I like that it is both warm and waterproof. I was in a two-day downpour of freezing rain (35 degrees) and it kept me warm and mostly dry. I had on a wool sweater, vest and warm leggings underneath. So..not sure how this would stand up in super cold weather, but it worked for me here in the south where it doesn’t really get that cold that often. The hood (non-removable, but you could stuff it back into its zip neck pouch which might be bulky) worked well to keep off rain and wind. It is not exactly a fashion item, but this trench style looks better than your average raincoat. My only complaint is the buckle-less tie belt keeps slipping out of its belt loops and could easily come off completely and get lost if you are not super careful. In a very good trench coat (like Burberry), this belt would be sewn down and have a buckle. All in all it’s a good raincoat so far. We will see if it lasts! I got the medium because I have pretty broad shoulders.