Hi-Tec Mystic Mountain Shell

Nice cold weather, waterproof shell. Lots of pockets and comfortable to wear. Sized a little small if you want to layer underneath. Because of the heavier materials, not a real packable shell nor a summer shell, but great when the weather is cooler.

This is a heavier shell that would be good as a cold weather, waterproof shell. It is made of a thicker, heavier material that has been durable so far but does make the jacket heavier than you would probably want as a lightweight hiking shell. The shell material is relatively thick and has a textured outside.  

The jacket also has a lining so your skin is not directly on the outer shell. This is perfect for my intended use as I was looking for a waterproof shell to layer under during cold weather. I purchased the jacket back in November and have worn it for the last three months through the polar vortex storms we have had.

Jacket has a LOT of pockets, outside ones use waterproof zippers. The handwarmer pockets are lined with a micro-fleece like material (another sign it was designed as a colder weather shell). Hood is not the most adjustable and sometimes does not stay with your head as well as it should.  It is also detachable with a zipper. Main zipper is large and durable but operates easily. Storm flap over main zipper is secured by velcro. Jacket also has pit zips but I haven't put them to use yet. Cuffs have some elastic and are adjustable by velcro also.  

In actual use, I really like this jacket. It is windproof and has been 100% waterproof so far. I haven't been in any real downpours with it, but in the rain, sleet, snow mixes we have had this winter with all the polar vortex storms, it has been great. I wish the hood would fit a little tighter but it may have been designed with a helmet in mind.

The jacket is also warm for an uninsulated shell. The heavier material and the inner lining probably contribute to that. Arms are plenty long enough for me, but I wish the jacket was slightly longer for cold weather wear (parka length). I did size up in this jacket as I had read reviews about it running slightly small and I'm glad I did. I normally wear an XL but got this in an XXL and it is perfectly sized for me to layer under it and not be too tight.  

While I have only had the jacket for a little over three months, I have been VERY happy with it and would definitely purchase it again. It has been perfect for my intended use and appears to be durable enough to last for years.  At the price I paid ($45 new), I don't think you could find a better value for a cold weather shell.