True to Size

By JY Pikulik Ranked #123 - Men's Down Jackets November 4, 2009

I just got this parka. It's not cold enough yet for me to comment on the warmth factor (though I understand the AZ has proven itself already in this area) so I'll comment on size.
I am around 5'10 maybe 5'11 and weight around 145lb. I usually wear small. I took a small AZ, following advice I read here and it was the right thing to do. I think I still have enough room for a light down jacket underneath (though most buyers will never need so much insulation) and the sleeves are the right length. The body is shorter than I expected, but I understand that that's how "parkas" are dimensioned these days. That's ok, because I didn't really want a coat that goes down to my knees; to me that's extra weight for little added benefit. This one goes just barely below the butt. Of the two drawstrings (bottom and waist), the waist one felt awkwardly high at first (it's at belly-button level) but it seems to be designed that way to reduce "flopping" of the core, which can otherwise urge air in and out through the extremities. Useful.
Overall small was the right size for me.

also note: I haven't noticed the poor down distribution around the arms yet (perhaps that will come in time?) but the TNF Himalayan I tried on at the store had major down distribution problems around the arms, there was nothing in front of the forearms.

View Details: Mountain Hardwear Absolute Zero Down Parka - Men's

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