The Women's Igneo jacket from Outdoor Research is described as “the ultimate waterproof/breathable insulation”, featuring 2-layer Pertex Shield (an ultra-thin synthetic membrane with a nylon face fabric), EnduraLoft insulation and taped seams. It's a piece designed for both resort skiing and side country ventures.

The stretchy fabric is a bonded softshell and is deemed weather resistant. The seam taping adds to the "all conditions protection" with the DWR treatment making them shed snow and morning dew with ease. These are suppose to breathe well, and I was hoping so, because they're low on venting options. What sets softshell pants apart from hard shell pants, besides the stretch material, is the light fleece insulation. This is what makes these the perfect shoulder season and winter accessory.

From a style point of view, top marks, I like the seam welded look, there is no exposed stitching, this will help keep water and snow out. Stitching is neat and tidy on the inside too. It's a quality build, with shock-cording to tighten down the waist and the hood if required. The look is great and plenty of pockets, 3 outside, and 1 inside perhaps for an ipod. An attached hood with Alpine cut is helpful, I like flipping up a hood in crappy weather or wind. these days, everyone has a good hardshell for the pack, and a softshell or two, so it doesn't have to come down one versus the other especially since the Mithril is well priced. If you want to go below -10 with this jacket, order up a size so you can add more layers.