No matter what you’re doing outside this winter, the Helly Hansen Men’s Viper Jacket hangs tough. This shell has all the features you need at the resort, but not so many that you’re bogged down. The Viper’s waterproof breathable fabric and fully taped seams expertly take on the task of keeping you dry. The stretch powder skirt stops those wayward flakes from finding their way into your jacket, and it snaps out when you opt for an urban outing or a less deep, more aerobic ski day. If the latter’s the case, you’ll appreciate the underarm venting, which quickly cools you down when your heart rate climbs up.
Bottom Line: The Viper vants more vinter.
Reviews (4):
Average Rating:
Bad description, but backcountry still rules! 07-31-09
The bad:
-there is lining throughout, it’s puffy and is through the chest, back and arms
-all the insulation makes the jacket heavy
-there is only one interior pocket and it's tiny
-powder skirt is not removable
The good:
-bronze checked jacket is way nicer than the picture. Colours pop a lot more than it shows, so the style is sweet.
The super good:
-Backcountry did me a solid, b’c of the wrong description; my return shipping was paid for (costly for us Canadians that already paid for duty). Big ups to backcountry!
Just got the Viper and wish it was still snowing. Fit: I am 6'0" athletic build, Med. jacket is a great fit with longer arms that don't pull up. Really wide cuffs my scoop snow during wipe out... If you plan to layer a lot make sure the layers are thin as it can get tight high in the chest. Length is OK, about as short as you want to go. Not as many pockets as I had hoped. 2 Hand, one sleeve and one small inner for mp3/Phone/wallet. Mesh pit vents. Insulation, SURPRISE! This will be nice when the layers come off. The powder skirt is tight and has three snaps to mate with the loops on your H/H powder pants if you have them to keep the snow from forcing itself in (hopefully) when you mess up big time. The hood is not insulated for low bulk and fits over my helmet no problem. 4.5/5
First of all, the guys giving advice are fantastic. Thanks!
The jacket looks and behaves as I'd hoped. I particularly like the roominess in the shoulders and length of the sleeves. The extra large width of the pleated cuff, which can be snugged around your glove, was an interesting and positive feature.
The high collar and hood do a great job covering my neck, lower face and helmet during those face-shot pow days.
The zipper is sturdy but I think I'd have preferred a larger tab, and I also would have liked a zipped compartment up on the chest.
These are minor issues for me and overall I'd give the jacket very high marks and suggest it to anyone.
(Oh, and mine is black).
