http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/mens-insulated-torrentsh...
My criteria:
- I don't want any bulk, puffy jackets are unwieldy to carry
- I need it to be reasonably waterproof - say I don't get wet for 15-20 minutes in moderate rain. This rules out most softshells.
- I need it to be warm, just waterproof doesn't cut it in New England weather. This rules out most rain jackets.
- If it'll last long or has a good warranty, I can tolerate up to 300-400 bucks
- I need it in US extra small (34-36" chest)
- I need it to be breathable, otherwise I get sweaty when I'm riding a bike for transit
What I don't like about the patagonia one is mostly the latter issue about breathability. Theoretically it's breathable, and definitely more so than other jackets I've owned, but it can't keep up. I end up widening the wrist holes and zipping down a little, which isn't the worst, but wind + sweat gets REALLY cold after a while. What I really need is pit zips, I think. It also /could/ be warmer but I think that would ruin the versatility of the jacket - I don't want it to be unusable in spring and fall.
Looking at this, it seems very close. Seems thin and lightweight (couldn't find exact measures). They have the pit zips. Removable hood is great. Front visor seems to extend pretty far. The insulation hopefully is good, though not proven like primaloft or goose down. No x-small for men, plus the already loose ski-style fit means this is probably going to not fit small / skinny guys like me. How it deals with washing and being wet is a question. Warranty is a question. Quality of stitching / how the material holds up is another one.
This could be great, or not, too early to tell IMHO. But definitely a contender!