MontBell Thunderhead Jacket - Men's - 2009 BCS

This is one amazing jacket! Even during the hot season storms this jacket kept me dry both inside and out. It is a bit pricey (the reason behind the four stars), but it is one of the best on the market today. The pockets sit up up so they do not get in the way of the hip belts on backpack which its a fantastic feature. The jacket is very durable and even with walking through trees and prickers there are no rips or tears. Great quality jacket and still looks brand new after three years use. High recommended!

I used it first during a climbing trip at the Red River Gorge. Although it just drizzled, I had the chance to wear it over some layers of clothes, including a quite thick down jacket, and ensure that I would be able to move without restrictions. Later on, back in Florida, I used it over a simple t-shirt and it did not feel bulky at all (I'm almost 5'10 and got M size). This time (and a couple other times) it was pouring rain and it kept me completely dry, even without doing anything else but making sure it was completely dry when I folded.
The jacket is also really light and packs pretty small. Perfect to take it with me anytime I go outdoors.
I have not belayed with it on, but I would say that there should be no problem at all, since the jackets covers only down to the waist.

I read some reviews on-line about the complexity of the hood adjustments and zippers use.. I just would say that the hood, if anything, might be too small to wear while using a helmet; and that the zips are perfectly sealed and, mine, also really smooth...

Conclusion: you won't go wrong with this jacket, and needless to say that it has 3L Gore-Tex Pro instead of 2L Gore-Tex PacLite of Arc'teryx jackets within the same price range or even more expensive.
Hope this helps!

This jacket aka shell, makes me feel very secure when I think it may go arctic on me... So when I am out backpacking, exploring, hitting de road, hoofing it, legging it, rambling, roving, strolling, stumping it, touring, tramping about, traveling or tromping, I have no anxieties. Plus this jacket simulates me as being someone with a banging I/Q a real outdoorsman, mountain climbing what ever , hou raa, . Frigging WEll MADE no less!!!!!!!