Women’s Helium UL jacket Review - ''The perfect choice for fast moving activities and this breathable lightweight waterproof jacket will certainly be my waterproof jacket of choice in the coming months!''
Posted by Nicola Dickinson on Apr 29, 2026
I tested the women’s Outdoor Research Helium UL jacket during early spring and I was very impressed with its performance. It will be a firm staple in my backpack for hikes during spring to autumn months for showery spells.
I chose a size small, which is the size I would usually choose in a waterproof jacket. The jacket has a trim, streamlined fit but was loose enough to fit a base layer and heavyweight fleece underneath when I wore it in a particularly cold spell; for me the jacket is the perfect fit for fast-moving activities in the warmer months. However, if you prefer a looser fit, it would be advisable to size up.
The Helium UL jacket with its Dermizax™ 2.75-layer fabric and fully seam-taped construction beads well on the outer side in wet weather. The jacket has a 20,000 mm hydrostatic head, coupled with MVTR 20,000g/m2/24 hrs breathability. The jacket spec conforms to most race kit lists, including ultras.
At only 153g (UK size 10), the women’s Helium UL jacket is very lightweight. It has been designed without pit zips to keep the weight down and personally, I did not need them or miss them!
The women’s Helium UL jacket has 2 front zip pockets and the men’s version has a chest zip pocket and 2 front zip pockets. The women’s Helium UL jacket packs down into the left-hand zip pocket and the men’s Helium UL jacket packs down into the additional chest pocket. Packing down into a pocket is great feature for taking up less space in my backpack. I found access to the front zip pockets restricted when wearing a backpack with a closed hip belt, so this was a little awkward when on the move.
The jacket has partially elasticated cuffs which are shaped for extra coverage on the outer side, keeping out the elements, whilst not feeling too tight or loose. Additionally, there are toggles at the hem and back of the hood to cinch for a snugger fit. I found these features easy to use and practical for quick adjustments on the go. The hood has a wire brim, which held its shape during heavy rain.
During my first outing wearing the Helium UL jacket, there was a period of prolonged heavy rain coupled with high winds. The jacket was certainly put through its paces and performed extremely well, keeping out all rain. Additionally, there was no moisture build up on the inner surface when exerting myself on hikes.
Outdoor Research make their outerwear and rain shells without intentionally added PFAS, including the DWR treatment and membrane, reflecting their sustainability target of being climate positive by 2030.
The Outdoor Research Helium UL jacket is the perfect choice for fast moving activities and this breathable lightweight waterproof jacket will certainly be my waterproof jacket of choice in the coming months!