First off, this coat runs big. I'm 5'5, usually wear an XL/14/16, 40D. I initially bought the XL and even with layers on it was way too big. The large is a comfortable fit with winter layers underneath.PROS:- The hood. It has snaps that go all the way up your neck and chin- I look a bit like a very stylish Kenny from South Park when I do this, but it eliminates my greatest winter coat peeve: insufficient closure around the neck area. Keep in mind a bulky scarf will prevent you from buttoning all the way up, or make it challenging, but my old clunky scarves are actually making me sweaty with this feature, so I'm looking for something a little thinner. No scarf has also been fine in fairly cold temps. It's also big enough that I can wear my wool beanie (with a pom on top) and my comically large noise-cancelling headphones underneath it.- The length is great, it hits me just below my calf in the back, and the little step in front gives my stride enough room, you can also unzip from the bottom up if you have a longer stride.- Big, deep pockets. They're basically two extra purses. I've kept a reusable grocery bag, gloves, and keys in just one pocket with room to spare, although loading up will definitely give you a lumpy look.- Warm, but not bulky. I don't look like the Michelin man and I'm still warm. That being said, this isn't Canada Goose or Patagonia level warmth, but if you know how to dress appropriately for cold weather (i.e. layers), you will be sufficiently warm. Windchills in Chicago were -22 today, and I was ok during my commute. If you're moving around a lot you might even get too warm.- The design. It looks like something way more expensive. The geometric stitching gives it some great visual interest. It's hard to find a coat that's warm and looks chic.CONS- There's no loop to hang the coat inside. This was majorly inconvenient when I was trying to hang it on one of those thin two-pronged hooks you see everywhere. If you have a chair or a big enough hook to accommodate the hood, you'll be fine.- Sometimes the zipper is a pain. That being said most zippers are a pain when they're this long because they scrunch up as you reach down to close them. I've had to fiddle with it for a few seconds longer than is convenient on a few occasions, but it's a heavy-duty zip and I don't foresee it giving up the way it did on my last coat.- The sleeves could be a little bit longer- this hasn't been a big problem, I think it's just a matter of preference.All said, I love this coat and I think it's a damn steal- when I have to replace it I envision myself buying another.
