I ordered the coat for my new winter coat after reading all the reviews. But I could not find a person who sounded like they were tall like me. So I feel compelled to write a review in case another tall/full figured gal comes looking. The coat is nice, it's warm and comfortable and a pretty nice fit.... for an average sized person. )c: I'm 6 ft tall, a thicker build but a size XL. I just wish LLBean did tall for women, not just men. The sleeves are just a touch, and I mean an inch or two too short and I wish the length were just an inch or two longer. I ended up giving it to my partner... I'm bummed because it is a great coat but needs a little length for tall people.
I have a couple fleece jackets from LL Bean, and they're all very soft and warm. So I wondered what made this jacket so special (and expensive!).
I discovered the mysteries of the Ascent Polartec Fleece recently, and now I understand.
This is a heavier fleece, and yet not heavy at all. The inside feels like a very plush stuffed animal, which would explain why it keeps you nice and toasty.
It's not just like a sweatshirt. It really does feel like a jacket. Since I run cold, I wear this as a layer under the Ascent Jacket or Rugged Ridge Parka, but I imagine I could wear it on its own when it gets warmer here in New Hampshire.
The most impressive thing about this jacket is when you zip it all the way up, it doesn't constrict around your neck like other jackets do. I get migraines, and having anything around my neck can be a trigger, but this fits loosely but still protects my neck from wind.
Since I tend to wear several layers, I bought this a size up. It fits well. If I bought my regular size, I might have found it to be a little snug (or at least hugging everything, making it look fitted). It really depends on what you're looking for. If you want a fitted jacket, get your usual size, and if you want something that you can layer with, go with a size up.
This is a very good outdoor jacket. I survived all of Chicago's winter (2010-11 with the blizzard even) with this jacket alone as my outer jacket. I used just a cap, a thermal and gloves as my accessories.
This jacket is so warm without the bulk. I can easily see myself wearing it the three out of the four seasons. One of my favorite purchases at L.L. Bean!!!
