I'm looking for a great water/windproof shell that has the technical quality of a bomber Arcteryx shell... minus the cost. This jacket looks like my best bet so far, but I'm wondering if it is really as great as it looks online? Someone mentioned that it's more of a windbreaker-type or just good for "decent weather days."

I need a shell that can take me through a powder day in the PNW, so waterproof-ness is tops on my list. But most Gore-tex jackets are out of my price range. Any other suggestions besides this one?

Tech Specs:

Material:

[Shell] HyVent 2L foxfaille; [Lining] Thermoliner I 

Waterproof Rating:

25psi 

Breathable Rating:

625-675g / m2 

Core Venting:

Underarm zips 

Pockets:

2 Front, 1 chest, 1 wrist with goggle cloth, 1 internal media, 1 internal goggle 

Seam Taped:

Yes, fully 

Powder Skirt:

Yes 

Wrist Gaiters:

No 

Hood:

Yes 

Zip-in Compatibility:

No 

Recommended Use:

Snowboarding, skiing