Outdoor Research

Shadow Wind Hooded Jacket - Women's

flattering fit

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Size Bought:

M

Height:

5' 1"

Weight:

150

Was looking for a high-visibility running jacket similar to the Patagonia Houdini Air (wind resistance + breathability).  I have both the regular Houdini  (size L) and Houdini Air (M). Keeping this in M. FIT:  I'm 5'1, 150 lbs, 34DD, round belly. With a Smartwool 250 baselayer or a thin long-sleeved cotton t, fit is close to the body, but not tight (Corresponding Houdini sizes run much slimmer); pretty forgiving of my belly :) Perfect length for me, falling around mid-hip; Houdinis are longer, falling below my butt.   FEEL/FUNCTION:  I've worn this for multiple runs (incl. light rain, strong wind).  This feels somewhere in-between the Houdinis in terms of wind-blocking and breathability.  V. light rain beaded on the surface of the jacket, but left a mark when smushed into the fabric.  Material is a matte, slightly stretchy, more fabric-y (vs. plastic-y) material - like a slightly thicker/heavier Air.  Hood fits over thick pony-tail securely when fully zipped, and stays in strong wind.  Doubles as a running and casual jacket better than the Houdinis due to a more forgiving fit  around the mid-section (for looser-fitting street clothes), shorter length (more flattering for my short stature), and zippered side pockets.  Packs down small enough for an upcoming 2.5 week trip to Europe (24L bag).  COLOR:  Azalea appears neon coral in the pictures, which is what originally attracted me. Unfortunately, it actually is not neon at all, and is more like a salmon pink that leans more pink than orange. So disappointing. It is slightly see-through.  LOVE the green (Grove) colorway - something about the color + matte fabric texture + matching zippers makes it look SO smooth and rich and clean.  Did not intend to get this color, but decided to try (and keep!) it based on the (accurate) pictures.