Outdoor Research  Helium Rain Jacket - Women's

This review is for an Outdoor Research Helium jacket I bought from REI in 2023. It is without question the worst rain jacket I have ever purchased. It is not waterproof at all. I tried it several times in moderate rain and each time the entire jacket was soaked through and I had to walk around with cold, wet fabric plastered to me. It might be okay in a light drizzle but when I threw a few drops of water on the sleeve from about 12 inches away as a test, the inside of the jacket was wet - not damp but wet. It is not at all breathable. It is not windproof. There is no use case for this product.

I really wanted this waterproof jacket to work. Every time I wore it in the rain my layers underneath were soaked. I could visually see the water droplets everywhere on the inside of this jacket when I took it off. The style and comfort level are great. It’s just not a waterproof jacket that can hold up to the Pacific Northwest rainfall.

Absolutely tissue weight, like a few ounces, so basically virtually weightless on.. I wear a size 10 blouse (36D) and ordered a medium. It fits perfectly everywhere except just a bit snug across the chest so slightly too snug to layer. Unfortunately the really beautiful amethyst color is out of stock in the large so for the money I will have to return it. Clearly it's well made even as tissue thin as the fabric is the construction looks superior, zipper and all seams are well sealed. In my pack every ounce counts so I will definitely look for it in another color.

I love the jacket, it is keeping me dry. However, I wish I had ordered a size smaller. It’s fine, and I can live with the size, but I like my running gear not floppy. Also I wish there was an inside pocket. I really do love it though. Light weight, doesn't make me hot, and I stay dry in PNW rain. For reference I’m 5”10” 140 pounds, I ordered a size small.

I took this jacket to Scotland the end of March and it was perfect! It would be pouring rain and windy, and with a long sleeve t-shirt, cashmere sweater, and this jacket, I didn't mind the weather at all! In fact, I should have left all of the other jackets I brought with me home...LOL! At least I didn't have to pay to bring the extra jackets! British Airways allowed me two free checked bags with premium economy! Buy it. I plan to keep one in my Oregon life from now on.

This jacket is extremely lightweight and packable. I have used it alone as a rain jacket as well as combined with the helium puffer for Skiing. The material is tough enough to survive several wipeouts. The hood is large enough to pull over other hats and hoods but can be adjusted to prevent it from covering your face. The fit runs true to size and I appreciate the little pocket punch it packs down into for backpacking.

I owned the previous version of this jacket for may years and adored it. I am enjoying the tweaks in this edition, including the pockets and the clear (not white) liner! It looks professional and nicely fitted, but also keeps the water out. This is my essential clothing article for travel.

love how it packs and the quiet material while your moving. It builds up moisture on the inside maybe due to perspiration. I used it for 4 weeks in Europe while hiking, it worked grate as a windbreaker and good as a rain jacket.

extremely light weight and fits perfectly, been great for the intensely rainy summer