Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket – Women’s

User Reviews

• This jacket is ridiculously lightweight.
• Can cinch the hood down for adjustability and a tight fit.
• Stores into own pocket for easy stowing.
• Waist has a draw cord to cinch it tightly.
• Wrists have elastic to tighten and maintain snug fit to the arms.
• A no frills jacket that allows the weight to remain extremely low.
• Multiple reports of chest size being true-to-size.

Expert Reviews

• Features a cinch cord at the crown to keep your hood in the desired position.
• The stiff visor on the hood shields from the elements.
• The fabric is thin and breathable enough to allow perspiration to exit.
• Features a protective flap on the inside of the zipper to keep your chin comfortable and prevent chaffing.
• The weight of the jacket makes it ideal for backpacking and other light and fast trips.
• The most compact and lightweight jacket in this space.
• Zippered chest pocket for protected storage.
• Carabiner loop for easy-clipping.
• The seams on the body, hood, and arms are all fully taped, increasing waterproofing.
• The jacket can be loose enough to fit a down jacket underneath.

User Reviews

• No hand pockets.
• No Velcro straps at the wrist for adjustabliity.
• Multiple reports of the fit being short.
• Reports of questionable waterproofing qualities.
• Will need to size-up to be able to layer underneath.
• Reports of the zipper breaking.
• No pit zips for breathability.
• The sleeves tend to run a bit short for some body types, so may need to size-up so the length is appropriate.

Expert Reviews

• Not a jacket for serious rain or for keeping you warm on colder days.
• Allows a full range of motion but rides up if you’re wearing it with a backpack or harness.
• The material loses some rigidity over time.
• The size of the main zipper on the front is a bit small.
• 30-denier nylon rip-stop is not durable enough to withstand intense activities.