Lightweight, durable and most importantly comfortable great for using as a standalone rain jacket or as a shell with additional layers for colder days

slightly tight in the chest, other than that no issues.

Great All Around Jacket

I use this jacket daily in corrections. That federal gov AC stays cold even during the winter. This jacket seamlessly moves me with comfort into all different climate zones.

Great Rain Jacket

The Outdoor Research Microgravity AscentShell Jacket has quickly become one of my favorite pieces of gear. It strikes a rare balance between protection, comfort, and breathability that makes it stand out from traditional hard shells. The AscentShell fabric is the real game-changer. It feels soft and stretchy, almost like a softshell, yet it still provides the waterproof and windproof protection of a hardshell. I’ve worn it in heavy rain, snow, and windy alpine conditions, and it has kept me dry and comfortable every time. Unlike many shells, it doesn’t feel stiff or crinkly, and it moves with you, which is a huge plus for climbing and scrambling. Breathability is excellent. I can keep it on during high-output activities like uphill hikes or ski touring without instantly overheating. The jacket vents well, and I haven’t had the clammy, trapped feeling that usually comes with waterproof shells. The fit and features are spot on. It’s cut with enough room for layering but still trim enough to avoid extra bulk. The hood is helmet-compatible, adjustable, and provides great coverage without restricting vision. Pockets are smartly placed and accessible even with a harness or pack on. Durability has been impressive so far. The fabric has handled brushes with rock and branches without showing wear. Considering its performance and comfort, the weight is very reasonable for an all-around alpine shell. Overall, the Microgravity AscentShell Jacket is a true do-it-all piece. Whether you’re climbing, skiing, or hiking in unpredictable weather, it gives you the protection of a hardshell with the comfort of a softshell. It’s one of those rare jackets that you actually look forward to putting on.

Trail-tested In The High Sierra: Outdoor Research Microgravity Ascentshell Jacket Review

I wore the Men’s MicroGravity Ascentshell Jacket by Outdoor Research for 19 days on the John Muir Trail, hiking SOBO from Lyell Canyon to Whitney Portal. It was in my pack from start to finish—through wind, potential snow forecasts, high elevation chill, and the chance of mountain rain. Here’s what stood out: Weight-to-Performance Ratio: At just over 14 oz, it’s light enough to justify space in a thru-hiker’s pack, especially when ounces count. I didn’t need it often, but when I did—especially on Whitney summit morning—it delivered. Layered above my puffy, the Ascentshell acted as a critical wind-blocking barrier in sub-freezing temps. Breathability & Comfort: The AscentShell fabric breathes better than many hard shells I’ve worn. It doesn’t feel like a plastic bag. You get protection without overheating—great for active movement in alpine conditions. The jacket also layers well and doesn’t bunch up under a pack. Packability & Versatility: It compresses well and fit seamlessly into my packing system. On a trail like the JMT, where the weather is unpredictable but weight is critical, it strikes a great balance of performance and packability. And while I didn’t get hit with a downpour, I have no doubt the waterproof zippers and solid build would handle it. The Takeaway: The MicroGravity Ascentshell isn’t just another rain jacket—it’s a mountain-ready shell that performs when and where it matters. It may have spent more time in my pack than on my shoulders, but it earned its keep. I’d bring it again on any long-distance trail, especially when weather is uncertain and performance matters. Highly recommend for thru-hikers, alpine trekkers, and serious backpackers looking for a lightweight, breathable shell that won’t quit when conditions change.

Great Rain Jacket!

This jacket is a nice weight -- not too heavy and good for a variety of conditions and seasons. It went along on a fishing trip in remote Alaska and performed very well in chilly, wet conditions!

Sizing Runs Small For Me

it would be perfect if it ran larger like a Parker would appreciate more room as I'm a taller guy 6'3 and with linebacker build it fits snuggly in a few places but overall great jacket

The jacket is a good basic, although nothing is that special about it. The yellow color stains from pack straps.

Seam Tape Delam

Overall, a decent shell. Runs a bit slim, Im 5'7" 155lbs and a med runs tight across shoulders with little underneath. After washing with a material specific tech wash, the seam tape delaminated in both chest pockets leading to the loss of a pair of sunglasses and nearly my mobile phone . Otherwise, not too bad.....

Solid Choice

So far so good! This is actually a warranty replacement for an older version of this jacket where the fabric was delaminating and no longer waterproof. OR always goes above and beyond with their customer care, and so I'm very happy they were able to send me a replacement that so far has been great. OR rocks!

Great Jacket

Jacket has performed beyond expectations! I purchased this jacket to use for downhill Skiing, with the expectation that i would use it in more mild temperatures. I live in the NWT, Canada where temperatures can reach as low as -50C. more often than not i find myself reaching for this jacket (layering during colder temperatures) for most of my winter activities! This jacket has great waterproofing and breathability & very good and breaking the chill from the wind. i would recomend this jacket to anyone who is active in the winter at a range of temperatures as it is very easy to layer up underneath. 10/10

Jacket has held up well, for 5 years, with regular use, size is slightly small for the rating.

Fit For 6’2 255lb

I’m 6’2 and about 255lbs slightly muscular build. I usually wear XL for shirts and sweaters. The XL for the Microgravity AscentShell fit me very well. I have room for a layer underneath but it will be trim with not a lot room left. The arm length is perfect for me! I’m excited to try it out in the wild.

Fantastic Jacket

Best rain jacket I've owned, gotten a lot of compliments about it and asking where I purchased it. it's large but that's because it fits over your other gear. The hood is also fantastic and fits over my helmet no problem. The only thing that would make this the perfect jacket is pit zips but honestly it's breathable enough

Great Jacket, Love It

I used this jacket both in Valley of Fire State Park where it's quite windy and hot, easy to build up temperature and in Zion NP, where it's kinda cold at night. this jacket is very breathable, i had no problem to release the heat inside when I walked in the deserts like terrain. Then a few weeks later I used it in Olympic NP, when it rained a lot during the memorial weekends, but the jacket managed to keep me dry inside. Only little complaint would be the slim fit - it fits me well for the waist and makes me look sharp, but the clothes hem is a bit too tight, sometimes I feel it restrained my ability to move. It will be awesome if it can a double zipper to adjust it