Tested Thoughout The Swiss Alps And Rockies

Summer hike where it may just rain? Spring ski tour with wet snow everywhere? The Outdoor Research Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket will stand up to the harshest conditions year after year and it’s so small, you’ll forget you have it in your pack. Folding up into the front pocket to the size of a baseball, you’ll never regret throwing this in the bottom of your pack or clipping it to your waist for the just in case scenario. I like this jacket because it only has the most necessary features and has built in stretch exactly where you need it. Through slushy winter storms and summer downpours this jacket has kept me dry and warm from the Swiss Alps to the windy Colorado Rockies.

In Between A Rainshell And A Windbreaker

not very waterproof, not very breathable.....I wanted to like this jacket, and if the only precip you face is s very gentle mist, in cold conditions, then it's great. It IS packable, and the fit is decent. But if you are running or touring and generating heat, it is not breathable enough to wear (unless, I suppose, it is very cold). But since it isn't very waterproof, it's kind of in-between a rainshell and a windbreaker.

Bring Back The 2 Hip Pockets!

I have the older version that I love that has 2 hip pockets. Bought this one for my son thinking it was the same and my son rarely wears it because he also wants hip pockets.

Not Waterproof At All

NOT waterproof at all! I brought this on a long hiking trip and we had some heavy rain- I got instantly soaked and literally could see the water coming through the fabric of this jacket. So disappointing and ended up getting sick because of this jacket claiming to be waterproof.

Not Waterproof

This jacket is definitely not very waterproof. Other reviewers say it is suitable for light rains, but mine gets easily saturated and leaks in even the lightest rainfall.

Helium Rain Jacket

It’s a good lightweight jacket. It folds incredibly small and weighs next to nothing. I have it only 4 stars though because harder rain will allow moisture to get through the jacket. It’s a great jacket, just ensure you use it with the proper conditions.

Its No A Rain Jacket

I will use this as a wind jacket as it doesnt work as a rain jacket. It does not work as a rain jacket and should not be advertised as sutch. I have used it 4 times and it has leaked all 4 times, on a hike, bike ride and to work. Leaks on the shoulders, seams to hoodie and arms. It doesnt work. I was suppriced as i was hoping for it to be a good rain jacket as it was so light. But nope, dont buy this if u are looking for a RAIN JACKET, wind breaker shure... not for rain.

Light Weight And Water Resistant

After wearing the jacket and pants in the Endless Mountains Expedition Adventure Race, I was very satisfied with its durability, ease of packing, and water resistance. It is great for warm weather, but I think it would not be enough if the temps are below 55 for me. Any outdoors enthusiast could find use for this product!!

Excellent Light Weight Summer Rain Jacket

Very happy with the water proofing and it's so compact/light I can practically fold it into a cargo pocket

Excellent Wind And Rain Protection.

I’m a 5”10, 170lb man and a large seems to run pretty short.

Lightweight And Very Packable

not the best in a heavy downpour but a great coat during light rains and hiking

Perfect For Travel

I’ve been carrying this jacket daily during a multi-week trip through Italy, and it’s earned its place in my pack. While I mostly use it as a lightweight windbreaker, it absolutely came through when our tour got caught in a surprise downpour walking to dinner in Padua. It kept me dry without overheating, and I appreciated how fast it dried afterward. The jacket packs down perfectly into my Osprey Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Waist Pack—a huge plus when traveling light. The fit is comfortable over a base layer or light fleece, and the minimalist design doesn’t draw attention (ideal for urban travel). Highly recommended for anyone needing a just-in-case shell that won’t weigh you down.

This is a good ultralight rain jacket for spring through early fall. I would not use it for anything technical or too cold in the winter as it does retain a lot of body moisture, however, it truly is waterproof and can fit into the back pocket of a pair of jeans quite easily. I used it a lot as a wind breaker for running, being sure to vent it from from the front zipper when able. Bottom line, this became my go to rain jacket/wind breaker for running, MTB, and anything else where I might want rain protection but am not willing to sacrifice room in my pack or weight for my larger bulkier shell jackets.

Awesome Light Emergency Shell

This packs so small much like the houdini but has a little more weather protection. I use mine for my just incase jacket trail running and has already proved super useful! Exactly has expected for performance.

Great Ul Jkt, Use Nikwax To Reseal

I bought 3 helium jkts, use Nikwax to re-waterproof. These types of UL jkts loose proofing by washing or sweat oil. All jkts of this type need re-waterproofing. This is a great product