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Coats - keep or return?

medusa

Veteran

I'm trying to find a coat (or maybe two) that is waterproof and also looks OK. I want something in between a real outdoorsy coat and a stylish coat - it's a compromise. What do you think of these?

1-3: Eddie Bauer. This one is waterproof and insulated. I like the light color but it doesn't seem so flattering.

4: Patagonia. This one is waterproof but not insulted. This size is clearly too big, but what do you think of the shape and color?

5-7: North Face. This one is both waterproof and insulated; the liner zips out so I could wear it uninsulated as well. It's hard to see because it's black, but this one is a bit more tailored at the waist and seems less shapeless than the others. I'm leaning toward this one.

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21 replies

Latest reply was from Isis

Sheila

Veteran

From what I can see, the black one has the nicest silhouette/shape to it. I do like the color of the Patagonia coat, but it seems a bit shiny...maybe that's just my monitor...Of the three, I like the light one the least. It looks too big and the color is just too light for the size of it or something. Just my 2 cents worth. I appreciate your pursuit of the perfect cold weather long raincoat. Did the same thing myself a few months ago, finally in desperation bought one from Lands End, way reduced price, and it is definitely warm and toasty, but I feel like a blimp in it. A hard item to find, I think. Maybe Eddie Bauer???

Edited to add: Here is a link to Eddie Bauer winter outerwear.

http://www.eddiebauer.com/EB/W...../index.cat

san

Veteran

I think we need to know what use this coat will be for. I know it's a rain coat, but is it meant to be gear such as for wearing to keep warm at a sporting event, or is it meant to be a stylish coat for walking around the city?

Anonymous

Notice the sound of the coats when you walk. Strange, but I bought an Eddie Bauer Weathers Edge parka when I needed something in a hurry and have regretted it because the fabric is noisy. I hate wearing it.

Scarlet

Veteran

I actually like the Eddie Bauer one. I don't think the color washes you out at all. The black looks a little harsh, especially with the weather warming up. They both look a little long in the sleeves?

Elly

Veteran

Honestly, if I was going to spend that much (I'm assuming it was in the 100-plus price range) on a raincoat I would buy a fashionable yet functional one.
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/co.....1517B1882A
This one is close to knee length, waterproof, hood, close to the same price. Then I would go into a local sporting goods and pick up a 20 dollar nylon packable with rain pants for true gear. Anywhere I couldn't wear the more stylish raincoat I would prefer to short coat or pants combo for better movement. Plus, you can layer tights, jeans, and sweats under them and use them for ski pants in a pinch as well.

san

Veteran

Elly,
Yum on that Nordstrom coat suggestion.
Medusa would you consider something like that one? It looks much more feminine and less like gear. I love the collar and lapel. The tie waist also enhances the look. I'd love to see you try something like that. In fact I want to try that one. Beautiful!

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

I vote the North Face coat for function and quality. Second the Patagonia. With either of these you will have it for years. I know it's not in the fashion category which is the leanings of most people here. But when it comes to rain, or foul weather, the ability to keep dry without an umbrella is #1 to me. As your style is more funky and less conventional classic, I think these types of coats are you. If the North Face one is too dark, try another color. If the Patagonia doesn't fit, what about a smaller size?

Do the arms have velcro tabs so you can adjust the length?

Louise

Veteran

After your recent snow problems I'm guessing you want it to be useable for cold weather? I think the black one is great, with the zip out lining it will be very versatile for the cold but also cool enough without the lining for wet spring weather x

medusa

Veteran

Sheila, thanks for the comment about the North Face coat. The light colored one is from Eddie Bauer.

San, good question. This coat is for walking to/from work. I have some other, more stylish coats that are supposedly rainproof, but I keep getting soaked through when wearing them. I walk at least 3 miles outside every day and I need something that is *really* waterproof. So this coat is a compromise between outdoor clothing and stylish clothing.

Joy, good point. I'll watch for that.

Scarlet, thanks for the comment. I'm torn about the Eddie Bauer one, I like the color but I don't think the fit is as good as the North Face.

Elly, thanks for your suggestion. I've looked all over for a waterproof and stylish coat, and haven't been successful. The problem with the one you suggested is that wide lapels don't look good on me at all. Also, I've tried some stylish but supposedly waterproof coats that didn't actually keep the rain out. So I have to go with something truly waterproof.

CocoLion, thanks - I'm leaning toward the North Face, or the Patagonia in a smaller size. I can roll up the sleeves or get them altered, you're right that they are too long.

Lousie, yes. I think you're right about the versatility of the black one. Do you think the fit is OK?

Dani

Veteran

I think they all look large so I'm glad you're considering sizing down. Does the north face come in any other colors? I love the color of the Patagonia coat and think we should hold off on the decision until we see them in a smaller size.

Louise

Veteran

The fit of the black one looks fine to me can you put layers underneath for extra warmth? A colour would have been fab but I think if it ticks all the practical boxes then it seems a shame to discard it on colour? My trench is black and my wool coat x

Vix

Veteran

I am with Scarlet on preferring the light EB one; I know you know #2 is big on you, but the black NF one looks oversized as well.

I do love a zip-out lining and NF has stepped up its game re more flattering fits for women, so maybe a size or two down would solve things.

Personally I prefer a more structured raincoat like the EB or NF, so the Patagonia wouldn't work for me...but sized down it might be perfect for your needs.

medusa

Veteran

Good news: I just found the North Face coat online in a smaller size and ivory color. I'm ordering that one - that should give me the warmth, the good fit, and a good color. Fingers crossed!

lyn*

(website)

Veteran

I think the other colour + smaller size for the NF is a good choice - I have a pair of North Face boots and they are fab! I hope you love your jacket

greenglove

(website)

Veteran

I meant to comment on this thread earlier, I am also in favor of a smaller size. I like the NF best but looks too big

Jonesy

Veteran

I'd try the Patagonia one in a smaller size--I really like the color on you, and it seems like a color that you wear a lot. Somehow a colorful rain jacket is perkier than a black or off-white one.

I can't believe you walk three miles in the rain to work! Yikes.

Lisa

Veteran

I really like #1 but maybe a size smaller? Otherwise I vote #3.

Alecia

Veteran

The new NF sounds promising. Post pictures when it arrives!

medusa

Veteran

Jonesy - the walk isn't as bad as it sounds, it's just over a mile each way to/from work, and then I also walk the dog - so it's broken up over the day.

Also, good point about how I love the color of the Patagonia jacket. I'm now going to agonize about whether I can justify two coats.

Scarlet

Veteran

Yay! I hope the new NF one works out.

Isis

Veteran

Here's another option. I have a Marmot jacket that is incredibly waterproof and breathable. Mine is 15 yrs old, and more gear-like, but I've had my eye on a city version that comes in a beautiful purple!

http://www.backcountry.com/mar.....ket-womens

It's not insulated, but I throw a down vest under mine when I want to be warmer......