Outdoor Research Men's Aspect Soft Shell Jacket

STURDY JACKET
If you're looking for a softshell with a little more burly feel, this could be your huckleberry. This thing is sturdy. I ended up sending this back because the fit wasn't quite right for me. At 6', 210lbs., I'm on the upper end of the large size spectrum, and this was just a bit too snug through the chest to allow for proper layering. Would have worked fine for around town though. I like that the design gives you a little more fabric in a couple of crucial areas; the sleeve and back length are nice and long. If you are engaged in the kind of activities that require a more dynamic range of motion than the norm, like climbing, this l'il smidge of extra coverage is very comforting. OR's version of the "pit zip" is nicely executed if you've ever chafed at the clot of zipper and fabric under your arm with other makers' vent systems. The Aspect Jacket's rendition vents plenty in my book, but does so with a cleaner feel under the arm that I appreciate. Two-way zippers... nice. One could do worse, especially if you're not looking for the wispiest lightweight out there.

Outdoor Research Aspect SofT Shell Jacket
Take this from someone who has purchased his fair share of outdoor clothing over the years, this Aspect Jacket by Outdoor Research is a keeper. I used it on several occasions in vastly different conditions and it works. My first use was a winter backcountry hike where the temperature and elevation changed drastically. With roughly 2,000 feet of elevation change, I used the side venting to the max at the start of the hike where it was very warm. At 11,500 feet I zipped up tight with a thin down sweater on underneath and the strong cold wind at the summit did not penetrate the jacket. With a pack on I must admit adjusting the side zippers takes some getting used to. Not a big deal but one should allow for a dry run with a pack on before heading out. The chest fit is snug without feeling constricted. I have long arms and it is great to actually wear a jacket that doesn't short arm me when I am reaching out for something. Lastly and most importantly. The Aspect Jacket does ventilate as advertised and is rock solid in cold sub freezing temperatures. The quality and construction is commendable. I am looking forward to using this jacket on an upcoming backcountry skiing hut trip.

More of a ski-lift or casual jacket
I was looking for something a little lighter and breathable so I returned it, but this would work well as an outdoor workwear type jacket or as a dry weather ski lift jacket. It's pretty heavyweight, and loose fitting but the fabric is very thick and heavy duty. The pit zips are great, since they cut diagonally across the sides and don't bunch up under the arm pits. I decided to go for the OR Cirque softshell which has a fleece interior but is very slim fitting and lighter weight.