Outdoor Research Motto Jacket - Men's

I looked everywhere for reviews on this softshell and couldn't find any so I think I may be the first! cool! I'm not a gear-snob, I'm just putting in all the info I can so it may sound picky, but so far I love the Motto.

History: My all-purpose jacket has been The North Face Denali for about 8 or 9 years (served me well). The wind whips through it easily, so I wanted something that would be windproof or close, and waterproof, and that I could wear in everyday situations. I'm just the type that likes to consolidate, so if I can get one jacket to do it all, I'm there.

Usage: I'm a snowboarder that likes to move & I don't care about buying "snowboarder clothes." I live in L.A. but spend time each year in Seattle (and plan to move back to Seattle in 2 years). My snowboard setup has been a lightweight top, Denali, and North Face shell - poofy.

The OR Motto itself:
It's thin, stretchy x4, feels like a softer version of the outer layer of a wetsuit. As the whole jacket is thin, so is the fleece lining. Collar is a little stiff at the zipper (because of where the hood snaps in - it also zips in).

Ventia fabric: the motto features the "ventia" fabric (OR exclusive?) which is *fully* waterproof itself, and *not* DWR-based. It's a laminate not a DWR coating. Also note the other tag says "ventia: waterproof/breathable by construction"

hood: As I mentioned, hood zips on in the back, and corners are attached by 2 snaps, hidden by a flap. Snaps & zipper are very inconspicuous. I like that it comes completely off, not rolled up & stored in collar. Hood has 2 elastic draw cords, vertical around head and horizontal behind head. Naturally fits a helmet no problem.

Other features:
-everything is zipper/seam-taped
-removable (zipper) powder skirt, stretchy mesh w/ elastic band.
-pit zips, big plus to me
-pockets. As far as I can tell, these can double as core vents and high/chest pockets. I'll miss low front pockets, but get used to it.
-rear pocket - wow! didn't even know about this when I bought it. It's 16" long & sits just above the bottom seam on the back. Big enough for plenty of odds & ends!
-inner pocket: small, just big enough to put my compact camera & case inside. Also has a small headphones hole.

Fit: I'm 5'10" 178lbs, I ordered a medium. Length & overall fit are good, but there's a little extra width around the middle.

Overall: This is a really good-looking jacket for the mountain, but it might look a little overkill for walking around town depending on your tastes. I've only had it for a couple days, I'll try to write more after testing it on the mountain.

This is my first OR product & I doubt it'll be my last!

I just got this jacket and I love everything about it. The waterproofness is lagit. Water doesn't even have a chance on getting into this jacket. Everything about this jacket is functional: removable powder skirt, removable hood, butt pocket for storage, fleece lining (big plus) and internal stash pocket. I am 5'8" and 185lbs, I got a large because I like to layer and the large for me give me that little extra room for other layers. Though, the price is up there, it is worth every penny. This jacket is not rated "windproof" but it cuts the wind pretty well. I am from Flagstaff, AZ and we have a lot of wind, 3 seasons out of 4, so that is a big plus. The warranty is solid for this jacket too. Get this jacket. you wont regret it.

This jacket is chock-full of technical details like the waterproof zips, pit vents, and zip-removable hood and powder skirt. The appearance screams high quality and the logo embroidery on the front is subtle and tasteful. Other reviewers have already mentioned the tech specs but I would like to reiterate the value you are getting for the price paid. This is a superior softshell jacket that repels outside moisture while remaining breathable and offers plenty of adjustability of the hood (2 way) and hem. I am 5'9", 160 lbs and I ordered a medium. The fit is impeccable, with a deliberate cut that offers a bit more protection for your bottom. As mentioned, there is a bit of extra room in the midsection, but where else would I put my beer belly? At 40% off, this jacket is a STEAL. GO FOR IT!

First off ,Thanks to backcountry for good service and accurate ordering.
So far the Motto has been used for a bit of winter camping and day XC ski trips here in Michigan several times with several crashes. It appears to be neat ,clean and a tough garment as are the Tremor pants. Plenty of pockets, the cuffs and zippers work nicely.so far I believe it "breathes" well. I have to admit ,I sure look good in it !
Seriously though, the combo will get some fair testing this fall in the Yukon Territory I expect ,we'll let you know more then. thankyou Marvin.