Performance Mountain Parka

Shopped long and hard for an affordable alternative to the North Face Mtn. Light and Marmot shells. At almost half-the price, I ordered the LL Bean Mtn. Guide and the Performance (Bicycle) Mtn. Parka.

I was much happier with the the Performance version. The pockets in the chest are a bit small and the hood is kind of huge (a little velcro, problem solved). I felt the construction was solid and the adjustments in the waist and hem are just fine. Had an REI ventana which I loved until its first washing, the entire coating delaminated. Thank god for their return policy.

Only wish my Performance Shell had another set of pockets, but then neither did TNF or the Marmot shell. So far, a great value!

Performance, a mail order company, had this parka on closeout price -- an exceptional value for 3-layer g-tex I thought. However, when it arrived, I was dissappointed to see poorly protected pit zips, a humongous hood with only one drawstring, and poorly placed pockets. Needless to say, I sent it back. I'd rather spend a couple extra bucks to have something functional, expecially when it is something you practically live in. For now, I'll stick to my old worn out Moonstone Advantage.

If anyone has had better luck or different views of this jacket, I would be interested to hear.