L.L. Bean Mountain Guide Parka Review

"I bought the Mountain Guide Parka last summer from LL Bean for $199.00. It's a 3 ply Gore-Tex Shell that has kept me dry on hikes in the wind and rain. I also used it over the winter for a shell with just long underwear underneath for when I was on the move. Reinforced Shoulders and Shelves for wear areas, pit zips and slash mess pockets for great ventilation when you need to cool off. Hood folds into collar neatly. Great heavy duty zippers with pulls. I checked out other major manufacturers Gore-Tex shells before I bought this one, and they're typically $100.00 more for the same quality. No overkill here, just solid features made for backpacking at an aggressive price. Highly recommended!"

"I have been so impressed with the first L.L.Bean Mountain Guide Parka that I purchased in 1998, that I have now purchased 2 additional L.L.Bean Mountain Guide parkas...one for my wife, and another for myself...the Anorak version of this fine parka. It is noteworthy to mention that I have a personal collection of more than 10 Gortex-type shells, and I have found the L.L.Bean Mountain Guide Parka to be the best value in terms of the cost of the product, overall features, and overall quality and performance. The Jacket, as well as the Anorak versions are available in several attractive colors. At $199.00 per copy, this fine parka is an excellent buy. It is available in both jacket, and anorak styles."