Helly-HansenAlpha Lifaloft Jacket for Men - Lightweight, Insulated, Waterproof, Breathable, Winter Outdoor Jacket

Just purchased, so haven’t used yet. Accordingly, I am giving five stars at this point based solely on look and feel. Writing this review really to weigh in on sizing recommendation. As some others have noted, the jacket definitely has a more slim fit, and runs slightly smaller, than a regular ski jacket. I am 5’ 10” tall and weight 170-172. I typically would have ordered a medium but, based on other reviews and the manufacturer size guide, went with a large instead. Definitely the right call. Tried it on with base layers I typically would use (one thin and one midweight), and fit very well, including sleeve length; I suspect medium would have been too snug. The jacket also includes drawstrings at the bottom to further tighten the fit if desired.

I have had many winter coats from most of the best manufacturers and I’m so surprised how warm and dry this coat keeps me!Usually a coat this warm would be big and bulky, but this is surprisingly light and comfortable.I don’t ski, I just really appreciate a warm dry jacket. Most of them start leaking eventually especially around the seems.This is probably more than I’ve ever spent on a jacket, but it’s so worth the money!I spend a lot of time outside all winter every winter and this jacket makes it so enjoyable!The technology in this jacket is incredible, not only the ample pockets, but the pocket to help your phone keep a charge and the rescue beacon are just amazing!This is the best purchase I’ve made in sometime, it’s like pampering myself exclamation pointJust one note on the sizing. At 5’10” and 180 pounds, their millions of users suggested large. I was surprised it was too small. I had to return it and get the extra large.

I have skied in this jacket in tough conditions. It is warm and moves with you well. Great design and great Norwegian quality. Also a very good value for the quality you get.

Warm, flexible, comfortable with versatile storage. Thermal performance for the weight is excellent. I love the removable hood. In foul weather, it covers my helmet and face, keeping out the wind and snow. My only criticism is that it seems to absorb more water than I would expect from a truly water proof coat. By the end of a wet snow day, the sleaves and shoulders are pretty saturated.

Skiing

I've bought and returned around 5 winter jackets - LLBean, Columbia, Outdoor Research, etc. This jacket beats them all hands down as far as warmth, style, and quality. This jacket is made well and will last for years to come. If I was going to find one thing to complain about, it'd be that I wish the jacket was an inch longer - I'm 6'2", 190 and went with a large. It's an amazing coat - just buy it.

HH = SUPERB QUALITY. This is an awesome ski jacket and so warm and light. The fabric and LIFAloft filling are so amazing. Unfortunately had to return as the all black just didn't fit my son, he prefered some color so we are going to get the same jacket in a diff color... Jacket runs small tho, for a 5'4" slim teenager, the Medium fit ok with will have room to grow.

So, I have to say up front I actually returned this coat because it was much more than what I needed. I don’t really ski so I I didn’t really need a specialized ski jacket and because of that I could justify paying the price for a jacket I didn’t really need. That being said, this jacket is fantastic! It is so light and it fits so well. It just feels great when you put it on. As far as performance I couldn’t tell you because I just tried it on. From the fit, the materials, the attention to detail and the construction quality I can tell you it is worth the price. I love the way the shell of the jacket flexes. I think if you are looking for a comfortable ski jacket or just a comfortable jacket this is an awesome choice.