Bottom Line
Just because L.L. Bean isn’t a techy performance outerwear brand, doesn’t mean they don’t know how to keep you warm and dry mid-winter. The Ultrawarm 3/4 Length Parka is a fantastic option if you’re looking for an affordable, stylish winter coat that doesn’t skimp on warmth. The 650-fill water-repellent down provides cozy insulation, while the 3/4 length offers extra coverage for your thighs, keeping you warm and protected.
Whether running errands, walking the dog, or heading out in chilly weather, this coat has everything you need to stay comfy and protected. The water-resistant shell and removable hood are perfect for light snow or rain, and the fleece-lined pockets and cuffs add a cozy touch. It’s an easy pick from our list of the best winter jackets for women who want a great coat without breaking the bank.
How We Tested
We tested this down parka in NW Montana, on short walks along the Flathead River and in Glacier National Park. We also tested the insulation and water-repellency with lab tests to see how long the coat could fend off ambient temperatures and saturation.
Quick Specs
L.L. Bean Ultrawarm 3/4 Length Down Parka
Lightweight, & Packable Down Coat for Mild Winters
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $250
Weight: 2 lb. 4.6 oz.
Insulation: 650 fill-power down
Length: 37 in.
Pros
- Packs down
- Removable hood and removable faux fur ruff
- Comfortable
- Affordable
- Effective hydrophobic down
- Lots of color and size options
Cons
- Inner lining can fold out at the hood and cuffs
- Velcro collar system isn't the most functional
- Not warm enough below 20 degrees
Warmth
The L.L. Bean Ultrawarm 3/4 Length Parka is a warm, but not ultrawarm like the name claims. It is a warm and cozy option for everyday winter wear in conditions as low as the 20s as long as a sweater is part of the picture. The 650-fill hydrophobic down keeps you warm without feeling overly bulky, making it great for both city living and outdoor excursions.
During our field testing, we found it offers excellent insulation in moderate to cold temps. Our warmth test showed that although the fill power of the down was there, it wasn’t as effective at trapping warmth as others we tested. It took 86 minutes to drop 30 degrees and reach ambient temperatures. Others we tested with the same fill power lasted twice as long. We suspect that the fill weight might be lower than its competitors, and the feathers might not be evenly distributed or of the highest quality.
The 3/4 length is a nice touch, keeping your thighs warm and making it perfect for those who want a little extra coverage on cold days. That said, it’s not the warmest parka out there, and we were cold standing in 17 degree weather while wearing this down parka. So if you’re braving anything below 20 degrees, you might want to layer up or look for something thicker.
Weather Resistance
This parka’s water-resistant polyester shell does an average job of keeping out light snow and rain, though we wouldn’t want to rely on it for long walks in heavy precip. We tested it in light snow, and it stayed dry, but during our soak test, it wetted through in 7 minutes. This test also revealed that the Downtek does live up to its hydrophobic down promises. LL Bean claims the PFC-free water-repellent down helps repel moisture 10x as long as regular down, and the feathers kept their loft even after water crossed through the jacket. We also noticed that this helped the coat dry quickly.
The removable insulated hood and faux fur are a nice bonus for added weather protection. The velcro system for covering your chin feels like an afterthought in terms of design, and we wish this coverage was more comfortable and functional in case the wind is in your face.
Comfort & Functionality
From the neck down, this parka nails it in comfort. The fleece-lined pockets are so cozy—perfect for slipping your hands into when you’re outside. The fleece cuffs also help seal out the cold and keep everything snug.
The 3/4 length is ideal for most winter activities—it’s long enough to keep you warm, but not so long that it restricts movement. The removable hood adds versatility, allowing you to adjust your coverage based on the weather.
There are a few design quirks, though. The velcro collar is attached to the hood, adding an extra step instead of just zipping the coat and being done. It isn’t the softest against your chin/neck and velcro loves to get gross with dog/human hair/lint etc. Plus, if you don’t close the velcro and you have longer hair, it can get caught in the velcro, which can be a bit annoying. We removed the hood, and the annoyances were solved, but this is something to be aware of.
It also seems like there’s too much lining that can fold out at the cuffs and hood, which makes it easier for moisture to make it to the inside of the coat, and it doesn’t look as sleek.
Features
The Ultrawarm 3/4 Length Parka keeps things simple and classic, which adds to its overall charm. The fleece-lined pockets and cuffs are a definite highlight.
The removable hood is also a great feature, especially if you get annoyed with the velcro collar.
There’s a pocket inside the coat that we don’t understand the design intention of. It’s wide enough to hold the phone you had in 2006, but we found chapstick and hand warmers fit well in there. We also appreciated the fact that this jacket is lightweight and packs down well, making it easy to store when not in use.
The metal snap-closure storm flap and brass zipper offer a nice touch of style.
Should You Buy the LL Bean Ultrawarm 3/4 Length Coat?
Yes, if you’re looking for a simple, affordable winter coat that offers warmth, comfort, and lasting style without breaking the bank.
The L.L. Bean Ultrawarm 3/4 Length is a solid choice for everyday wear in moderate to cold temperatures. It’s particularly great for casual outings and light outdoor adventures, thanks to its water-resistant shell, hydrophobic down insulation, and cozy fleece features.
It might not be the warmest option for extreme conditions, but for the price, it delivers a lot of value. If you’re after a jacket that’s practical, comfortable, and doesn’t cost a fortune, this one is definitely worth considering.
What Other Winter Jackets Should You Consider?
Check out our other best winter jackets for women or read our in-depth reviews of some coats similar to the Ultrawarm 3/4 Length:
Patagonia Down With It Review: The Down With It is a level-up in features and warmth. The fit is a little more tailored and stylish than the Ultrawarm.
REI Norseland Review: Heavier, warmer, and a little more modern, the Norseland is a great alternative if you aren’t planning on staying out in rain or snow storms.
Columbia Heavenly Review: If you like the length, but its warmth and features sound like overkill, the Heavenly is great for more active adventures or milder winters.
