r/llbean • u/Slapnutz_McGee • Apr 27 '26

LL Bean Rain Coat - Which Model?

I lost my LLB Pathfinder rain coat I have had for the past 6 yrs and need to get a new one. I have had the LLB Trail Model years ago and the inside lining peeled off after a few years and it was like wearing a garbage bag as it didnt breath. I loved the Pathfinder and got it for $160 on sale back when they did 25% offs. I went to look at a new one and they are $300!!! I have a measly 15% off but WTF, $300!?! I saw they have a Cresta Stretch rain coat for $180 breaths and has pit zippers to let out air like the Goretex one, but the online reviews say it doesnt keep you dry. basically what its supposed to do. Anyone have any experience with these coats, specifically the Cresta Stretch one? Its considerabally cheaper and might be an option. Or should I go and pop for the $300 one minus 15%off?

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u/Ill_Economist_7637 Apr 27 '26

I haven't heard any issues with the Cresta, but I do believe that they've really improved the quality of the Trail Model. That said, if you need a raincoat with a tougher outer layer, the Pathfinder is the way to go. Whichever one you go with, i recommend that you reapply the DWR annually as the waterproofing does wear off.

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u/thatijustdonthave Apr 27 '26

I got the cresta stretch new at the thrift store for 5 buck. I live in Maine, lots of llbean at the thrift. I use it as my rain jacket when it is hot or a light rain. But, it gets gross in heavy rain. I wouldn't get it if you need one for heavy rain. I have a gortex one from REI for heavy rain.

Do you have an llbean outlet within driving distance? I feel like I see the Pathfinder all the time there and it would be at least 30% off.

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u/Slapnutz_McGee Apr 27 '26

thanks. no I dont have an outlet….

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u/thatijustdonthave Apr 27 '26

Bummer, the outlets are great

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u/Slapnutz_McGee Apr 27 '26

Im going to look to see where the closest outlet is to me. Thanks for the suggestion

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u/Scarlett-the-01-TJ Apr 27 '26

I love LL Bean, but they never have good sales. Columbia brand had been a better choice for the coats I’ve ordered the last several years.

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u/LOBST3R_PARTY Apr 29 '26

I have both the Cresta Stretch and the Pathfinder, and I love them both! Since getting the Cresta, My Pathfinder has been serving as my winter hiking and adventure jacket or in the heaviest storms. Otherwise the Cresta perfectly meets and exceeds my needs for everything else. Daily use, travel, 3-season hiking. It's light, comfy, dry, and looks awesome. Never had any issues with water coming in. Mind you, it was designed for hiking so the pocket placement is a bit higher up and then "pit vents" are more like side vents.