Review - OR's Helium II Jacket

The new Helium II jacket by Outdoor Research has been designed in a way that makes you not realise it's there until you need it… It takes up less space than your chalk bag and weighs 180g (size L), which happens to be ideal to carry in your climbing/boulder backpack for those “just in case” moments. You can also hang it from your harness for those unexpected storms when you’re in the middle of a multi-pitch route. It’s also suitable for trail runners. It's Pertex Shield + that has protected us from the rain and wind throughout long periods and although it lacks a specific breathability system, it transpires quite well. It has two pockets, one on the chest with a zip and an internal one which doubles as a stuff sack with a carabiner for clip-on convenience. The hood with a built-in visor is completely adjustable and compatible with the helmet. The OR logos (the big one when the jacket is packed in and the ones on the chest and arm) are reflective. On the downside, what we’ve least liked about the jacket are the cuffs, they are not adjustable so unless you’ve got very wide wrists they feel quite loose. They are available in an array of colours for both men and women. Mind you, buy it a size bigger if you’re planning to wear it with something other than a t-shirt or a sweater. See more about it in this video.