Basic Excellence

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

Large

Height

6` 2"

Weight

194 lbs

Great jacket (just read the reviews below for all of the pros) works as everyone has stated. Does 'appear' to run big, but not really : the large is fine and I have room for a light puffy if it's really cold (& does not bind up in the armpits.) YAY! Btw: the longer length is genius once you're used to the snow skirt being lower than normal. Would also agree that having the interior pouches have a zipper would be a nice touch - btw, this easily solvable by any tailor if you really want to have it done. In contrast to other reviewers, having the pass up on your shoulder works just fine and in some ways is better (esp. if you're working around mechanized operations).

Sam Y.

Almost Perfect II

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

Small

Height

5` 11"

Weight

154 lbs

Yes, I stole the title from the previous reviewer because I agree with just about everything he said. This jacket is too good to give anything fewer than 5 stars but there are some small improvements that would make it even better, so I would probably give it 4.5 stars if I could. (I'll talk about the fit at the end) Pros: - Awesome fabric. Gore-Tex (not Pro) with 70D face fabric yet somehow it isn't horribly crinkly or noisy. Yet the stiffness of the fabric remains just right so that the neck stands up and covers your neck and part of your face faithfully when fully zipped. - Awesome cuffs. Unlike a surprisingly large number of jackets that now have cuffs dedicated/fitted only for under-the-cuff gloves, these cuffs will work equally well with either kind of gloves. - Fantastic zipper. Very smooth, no catching, beefy and solid. - Huge pit zips for great venting. - Absolutely love the Cohaesive cord lock system. - Unique powder skirt. It's odd when you first put on the jacket because it is so low, very near the bottom of the jacket. But you'll probably never want any other kind once you actually become accustomed to this style. - Great peripheral vision with the hood up over your ski helmet yet still with excellent face coverage. Fantastic hood but just realize it is completely, wholly dedicated to skiing and to being used over a helmet, and it excels at that. It's too big for other uses. - Very useful pockets on the exterior, including dedicated pass pocket. - Awesome length for great coverage but not crazy long. - The color Red Oxide is insanely awesome, so much better than pictured on my MacBook Pro. Darker and more matte. I imagine the other colors are better in person also. - Outstanding motion/fit throughout the arms. - Generous amount of interior soft fabric around the face area. Cons: - I agree that an interior zip pocket would be nice even though the two internal drop pockets are quite convenient for holding a lot of stuff. - No double zipper. The length of the jacket is perfect but the length still cries for a dual zipper that can be unzipped from the bottom to make sitting more comfortable and, frankly, as yet another useful way to vent and cool off. - I simply can't think of any more cons... FIT: This jacket absolutely runs large, just as numerous reviewers have said. I trusted the reviews and ordered a size small, a size I don't wear in essentially anything. It fits perfect. In dress shirts my sleeve length is 34" and the size small sleeves still extend down to my knuckles or maybe just past if my arms are just hanging at my side. With my arms stretched all the way forward, the sleeves still remain at my wrists with full coverage. I wouldn't change them at all. At 5'11" the bottom of the jacket still comes just about below my butt. When I put the hood over my ski helmet, it does not pull the jacket up higher. It just keeps fitting just right. The other thing I like about going with the small is that it's trim fitting. I'm a pretty skinny dude and didn't want a billowy shell. It's trim while allowing all the layering I'll ever need. For reference, a size medium Patagonia R1 is as small as I can go. A size small would fit like a wetsuit on me. I bought the Marmot Knife Edge jacket for hiking this summer (and that I used down in Patagonia last month), and size medium was again perfect. Any smaller and the sleeves would've been too short and i couldn't have layered much more than a base layer. Anyway, I love how this fits in size small and love the jacket overall.

Dennis R

Almost perfect

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Medium

Height

6` 0"

Weight

175 lbs

I've had a chance to use this shell during several resort ski days now, in conditions ranging from 2' of pow to hot and slushy and am mostly pleased with it. I like that it's a thin shell and it does a good job of keeping wind and water out. The color (blue) is great and the construction seems durable. There is a lot of evidence of reinforced stitching and the zippers feel burly. The hood cinching system is easy and works surprisingly well. Couple minor gripes I have with it that aren't worth dropping the rating: I wish the pass pocket were below the elbow instead of above it. The powder skirt only has two positions for tightness around the waist; it would be nice if there were a microadjustment with cord. Finally, a small zippered inner pocket for wallet would be appreciated. Overall I'm happy with the jacket and can see it providing many years of service. I'm 6' and about 175#. The medium is a good size for me. It will be a bit snug with a lot of layering but not excessively so. Hood fit over my helmet is good.

Joshua T.

Bombproof and great features!

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Medium

Height

5` 5"

Weight

160 lbs

This is my second review after another 20 days in this shell. Got this jacket to replace a FlyLow Quantum Pro which I gave to my son. The Mission parka is super well made with great materials, and I really dig the pocket location (easy to access with a pack on). Totally wind proof and breathes well. Powder skirt rides a bit low, (all do on a guy my height!), and seals up well. Generous cuffs that easily fit over my mitts. The hood has ample room for a helmet and doesn’t choke me out (my only pet peeve with the Quantum Pro). A little heavy? Sure, but the trade off is on warmer days, I can wear a long sleeved shirt and not get chilled. Backcountry was great when the front zipper pull snapped (replaced the jacket, no questions), and no similar issues with the new one. Skied trees at several resorts and multiple times finished a run fully expecting to have holes in the jacket, but nothing other than a little dust where I snapped off a branch. Really impressed with the durability! Runs slightly long, but for my dimensions, everything does. I’m thinking a small would not fit me well in the shoulders, and I don’t mind having room for layers when needed.

Martin R.

Do it all Shell!

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

I got this as a gift and he had the following to share: I've worn this on warm spring days and deep powder days, no matter the conditions it keeps me warm and dry. The ventilation works great when they need to be open but the zippers are all excellently waterproofed so I almost always forget they're there on wet days. I'm a bit rough on my gear and this jacket keeps up with my riding style. It's taken a few clips in the trees, and where I would be concerned about tears in other jackets, this one held it together perfectly. If you're looking for a good, sturdy shell I'd highly recommend this one!

Katy Seeberger

Awesome jacket!!!!

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

XL

Height

5` 9"

Weight

180 lbs

I was always very skeptical on how a 3L Gortex shell jacket could keep you warm when out in blizzard conditions. My 2L gortex began losing its waterproofing capabilities, so I decided I was going to bite the bullet and upgrade to 3L jacket. After doing research on a lot of jackets this was the only loose/relaxed fit jacket I could find, which I prefer so I can ride with my Camelback under my jacket to prevent it from freezing. I also decided to buy a Primaloft North Face mid layer jacket to ride with the BD Mission shell. I have been extremely impressed with how warm and dry I have stayed with this new combo set up I have. 80% of my riding this year has been in blizzard conditions at Mammoth Mtn in California. I have not been cold or felt the howling winds since I got this combo. In fact, I have actually been too hot even when the temps have been in the teens or closer to zero. I will agree the jacket runs big, which I like. I don't like feeling restricted in my shoulders or chest. I probably could have gotten away a large instead of a xl. The hood is huge and will fit over any helmet without constricting head movement. The hood is so big that I can actually ride with the hood on over my helmet without any issue. Even better was that I found it twice for cheaper then what I paid for it and Backcountry each time refunded me the price difference. I would highly recommend this jacket and Backcountry.

golan_stuc1990637

Love it but it's ginormous

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

medium

Height

5` 9"

Weight

150 lbs

Well the product itself I love and seems to be excellent quality. However, I will need to return it. I got a medium and it's absolutely ginormous. Other reviews show true to size to slightly large. I purchased a medium, I am 5'9" and 150 lbs. I think it would fit someone 6'3" and close to 200 lbs. Bummer I was really looking forward to this one. The powder skirt is below my rear and the arms are probably 4-5" inches too long!

Jeremy S.

Bomber Resort-Specific Shell

This thing is indestructible. I’ve skied 50 days in this jacket so far this year, and it looks and feels brand new. Totally worth the investment, especially if you can find it on sale. So many pockets, but nice and sleek without the cargo jacket appearance. FIT: Definitely relaxed. I’m 5’-11” 165lbs and the Medium is roomy. Sleeves are long, as well as the skirt. This is great for the resort though, because you can pair it with different layers and the freedom of movement is excellent. MATERIAL: Supple but tough as nails. Doesn’t breathe that well and is thick, and so it can be quite warm - but it’s meant to be with the light fleece lining. I’ve skinned up in this jacket, but it was a very cold morning. BOTTOM LINE: if you’re looking for a resort-specific shell that will last forever, go for it. You won’t be disappointed.

Justin P.

BOMBPROOF

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

medium

Height

5` 5"

Weight

160 lbs

Super high quality construction and materials. I was a little skeptical about the hood configuration, and found it easily adjusts and nicely accommodates a helmet, with better space around the neck/chin area than the FlyLow Quantum Pro I replaced (loved that jacket, too, which now belongs to one of my sons) when all zipped up. I recently had it out in heavy snow days at Park City, Bridger, and Big Sky over the past few weeks with no issues. Pockets and vents are easy to get at with/without a pack on, and I like the generous cut at the wrists which accommodates glove/mitt cuffs. I'm kind of a tough fit (5'5", 160ish# with wider shoulders) and found the medium fits me well, allows for layering. The powder skirt hits me a little lower than I'm used to, but seals up nicely. I've stayed completely dry skiing in some pretty tough conditions, so I know the Gore Tex is doing it's job. I've fully expected to come out of some tight tree runs with a major gash in a sleeve, and found no signs of stress on the materials. This is my first Black Diamond jacket, and I'm very impressed with it thus far!

Martin R.

Tremendous Jacket

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

medium

Height

5` 10"

Weight

165 lbs

I received my new Mission Jacket today and I have to say, I don't want to write that good of a review of it yet because in all honesty I don't want to see others wearing it with me. Its tremendous. I was torn between this jacket, Patagonia Powder Bowl and the Arcteryx Sabre. Looking for a new ski/do it all winter jacket. Based on what I'm looking at having tried it on and gone out in light rain it surpasses what I expected and I'm pleased with this purchase. I wouldn't say its overly heavy as others have mentioned. Its thick, quality Gortex but comfortable and timeless. Plenty of pockets which I wanted specifically along the chest area. Deep pockets. The hood is huge and cinches down nicely over my helmet. The pit zips are huge and easy to maneuver. The powder skirt is great. It does sit low but I don't see this being an issue whatsoever. I'm 5'10, 165lbs and the medium is perfect. Plenty of room in the arms and shoulders with room to layer. Waterproof quality zippers abound. 2 deep inside pockets and the interior of the jacket is lined with a soft material, almost identical to the Sabre. I went with the dark red which the color I have to say is outstanding & timeless. Unless something truly bizarre happens with this jacket I foresee many years of quality enjoyment from this piece. Bullet proof, functional, quality, timeless. Backcountry rep was also as always helpful in guiding me. Cheers!

Geoffrey P.

Amazing Stuff

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Height

5` 2"

Weight

115 lbs

Really love this thing, can't wait to test it out in colder conditions. Crazy amount of breathability and great fit. I've only gotten a chance to use this in the rain, but it kept me 100% dry. Cut and shape of the jacket is nice as well, and I don't feel constricted. Dig it.

taylor

Bullet Proof!

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

Runs small

Size Bought

Large

Height

5` 11"

Weight

160 lbs

I was needing a new shell for a while, and finally pulled the trigger on the BD Mission and I couldn't be happier! I use it primarily for snowboarding and splitboarding but it works great as a heavy duty rain jacket in the spring and fall. Not only is this jacket super durable, but it breathes incredibly well, and the 3 layer gore tex keeps you bone dry and completely stops the wind. I will say, it fits a little snug in the shoulders. If you like a looser mobile fit, I would consider going up a size, but otherwise, 10/10 would recommend.

Luke

Almost perfect.

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

large

Height

5` 11"

Weight

205 lbs

Been needing to replace a jacket and had my eye on this for some time. I have a high opinion of this jacket after using it for awhile. The material is very thick and bombproof. The fit is a little big, so I went with smaller size of the 2 that I fit into. The jacket is put together well. The hood is nice sized for covering ski helmets. Adjustment on the hood is nice. Pockets are well placed and plentiful. The pit zips are pretty standard, but a bit hard to reach. Everything is almost perfect for a freeride ski jacket. My only complaints are the colors and the powder skirt. I didn't really like any of the colors, but went with the adriatic. It is kind of a blueish gray. The powder skirt is weird and I may cut it out, since I really never use one anyway. It is lower in the back and I guess is supposed to go under your rear. Overall, a well designed and made high quality jacket that should last a long time.

Brett Garrett

Great Jacket but...

Familiarity:

I returned this product before using it

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

XL

Height

6` 1"

Weight

250 lbs

I retuned it because it does not fit me. I checked that it fits true to size and it does. I bought the XL and would say that this is indeed an XL jacket. It is appropriately long, fits great around the neck / chin area when zipped up with my giant helmet on and is roomy for layering. But... The jacket is too tight in the arms, upper back and shoulders. I'm a larger guy up top but with a 35 inch waist it is hard to buy any clothing that fits properly. Too bad because otherwise the jacket is great. If you are not oddly proportioned like me, but on the large side, XL will work. If you are like me and "lift things up and put them down" (Google it), XL won't work. Too bad. Cool brand, good quality. I wish BD made XXL.

MP

First Impressions - Absolutely Love it

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Large

Height

6` 0"

Weight

185 lbs

I have been skiing in a 686 jacket for years and have been hesitant / unable to find a jacket as good as it. I prefer a thinker shell, without the typical crunchy feel of a goretex jacket. Well, i found it. The jacket is heavier than a typical shell (perfect for skiing) but has plenty of vents for even a spring skiing day. It still has the triple layer goretex, keeping all the elements out and you comfortable on the slopes.

Christopher Siepmann

Amazing GTX Shell for all your needs

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Small

Height

5` 11"

Weight

125 lbs

Inbounds vs. out-of-bounds? This shell doesn't discriminate. It is super comfortable, longer cut, longer sleeves, great pockets, media pocket, Gore-Tex Pro. It is a little heavier than other shells, but I actually like that feature because I usually skip the mid-layer. It has great 2-way pit zips when you need to dump some heat and I was able to actually stuff the whole jacket into the hood to stow it away in my pack on the skin up. Durability is on point and I love that it doesn't have that crinkly sound that you can find in some Gore-Tex Pro Shells.

Ryan Anderson

Lifetime Shell

Size Bought

M

Height

6` 0"

Weight

180 lbs

Great quality shell. This will last for a lifetime. Pockets and other places to store things are very well placed.

Charlie Lewis

Awesome Ski Coat

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Medium

You can't go wrong with Black Diamond. They always produce the best quality products. The coat looks and fits great.

Trent M.

Favorite Shell

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

S

Height

5` 6"

Weight

154 lbs

This shell is a great balance of durability, breathability, and functionality. The fabric is sort of thick and the fit is voluminous-- IMO probably better for resort skiing than touring, but it breaths well and could be schlepped up a hill on colder days. I prefer the face fabric to crinkly, super thin shells. Has lots of handy pockets and a more freeride fit than most BD jackets. Keeps me super dry and the fabric doesn't saturate at all after a few seasons of use. Only complaint is that I'm short and the jacket/sleeves are pretty long.

Sam Brown

Burly and Awesome

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Medium

Height

5` 10"

Weight

170 lbs

This jacket will last you for years and years of use. If you want the lightest jacket this isn't for you. But if you want something you can thrash season after season this is it. I don't tour in Gore-Tex, but this is my go to resort jacket. I generally don't ski with a pack in the resort so having plenty of pockets to store extra gloves and snacks and a big hood to pull over your helmet when the wind gets real gnarly is essentially. The roomy cut allows for me to put on as many layers as needed, but in never feels too big. The long hem is great for snowy and windy chair rides. This jacket won't ride up letting get in.

Ryan Collins

Are there loops for attaching the jacket to your pants so it can't lift up during a tumble through deep powder?

Evan S.

How can I get his jacket in Canada?

Anthony B.

Does this jacket have wrist gaiters with thumb loops?

Mike N.