Mountain Hardwear Transition Softshell Vest - Men's - 2008 BCS

i cannot describe this as a softshell. Like said before, it is very thin.
gaps at bottom of arm holes.
i didnt try it because i bought it for winter running and i didnt think it would keep me warm enough

Is this the ultimate wind and cold-stopping mid-layer you can buy? No. I doubt it's intended to be. It is, however, a great mid-weight, mid-layer vest. I'm a big guy, and "athletic" cuts don't usually fit me well. This is a superb fit, though, and looks great. It's terrific under a soft shell or a ski shell, providing a layer of warmth and some additional wind-blocking with minimal bulkiness. I haven't owned it long enough to comment on its longevity, but it appears to be well-made - no slipped stitches etc.

I've had a MH fleece windblock vest for years, and wear it when I need the extra warmth etc. But for when you need a good mid-weight layer, especially one that breathes, this is great.

5'11", 170 lbs. My 2-yr old (L) fleece MH vest fits just right, but the (L) Transition is too baggy for me, and the cut is not flattering on broad shoulders. And I should've known by now that "soft shells" are not necessarily like my old rugged Patagonia that would probably stop a bullet... this thing looks, feels and by all indications is... a very cheap piece of gear. Overall, I'm thinking growing consumer demand for "ultralight" gear has become the Chinese manufacturers' ultimate cash cow. Cheap stuff from China sold as elite gear? Brilliant! To think I paid $90 total for my MH Sub Zero (thanks S&C) that I live in for 5 months of the year here in AK, and $56 total for... this? Buyer of "ultralight" gear beware, "lifetime warranty" does not mean quality. To quote philosopher Tommy Callahan, "But why do they put a guarantee on the box then? -- 'Cause they know all they sold you was a guaranteed piece of sh*t. That's all it is, isn't it? Hey, if you want me to take a dump in a box and mark it "guaranteed", I will. I got spare time."

This is probably the most comfortable thing I wear skating or running. It'll probably be good under the motorcycle jacket for wind protection, too. Very light weight and soft, fits well (although I'm not as 'athletic' as the fit) and the pocket in mid-back is great for music or phone placement.