Pretty awesome

By William Swanson Ranked #232 - Men's Technical Shells November 21, 2008

First off, GORE-TEX PRO is the bee-knees. Water beads off, sweat escapes, and the material holds up to a lot of abuse. This jacket has some exceptional features that make it stand out among the other GORE-TEX offerings: The two-way side zips that go from the bottom of the jacket all the way to about halfway down the bicep provide incredible ventilation and versatility. There are plenty of pockets, including two chest pockets big enough for huge mittens, skins, or just hands. Two inside pockets provide more storage space and a napoleon pocket is a good place for sunglasses or whatever you want handy. The hood is huge, which is nice because I can fit any helmet underneath it, and also has side and back cinches to make it work even if I'm not wearing anything on my head. The waist cinch works well, and the cuffs are well designed. I'm about 5'8 and 140lbs, and I ordered the medium. It's a little big on me, but the sleeves are long enough to cover the cuffs of my gloves even when I'm stretching out in drop bars on my bike, and the tail is long but the two-way side and front zippers allow some articulation at the waist without exposing anything to the elements. My brother is about the same size as me and wears an OR shell in Small, for a much more athletic fit. All in all OR makes well thought out products and I'd recommend them. Even at full price this jacket is cheaper than most other companies' comparable offerings, and on sale it's a steal.

View Details: Outdoor Research Mentor Jacket - Men's

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