I tried a number of softshell jackets on before I settled on this one. I wanted stretchy material (some jackets advertised as "soft" shells are really hardshells), a hood, good pitzips and a more reasonable price point. I'm 5'11" and 176LBS. A medium is normally what I take but most of the softshell jackets I tried via other manufacturers (Marmot, TNF, EMS, Columbia) were too tight in the shoulders and pits. So I originally went with a large in this jacket but that was way too big in the sleeves. I exchanged this for a medium and Whittaker quickly processed my return and new shipment. The medium fits better, is adequate in the shoulders and waist for a little layering but the sleeves are a bit baggy. It's designed to be able to fit over a heavy winter glove. I do most of my hiking in the Northeast and have not needed this feature (One of the downsides of First Ascent products is that they are specifically designed for summiting one mountain - Rainier. When I spend this kind of money on a jacket, I need some versatility. I need to be able to use it for everyday use as well as winter snowshoeing/backpacking trips, cold summits, etc.). So I would prefer a different style cuff and sleeve that is less bulky and perhaps an inch more room in the shoulders and pits. I have short arms so no matter who I buy from, the sleeves are always too long. Overall, the features and functionality of this jacket are good and the fit is just so-so. Regarding performance, winter was too short and mild this year to be able to comment on that. I want the jacket to be both reasonable windproof and very breathable; otherwise I would stick with my hardshell. I have not had the opportunity to try this coat under cold conditions combined with high aerobic activity.

As far as soft shell jackets are considered, for the most part this 18K jacket is so-so. You can pick one from any of the major manufacturers and it's a case of six from one and a half-dozen from the other. What sets this jacket apart is the excellent heat management features. The huge armpit openings with zippers from either end works very well when you need to dump heat fast when working hard. In addition, the wide cuffs - while designed to fit over a glove - also allow air to flow up the forearms when the velcro wrist strap is undone. Of course add to that your front zip. You get the picture. As with most Eddie Bauer gear (who happens to manufacture the First Ascent line), it is overpriced. I bought it on post-Thanksgiving sale at a price on par with good jackets from the opposition - which made it a good deal. Having used the jacket for 6-8 weeks I would say that it is a good buy only if you can get it on sale at a good price. . . . One last gripe - the limited color selection. Red or black.