I have tried a number of LL Bean fleece and this is the best I've found for fall and winter wear. Despite it's warmth, it is not bulky and the lines are quite flattering (I got a compliment from my butcher!). In the changeable fall days, I wear the fitness fleece and/or a Tee-Shirt under it and it blocks enough wind to keep me comfortable but not so much that I get overheated. In winter, I substitute a technical layer for the Tee-shirt and add the Ascent wind breaker and it works for cross country skiing or winter biking or hiking. It also fits nicely under a winter coat for going downtown. I have now bought a second one. I have been very pleased with the whole Ascent line. The petite sizing is also wonderful for us shorter (5'2") types.
warm, fits the way i like . . . can wear over just a t-shirt or over thick sweater. living in northern china winters give a horrible chill. wore over a normal weight turtleneck shirt and was quite warm even with the pockets open. i thought the mesh pockets would make me miserable when i had my hands in them but so long as there wasn't a lot of wind it was fine. jacket doesn't look bulky but has lots of space to layer under. arm/shoulder area not restrictive like other jackets. i'm 5'3" and wear 2/4 bought a regular small. very satisfied with the shape of the ascent jacket line. buying the ascent pimaloft hooded jacket today.
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
I bought this jacket last fall and it is a great jacket! It resists wind really well and is great for those in between days where a windbreaker isn't enough but a heavy jacket is too warm. Plus I get tons of compliments on it which doesn't hurt!
