Outdoor Research Helium Review

We put the Helium through the paces for several weeks of real-world testing. We also conducted a series of indoor tests for more objective assessments to create a rain jacket review that was as thorough as possible. Our main reviewer concluded, “If you're going to buy the Helium, you need to consider that you are buying a windbreaker with a slightly improved shell fabric for minor storm protection, rather than a highly protective jacket. I wouldn't rely on it as a true rain layer.”

Performance Comparison

Water Resistance

Rain protection is the primary reason anyone buys a rain jacket, so it's no surprise that this is the most important metric we tested for across the lineup. The Helium's storm performance became 45% of its final score. We tested for water resistance by wearing each jacket on several outings in poor weather, deliberately going hiking, climbing, and skiing when the weather forecast got sour. We also put the Helium through a series of shower tests for a more objective assessment on how it will protect its wearer from precipitation. Understanding that this is a featherlight, minimalist layer, it was not unexpected that its scores did not prove particularly strong in this metric.

The Helium, as previously stated, is closer to a windbreaker than a rain jacket. However, given its minimal weight, we weren't all that surprised by our findings in this metric. In our field and shower tests, this jacket couldn't handle much precipitation beyond 5-10 minutes of consistent rain. In a more gentle drizzle, we stayed mostly dry until we hit about the 25-minute mark. If you need a simple just-in-case layer, this is great. You can pack it away and forget about it, but it will still be there for you whenever there's a brief, surprise storm. This could work particularly well in drier climates. It is also a nice option to have when you need protection from the wind as well. With such a minimal weight, this is an easy layer to justify taking any day outdoors.

Breathability

Breathability was 20% of the total score for the Helium and was tested by taking the layer on cardio missions of varying intensities, from multi-day backpacking to day hikes to alpine climbs. Every jacket was also worn on a standardized hike, allowing us to measure any sweat spots that appeared afterwards to gauge how well the moisture moved away from the body in action — the Helium is at the front of the pack.

The Helium is made with a Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse 2.5L nylon fabric construction, a combination that ushers sweat away from the body fairly well. This jacket is very thin, especially compared to other options in this review. While it doesn't repel water well, it does make for a particularly breathable jacket for high-action days. We noted the Helium doesn't offer pit zips, but given its design intention as a featherlight “just in case” layer, we felt they weren't needed to deliver acceptable results.

Comfort and Mobility

At 15% of the total score, the Helium's comfort and mobility were gauged by wearing each jacket to engage in a variety of sports, from fishing to climbing to hiking. We also carried out a standardized series of movements to unearth any restrictive areas or jacket lift. The results were about average.

When wearing only minimal layers underneath, the Helium offers decent freedom of movement without a great deal of bunching. Testers experienced a slight bit of resistance in the upper back when our arms were crossed, and we also noted some tightness in the chest when our arms were positioned even slightly behind us. Fortunately, there is some stretch in the Pertex shield to minimize restriction, but if you need to wear more layers underneath this basic shell, we'd recommend sizing up.

Weight

10% of the Helium's total score was based on its weight, using a ratings calculator to provide a 1-10 score based on its measured weight in hand. As you might have guessed, this super thin model lands at the top of the charts. One reviewer shared, “If it were heavier, I would have a hard time recommending the Helium when considering its lack of water resistance; but at this barely there weight it's an easy emergency layer to grab.”

Weighing only 6.5 ounces, the Helium is incredibly light and equally packable. The jacket easily fits inside its chest pocket and comes with a carabiner loop, making it easy to clip to a harness or backpack. This is a layer you won't have trouble bringing with you, whether a short hike or all-day adventure. Most would be unlikely to notice such a featherweight garment in their pack.

Construction Quality

This final metric garners 10% of the total score of the Helium. We took detailed notes during field testing, looking specifically at the question of durability and investigating the construction materials at play. Finally, we took a deep dive into other buyers' experiences with the Helium, to unearth any defects that might happen in the future. This layer came in below average.

The Helium isn't the most robust design out there, but we don't know how a company could make a 6.5 ounce jacket that ends up all that tough. As previously mentioned, its Pertex 2.5L fabric is fairly thin, requiring us to be mindful of our movements when wearing it in abrasive environments. Even still, we experienced a few minor tears caused during testing. We also found this option limited in its water resistance, at all stages of testing. However, it's notable that we didn't experience any change in its weather protection after weeks of field use (which can occur in some rain jackets). Simply put, this is a delicate garment that requires careful attention if you're going to make it last.

Should You Buy the Outdoor Research Helium?

The Helium is an excellent minimalist layer for shoppers needing a windbreaker that can handle brief periods of rain. At such a low weight, this is easy to keep with you on any outdoor adventure, but we'd recommend other options if you need something to protect with greater strength during prolonged storms.

What Other Rain Jackets Should You Consider?