Merrell Charade Jacket (For Women)

I am just over 5', 97 lbs and XS fits with room to spare over normal base layer and/or thin sweaters, or over my soft shell. I used it as a mid layer when bouldering out in Joshua Tree in maybe high 40s - I get cold easily though, but with this I kept warm. The upper arms and hips are a little baggy on me but not enough to matter; also, the fabric looks ok enough to wear casually (it doesn't have that plasticky quality). Only thing to note is the location of the pockets which are lower over the hips. Also, I like the collar, which is soft and is cut lower under the chin for comfort.

Very nice jacket for the price. Medium is roomy enough for a sweater underneath. Look forward to wearing it when it gets a bit warmer!

I am 5' and 105 lbs and the small fit perfectly over a fleece so I'm not sure what the "too small" size reviews are about. Perhaps that is in the larger sizes. It has a very flattering shape is very comfortable. I wore this coat skiing all day in varying wind conditions and though I had to unzip earlier in the day, I never got cold. I love the light weight of the coat and it was not confining like other coats I've worn for the same purpose. The zip pocket inside was great to hold a small camera I took to video my kids and it was easy to access the pocket without being a contortionist. I have also worn this coat hiking near Grandfather Mountain. It was very cold and extremely windy near the top and it did a great job keeping me warm but I never felt overheated.

While I love the weightlessness of 800-fill jackets, most do tend to look like outdoor gear. This jacket is somewhat heavier, though still light-weight,and more versatile. It would be good for light hiking and city-wear and also preferable in wet conditions. It has a great cut, looks handsome on, so you can wear almost anywhere. This is definitely more of a casual/travel jacket than one for serious hiking and camping.

pretty and good for going out to the store