Mountain Hardwear Drystein II Dry.Q® Elite Jacket - Waterproof (For Men)

I am 5'11" 182 lbs and the large was perfect for me. I can use it for early morning runs or for a pretty bad storm and this jacket just holds good without a problem. I am no skier so I really can't review this jacket for all those skiers out there but I do technical mountain climbing and I layered this MH with a BD crag hoodie and a Terramer midweight base layer. This is a high output activity jacket for sure and wicks away moisture like no other. I have used it for a couple of RMNP hikes and its worked for me without any issues so far.

First of all this is purpose built for "climbing", ok I get that. The quality of the materials and finish seem great. Material is pretty stiff but this usually softens over a bit of time. Main zipper is a bit tough to move up and down but is waterproof, and is a two way which is a great option. Stretch panels on the side that connect with the "harder" non stretch part of the front of the shell cause a bit of boxiness in the shape. Drawcords in the hem mitigate this somewhat but then leave you a bit balloon shaped, even a big guy like me felt like there was a bit too much room in the mid section vs. the shoulders. This is helpful for layering as you will need to do as this is uninsulated, but it just seems like the ratio is a bit off.

Shoulder/armpit are while not exactly tight, are not exactly as roomy as you might want given the size of the jacket around the mid-section (I bought and tried on a 2xl which is the size I usually where in MH, I am 6'3" 275.) It is a good jacket, but I think the way they have programmed it, it is a bit too niche (strictly climbing) functional.

How could they improve it? 1. Recco reflector, 2. Removable powder skirt with elastic (this coat has none) 3. Neoprene (or similar) thumbhole cuffs (thumbhole cuff use is typically user optional so climbers could opt out if it interferes, but skiers/backcountry folks would love them. Water resistant/proof Interior pocket for electronics (read iPhone - and make it big enough for the 6+) with an audio cable port. If they added those features this jacket would be head and shoulders above a crowded field (and I wouldn't have returned it.)

Are you hearing me Mountain Hardwear?

Good quality jacket, just missing some much needed features.

STP service and shipping was fine.

Have had this for only a few weeks. so far, so good. Its a nice product. Agree that the Zipper is stiff hoping that doesn't become an issue as the years pile on. Great price as well.

this jacket is the bomb, roomy enough for layers, has ample stretch, breaths out the air making it almost chilly, zippers waterproof but easy to zip - as with most waterproof zippers u cross pull them...right arm left zipper ... duh. day after i got it took to the mtns for 6 hours in constant oregon rain it beaded like i just rain x ed my windshield, worked up a good sweat on the climb but the jacket really did breath, i might have to move to a med weight wool and adjust my layers as i use it because it offers very little warmth - because it's a dry shell that really works. colours are bright but visibility is a good thing. I thought the mtn hardwear stretch down jacket was killer, now i can wear it under this shell and not worry about it getting wet. down in idaho sure, but down in oregon luv it!
even with the extra discount the coat was [...] expensive, I'm out daily so my day will never be ruined by rain - i got that going for me

I have looked at ten different shells before deciding to keep this jacket. It is the lightest and most comfortable shell I have found that has a high breathability rating and is comfortable. It doesn't have that hard shell feel although it is totally waterproof. Also, the inner surface is softer than other shells I have tried so it doesn't feel hard or clammy on my skin. The fit is relaxed although trim enough not be boxy-- a nice compromise. I love the design and the easy to use pockets on the outside as well as within to hold an iphone. Great jacket with all the discounts, great price.