LL Bean Airlight

Is it a 100wt fleece equivalent?

It looks like a cool around town piece.  I think I’d go with a basic 1/4zip 100wt fleece pullover for backpacking.  The additional features probably make this heavier and bulkier than a traditional fleece like the Patagonia Micro D 1/4 zip.  I wish LL Bean listed weights and more details though.  I think they do have some gems hidden in their collection but it’s hard to decipher them.

Was hoping it would be more packable and lighter, rather like a grid fleece. Yes, wish they’d give more details.

Any recommendations on hidden gems? I do have one of their mountain classic anoraks for snowshoe trips here in the boreal forest. It breathes pretty well while still being durable for bushwhacking off-trail.

I have two pairs of LL Bean gloves I really like, a 100wt fleece pair that are 0.9oz and a 200wt fleece pair that are 2oz.  I also have a .85oz 100wt fleece beanie that I really like from them.

LL Bean also sells Patagonia Baggies knockoffs as the “Supplex Nylon Sport Shorts” or something similar.  I do like the Baggies front pockets better, but other than that, I can’t tell the difference and they are $20 less.

I often connect with LLBean by chat, and they will look up weights for you. It’s not a cool hiker brand, but they often have less costly very usable gear. My regular camp puffy is from them, still not losing feathers after 5+ years of continuous use, as well as my trekking poles, not the lightest but darned sturdy. I also have merino wool long johns from Bean, too heavy for backpacking but good for ski trips to cabins. I also use their poly hiking shirt as my go to for warm weather hikes.

+1 for the baggies knock offs.  I have the older version with the less stretchy waistband, but they have held up well for several years.  New version is supposed to have an improved waistband and texture.

The new waistband is nice – Its actually better than the Patagonia waistband, but I still prefer the front pockets on the Baggies.  The LL Bean’s are $20 cheaper however.