Columbia Ballistic Sweater - Men's - 2006 BCS

I'm 5'8" 175lbs and have pretty broad shoulders. I usually wear a medium when it comes to jackets like these, but for this one I had to get one size up for a large. The medium was tight around my neck and wasn't long enough. The zipper problem holds true for not fitting on one side for the interchange shell. The reason is because of the zipper insert; it's too long and blocks the first stud of the zipper on the shell. I took nail clipper to clipped off and it zips just fine. I can't wait till the cold season comes around!

This jacket is simply fabulous. It is the same design as the North Face Denali Jacket but at exactly half the cost. I have received compliments from every single person I know on this jacket. The fitting is superb and it is very warm. I would highly recommend this jacket o someone who likes the North Face Denali design but does not want to spend the $165 that it costs. Seriously this Columbia jacket is way better.

Columbia is from my home town. In fact, I went to high school right next door to their world headquarters. You can always count on their fleece jackets keeping you warm and dry, they are tested in the northwest. I keep this handy on those high elevation treks where at night, a fleece is a must.

Although I knew during purchase that the zipper might not work I purchased the sweater to go with a Bugboo jacket and of course it didn't work on both sides. Nice sweater, but zipper issue, any suggestions?

I bought this primarily because my other Columbia looked outdated and I also wanted something to keep me dry and warm on those days when it's sprinkling or windy. I took my dog out for a quick walk the other day and it started pouring--and the "sweater" performed more like a jacket in that I stayed warm and dry (except for my head, because this does not have a hood). It fits perfectly. I would say it is "true to fit", in terms of sizing. So if you are an XL, buying an XL would work fine for you. My only complaint is the direction of the pocket zippers, which is a general annoyance I have with all Columbia Jackets. You have to zip up to close the pockets--which usually takes a few tugs to get it going. But, other than that, it's a flawless jacket.

I think this is a nice jacket for what it costs, it is like it says wind, and water resistant. It doesn't really compare with the wind resistance of the tech jacket. Overall it is comfortable, definitely loose fitting so you can dress in layers. I got a large but i have really wide shoulders, so this could be why it is loose on me. The reason I am giving it a #4 ranking is because of the collar, it is weird how it is cut,its a little tight when you zip it all the way up.