Eddie Bauer Neoteric Shell Jacket

This is an outstanding hardshell jacket with many pockets and technical features that I have not found in any other jacket in my long search in other jackets. It has lots of pockets, adjustable hood, RECCO detection built in I have used the jacket for skiing, snowboarding, backpacking, hiking and just around town in a variety of conditions.

It is my go-to outerwear piece in the cold or rain. Plenty of venting and also breathable if it warms up, very very waterproof.

Wow, this is an amazing high tech full feature hardshell. The quality in materials, pocket placement and design is apparent out of the box.

That there are the typical backpack pockets at the chest area, as well as pockets at the waist, sleeve and interior makes this a great jacket for multiple uses and was the primary reason I ended up buying it. But it delivers way more than I expected, in fit, feel and just how good it looks.

The hood fits over my helmet and is adjustable enough to be used when I don't have a helmet on, it also has a nice visor to keep the rain off my face. I use it for backpacking, skiing, and snowboarding, and will also use it as a rain shell when I go to rowing events or just to wear around town. It is waterproof yet stretchable and very breathable. A great four-season hardshell.

The jacket has a nice light but sturdy feel to it. The DWR outer treatment means you can give the jacket a shake and it is instantly dry. Been there and done that many times already.

I purchased a XL Long, I am just over 6 ft 2 and it fit as I expected and wanted—roomy so I can layer up underneath as it gets cold. Some may want to go down a size. You likely don't need a long if you are not my height or taller.

I spent a lot of time searching for the right hardshell jacket, from Arc'teryx, North Face, Marmot, and others. This shell easily holds its own to those great brands. If you want a pure technical climbing jacket that fits snugger and minimizes weight then you may want to explore other more climbing centric brands or go with regular length and size smaller than you normally would. But for me this all around design is perfect!

I rarely do skiing where avalanches would be a problem, but having the RECCO detection is a nice safety net, though should not be the only tech depended on if you are in an avalanche area.

General spec description from Eddie Bauer:

POLARTEC® NEOSHELL® 3-LAYER FABRIC
Highly breathable, waterproof 5 oz 80D fabric
STORMREPEL® DWR FINISH
Sheds moisture so it doesn't soak in
3-POINT ADJUSTABLE HOOD
Helmet-compatible, with unobstructed vision
EXTENDED PIT ZIPS
Allow you to dump heat fast
REMOVABLE POWDER SKIRT
Has pant attachment for more protection
BICIP POCKET
Holds a 2-way radio or RFI ski pass
DUAL EXTERIOR CHEST POCKETS WITH SECURITY LOOPS
Ample storage, accessible when wearing pack
INTERIOR MESH GOGGLE POCKET
Includes lens wipes
INTERIOR CHEST POCKET WITH MEDIA PORT
Take your music to the mountains
AICARE WATERPROOF ZIPS
Maximum weather protection, minimum weight
RECCO® TECHNOLOGY
Imbedded reflector is searchable with RECCO® rescue system
SECURE ZIP HAND POCKETS
Keep essentials safe
ADJUSTABLE WAIST AND WRIST CUFFS
Seal out cold