, and it's the one I use if I'll be out in the cold for awhile. For quicker trips I choose the coat with the thinner material (the faux down one - bought it at a different but similar store), which is more flattering. I've yet to to test whether there is a true temperature difference.
