Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I just purchased both the Ascender and Ascender II jackets in Large-Tall to compare the fit and feel between the two. I am 6' 2" and about 220 pounds, on a middle ground between wearing standard size and tall size clothes. Because of my size, fit is everything. If the Ascender could be considered the original version of this jacket, then the Ascender II is the "slim fit" version. Here are the differences I noticed: - The upper body of the Ascender II is much slimmer than the original Ascender. I would estimate the Ascender II to accommodate chest sizes a good 1-2 inches smaller than the Ascender can accommodate. - As others have noted, the fit between the two jackets is most noticeable in the shoulders/armpits. Arm cutouts on the original Ascender, while still trim, are much more generous than on the II. As a result, only slimmer arms will have an easy time slipping into the sleeves of the II. - Sleeves are about half an inch longer on the II as compared to the original. Sleeves on the original are also slightly wider all the way down to the wrist. - The collar is much larger on the II than the original. When popped up, the collar of the II has a very pronounced look and sticks out a good bit. When fully zipped to the top, the original Ascender provides more neck room. This is not to say the Ascender II is not a good jacket. It's just the version you'd want to get if your frame allows you to wear "slim fit" or "tailored fit" clothes. If that's not you, then the original Ascender is the jacket for you.