Here in Europe it's actually normal to put the zipper on the left side on jackets for men ;) Once I had a fleece jacket from North Face and it took time for me to get used to the zipper was on the right side (I'm from Denmark)
I’ve been wearing Helium II for years and now the new Helium (diamond infused), NEVER had any wet out. OR is a great jacket for the price. Easy to buy under US$ 100. On sale for priori year colors. That said, I also love all MB products and will probably try out the versalite rain gear.
Nice comparison! I've been using frogg toggs for a few years, but considering the OR, montbell, and even the silnylon offerings from lightheart gear and antigravity gear. For the weight the montbell is certainly appealing.
Great review, I love Mont-Bell gear. I’m using a Luke’s UL rain jacket and hiked that last week on April on the AT, it rained every day! That was my first real test of the rain coat and I was very pleased with it.
Bert Maupin, I got it about 4 years ago. I’ve heard that ppl are having a hard time getting their gear from him now. I love it, hopefully he’ll get everything worked out soon.
Yeah I was really hoping I could be some good news instead of yet another cautionary tale but its kinda doubtful. I ordered some weeks ago and received polite email replies within hours. His last email said “We’ll be finished by Fri”. (Two weeks ago). Since then no updates or replies to my repeated inquiries which, as I’m coming to understand, seems to be a pattern he’s been repeating along with abandoned customers.
According to the Montbell tags on the garner it states it's a WIND jacket that is water resistant in a light rain. I was honestly a little taken aback because for the weight, it's insanely heavy for a WIND jacket. Their website makers it specifically as a "rain jacket", but like I said, the tag says it's a "Wind Stopper" and as such is ONLY good for light rain. Idk. I'm going to call them to see, in the mean time did you put the jacket through its paces in heavy, long term rain as of yet?
I have two different OR Helium II jackets, one with pit zips and the other without, and they both weep moisture thru the jacket. I use it more for the ability to trap heat in cold rainy weather rather than for its protection from getting wet. I have tested both jackets for weeping moisture by just standing around in the rain at sporting events and I would not recommend them for keeping you dry. I use the pit zip version in the late spring and early fall when temperatures are such that it would not be critical if I got a little wet.
Thanks for your review BF. I was leaning towards the Zpacks Vertice but the Montbell is very close in comparison for breathability and $100 less. Also, a better waterproof rating. I also don't have to wait 4 weeks!
I’m very happy with the versalite. The breathability rating on Vertice is 55000 I believe, but the versalite was a far step up from anything I’ve had before.
Really nice comparison video. I have been getting asked for probably a year about my thoughts on the Versalite Rain Jacket and have had to keep telling folks I have not used it and have on idea. (I switched away from using rain jackets and over to using an umbrella, wind jackets, and synthetics). Anyway, gonna start referring folks to your video when I get asked about the Versalite, I am sure this video is gonna help a lot of folks!
I think a more fair comparison would be with the OR HD jacket since it also has pit zips. That is the jacket I own and also my first so I can only compare it to a “normal” rain coat. I bought the HD a size larger and it’s just right to put a puffy coat under if needed. PS Don’t women zippers go on the other side? Also, I think some euro’s have opposite zips too.
I was in 2 days of solid rain with the OR, and it held up much better than I expected backpacking. That being said, it didn't breath super well backpacking. Its no slouch on its waterproofing though.
Montane minimus 777 is about as waterproof as you can get. It's super light (4 oz and change) and packs down teeny tiny (palm of your hand). The downsides: super expensive, it's a pullover (1/4 or 1/2 zip), and they size it pretty small, so go up at least one size especially if you plan to layer. I use this one for all my warm weather hiking, but their largest size is too small for me to layer (I'm 6'4"/230lbs) so I use my OR Helium II for cooler weather.
Had the opportunity to try out my new Versalite on a trek with serious open field, windy downpours. The main zipper is a bit stiffer than I like for use with cold hands, and the positioning of the tightening strings is less than ideal. But once on, I never had anything that worked as well. Grinning away I was using my E-M5 III, similarly unaffected by the weather. I feel this was money well spent. As you've had it for a few years now, would like to hear how it helds up ?
Thanks you very much for the comparison! I was looking forward for this video. Most people find the Helium II to fit small and have to size up. Would you say that it the Versalite is more true to size?
@bigfoot you think you could tell us what size versalite you've got on? Perhaps your height weight? True to size, big, small? It would help figure out what size we might need :) Really appreciate the thorough review. Subbed.
It's always good to see straight-up comparisons. Based on my personal experience and input of hikers much more experienced than me, we've kind of concluded that there's really no such thing as a breathable rain jacket. By its very nature, it cannot be. It can have more ventilation (or be porous), but not really technically be more "breathable." Given that, the fact that you don't really hear too many complaints about the Helium II, and what can be a $70 price difference (depending on the color on Amazon), I'm still leaning toward the Helium II if I'm looking to upgrade. That said, I've actually found great success with the Frogg Toggs emeregency rain jacket that you can get for $10. It's obviously not a long-term solution, but the pricier ones themselves don't really give you the impression they're going to last more than a few years. It's more of a thru-hiker vs. recreational hiker issue, though. If I knew I was out for months, I'd upgrade.
Thank you, great review, compare and contrast! Almost bought the OR, but now decided to get the Versalite. I usually wear a medium. Do you find it is true to size or did you order up for layering?
Just checked it’s wp/ breathablity number, great number and well balanced.. What’s the inside look like ? How the skin contact feel like .. anyways great review
Thanks for the review. How long til they wet out? Critical concept for the Pacific Northwet. I went Zpacks old school because it won't wet out. Miss pockets.
Thanks for the review Bigfoot. You asked, so this is my experience. One thing I found is that buying a rain jacket is very much about personal preference. My experience probably doesn't apply to others. When I was shopping for a new lightweight rain jacket the Versalite was high on my list. Also looked at the AntiGravity Gear Ultralight. Both are around 6.5 oz. Pit zips are a must for me, so I was also looking at the OR HD, not the OR Helium II. But the OR HD jumps up to about 9 oz. Had issues with the clammy feel of the fabrics (Windstopper, Pertex, Silnylon), especially when things get wet - but the Windstopper of the Versalite was the 'least clammy'. But the left zip on the Versalite was also a big negative for me. The new Montbell Torrent is Gore-Tex and still comes in at about 6.5 oz. - but no pit zips and again a left hand zip. However, the 2016 Torrent model is Gore-Tex, has pit zips, and is right hand zip. The size large on my scale is 9.1 oz. For the price of 2.5 oz. I went with the Gore-Tex. However, I think they are now sold out of these earlier models. But if you are willing to jump up to the 9-10 oz. range, there are a lot more options of brands and materials.
Did you find the jacket was longer than the Helium? The Helium is too short for me since me fleece layers tend to be longer than the Helium and they tend to get wet.
I recently bought the Norrøna Bitihorn Gore-Tex Shake dry jacket. It is litterly the best i have evver had. Water Proof, Drys super quickly and weights only 140g ( little under 5 ounces ). Only downside is its price..!, Couldn't reccomend it enough tho.
One thing folks may not think about, is that the Helium series call-out is for Alpine use with the lesser MVTR of 20,000 and HH of 20,000 (which would make it a better Winter/cold weather jacket). Just remember to size up if you plan on putting it over your puffy. You might also want to consider the slightly heavier Helium HD with the pit zips for improved ventilation. Maybe you can assess the C6 DWR of each as you have had time to use the Versalite. On paper, the Vasalite looks like a step up. Well done preview. Thank you Big Foot.
How do they both do for durability? I really don't like buying gear that's going to go in landfill in three years, its just wasteful. Do they feel they'd be okay if you were scrambling on rock, or found yourself having to do some impromptu bushwhacking?
Dear Bigfoot, I was wondering if I should get a rain jacket a size bigger or smaller. Do you have a suggestion regarding that? I always dip between m and l. Thanks if you do answer :) any other answers also appreciated
I got with a size bigger so that I can layer if I need to. I use my rain jacket much more frequently during cooler temperatures to warm up without having to pull out my down jacket. I also enjoy a more loose fit.
How does this compare with the Japanese version? Women's there weighs just 4.16 oz (compared to US version 5.8 oz), it's also about $55 cheaper (incl shipping). Not sure if both have pit zips?
I like that hood draw cord on the monte bell and the pit zips. Lastly the fact its practically one large piece of material with no seams is nice! I was always worried about the OR wetting out too quickly. OR makes great products though, very nice athletic fit and you usually get what you pay for. The reverse zipper on the monte bell can be a nag. I usually see that design on UK made jackets. My Karrimor fleece has that but you get use to it, or atleast i did. Karrimor makes some nice gear too! Hope the monte bell works well for you bigfoot! Thanks for comparison. Hike on!!
I recently picked up the new Frogg Toggs Xtreme lite jacket off Amazon for around $45. A bit heavier than the traditional UL model that @Mittencamper uses (as well as OR/Mont-bell's) but much more durable and better fitting. Would you also consider trading your Ghost Whisperer for one of Montbell's Superior Down jackets? It's about $50-150 cheaper and appears to me a similar spec.
The cost of these are absolutely ridiculous. Now I spend a lot on a lot of my gear like my HG Cuban Fiber Tarp, quilts, packs, etc. I just don't understand how they can charge so much for these. I'm sticking with Frog Toggs. I've had the same "set" pants and jacket that I paid $20 for five years ago. Now I do have a few holes in the jacket because I was bushwacking in thorns this past winter but for five years it has lasted me. I mean I'd love to have one, but its just crazy to me. Thanks for another great review.
I'm going to apologize up front, because I'm going to get snarky here, but these kind of comments tick me off when they are put this way. These are too expensive FOR YOU. Don't presume to tell the rest of us what we should deem appropriate to pay for gear. Or perhaps you'd like to publish a price guide for what prices YOU think WE should be allowed to pay for each type of gear we want to buy. I've used frog togs; they're bulky, very heavy and incredibly uncomfortable to wear (for me). So FOR ME, I'm willing to pay for well made UL rain gear that packs down small, is comfortable to wear all day, and only weighs a few ounces. I understand that FOR YOU that is not a trade off you're willing to make. That is fine, just like my choice is fine. Hike your own hike and let me hike mine without your judgy sanctimony over what I pay for gear.
Christopher Cornette I was just saying it’s too much for me if you some idiot wants to spend 200 on a rain jacket who would I be to tell them other wise I’m just saying in my opinion it’s ridiculous.
When I write a comment it’s my opinion I don’t speak for everyone because I say it’s to expensive that means for me not for every person you got mad butt hurt for nothingim not trying to tell you what to buy
The Montbell looks like a great jacket. Dealbreakers for me are the hood drawcords as well as pockets. I wear a Patagonia windbreaker (can’t recall the name but I know you’ve used one), and it drives me crazy with no pockets. My rain jacket is just a Marmot Precip. Probably too heavy for you at 10oz I think, but it’s perfect for me. Also love the fleece on the chin.
Nice... another great review. The downside is now i have to go buy the Montbell. It's my fault as i keep buying what you and other famous vloggers recommend. :) Cheers!
I’m retired military, one thing I really find discouraging about Montbell is they are under the impression that all men are skinny. My upper torso would rip the Xl to shreds if I flexed. Do they think all hikers are toothpicks?
...or you can get 2 Marmot Precips for the price of the Mont or almost 3 for the price of the OR...but I've got a wife and kid to kit out so price is a factor.
You can, and the cost savings is off set by the weight savings. I think the precip is doubled the weight of this or the OR. All things to consider of course.
I had a couple Precips and found them to be relatively clammy and the membrane not durable. Now I have a Marmot Membrain jacket. It's more durable and breathable than Precip, but the price is in line with the ones reviewed here.
200$ and 150$.. 😂😂😂🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️👎👎👎 .. by watching your video I have learn that you like to review high brand name price items; which a normal person or your viewer will never afford to buy. 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
Most of the gear that I Review leans to the ultralight side of things, which tend to be more expensive. When I bought my OR jacket, I paid about $85 bucks on amazon. I, like most, do look for those deals and take advantage when they are out there.
Here in Europe it's actually normal to put the zipper on the left side on jackets for men ;) Once I had a fleece jacket from North Face and it took time for me to get used to the zipper was on the right side (I'm from Denmark)
Tell that to all my jackets, they are the opposite, and my new Arcteryx jacket has the zipper on the left side :P
I’ve been wearing Helium II for years and now the new Helium (diamond infused), NEVER had any wet out. OR is a great jacket for the price. Easy to buy under US$ 100. On sale for priori year colors. That said, I also love all MB products and will probably try out the versalite rain gear.
Nice comparison! I've been using frogg toggs for a few years, but considering the OR, montbell, and even the silnylon offerings from lightheart gear and antigravity gear. For the weight the montbell is certainly appealing.
Great review, I love Mont-Bell gear. I’m using a Luke’s UL rain jacket and hiked that last week on April on the AT, it rained every day! That was my first real test of the rain coat and I was very pleased with it.
Greg Rinehart Luke’s? What year did you order it? I can’t seem to get him to answer emails for the one I ordered...
Bert Maupin, I got it about 4 years ago. I’ve heard that ppl are having a hard time getting their gear from him now. I love it, hopefully he’ll get everything worked out soon.
Yeah I was really hoping I could be some good news instead of yet another cautionary tale but its kinda doubtful. I ordered some weeks ago and received polite email replies within hours. His last email said “We’ll be finished by Fri”. (Two weeks ago). Since then no updates or replies to my repeated inquiries which, as I’m coming to understand, seems to be a pattern he’s been repeating along with abandoned customers.
According to the Montbell tags on the garner it states it's a WIND jacket that is water resistant in a light rain. I was honestly a little taken aback because for the weight, it's insanely heavy for a WIND jacket. Their website makers it specifically as a "rain jacket", but like I said, the tag says it's a "Wind Stopper" and as such is ONLY good for light rain. Idk. I'm going to call them to see, in the mean time did you put the jacket through its paces in heavy, long term rain as of yet?
Thank you for this review Bigfoot! Definitely gonna pick one up! Keep up the good work!
I have two different OR Helium II jackets, one with pit zips and the other without, and they both weep moisture thru the jacket. I use it more for the ability to trap heat in cold rainy weather rather than for its protection from getting wet. I have tested both jackets for weeping moisture by just standing around in the rain at sporting events and I would not recommend them for keeping you dry. I use the pit zip version in the late spring and early fall when temperatures are such that it would not be critical if I got a little wet.
Thanks for your review BF. I was leaning towards the Zpacks Vertice but the Montbell is very close in comparison for breathability and $100 less. Also, a better waterproof rating. I also don't have to wait 4 weeks!
I’m very happy with the versalite. The breathability rating on Vertice is 55000 I believe, but the versalite was a far step up from anything I’ve had before.
Purchased today. Arriving Friday.
Really nice comparison video. I have been getting asked for probably a year about my thoughts on the Versalite Rain Jacket and have had to keep telling folks I have not used it and have on idea. (I switched away from using rain jackets and over to using an umbrella, wind jackets, and synthetics). Anyway, gonna start referring folks to your video when I get asked about the Versalite, I am sure this video is gonna help a lot of folks!
That was a very thorough equipment review and I found it very informative. Thanks a bunch
The OR Helium 2 is 13,000mm I found it on a website :)
I think a more fair comparison would be with the OR HD jacket since it also has pit zips.
That is the jacket I own and also my first so I can only compare it to a “normal” rain coat. I bought the HD a size larger and it’s just right to put a puffy coat under if needed.
PS
Don’t women zippers go on the other side? Also, I think some euro’s have opposite zips too.
I want you to get a Berghaus Hyper jacket next and do a comparison to these two “staples”.
I was in 2 days of solid rain with the OR, and it held up much better than I expected backpacking. That being said, it didn't breath super well backpacking. Its no slouch on its waterproofing though.
Great review!
Still recommend the montbell versalite for 2021?
Thanks your sharing! Will the OR’s Helium II feel more durable? It said 30D nylon on their website, compare to the Versalite 's 12 denier
I was about to buy the OD hellium 2 jacket and rain pants on special for $300. Glad i saw this first.
Montane minimus 777 is about as waterproof as you can get. It's super light (4 oz and change) and packs down teeny tiny (palm of your hand). The downsides: super expensive, it's a pullover (1/4 or 1/2 zip), and they size it pretty small, so go up at least one size especially if you plan to layer. I use this one for all my warm weather hiking, but their largest size is too small for me to layer (I'm 6'4"/230lbs) so I use my OR Helium II for cooler weather.
Had the opportunity to try out my new Versalite on a trek with serious open field, windy downpours. The main zipper is a bit stiffer than I like for use with cold hands, and the positioning of the tightening strings is less than ideal. But once on, I never had anything that worked as well. Grinning away I was using my E-M5 III, similarly unaffected by the weather. I feel this was money well spent. As you've had it for a few years now, would like to hear how it helds up ?
Thanks you very much for the comparison! I was looking forward for this video. Most people find the Helium II to fit small and have to size up. Would you say that it the Versalite is more true to size?
Any update if this is still the top rain jacket. Or how does it compete against new jackets liek TUSHAR RAIN JACKET
@bigfoot you think you could tell us what size versalite you've got on? Perhaps your height weight? True to size, big, small? It would help figure out what size we might need :)
Really appreciate the thorough review. Subbed.
I’m 5’8” and am 185. I got a large and it fit comfortably, with room to layer underneath of needed
It's always good to see straight-up comparisons.
Based on my personal experience and input of hikers much more experienced than me, we've kind of concluded that there's really no such thing as a breathable rain jacket. By its very nature, it cannot be. It can have more ventilation (or be porous), but not really technically be more "breathable."
Given that, the fact that you don't really hear too many complaints about the Helium II, and what can be a $70 price difference (depending on the color on Amazon), I'm still leaning toward the Helium II if I'm looking to upgrade.
That said, I've actually found great success with the Frogg Toggs emeregency rain jacket that you can get for $10. It's obviously not a long-term solution, but the pricier ones themselves don't really give you the impression they're going to last more than a few years. It's more of a thru-hiker vs. recreational hiker issue, though. If I knew I was out for months, I'd upgrade.
Thank you, great review, compare and contrast! Almost bought the OR, but now decided to get the Versalite. I usually wear a medium. Do you find it is true to size or did you order up for layering?
Just checked it’s wp/ breathablity number, great number and well balanced.. What’s the inside look like ? How the skin contact feel like .. anyways great review
Thanks for the review. How long til they wet out? Critical concept for the Pacific Northwet. I went Zpacks old school because it won't wet out. Miss pockets.
The Zpacks rain jacket will keep you dry? Is that what you mean by "wet out"?
Thanks for the review Bigfoot. You asked, so this is my experience. One thing I found is that buying a rain jacket is very much about personal preference. My experience probably doesn't apply to others. When I was shopping for a new lightweight rain jacket the Versalite was high on my list. Also looked at the AntiGravity Gear Ultralight. Both are around 6.5 oz. Pit zips are a must for me, so I was also looking at the OR HD, not the OR Helium II. But the OR HD jumps up to about 9 oz. Had issues with the clammy feel of the fabrics (Windstopper, Pertex, Silnylon), especially when things get wet - but the Windstopper of the Versalite was the 'least clammy'. But the left zip on the Versalite was also a big negative for me. The new Montbell Torrent is Gore-Tex and still comes in at about 6.5 oz. - but no pit zips and again a left hand zip. However, the 2016 Torrent model is Gore-Tex, has pit zips, and is right hand zip. The size large on my scale is 9.1 oz. For the price of 2.5 oz. I went with the Gore-Tex. However, I think they are now sold out of these earlier models. But if you are willing to jump up to the 9-10 oz. range, there are a lot more options of brands and materials.
Did you find the jacket was longer than the Helium? The Helium is too short for me since me fleece layers tend to be longer than the Helium and they tend to get wet.
Bigfoot and videos on the Versalite vs Zpacks Vertice?
I recently bought the Norrøna Bitihorn Gore-Tex Shake dry jacket. It is litterly the best i have evver had. Water Proof, Drys super quickly and weights only 140g ( little under 5 ounces ). Only downside is its price..!, Couldn't reccomend it enough tho.
One thing folks may not think about, is that the Helium series call-out is for Alpine use with the lesser MVTR of 20,000 and HH of 20,000 (which would make it a better Winter/cold weather jacket). Just remember to size up if you plan on putting it over your puffy. You might also want to consider the slightly heavier Helium HD with the pit zips for improved ventilation. Maybe you can assess the C6 DWR of each as you have had time to use the Versalite. On paper, the Vasalite looks like a step up. Well done preview. Thank you Big Foot.
Great review.. montbell both numbers are great
How long do you think the Versalite might hold up if you take good care of it, so in terms of durability?
Awesome review. Thanks Bigfoot.
Nice hat - I've got the same one.
How do they both do for durability? I really don't like buying gear that's going to go in landfill in three years, its just wasteful. Do they feel they'd be okay if you were scrambling on rock, or found yourself having to do some impromptu bushwhacking?
Dear Bigfoot, I was wondering if I should get a rain jacket a size bigger or smaller. Do you have a suggestion regarding that? I always dip between m and l. Thanks if you do answer :) any other answers also appreciated
I got with a size bigger so that I can layer if I need to. I use my rain jacket much more frequently during cooler temperatures to warm up without having to pull out my down jacket. I also enjoy a more loose fit.
How does this compare with the Japanese version? Women's there weighs just 4.16 oz (compared to US version 5.8 oz), it's also about $55 cheaper (incl shipping). Not sure if both have pit zips?
I like that hood draw cord on the monte bell and the pit zips. Lastly the fact its practically one large piece of material with no seams is nice! I was always worried about the OR wetting out too quickly. OR makes great products though, very nice athletic fit and you usually get what you pay for. The reverse zipper on the monte bell can be a nag. I usually see that design on UK made jackets. My Karrimor fleece has that but you get use to it, or atleast i did. Karrimor makes some nice gear too! Hope the monte bell works well for you bigfoot! Thanks for comparison. Hike on!!
thinking of being one myself.... how are the sizes!
Hi, how do you compare or anyone the OR Helium Hd Vs the new Versalite? I don't care about the weight between those two jackets. Thanks in advance.
"Stay tuned for more sightings"
Very punny Mr Bigfoot.
I recently picked up the new Frogg Toggs Xtreme lite jacket off Amazon for around $45. A bit heavier than the traditional UL model that @Mittencamper uses (as well as OR/Mont-bell's) but much more durable and better fitting.
Would you also consider trading your Ghost Whisperer for one of Montbell's Superior Down jackets? It's about $50-150 cheaper and appears to me a similar spec.
I would consider it. Maybe that will be a jacket I’ll have to try out sometime soon. What’s the weight spec on the FT Xtreme?
My medium weighed in at 7.5oz on my kitchen scale. A little heavier than some but the price is hard to beat..
Anyone tried lightheart or antigravity? Love this review of versalite but I need xxl.
Great video thanks
The cost of these are absolutely ridiculous. Now I spend a lot on a lot of my gear like my HG Cuban Fiber Tarp, quilts, packs, etc. I just don't understand how they can charge so much for these. I'm sticking with Frog Toggs. I've had the same "set" pants and jacket that I paid $20 for five years ago. Now I do have a few holes in the jacket because I was bushwacking in thorns this past winter but for five years it has lasted me. I mean I'd love to have one, but its just crazy to me. Thanks for another great review.
Agreed way too much for a rain jacket
I'm going to apologize up front, because I'm going to get snarky here, but these kind of comments tick me off when they are put this way. These are too expensive FOR YOU. Don't presume to tell the rest of us what we should deem appropriate to pay for gear. Or perhaps you'd like to publish a price guide for what prices YOU think WE should be allowed to pay for each type of gear we want to buy. I've used frog togs; they're bulky, very heavy and incredibly uncomfortable to wear (for me). So FOR ME, I'm willing to pay for well made UL rain gear that packs down small, is comfortable to wear all day, and only weighs a few ounces. I understand that FOR YOU that is not a trade off you're willing to make. That is fine, just like my choice is fine. Hike your own hike and let me hike mine without your judgy sanctimony over what I pay for gear.
Sorry I hurt your feelings. You just hurt mine... Your saying my Frog Toggs are too bulky. LOL... Lighten up Francis...
Christopher Cornette I was just saying it’s too much for me if you some idiot wants to spend 200 on a rain jacket who would I be to tell them other wise I’m just saying in my opinion it’s ridiculous.
When I write a comment it’s my opinion I don’t speak for everyone because I say it’s to expensive that means for me not for every person you got mad butt hurt for nothingim not trying to tell you what to buy
Thanks.
ZPacks Vertice rain jacket is awesome!
Ben Suttles so does it actually keep you dry. I have been debating about purchasing it but it comes with a hefty pricetag
The Montbell looks like a great jacket. Dealbreakers for me are the hood drawcords as well as pockets. I wear a Patagonia windbreaker (can’t recall the name but I know you’ve used one), and it drives me crazy with no pockets. My rain jacket is just a Marmot Precip. Probably too heavy for you at 10oz I think, but it’s perfect for me. Also love the fleece on the chin.
OR Helium HD?
If I would have owned it, I would have compared it to that jacket. At 9oz and the same cost, I would stick with the versalite.
funny you talk about the zipper side. in Europe a left hand zip is classified as a female jacket and right hand zip is a male style
Oops!
Comparison? There really is none. Montbell is the bomb. Fully featured 6.5 oz and performs so much better. Worth the investment.
Re: zipper side. European and Japanese companies locate zippers on the left side. That's how you know you have a quality garment.
Nice... another great review. The downside is now i have to go buy the Montbell. It's my fault as i keep buying what you and other famous vloggers recommend. :) Cheers!
Also if you compare the OR HD (which has the same bells and whistles as Montbell) and its the same price but much heavier. Just a closing note.
Yep, would have been a better comparison but I currently down own it. For the same price but almost 3 oz heavier, I’m sure I’d stay with the versalite
Dang Mont Bell needs to make 2XL
Now in 2022 the Mont Bell price has gone up 10%- $220. They raised the price like a couple weeks ago. Bummer. Matches inflation though.
OR HD has pit zips. Probably a better comparison to the Mont-bell
I would have, but don’t own it.
I’m retired military, one thing I really find discouraging about Montbell is they are under the impression that all men are skinny. My upper torso would rip the Xl to shreds if I flexed. Do they think all hikers are toothpicks?
It may be because most of their clothes are in Japanese fit. They have a US or Western-specific fit for a bigger build.
Only American brands where the men Zipper is on the right hand side, the rest of the world is on the left.
Cool
Why wouldn't you be able to use your right hand to zip up the jacket? Nobody is that uncoordinated. Although I'd admit, that is strange.
...or you can get 2 Marmot Precips for the price of the Mont or almost 3 for the price of the OR...but I've got a wife and kid to kit out so price is a factor.
You can, and the cost savings is off set by the weight savings. I think the precip is doubled the weight of this or the OR. All things to consider of course.
I had a couple Precips and found them to be relatively clammy and the membrane not durable. Now I have a Marmot Membrain jacket. It's more durable and breathable than Precip, but the price is in line with the ones reviewed here.
Pit zips... 👍🦸♂️
Mont-Bell is a Japanese company, that's all you need to know. I'll always choose a Japanese designed gear.
200$ and 150$.. 😂😂😂🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️👎👎👎 .. by watching your video I have learn that you like to review high brand name price items; which a normal person or your viewer will never afford to buy. 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
Most of the gear that I Review leans to the ultralight side of things, which tend to be more expensive. When I bought my OR jacket, I paid about $85 bucks on amazon. I, like most, do look for those deals and take advantage when they are out there.
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