Very warm coat if you get one large enough

By sistaC Ranked #278 - Women's Down Jackets January 14, 2009

I am about 5'3", 120 lbs and generally wear either a size small or x-small. After reading the reviews I ordered both a size small and a medium to compare. The small was very snug - couldn't fit a fleece or sweater under it and still move my arms, and I felt a distinct chill when I took my test stroll in zero degree Montanan weather. The medium, however, fit much more comfortably and was significantly warmer than the small - I even had to unzip the coat to cool off a little (this is a unique experience for me as I generally freeze all winter long)! This is a down coat - down only works if it is allowed to loft and expand appropriately. While from the front or back the A-line shape is nice, from the side I look very pregnant - not very flattering at all - but the medium makes such a significant difference in warmth and is so much more comfortable that I'm putting my vanity aside and returning the small.
Also, the pockets are placed poorly - there isn't much use for the chest pockets, the internal pocket is right against my waist, and the side hand pockets are too small to easily hold a pair of gloves. But, in spite of all these things, this is the warmest coat I have ever worn and therefore it's a keeper.

View Details: The North Face Arctic Down Parka - Women's

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