Just tested this shell on a mixed condition day on the South Ridge of Superior and it was awesome. It is lightweight with great maneuverability, and offers excellent protection against the elements. The cut is great for women, and it has great pocket placement and thoughtful accents- like cuffs and hood. It stuffs light and small, and would be perfect for a variety of outdoor activities from a rain storm, to windy day, to a touring layer, and light ski spring ski or climbing jacket. Highly recommend this product- was really impressed with its performance, protection, and breathability. VERSATILE!

There is a draw string cord at the bottom of the shell. The hood will cover approximately 3/4 of the helmet.

I agree with another posting - the color is "girly" and it seems like the fit is also sized for someone with a "girlish" figure. I normally wear a small, so ordered the same but the fit around the waist and hip was very tight while the chest and shoulder big, and sleeves too long. I am 5'1", so perhaps this was sized for someone who is taller but the length fits me - maybe it should be short on a taller person. The material feels as described but unfortunatly had to return it so unable to test out its performance, protection and breathability for high workout such as running.

Bought this jacket 2 months ago and even though the snow isnt here yet have already got lots of use out of it. Incredibly waterproof and breathable, wear it commuting to work on my bike on super rainy mornings and also on long hikes where the weather can turn from hot and sunny to cold and stormy really fast and I can leave this jacket on through it all. The fit is really nice, very flattering so it looks stylish out on the town and personally I absolutely love the grape purple, have had a ton of compliments on it. My only sadness is that it doesnt have a powder skirt...but then I knew that when I got it. For anyone who just wants a wicked quality shell without all the bells and whistlers, this is your coat.

I'm a huge fan of eVent, but it's really important that you keep it clean. I had an eVent shell that worked great for a season, but it slowly lost its waterproofing. It wasn't the jacket's fault; it was my own–you're supposed to wash eVent often. So follow the tag (which I didn't read) and wash your Stoic shell often.

I received this jacket as a gift in early December. I wore on day hikes & during errands in the Pacific NW. It is lightweight & the eVent (Gore-tex's main competitor) adds major credibility as it repels water just the same. The colors are a big too 'girly' but the jacket is overall very functional & versatile for use.