This jacket is the one I put on everyday because it is a lightweight fluff of a cocoon, surrounding me with ideal warmth and comfort.
I live in New England. Last year I got one of those super thin style down alternative jackets, in the long version. Yes, it is warm. Unfortunately, there are three things I don't like about it: (1) it is prone to static, (2) the length is cumbersome when driving, and (3) it takes several, minutes to warm up.
This jacket does not pick up the static electricity in dry weather. The fit is very comfortable for movement, including driving. I feel I have a "big jacket" on but I don't feel heaviness or bulk. The jacket seems to hold its shape so that my arms and body have their own space inside, with that awesome effect of warm air in between me and the material. Now I don't borrow my husband's jacket when I need to go out early in the morning to let the dog out or collect eggs from the chickens. This jacket is warm enough like a heavy coat - but lightweight enough to be feminine and comfy.
I am 5'9" and usually wear a size Large in other brands. I almost always purchase XL outerwear for the roominess and sleeve length. I ordered this jacket in Large because to me, LLBean sizing is a bit generous. However, this jacket is true to size overall. It fits perfectly as a size Large. I kept this size but I wonder if I had tried it on in the store, if I might have chosen XL, especially to get a longer sleeve. The bright side to keeping the Large is that if the jacket was too big, the magic of warm air pocketed by the down might not be as effective. This seems like the kind of item that should fit well, not run big. So I am happy with my size Large.
I took the hood off even though it was attractive. I prefer less bulk around my neck when driving. I LOVE that you can zip up fully and still have room to tuck your chin into the tall neck portion of the jacket like a winter turtle.
From the photos, I did not realize there would be a "collar" inside the sleeves. I'm not crazy about that because I'd rather have freedom of movement. But I admit it helps keep warm air inside the jacket. I am unlikely to want to push up the sleeves anyway. I just don't think that feature is my favorite.
I read another review noting the white color may appear transparent when feathers showing. I find this is only true in super bright light, staring at the fabric. In normal wear, the off white color is attractive and not cheap looking or transparent. No feather has shown itself to me as of yet.
Lastly I would comment the zipper is very high quality and easy to use. And all the pockets are well made and well thought out.
I haven't worn any other jacket since getting this one.
Started wearing immediately. My normal size Large for coats & jackets fits very well. The inner cuff in sleeves is a great idea. Sometimes the sleeves can be a little long, but this solves that issue. The 2 way zipper works very well. It does feel light & is very warm. Very satisfied.
My wife loves her Ultrawarm jacket from LL Bean. The sizing chart worked out fine. The jacket is very light yet super warm. LL Bean comes with a premium price but you get what you pay for. For $150 this jacket will surely last a LONG time and always be well made. The only issue my wife has with this jacket is that the hood, the furry part of it, fits on your head a little funny. That part of the hood is completely removable if it bothers you that much. We're very satisfied with the jacket.
