Outdoor Research Zealot vs Helium?

zealot hasn't existed in OR's line for 5 years.

I have used both though. Feel pretty similar because of no pit zips (on my version of the zealot.)

Thanks for the response Sir. The reason I'm asking is I'll have the chance to grab one of those jackets from a friend and he will let me choose which one I want to get. He's from the other side of the country so I won't get the chance to really try it. He said both jackets are in excellent condition..

I guess I'm just trying to see which fabric material (Pertex Shield vs Goretex Paclite), and which has also the better fit?

Thanks again..

can't speak to the Zealot, but I've been very happy with my Helium- very minimal design, but still effective in keeping the rain out for under 7 oz- pretty tough to beat :) if you are in between sizes, size up- if not get your normal size

I bought my Zealot paclite Gortex jacket back in 2006, carried it on my PCT thru-hike in 2009 and am plannnig on taking it on my AT hike starting next month. For me, its held up well though I'm pretty good at taking care of my gear.

How I use it is one of the reasons I don't feel wet when wearing it in all day rain like most people do wearing most rain jackets, pit zip or not. I often don't zip the jacket up. I use the sternum and hipbelt strap of my backpack to hold the front closed which allows for venting of the body core.

I'm kind of in between a medium and a large so what size of shirt I buy depends on the brand and model. I bought the large size (7.8oz) and found that I have no problem with the fit. And there is still plenty of room for a lighweight fleece or lightweight down jacket (<8oz) layered under it.

I'm sorry that OR no longer makes the Zealot as I'm not that happy with most of the new jackets on the market and I suspect that by the time of my CDT thru-hike in 2015, I'll be needing a new one. If it isn't lighter and as durable and functional, its not an improvment.