In my 60-odd years, my old TNF Arctic Parka was quite simply the best coat I have ever worn when the weather is cold and windy. It was always very comfortable and easy to wear; and kept me snug and warm in termperatures of -15°C when I lived in the Midlands (of UK) some years ago during a really bad winter.
But it started cheapening its products and the Arctic Parka now has polyester side panels.
Being aware of my delicacy to the cold, I knew that this was no good for me; and so I started looking around for alternatives, as my old favourite has now lost its water repellency.
I became aware of TFG fairly soon, but due to the postage costs to the UK, I put it to one side and order a number of different "down" coats from Europe, only to find that all these "down" coats were duck down and not goose down, despite my Google searches.
I was very cautious of ordering from Triple FAT Goose; and corresponded with Customer Services for quite a long time. They were absolutely awesome; and personally I would give the team ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I certainly wasn't happy about the real fur trim to the hood, but given that TFG has confirmed that this is the last year that they are using fur on their products, I relented as I was running out of options.
So, to the coat.
I love it. It's a beautiful shade of blue.
I love how the hood adjusts as I have a small head.
I love how its 100% goose down. Super warm and cosy.
It's a really good length for me as it comes to just about the backs of my knees (I'm 5' 2"); and I really appreciate the ribbed cuffs with thumb-holes; such a great feature! It looks to be a very well put-together coat with great specifications. I decided on a size M, just to allow a little extra flexibility; and the waist cinches up well, keeping my lower back warm. I love the lining, it's so smooth making the coat easy to slip on. It's quite heavy, but this reflects the goosedown fill quality and what seems to be a great waterproof outer shell.
The magnetic closures have taken some getting used-to; and can counter the otherwise brilliant flexibility of the coat. The pockets are lovely and warm and I am getting used to the magnetic flaps, which are quite easy to peel apart - it's just in the wrist action (as my late-mother used to say! 😉
The extra-large hood also cinches-in really well, so it doesn't blow off my small head! A very important feature. I have to admit that I love the fur trim and looks superior to the faux fur trims on my other coats - but then it was an animal's coat, once. ...
I live on the Llyn Peninsula now, near to Snowdonia whcih attracts a great variety of different weather systems and has proven lethal to many under-prepared walkers. Whilst we haven't experienced such low temperatures, the winds we get are exceedingly cold and very strong; and I have just thoroughly enjoyed being out in them.
The only drawbacks are the number of pockets. I was aware of this limitation when I purchased this coat, but I did find the two breast pockets on my old Arctic Parka, exceedingly useful; one of them keeping my mobile phone nice and snug and within easy reach.
Of note; and having tried a number of similar coats this year, I was rather taken by another brand which had wide elastic shoulder straps whcih if used when wearing coat, held it really snuggly to the back. Otherwise they are a great method for carrying the coat if it became too warm.
Overall, it's been a great purchase; and I look forward to it lasting just as long - 14 years!
Thank you so much to all of you in Customer Services for your patience, kindness and integrity. ❤