I live in Grand Rapids, Michigan where we get a LOT of snow and cold wind blowing off Lake Michigan. This coat keeps me warm and dry! The hood zips off, it is washable, and it has those knitted cuffs that keeps the wind from blowing up the sleeves. It also has multiple pockets: two on the sleeve, (one with a zipper and one with velcro), two zippered pockets on the front and a pocket with a zipper inside the coat. I am 5'3" and weigh 137 and the medium comes to just below my knee, but is just big enough for me to wear a bulky sweater underneath. However, if you want to wear a lightweight jacket or suit coat underneath, I suggest you get the large. I love the coat so much that I also bought the shorter length coat!