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Lightweight shell a little longer than Helium II?

Original Post
mike again · · Ouray · Joined Dec 2015 · Points: 47

So I generally find the OR Helium II I got to be an excellent piece, based on limited use thus far - light, cut and fits well, waterproof, etc. However it's cut very short such that for me at least I find the bottom inch of my midlayers stick out. Were the Helium just a bit longer I expect it would become a go-to piece, as it is I'm looking for something basically the same, but cut a touch longer. Thoughts welcome... 

Cabot Steward · · Smog Lake City · Joined Sep 2017 · Points: 2

I have the same complaint.  Also, they don't fair well to crows, they can make the shoulders leak.

that guy named seb · · Britland · Joined Oct 2015 · Points: 236
mike again wrote: So I generally find the OR Helium II I got to be an excellent piece, based on limited use thus far - light, cut and fits well, waterproof, etc. However it's cut very short such that for me at least I find the bottom inch of my midlayers stick out. 

Just tuck your midlayer into your underwear or trousers at the beginning of the day it sounds super lame but you really shouldn't need to be taking them off, it stops cold spots and works better with a harness.

GearGuy 316 · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Mar 2017 · Points: 0

Check out the new TNF Summit Series L5 Ultralight jacket. Unlike the Helium II, which is a general use rain shell, TNF Summit Series L5 Ultralight is a climbing alpine specific jacket.

You will find the length longer and the Hood more climbing helmet compatible vs the Helium II, and lighter at 6.1oz.

https://www.thenorthface.com/shop/mens-summit-l5-ultralight-storm-jacket-nf0a3c6i?variationId=WU5#hero=0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VofzUTm4jWI

Another long cut ultralight climbing specific shell is the Black Diamond Fineline. It weights a tad bit heavier at 7.5oz, but the length is definitely longer than the Helium II.

https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/clothing-mens/rain-jacket/black-diamond-fineline

DrRockso RRG · · Red River Gorge, KY · Joined Sep 2013 · Points: 860

I'm selling a brand new BD Stormline stretch jacket in Blue/Medium pm me if interested. It's a great jacket that's a little longer than the Helium. Looking to get $90 shipped. http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en_US/mens-jackets-shells/stormline-stretch-rain-shell-APCDT0_cfg.html#q=stormline&start=1 

GearGuy 316 · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Mar 2017 · Points: 0

Forgot to mention, Patagonia has the M10 Anorak which is 7oz, and designed for climbing, thus cut longer than the Helium II and has a better helmet compatible hood

https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-m10-anorak-alpine-jacket/84165.html

mike again · · Ouray · Joined Dec 2015 · Points: 47

Thanks all. The BD Fineline looks promising... 

that guy named seb · · Britland · Joined Oct 2015 · Points: 236
GearGuy 316 wrote: Forgot to mention, Patagonia has the M10 Anorak which is 7oz, and designed for climbing, thus cut longer than the Helium II and has a better helmet compatible hood

https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-m10-anorak-alpine-jacket/84165.html

I don't get it as an anorak at all, why would you want an half length zip in a emergency layer, seems ridiculous to me but then again the whole current m10 series has gone to shit.

Mike McL · · South Lake Tahoe · Joined Dec 2007 · Points: 2,070

Yeah try on the BD Fineline. It's a bit longer than the Helium.  Only like an oz heavier.  It stretches a bit so it better for climbing IMO.  Nice piece at a good price.  

phil wortmann · · Colorado Springs, Co. · Joined Feb 2005 · Points: 1,723

I highly recommend the Full Protection Jacket from C.A.M.P. It's super light and has elastic along the bottom to keep the draft out. It does run a little small in sizing, so remember that when you order. I'm a Medium in Arcteryx, but needed a Large in the eurofit CAMP.

Jared Chrysostom · · Clemson, SC · Joined Oct 2017 · Points: 5

Anyone tried the Eddie Bauer "BC Alpine Lite" jacket? I know their stuff can be hit-and-miss, but the First Ascent line has been good for me so far.

https://www.eddiebauer.com/product/mens-bc-alpine-lite-jacket/38832319​​​

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

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