Outdoor ResearchMen's Helium Rain Jacket – Breathable Weatherproof Jacket

Northface, Mountain Hardware, REI and EMS, even some Patagonia (known to run a little small) XXL size ALL fit me pretty perfect. This jacket though... not a chance in heck it'll fit me, even if I loose like 40 pounds... it's just that small. Heck, I even fit in some roomier brands XL size! If you're a big guy, this jacket isn't for you. 6.97 ounces in size XXL if you're into Ultralight hiking like I am, which is excellent... but too bad it's 1 size smaller than it should be.

Purchased for a two-week, high altitude backpacking trip to Colorado, scheduled during the summer. Key factor was weight, secondary was breathability. Jacket weighs by specs -- i.e., very little. We experienced temperatures of 35 degrees at night and 60 degrees during days. We only had a couple of days of light rain (and it served as a good barrier), and I did not experience the inside wetting (from perspiration) that is normally present with my better, breathable three-layer (i.e., Goretex types) rain jackets. It had fairly decent wind resistance, too -- as one day we had wind velocities of over 50 miles per hour. In the mornings I would layer with my 40 degree puffy and was quite comfortable. I doubt if it is very durable or can "take a licking" . . .but, that is not its real purpose. Overall, for the purpose for which is it designed, I highly recommend it.

I'm 5'8", 175lbs and the large was "roomy," but not overly too big. The large left room for a long-sleeved t-shirt or thin sweatshirt underneath. I walked for maybe 5 minutes in a moderate rain and felt wet at my shoulders. When I got inside and removed the jacket, there was water on the inside shoulders and patches of saturation on sleeves. I'm returning this. Not worth the price.

I liked the fabric, the fit, the color. The zippers are tight and quiet. BUT...., theres no side pockets!! Just one chest pocket.. i have other OR jackets, and like them very much. BUT, for a 160.00, i think i deserve side pockets..(I returned it and ordered another OR jacket. my side pockets and I are very happy) :)

Comfy, light fit. Like the chest pocket that is an invert stuff sack. Packs down to a reasonable triangular ball. Step up from my FroggToggs, which rip open if you sneeze... used on first trip to White Mtns of NH. Mostly wore around camp as an outer dry/wind break layer. No issues thus far.