****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
I purchased this jacket last minute before a trip to Copper Harbor Michigan. The jacket arrived on time and fit decently but the sizing was slightly large. I knew I would be active while wearing the jacket and didn't mind the extra chest space. The liner and shell construction looked durable and I was confident it matched the quality I was used to with Columbia products.Fast forward a day and i've spent the morning in mid 20's weather with moderate activity and the area between the liner and the shell is completely wet with moisture. Oddly enough the wonderful omniheat inner layer somehow kept my skin dry, and no moisture on my skin but that doesn't mean much when a few fabric layers away is wet fabric holding the 20 degree wind which is hitting the shell.No amount of opening the pockets which looked to double as vents, because their liners were mesh, appeared to help. I then attempted to use the liner alone and found this would in fact keep me warm but was not completely windproof, and had no strength against snow, or rain as the outer of the liner immediately absorbs moisture from its exterior.All of this was confirmed on day 2 when I attempted to vent all day, and also vent with the front zipper.The product has written directly on the liner EVAP and states in the literature and in this listing that it would wick moisture and then evaporate it without problem. I gave Columbia an opportunity to address the problem directly but they told me to return the used jacket to the original seller. I also requested Columbia suggest a suitable shell, or some alternate product which may work for me. They seemed uninterested and this will likely be the last Columbia experience I have. I like many 'normals' grew up counting on Columbia to give great bang for buck when it came to performance. Middle class kinda punching up. This reputation requires the product works as advertised or at the very least when it doesn't the original manufacturer gives a crap.Later.This jacket is far better than I expected. It is light and very useful for winter sports. The omniheat technology definitely works. The jacket is able to provide sufficient isolation in cold New England weather. I can go with slim shirt under this jacket even if the weather is about -8 degree Celsius. when it is colder, a thin underarmor provides additional support. On the other hand, in warmer spring weather, I wear only the outer jacket to prevent not to sweat too much. I find the inner jacket useful while traveling, especially for sleeping.The only complain I have is the storm hood is too loose. It could have been better fit. Overall, I do recommend this jacket if you are looking for something versatile.the outlook of the swearer is good , but the quality does not satisfy me so muchbecause the belt of the hood was broken unexpectedly and it can not be fixed by myselfGood jacket. Shell is very light, theefore not the warmest jacket Columbia makes.shipping was fine. didn't realize had non detachable hood. do not like that. also, doesn't look brown. looks black. didn't like that.I usee to L size.But too large to wear.I want to return it ,must pay for international shipping fee which is half the order.The linning color is not same as the picture on the web.I am very disapointed.One of the better clothing purchases I've made on Amazon. Great jacket!There is plenty of cheap buying at a low price I'm on top of the world
