10mo ago
I come from a loyal LL Bean family of three generations, so I’ve seen some iteration of all their products at some point. They are reliable, and some products (waterhog mats, totes, bathrobes) can reach heirloom status. Utility is where LLBean really shines. The first products I bought with my own money were a set of long silk underwear. They were expensive, but they are the best thermal layers I own by far. If I have to go somewhere cold and unpleasant, for work or otherwise, they take the edge off and make it tolerable. They’re not exactly aesthetic, but they’re not supposed to be, which means I will confidently repair and use them for probably the rest of my life. The only downside to this brand I can think of is increasing use of plastics over the last thirty years and the end of their legendary replacements program. Even with those two minor points though they’re still a fantastic American heritage brand.
