Remember the 1980’s Pantene Shampoo Commercial with Kelly LeBrock simpering the unforgettable line “Don’t Hate Me Because I’m Beautiful”? Now it is my turn to say, “Don’t hate me because I have a Canada Goose jacket.” And please down steal my coat.

Let me explain. For years I have survived in Chicago with a nice quality, mid-length leather jacket. But unrepairable tears in both the leather and the lining put me in the market for something new for winter last fall.

Barb and I made our way to Nordstrom’s in Old Orchard, my go-to place for men’s fashion since the demise of Mark Shale Men’s Stores. I searched and searched for leather jackets while Barb and our sales assistant stood back and smirked. They knew what I didn’t know. No one stocked leather men’s jackets anymore. If I was walking out of the store with a jacket, I would be walking out with a Canada Goose.

I admit that I was totally ignorant of Canada Goose at the time. I had never noticed the oversized collars, the snorkel-like hoods, the red patches on the shoulders of so many of the patrons of all the hip local restaurants and movie mavens crowding into the Cineplex on a Saturday night.

But with the proper guidance, by the end of the Nordstrom’s visit, I was carrying my new Canada Goose home with me.  By the first sub-freezing day in the Chicago ‘burbs, I was very glad I had it, keeping me toasty warm.

I’m not saying the coat is perfect. After one wearing, I removed the furry collar. Even rolled down and tucked out of the way, the hood is pretty bulky, making it difficult to look back over my shoulder when I am reversing out of the garage. (Yes, I have rearview cameras, but I still like turning around and taking a look.) And the double zipper is a major pain. I have spent many extra minutes trying to get it to zip, while the poor dog crosses his legs and tries not to pee on the laundry room floor. Sorry about that, Milo.

I have since learned of the other issues with Canada Goose jackets. PETA has protested the use and violent means of obtaining goose feathers and coyote fur. Armed robbers are taking the jackets from their owners by force. So it is not all laughs and giggles.

But if you see me walking Milo in the neighborhood in the -10º wind chill, both of us all bundled up, here’s the scoop. You can take my headphones, you might be able to take my dog, but you will never get my jacket! And please don’t hate me!