Helium Down Jacket

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Lightweight warmth meets rugged durability—perfect for unpredictable adventures.

Outdoor Research says

The Helium Down Jacket is the ultimate alpine insulator; ultralight, ruggedly durable, and perfect for layering underneath a shell or worn on its own.

Infused with Pertex® Quantum Diamond Fuse Technology, the Helium Down Jacket boasts a durable 100% recycled nylon shell. Pertex® Shield reinforced shoulders and upper sleeves provide a waterproof barrier, ensuring warmth and comfort when the skies are unpredictable, and responsibly sourced 800+ fill power goose-down insulation provides unmatched, packable warmth. Brushed tricot-lined hand pockets, an external chest pocket, and dual internal stash pockets provide tons of storage, and the left-hand pocket even doubles as a stuff sack, making this jacket as packable as it is protective. And the elastic drawcord hem and Low-Pro Binding™ deliver a clean silhouette.

Designed as the perfect alpine insulating piece and leaning on responsibly sourced material composition, the Helium Down Jacket is a must-have in every alpinist kit.

Our Verdict

The Outdoor Research Helium Down Jacket provides reliable warmth during unpredictable weather. Its standout feature is the 2.5L Pertex Shield reinforcement on the shoulders and upper sleeves, which provides targeted protection for the most exposed areas in wet conditions. This design boosts weather resistance and enhances durability, making it particularly useful when carrying a heavy rucksack.

The 800+ fill power goose down delivers impressive insulation without adding unnecessary bulk, while the Pertex Quantum Diamond Fuse shell further strengthens durability and light weather protection. It’s worth noting, however, that the jacket isn’t fully waterproof and performs best in light precipitation rather than prolonged downpours. The fit is true to size—my usual medium was spot on. The high collar is thoughtfully designed, sealing in warmth comfortably without the constriction I’ve experienced with similar jackets. Elasticated cuffs and a cinchable hem further add to its warmth.

The hand-warming and chest pockets are lined with soft brushed material for added comfort. Two generous internal stash pockets are ideal for gloves or maps. For ultimate convenience, the jacket neatly packs into its own hand pocket, making it highly portable and perfect for active adventures.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

Fabric Performance:

• Water Resistant
• Wind Resistant
• Durable
• Lightweight

Design Features:

• Hybrid Mapped Construction
• Single Separating Center Front Zipper
• External Chest Pocket
• Brushed Tricot Hand Pockets
• Dual Internal Stash Pockets
• Left Hand Pocket Doubles as Stuff Sack
• Carabiner Loop with Key Clip
• Clean Finish Elastic Drawcord Hem

Specifications

• Small weighs: 350g
• Medium weighs: 369g
• Large weighs: 403g
• XLarge weighs: 423g
• Fit: Standard
• Back length: 72.4 cm / 28.5 in

Materials

• bluesign® approved
• Pertex® Quantum with Diamond Fuse Technology 100% Recycled Nylon 20D
• Shell: Pertex® Shield with Diamond Fuse Technology 2.5L 100% Nylon 30D Ripstop Waterproof Hood / Shoulder /
• Upper Sleeve: 100% Nylon 20D Ripstop
• Lining: 800+ Fill Power, Responsibly Sourced Goose Down Insulation

Help and advice:

• Choosing a Down Jacket
• Down Quality
• Ethical Down
• All About Down
• What is Bluesign?
• PERTEX Fabrics Overview
• What is PERTEX Shield?
• What is PERTEX Quantum?
• Responsible Down Standard