The Sideways jacket offers a very beefy 3 layer shell. Tougher material than like offerings from Arc Teryx and Mammut at a lower cost. Granted it's not Gore-Tex, but breathe-ability is not as big a concern for the colder weather this shell will see, and the off brands I've used perform just as well.

The fit is a little odd. It's got a slim euro fit around the neck and shoulders, and a dumpy, relaxed fit through the torso. Built the opposite of athletic shape...pear shaped? The neck provides a nice, close to the face fit, but is especially tight in the neck if you plan to wear a collared fleece with any bulk. Body length, and arm length are true to size. The jacket could use an adjustable waist line bungee to trim up the waist fit, this would help to lessen the look of the tight, up-top fit.

The hood offers a smaller fit than many ski/snowboard jackets, but it will accommodate a reasonably sized multi-sport helmet (Grateful Heads, Galasport, climbing helmets). Bobble-head, ski helmet owners will want to look elsewhere. Let's face it, ski areas have only become safer over the years due to over grooming...do you really need the helmet anyway?

The core vents are easier to operate than most pit zips, but when open, only expand and exaggerate the dumpy torso look. Open them on the chair, close back up when you get off.

If the Sideways fits you properly, you'll have a hard time finding a better bang for the buck.

Awesome ventilation. It fits very close to skin so you forget you're even wearing it. Great chest, shoulder and back protection

I like having the choice to run whatever elbow pads I want.

The spine protector does ride high (to protect the upper vertebrae) but it will hit the backs of most helmets when you look up.

White is the dumbest color for anything used in downhilling. The fabric turns yellow-brown after 2 days on the trails. POC needs to switch to sand, light grey or black for the fabric color on these.

Very high quality, but too small to fit over upper body armor. Go 2 sizes larger if you're wearing pads.

This jersey is a tight weave with no ventilation so it's only practical for early spring, late fall riding.