Down Jacket Fit & Sizing Advice Needed

One major concern with a fit that is too tight would be impairing the garment's ability to loft fully. Most down garments do not have a differential cut to help mitigate this.

I got an MB Thermawrap (L) and it was quite snug in the chest, though the arms were the right length. I gave the (L) to my girlfriend and it fits her mostly OK. I then ordered an MB Thermawrap (XL) and it fits just fine in the chest though the arms could be 4" shorter.

Japanese clothes sizes seem to be smaller in the trunk and longer in the arms, from what we're used to.

They're really great jackets. Better (IMHO) than the Big Sky Better-Than-Fleece. I've been wearing the p– out of mine, and it keeps on "ticking".

Aaron,

Given your description… if you like everything else about the jacket, then I would say exchange it for an XL. Depending on whom you bought your jacket from, they may waive (or at least reduce) the second shipping charge if you ask.

EDIT: Just re-read your post. I guess XL would be too large for you. Yeah, unfortunately, you should look at other jackets… Again, I don't think you should keep the "L".

I've found the MontBell jackets to be inconsistent in fit. Alpine Light Down Jacket (L) is perfect. Thermawrap (L) too loose. Thermawrap (M) strangles me at the armpits.

Aaron, I think the UL down inner jacket is designed to be just that, an inner jacket. I think you could fit it two ways; 1) more as an inner layer to be worn directly over a base layer, and 2) roomier fit to allow layering under it. In 1st way, I would say you want it snug since it doesn't have any elastic or draw cord at the waist. Not so snug that it restricts your movement or might shred if you flex too much, but just snug. If you need to layer, you'd probably layer over this with a shell, or other larger insulated jacket. As long as the length is ok and you can zip it all the way up without constricting your neck, I'd say it's a good fit for use as an inner jacket. Hope this helps. Sorry about the mix up with trading with you, I messed up on the email that I received.

I just tried the jacket on again. It is simply too small for me even if I want to wear it snug. Its as if the sides of my back wants to spill into the sleeves – sucks being stocky. I know there are no other jackets as light as this one but I need suggestions from anyone who knows which company makes jackets that fit those of us that are generously sized. Right now, I am looking at the OR trance sweater for something equivalent. BTW, this jacket is for 3-season backcountry use and fall?early spring around town. Thanks

No problem about the trade email Mike. Worked out for the best as I sold the Alpine Light for almost what I paid for it in the first place.

Aaron, have you tried a Patagonia Micropuff pullover?
I know its not down, but it is a great backpacking piece.

The fit is large to allow for layering, my XS is way bigger than any Women's Medium or Men's Small jackets that I have.

Amazingly it comes in below spec on weight, my XS is just below 10 ounces on a postal scale.

It stuffs a little bigger than a down jacket, but because of its low weight its not really much of a penalty over down.

This is totally a backpacking jacket, something you wear for its insulation value alone. Its got no style, no pockets, no extra dodads. Perfect in other words.