Outdoor Research Helium AscentShell Jacket – Ultralight 3 Layer Protection

 

The new Outdoor Research Helium AscentShell Jacket ($399) features AscentShell coupled with Pertex Diamond Fuse for durability.  Making it a very light and strong hardshell.

Outdoor Research Helium AscentShell jacket review

Previously, I have tested several OR AscentShell jackets and bibs.  This year was the OR Skytour Jacket and Bibs, last year was the Carbide and Motive. So I am very familiar with the functionality of AscentShell, and really like it.

I used the OR Helium AscentShell jacket in various snow and wet conditions in the spring of 2022 here in Colorado.  From casual use in snowstorms, walking the dogs in sleet, and lots of use splitboarding.  I found the Helium AscentShell to be very versatile.

It is not often that I can use the same jacket for these activities with ease.  Often, my backcountry use jackets look like they belong in the mountains, not in the city.  Which is fine and I appreciate that.  Then the casual use jackets that are attractive and useful in the city are out of place in the mountains. This one fits both uses well.

Fit and function

I was pleasantly surprised that a men’s size large fits me well.  Usually, I opt for XL in jackets as I am trying to accommodate for my upper back and shoulders.  For reference, I am 6’1″ 210lb 45″ chest, 33″ waist, 36-37 arms. I really like the way this jacket fits.  It looks good and plays well in the outdoors.

Materials

OR uses Pertex Diamon Fuse in conjunction with their proprietary AscentShell 3 layer WPB membrane.  The Diamond Fuse is a lightweight and yet very durable material.  I have used it in other brands and have been impressed with the feel and toughness. By using the Pertex material, OR was able to keep this fully featured hardshell to a lighter weight.  My men’s large was 12 ounces!

• Men’s Helium AscentShell Jacket

 

Features

Two hand pockets, one napoleon pocket, one internal pocket, and two drop pockets.  I was able to get my splitboard skins into the drop pockets, but barely.  Ski skins, gloves, and other items will fit much better.  The hood is semi-stiffened and adjustable.  Neck coverage is great as well.

The Helium AscentShell is a great combination of lightweight, functional design, good looks, and good fit.