Behind The Design: Mountain Classic Down Jacket

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An idea this good couldn’t stay in our archive forever. This is the Mountain Classic Down Jacket.

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Hi, I’m Brent, Product Development Manager at L.L.Bean. Today I’m here to talk to you about our Mountain Classic Down Jacket. We introduced the Mountain Classic Whittaker pieces in 1990–91.

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We did design the original piece exclusively for Jim Whittaker and his expedition to Mount Everest. And some of the original details are still in the product that we have today.

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We don’t have to look outside the brand for retro inspiration because we made the originals.

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In the Mountain Classic collection, we have some uninsulated pieces, some lightly insulated pieces, and then we have the Mountain Classic Down Jacket, our warmest piece in that collection.

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This jacket gives you all the warmth and quality that you want, and with a look that feels unmistakably L.L.Bean.

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Let’s walk through some of the details on the Mountain Classic Down Jacket. I’ll start on the inside.

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It’s a 650-fill-power DownTek insulation. And so what that DownTek does, it provides a coating to the down, keeps it lofted even if it does get wet, so you’re maintaining that warmth.

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These larger baffles allow the down to loft even more and keep you warmer because there are fewer stitch lines, so fewer spots for the air to get through.

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On the outside is the shell, and this is a Pertex fabric. It’s a ripstop polyester.

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What the ripstop does, if there is a tear to the material, it prevents it from spreading. It’s water-resistant, and the shell fabric is 100% recycled polyester.

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And the beauty of this fabric is really the matte finish. It doesn’t have a shine like the traditional down jackets.

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If you’re feeling like the hat is enough for that day, it’s a detachable hood.

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The hand pockets have snaps to them, and then it actually has a zipper pocket there if you want to throw your keys or your phone in there.

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Down on the hem, there’s a hem adjustment. And then on the interior, there’s another security pocket here.

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What’s so nice about this jacket is that you’re getting all of this technology built in with that Pertex, with that DownTek, but it’s still a very approachable piece and easy to wear.

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You can take it to the mountains for an epic adventure, and it’s excellent for everyday moments.

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If you appreciate classic styling with modern performance, this is the jacket for you.

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For more product stories and outdoor inspiration, visit L.L.Bean Explore.