Overall the sweatshirt is great quality. These are the key aspects that I found enjoyable:
- The velcro on the pockets is a nice touch so that you don't lose your keys when you are working in the yard - The sweatshirt is double stitched in many areas for durability - I found the fleece lining to be comfortable and not itchy at all (I'm not sure why I thought it would be) -The cloth is very thick and can keep you warm working out in your garage on those cold New England type days and the item will last you a long time -The hood is large at least enough for a 6'-3" tall male, which is nice for those windy or snowy days
The one area I didn't like was the polyester sleeves which resulted in the 4 star not 5 star rating. I pictured this as a rugged workwear item. I thought this would be more like other workwear with fleece lining or cotton lining through the sleeves. The polyester doesn't breath and when you are working in it your sweat makes the sleeves stick to you uncomfortably. The sleeves just seem really out of place as it is like wearing fancy suit sleeves inside a sweatshirt. That is the best way to describe it: like a suit liner inside the sleeves of a sweatshirt. I hate suits.
Overall this is great for doing light tasks in your garage or out in the yard. I've put bolts and other hardware when I'm working in the velcro pockets which never drop them. It is more ideal though to wear it for around the house or out to dinner. Overall I find this very comfortable, and I have unintentionally fallen asleep on my couch several times wearing it.
This sweat shirt is great, keeps the body warm. As for sizing, if your measurements run real close to the upper limit (42-44) and measurement is 43-1/2 you may want to consider the next size up. Otherwise it is an extremely attractive sweat shirt (which is something in sweat shirts) and the hood is not oversized. Great clothing L.L. Bean!
I bought this sweatshirt for my husband and one of my sons last Christmas. The both loved it so much that I bought another this Christmas for my other son. My husband wanted a second this year!! He wanted one for work and one for home. They are soft, warm and well made.
