got one on sale and love it did alot of research and very happy.very waterproof,windproof.all n all a nice jacket

Great jacket. Only complaint is that the softshell fabric started to pill a bit where my backpack strap goes across my chest. Otherwise, the thing kept me dry in all day rain, and kept my temp very well regulated going up and down the peaks. Highly recommend it.

This jacket has been able to do everything for me. I can wear it in the rain, wind or just an average day. It breathes exceptionally well, the core vents work great. When it rains, the water just beads up and is never absorbed into the jacket.

This Synchro jacket is awesome. It is lightweight and warm. It is perfect to ski in. I get really hot when I ski and this jacket allowed me the breathable characteristics of a softshell and the waterproofness of a hard shell. It does run a little small so I would size up. It's a great jacket.

I was surprised at how thin and light this jacket was when I received it. However, don't worry, it's warm enough for -13C whether and heavy snow outside. I live Madison, WI, and get cold, but this jacket keeps me warm. Just layer this with another thin but warm layer on the inside and you're good to go. I prefer this to than wearing a huge down jacket that make you look puffy like a penguin. I'm 5'11, and I wear a Medium. I'm kinda skinny, so if you're my height and weigh like 160-180 lbs, then get the Large one.

It is still young (2 months), but here's a short term review. I mainly use the synchro backpacking, mountain biking, and occasionally around town. The shell is exceptionally water resistant while remaining very soft. So far I do not see any damage from pack wear or rock rubs, but it is too early to tell. I have very long arms, and the large does fit them pretty well. There is a lot of extra room for layering. I can easily fit a fleece and down vest under it. It is not a wind proof layer, but is good enough to stop anything but the most violent winds. Cinch cords around the waist and neck are very effective at keeping out the wind and rain/snow. The main pockets open with waterproof zips to reveal enormous vent pockets that reach from the bottom to the front seam. The pockets are very high to allow for clearance of your pack's waistbelt, which is a little awkward if you wear it casually. If you are looking for a casual jacket, check out the g50. It is built from the same materials, but cut a little longer, a little trimmer, and with the pockets in a more comfortable position.

I bought this jacket because I wanted something light and not as bulky as a regular skiing jacket to go skiing in. However, when I got it I didn't know if it was going to be warm enough. Still, I took it with me on my first trip of the year when the high temp was 14 degrees. As it turns out, the jacket was perfect. Not only did it keep me warm enough but it also breathes excellently so that I never felt overheated. Then, I went down to Mexico to visit some family and brought the jacket with me. Again, the jacket kept me warm enough in cool nights but was never too hot to carry around. I don't know how they did it, but this could possibly be the best jacket ever made.

This softshell has kept me warm and dry whilst working at cyclocross races, snowshoeing and for spring skiing for the past two seasons.

The lack of a powder skirt makes it a bit less than ideal for skiing, but that's not how it was designed or how it's being marketed.

I dig it enough to have bought two ... at full retail.

I've had this jacket for almost a year now and I would highly recommend it! I've used it in all different types of environments from trekking the windy Annapurna in Nepal, snow shoeing in 4ft of snow in Utah's backcountry, and bombing down the mountain on my mountain bike in the summer. It offers excellent wind protection for such a light softshell, it blocks light to medium precipitation with no trouble, its kept me warm in 0F weather with a synthetic down under it for insulation, and it is as durable as a rhinos hide! My only quarks with this jacket is that the zippers can be a little bit of a pain. You need both hands to use them. And it doesn't have a hoody. Great Softshell!!!

This was an early April winter hike on the Webster /Jackson loop in the White Mountains of NH. I decided to really test out the Conduit for breathability and warmth, since I am such a heavy sweater! All I wore under it was a poly short sleeve T. Unbelievably comfortable and warm, and I stayed dry. No need to change clothes for the long drive home. I'm sold!

First of all, I love the smooth, almost slick feel of the conduit softshell material that is different from other softshells I've tried. I haven't experienced rain yet but I expect the Synchro to be as close to waterproof as a softshell can get...especially with the taped seams. This jacket has features out the wazoo...plenty of pockets, cinch cords for the waist AND collar...awesome stretchy, fleece covered cuffs inside the outer cuffs. People who complain about softshells not being warm enough are missing the point...they are designed to keep you reasonably protected from wind and water while you decide the level of warmness by layering underneath. Since I live in Texas and only make it skiing 2-3 times a year this will be a great everyday winter jacket for me. The only cons with this jacket are minor...the zippers and pulls on the chest/arm seem to be smaller and less durable that what you normally find on such jackets, and I had to return a large for a medium because of the too long arms. (I'm 6'1 170)

Bottom line is that there are cheaper softshells and more expensive...but this is one of the few that are actually worth the asking price and will give you years of service with style.

There's little to say that hasn't already been said. Of my (too many) jackets, this is the one I wear the most. I tend to run warm, but I am comfortable wearing this with a t-shirt in 30-50F weather (the lining is soft and comfortable). If it's colder, then there is certainly room to layer up. Although there are no pit zips, it breathes well and the hand pockets function as core vents. It repels water without difficulty, and the inner sleeve fleece cuffs are a nice touch. For skiing or boarding I prefer a coat that is a little longer (with a snow skirt) but if you can ride without falling I'm sure it would work well for this too. It has stood up to 1 year of hard use, and is the jacket I wear most when I'm just kicking around town.

I can't say enough good things about this jacket! This is my workhorse when snowshoeing, cross country skiing in fall, winter, and early spring. Very waterproof and windproof. I have used this jacket in during a heavy snow storm and stayed warm & dry. I use it with hvy wt underwear insulation for cold conditions or mid wt for spring weather. Breathes well but not ideal for mild fall/spring days. Looks sharp too!

Fit: 6'4" 235 lbs. 36/37 sleeve. I ordered a size XL and am happy with the fit. The sleeves are plenty long. I'd prefer if the torso was a bit longer. It comes to the top of my hips. Some may like a shorter jacket, but I'd prefer a bit longer. The jacket is not excessively loose or baggy by any means, but I can comfortably wear a light fleece or sweat shirt beneath it.
Performance: I haven't owned this jacket very long so I can't speak on durability. I've worn this softshell for a week and a half backpacking in Europe and it handled rain, wind, and cold temps with ease. As an added bonus it seemed to shrug off the odors of SMOKEY German bars. Lately I wear it all around to work, to run, and camping and find it to be a very versatile fall jacket during temps into the lower 30's. I also wish it had pit zips - I find that my armpits feel especially clammy when I wear this jacket with a warm layer beneath.

Nothing bad to say about these duds.
- Truly water resistant
- Crazy warm/comfortable
- Great seams/pockets, drawcords, etc.
- Easy to clean up
- Lots of compliments from the ladies
Buy it now!

Another great jacket from MH, this is really made like a brick **** house!!!
Has a slimish fit like most MH clothes so buy a size larger.

I had an awesome Mountain Hardware fleece jacket but, as most people with pets (especially big dogs) can tell you, hair sticks to short fleece like velcro. I always looked like I was shedding more than my dog! This jacket has the benefit of the soft shell exterior which does not retain the hair. It's also not too hot in the Spring and Fall and pretty warm for its thickness in the Winter. Love it!

I've owned my synchro for about 8 months now an have had no real problems. now this makes me wonder about all the negatives these comments spotlight on.
ie. if it doesn't fit you rite cause your to short. don't bag on the jacket,just grow [or find a jacket for your body shape] secondly to those that think its not warm enough, c'mon really how much warmth do you expect your active wear to have, remember it is only a soft shell not a down jacket.
the only complaint that i really understood was someone sayin the waterproofs great but if its raining hard enough to care you need a jacket with a hood'. well um i'm pretty sure they do make one with a hood! so c'mon' get real' this jackets faultless

Can't say enough about this jacket. It's snug, stylish and breathes wonderfully. Also the cut of the jacket works really well for biking. The longer sleaves makes sense when ones arms are stretched over the handlebars, the shorter length of the jacket doesn't get in the way when pedaling, and of course the fabric/tight fit keeps cold air/moisture out.

Oh and best of all you don't look like an out of place ninja on a bike.

In my opinion, this is not a rain jacket, and that should be obvious to anyone. It doesn't have a hood (although they make a version with a hood if you want that) and the lack of hard-shelliness will eventually make it get damp although *you* won't get damp because of the internal laminate. So don't buy this if you're looking for a traditional "rain jacket".

However, this is damn near the perfect spring/fall jacket to wear out around town, quick hike, dog park, and anywhere that it *might* rain and you won't be stuck out in a downpour for 2 days.

I don't know about "waterproof," but I've also been loathe to try it out when it matters (and when it's pouring out). It's thin enough and form-fitting enough that it'll fit nicely under a shell, and it works wonders as a mid-layer in the most horrid weather I've tried it in (38 degrees F, 45-60 mph wind, and pissing rain). It's also been great for that first bit of a hike or tour when you want that extra warmth but don't want to overheat--and with the pit zips, it'll keep you comfy until you get so warm that all you need to hike in are your thermals. I'm usually a M, as I've got a pretty small frame, but the L fit me much better (172 lbs, 6' 2").

Update: I've been wearing this jacket for going on two years now, and I love it. I wore it almost every single day I skied last year (~40 days touring, ~60 days inbounds and slackcountry). It has withstood rain, freezing rain, hail, and 1"-an-hour-plus snowstorms. It's so comfortable that I wear it around town. I pretty much live in this thing, and coming from a guy who lives in a rainforest, that's high praise for a softshell.

Another stellar product from Mountain Hardwear. The fit is great for having a harness on. Water just beads up on conduit exterior and rolls off. Great purchase.

This is the 2nd best of 3 softshells that I own. It is more form-fitting than the Shift and rides a little bit higher. It is a bit lighter weight than the Shift, and not as warm. It is quite a bit warmer than the North Face Prolix which is barely lined. The pockets are deep, including the chest pocket; i.e., useful. The collar is soft and has pullstring to keep out the wind. The seams are completely sealed and the quality of the jacket is very high. But it doesn't breathe well. I only wear it when I really need a raincoat. The Shift is the more versatile jacket.

Softer than my Arc sidewinder as expected and very comfortable. Minor gripes:
color synch can be annoying, no velcro for sleeve cuff adjustment. The fit is looser than expected. At 5'9", 180 lb I went with large--shoulders fit fine but there's too much room around torso and waist. I guess plenty of room for layering.

After living with my arcteryx gamma mx for the last 5+ years it was time for a replacement. The Synchro has a similar fit, but that's where the similarities end.
The gamma MX barely repelled water when new, and despite multiple washings and retreating became about as water-resistant as a flannel shirt. It was about as wind resistant as flannel too. I've now worn the synchro skiing, backcountry skiing and in rain and it beads like a duck, is much warmer and more wind resistant than the MX. The only thing the MX does better is breathe. But then again, the same could be said of flannel.

Bought this jacket several years ago. Liked the looks and weight and planned to use it for skiing. But for some reason I always choose other jackets when I am packing for skiing trips (have too many ski jackets...). I think it comes down to the shape, for me it is a bit short and bulky.

I use my Synchro pants for most days skiing so there is nothing wrong with functionality of Synchro, I just don't like the shape of this jacket. It does not inspire me to a great day of skiing.

//Johan

As all other reviews claim - this is a great looking jacket. The classic navy is a great color, I don't understand why this color is so hard to come by in any style from any of the brands out there. Am I the only one looking for this color? In fact while I'm on my soap box - I'm pretty sure this is the only softshell out there offered in navy blue - Anyway, the jacket is light weight and looks awesome which is why it was so hard not to keep it. Nevertheless, I returned the synchro cuz the fit is anything but "fitted" unless your shaped like a barrell, the midsection is kinda' baggy and just aint all that flattering. If they could'a just tapered the midsection in a bit, it just might be the best looking softshell out there, not as bomb proof as the Alchemy or Gamma but pretty sweet nonetheless!!

Don't get me wrong, Arc'teryx Venta is a GREAT softshell, but the Synchro is just awesome overall. Really durable, really breathable, WATERPROOF, windproof, and comfy. When I took my trip to Moab, my climbing partner and I got stuck in a downpour. His Apex Softshell kept the water out for maybe a good 10 to 20 minutes. Me...BONE DRY except down my sternum where the water was rolling down my chin and down my jacket. I was cold though, but I did not think I would need to layer in a desert...I was wrong.

Could use a little warmer fleece, but I do get cold easy.

Love this jacket overall. The stretch material on the outside is comfortable and durable. It is no hard-shell, but relatively wind and water proof. Sizing is good, I'm 6 foot, 185 pounds, and a large is perfect size. My only two nit-picks... This is more of a shell than an insulating layer. I was hoping it would replace my Mountain Hardwear windstopper fleece, but if you are going to be out in less than 30 degree temps, you will want another insulating layer. Also, wish it had pit zips. You can open up the pockets and get some air circulation, but would be nice to have pit zips for warmer days.

I'm a runner. I run ultras and the only thing I will not run in is lightning. I have been on the quest for the perfect jacket. Jackets sold in running stores just don't cut it for me. They don't hold off the wind, water or cold long enough for me with the miles I put in.

That said, I have found the perfect jacket. I have run in low 20s (I'm in Arkansas, yet to hit the teens) with bone chilling winds and I have stayed very comfortable. I sweat heavy and don't notice it. THe jacket breathes very well and does a great job of blocking the wind.

I HATE the cold and this jacket has kept me very warm. I wear a baselayer underneath it and I'm fine.
I do wish it had pit zips but this jacket wasn't made for runners so I can't complain there. However, I have found by leaving the pockets open my body breathes a little better.

I and my GF chose MH Synchro as our primary jacket during our 6-mo RTW trip. Upon return, we continued to wear this jacket daily for another 6 months (October to March) because it's so versatile, comfy, light and sharp-looking. With the exception of 1 month in humid Southeast Asia, it's seen almost continuous daily use for 11 months. While it had no problem with snow, I was more impressed by the waterproofing capability for such a soft fabric. We were caught in a down pour and hail while visiting Potsdam, Germany. The fabric appeared wet but the inside surface was completely dry. It wasn't as good at wind-proofing but made up for its breathe-ability in temps above 65*F. When necessary, I'd wear it over my MH Windstopper or Marmot Burly vest for 20-30*F temps and still look slim. Cinch cords at the waist and neck are effective and I love the zippers and the 5 pockets, especially the outside Napolean chest pocket. The color array and seam taping makes the jacket look sharp.

Good job MH... and don't stop making this one!

I love the jacket and you guys were terrific.

I wear this most ski days, and only switch if the weather is really nasty, and I want something with a hood. I liked it so much I bought one for my wife as well, so she now rarely uses her MH hard shell.

It has a slim fit, so it won't take a lot of thick mid-layers, but it is warm enough by itself for many days, and a moderately thick mid-layer works well. (I have used a Patagonia down sweater to great effect.)

The only down side are the sleeve cuffs don't seal well, but that is not a problem with gauntleted gloves.

I haven't been in a down pour, but it works well in light rain and snow, and I have yet to get wet in it.

I Love this jacket, It is a good Spring/Fall jacket. Just enough linning to wear with a fleece or sweater and keep you warm. Good wind protection, and waterproof. Nice deep pockets, plenty of hidden pockets and inside pockets, rugged zippers. well made!! Had a Cabelas jacket for 2 yrs, this stands up as well if not better!!

Great jacket. I'm the envy of all my friends.

excellent material , just enough to keep the wind blocked as well as a light rain away from your other layers. definitely a hit amongst my new wardrobe. I keep it on the coat rack with about 3 other coats and this one seems to go with me outside the most

Bought the jacket late Sept. 2009, and just love it. Truly waterproof and warm, it exceeded my expectations in all areas. My jacket is true blue and size medium, which fits my 5' 10" and 145 lbs frame perfectly. It's the solution for the rainy season where I live and even when it's not raining, too. I see no flaws with this jacket.

This is by far my favorite and most versitale jacket. I've used it to ski on dry 15 degrees days with a couple layers underneath, sleeting 30 degree days, 55 degrees with nothing more than a t-shirt. Stayed dry and toasty and never too hot. I wear it around all the time and it looks great, mine is orange and is pretty tough to get stains out of if you let them dry. I really want the hooded one!

This jacket is by far the best performing piece of gear I have ever owned. Never has a product done better than expected in every aspect such as the Synchro. But... It pills up on the exterior when used as a mid and won't let go. I once had a dream that MH made a one piece ski/board suit out of this stuff and it made me gasm. Great product...will not let you down. Ever.

You couldn't ask for any better of a lightweight, breathable, H2O proof jacket. Whether it's a trip to the grocery store or a 2 hour run....this jacket holds it's own.

I bought this jacket hoping to be able to layer underneath it. Everything fits great on it except for the mid section length. The jacket only comes down to my belt line. I ordered a Large and I am 5'11' and weigh 180 lbs. All of my fleeces or sweaters hang lower than the jacket itself. If only it was a few inches longer, I probably would have given it 5 stars.

this jacket is really good. it is not too thick so you get overheated when climbing or hiking but will block the cold wind from getting to you. the pockets are raised so that when you have a harness on you can access the pockets. the fit is good too. the underarms are not too tight so when you reach for the next hand placement the jacket doesn't ride up. all in all sweet jacket.

This is another MH product that just looks good, is built like a tank, and is oh so comfy. Nice waterproof trail jacket, although it is hoodless (bring a rain hat!). I use it for hiking, going to town, and going to work. It can do it all! If MH re-designs this jacket in the future I think an adjustable cuff would make this near-perfect jacket PERFECT. I've yet to be disappointed with my MH products and this is yet another example of a great product that has earned them my loyalty. And kudos to backcountry.com with their excellent price, service, and selection. You will not be disappointed with this excellent jacket or backcountry.com.

The Synchro does a great job as an all around softshell, plus it is warmer and more water resistant than most other technical softshells. It is a bit heavy, but used to replace your fleece layer, it makes sense to bring it along. stretchy and very comfortable, it stands alone in cool moist conditions. Great for coffee in the spring and fall, or for climbing in the winter. Used with a wool baselayer it could work well for high output activities in snow. Just plan on wearing baselayers under it and a shell over it when sizing. The fit is normal, which is a plus at the mall, but not so good in the backcountry. This is that piece you will use to climb the mountain and eat sushi in town in afterwards.

Waterproof and warm; but it started to pill after less than a year of use (its now 2.5 years old). It is pilling pretty much everywhere something rubs the jacket such as arm to arm and from backpacks. Same thing is happening to my friends that was bought a year ago to a much worse extent. I also think the mesh on the inside of the pockets is going to wear through with more use. The jacket otherwise has great features and a very durable and weatherproof exterior. I am ~6' and 150 lbs, I went for the large. Its big around the body so I can layer a lot, the arms are about the correct length. Great for the job, but for the money I expect better quality.

Not only does this jacket look great, but it does the job in rain and wind. I live in a fairly temperate climate, so I don't need to excessively layer to stay warm. If you are in the same situation, I recommend you get your normal size. I originally ordered an XL, but it was a little big for my needs (I'm 5'11" and 190 lbs). The large size is perfect for wearing as is or with a light sweater underneath. If you plan on doing lots of layering, then get the next size up. Backcountry's customer service is awesome! I used their online chat feature to get a return auth and to order the new one. Shipping was very fast, and the credit for the original purchase showed up in three days. Lastly, their price and selection is the best around.

I have zero complaints. I have had mine for nearly two years and have been hard on it (weather wise). it has never left me cold or wet. If you plan on snowboarding in it however, snow will get up the back. Others on here have complained about the fitting of the jacket. I have big broad shoulders and and more narrow waist and it fits me fine.

great stylish jacket. fits an athletic build. there is not going to be a lot of room to have a ton of layers underneath. The water does bead right off. Does a solid job of keeping one warm, but isnt appropriate for prolonged exposure to very cold temps on its own. fits right at the waist and looks good. the lining is extremely comfortable. the pockets ride a little high due to it being ideally worn with a harness, but arent uncomfortable at all. pretty happy with my purchase.

Well made little jacket. Havn't worn it much yet, but you can tell it's a tough jacket. Nice snug fit with room to move. Fits well under a down coat for extra warmth when you need it. If your on the verg of an XL as I am, you might want to go with the Large unless you have really long arms and big sholders. I'm pretty good size up top but would be swimming in an XL. Suggest trying one on at a retailer before ordering on line.

Great jacket, only thing missing is pitzips like others have said. Best as a breathable shell for winter touring/hiking. Actually fit a tad large on me but it was good for layering purposes.

Great jacket, finally a color (brown?) that I can flyfish in this spring. I tried on both large and X-large, I have a few MH coats and the old light weight windproof (I wish they still made) everything I own is large, this jacket fits great in an Xlarge. Now I maybe growing around the middle a bit, but I think this jacket may run a bit smaller. Live in the outside!

I have hiked in moab in april, skiied all winter in utah, and walked around town everywhere. Great soft shell for a number of sports and activities. I have also used it during winter when commuting by bike. Repels water, snow, and wind. Only reason why four stars is there is not too much room under the jacket to layer, and the layer you do put on underneath must be smooth for it not to catch on the fleece lining. I also wish pit zips were an option for venting during high intense activities. BUY IT, and look cool.

The fit is high on the waist with long tight arms so better to size up if planning to do much in the way of layering. Been great so far in high winds, near freezing temps but yet to really test the waterproofing. Can also confirm good on the pet hair test!