Outdoor Research Helium II: a light, durable shell
Our 2013 review of the Helium II Jacket covers weather protection, packability, useful details and a small cuff-fit drawback.
We tested the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket, a 180 g lightweight shell suited to both intense and gentler activities. Despite its low weight, the jacket paid attention to materials and details.
The Helium II updated its predecessor with revised details and, according to the product figures, 6% less weight, 10% better breathability and 30% better water protection. Its 2.5-layer Pertex Shield+ DS fabric had a stated 20,000 mm hydrostatic head and a moisture-vapor transmission figure of 20,000 g/m²/24 h. The material felt soft and flexible, without the excessive rustling sometimes associated with very thin fabrics.
The main zipper was water-resistant with a storm flap behind it, and the chest-pocket zipper was also water-resistant. Taped seams and a fully adjustable hood gave good protection from wind and rain. We would have preferred slightly tighter elastic cuffs for better protection.
The Helium II accompanied us on many outings during the summer of 2013 and proved useful when the weather changed quickly. It packed into an internal pocket near the bottom of the main zipper, taking very little space. It could be kept in a backpack’s lid or side pocket, clipped to a climbing harness or carried in a work bag. It was easy to forget it was there until needed.
The jacket handled a wide range of weather, including tougher conditions where both the elements and a heavy pack put wear on the fabric. One small detail we particularly appreciated was the textured zipper pull. It provided a secure grip in bad weather and with gloves on.
The men’s size L weighed 180 g; the women’s size M weighed 156 g. At the time, the recommended price was SEK 1,799, which we considered good value for a lightweight jacket with thoughtful details, a small packed size and the ability to handle demanding conditions.
The sleeve fit could have been improved, but otherwise we recommended the Helium II for high-intensity activity and as a practical companion when the weather changed on the way to work or while shopping.
What we liked: Low weight, small packed size, durability and value.
What could be better: The cuffs.
