Big clothing retailer headquartered in Freeport, Maine

LL BEAN

This outdoor brand is famous for its durable boots and lifetime return policy, often associated with a yellow rubber sole.

This clue points to L.L.Bean, a well-known outdoor apparel and gear company founded in 1912. The mention of "Freeport, Maine" is the key hint—it’s where the company’s flagship store and headquarters have been located for over a century. The answer is written as "LL BEAN" (without periods) to fit standard crossword style, but it’s the same brand famous for its durable boots and outdoor clothing. No wordplay here, just a straightforward reference to a major retailer.