Columbia Ballistic Shell

I bought this Columbia Titanium hard shell because I have need or a wind and water proof jacket. I own a few soft shells from Columbia and Marmot among others and I love them but they are never waterproof or windproof like they claim.

I give it a 4.5 because it get knocked for fit and comfort. The large size was a little too small and the XL is a little too big. I went with the XL since I will almost always wear it over a soft shell or fleece. The fabric is quite stiff and some of the folds poke at me around the neck. It is a minor complaint and is not uncomfortable to wear, it just could be more comfortable.

It seems to be completely waterproof and windproof which makes this an amazingly warm jacket with just a tee shirt and a soft shell. I am please at how well it stops the wind.

A bonus for me was that my Columbia soft-shell (which is not a Titanium) zipped right in and works well as a inner liner. It is not a true liner because there are no straps for holding the sleeves in place but it zips into the inner zippers and gives me an instant winter coat. Columbia says all the Titanium jackets will interchange with each other but even some standard non-Titanium Columbia soft shells will clearly work.

Bottom line is, Columbia Titanium is on the level of the best outdoor clothing. Don't mistake Columbia Titanium for the cheaper Columbia gear you can buy at some stores. Columbia Titanium is not just a marketing gimmick, it really is a better line of clothing. The Titanium line is on par with Marmot, Patagonia and the better line of North Face Gear. It is premium all the way.

I got my jacket for $80 which is a great price but it was on clearance. Normally it goes for about $199. I think it is worth $199 but the good thing is, Columbia does not have the yuppie factor as North Face or Patagonia anymore so bargains can be found.

I would recommend this jacket to a friend and I would trust it with the most extreme conditions I would even be outside in. It can work as a ski jacket as well as a wet/cold weather jacket system. I have owned Marmot, TNF, and Patagonia and I can say that there is little if any quality difference in these brands when comparing similar items at similar price points. This Columbia Titanium is as good as anything out there at this price point, better in fact than some.