Norrøna Bitihorn Windstopper Softshell Jacket - Men's - 2011 BCS

Purchased a size L, caviar color (black). I am 6'1 and 200lbs, broad shoulders and chest but slim waist. The coat was definitely too small for me, it fit like a streamlined running jacket and there wouldn't be any room for more than a t-shirt below (and even at that it would be slightly tight). The jacket looked good, seemed to have very good construction, but I was a bit surprised at how unsubstantial the material was. I know that light and flexible is a plus for some activities, but this had the same feel as what I would imagine an Adidas track warmup jacket would have. This may be good for some people, but just not what I expected for $250. I never wore it outside of my house, since I returned it right away, so I can not speak of its qualities past its looks, fit, and 1st impressions of bang for your buck.

I've had something like 8 soft shells over the years (windstopper, schoeller, driclime, etc). I like the concept, but they all had something lacking. This is getting closer to the "one jacket" to grab for all outings. First, being Windstopper, it has great weather protection (IMHO, close to gore-tex but without feeling like wearing a garbage bag). The fabric is amazingly soft and quiet (best Windstopper I've ever felt), and has a brushed interior that feels great against bare skin- like an old flannel shirt. It is very light, and has HUGE vents, so breathablility is not really an issue for me. The hood is well designed, highly adjustable, and fits snugly (though I can't yet comment on helmet compatibility). The one drawback, which might be a deal-breaker to some, is that there are no handwarmer pockets, just the two chest pockets shown in the picture. Wore it for a brief hike in 45 deg weather with light rain and a breeze over a cotton t-shirt- worked great. I'm 5'9', 175lbs, 40" chest and broad shoulders, and the M fits well. So 4.5 stars, overall a great piece. Should be great for trail running, hiking, xc skiing, biking, etc.

This is better than any of the Mountain Hardwear products that I have been so loyal to for over a decade and I think they have officially lost me in just one try by this little Norwegian outfitter. The construction is flawless and the fit and material is possibly an even better point for me. It's was cut nicely for someone who needs room for broad shoulder and chest, but does not have an equally large waist, so it's properly fitted for an athlete. This is not urban wear by any means. It is designed to stop wind and keep your body heat in and that is exactly what it does and I think it will work well under a shell when mountaineering or ice climbing this winter. When I look to replace my Mountain Hardwear Subzero down jacket, I will definitely look to see what Norrona offers first.

I bought this in black in a size medium. I'm 6'1" and 175 lbs, and this jacket fits perfectly. I live in San Francisco, and I wear this jacket everywhere. It's solid for urban use, but I hike with it too. It's not bulky, and cuts slimmer than most US-designed jackets, but doesn't restrict movement at all. Cuts through all the wind, and resists light to medium rain. Warm enough for those 40+ degree days only wearing a tee shirt underneath. If it drops below freezing, throw on a sweater underneath, and you're good to go. This is my go-anywhere jacket.

Highly recommend for the fashion-conscience and the techy lovers.