I bought this jacket for myself in Winter 2023 with the hope to get versatility, durability, comfortable fit, and value and boy did it deliver! This jacket has been one of the highlights of the season for me gear wise.

What I didn't expect to appreciate so much are all of the little details in the jacket, like the glove hooks to keep my sleeves in place, the perfectly position chest pockets for the easy access to my phone and keys (with a retention hook), and the pass pocket in the sleeve for easy loading (also with a retention hook!)

686 is known for their baggier fit style and feels great my broader shoulders. I never feel layered too tightly, even with a thicker mid layer on. It does run a tad long in the hem and the sleeve. I never find this to be a major problem though as the Velcro cuffs and powder skirt keep everything comfortably in place. At 5'4, 200lbs in men's size large, I understand I'm not the average so taller guys may not find this to be a problem but if you have proportions like me, you might find a better cut in some other brands.

The included bomber style synthetic down jacket adds great value! The shell itself is warm so I rarely wear the puffy snapped inside of the shell because I find that it moves more naturally though I wear the inner jacket regularly as an around town and après jacket!