I have the Helly Hansen Aden (at Gaylene's suggestion) and I like it a lot as a walking coat for cool rainy weather. Mine must be a newer version than hers because it does have an inner pocket (for phone) which is super helpful, and also a hood adjustment! And I love the lined hand pockets. It is very rainproof. Has a lining and layers reasonably well. I sometimes wear my packable puffer under it, a la Runcarla. It works but I do feel a bit Michelin man.
Alas, for me, it really isn't warm enough in the damp winter cold unless I am on a true hike (going up and down hills etc. working up a sweat), even with layers beneath. That's why I got the Athleta parka, which is not quite as rainproof but does have a coating and has in fact kept me dry -- I do wear it in rain, just not pouring rain.
The other issue with the Helly for me is the cut and fabrication. To me, it feels like gear. I tried valiantly to wear it as a "real" coat but just don't feel good in it that way -- the proportions are off with wide legs, crops, and skirts (on me, at least).
I do wear it regularly for my neighbourhood walks, where I love the visibility. Also, Gaylene is right about the washability. I have washed mine many times (I get quite dirty sometimes on those walks!) and it comes out great. I do spray it with waterproofing again each time to ensure it stays nice and water tight.
This stuff is so personal, right? A person's internal body temperature, what they tend to layer with, their purpose for being out, the length of time they are out -- so many factors to consider. But no matter what, Angie's right -- a hood is a really good idea!
