Men’s Odyssey II Flex Super Softshell® Jacket Review — A Versatile Softshell for Trail and City
Looking for a comfortable, weather-ready jacket that transitions from morning commutes to weekend hikes? The Men’s Odyssey II Flex Super Softshell® Jacket from Free Country aims to bridge casual style and outdoor performance. At $126 and rated 4.7/5 from over 200 reviews, it’s billed as a stretch, wind- and water-resistant softshell built from recycled materials. In this review I break down what it does well, where it falls short, and who should consider buying it.
Overview: What the Odyssey II Flex Softshell Is
The Odyssey II Flex is a triple-layer bonded softshell with four-way stretch, a detachable hood, adjustable cuffs and hem, and multiple zip pockets. It’s designed for light-to-moderate weather protection—think chilly, windy days and light showers—while offering unrestricted movement for hiking, biking, and everyday wear.
Quick Specs
- Material: FreeCycle® recycled materials (triple-layer bonded fabric)
- Performance: Four-way stretch, wind resistant, water resistant
- Key features: Detachable hood, adjustable cuff tabs, interior drawcord hem
- Pockets: Lower zipped pockets, chest zipper pocket, sleeve zipper pocket
- Colors & sizes: Black, Dark Navy, Olive, Charcoal, Storm — S–XXL
- Price: $126 (USD)
- Rating: 4.7/5 (202 reviews)
- Weight: Around 1.4 lb depending on size
Key Features & Real-World Benefits
Four-way Stretch Fabric — Move Freely
The jacket’s four-way stretch is immediately noticeable. Whether you’re climbing a rocky section or lifting a backpack, the fabric moves with you rather than pulling. For active users who want a softshell that won’t restrict motion, this is a major plus.
Wind and Water Resistance — Light Protection That Works
Engineered as wind resistant and water resistant (not fully waterproof), the Odyssey II Flex is ideal for wind-driven commutes, mist, and short downpours. It’s not a substitute for a hard-shell in prolonged heavy rain, but it performs well on drizzly autumn hikes and blustery city mornings.
Detachable Hood and Adjustable Fit — Customize On The Go
The detachable hood adds versatility: zip it on for added coverage or remove it for a cleaner, city-ready silhouette. Adjustable cuff tabs and an interior drawcord at the hem let you seal out drafts and fine-tune layering space—useful when temperatures swing during outdoor activities.
Pocket Layout — Practical Storage
- Lower zipper pockets: deep enough for gloves and phone
- Chest zipper pocket: quick access to keys or transit card
- Sleeve zipper pocket: handy for small items or ID
Having dedicated, zipped pockets keeps items secure on the move—especially useful when hiking or riding.
Sustainability — Made From Recycled Materials
FreeCycle® recycled content is a meaningful detail for eco-conscious shoppers. The jacket gives solid day-to-day performance while lowering material waste compared with virgin-synthetic alternatives.
Fit, Sizing & Comfort
The jacket is offered in standard S–XXL sizes and multiple colorways. Model notes in product imagery indicate Kolby is 6’2″ and wears size M, while Vince is 6’1″ wearing a size M—useful visual references when deciding size. The overall cut is modern and slightly athletic to allow layering without feeling bulky.
| Fit | True to size for most; athletic cut allows a midweight layer underneath |
| Comfort | Soft interior, unrestricted movement thanks to stretch |
Recommendation: If you prefer a looser fit for thicker layers, consider sizing up one size.
How It Performs In Real Conditions
On a blustery bike commute, the jacket blocks wind effectively and the hem drawcord prevents drafts. On a morning hike with intermittent drizzle, it shed moisture long enough to keep you comfortable for a couple of hours. For heavy or sustained rain, carry a lightweight waterproof shell—this softshell is built for breathability and mobility over full waterproofing.
Customer sentiment and the 4.7 average rating point to consistent satisfaction with fit, feel, and everyday weather protection.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable four-way stretch for active movement
- Good wind and light rain protection for everyday use
- Thoughtful pockets and adjustable features
- Made with recycled materials—more sustainable choice
- Attractive price-to-performance ($126)
Cons
- Water resistant, not fully waterproof—limited for heavy rain
- Some color/size combinations may sell out
- Not insulated—needs layering in very cold weather
Final Verdict — Who Should Buy the Odyssey II Flex?
The Men’s Odyssey II Flex Super Softshell® Jacket is a smart pick for anyone who wants a versatile outer layer that balances mobility, everyday weather protection, and value. Buy this jacket if you:
- Spend time outdoors in cool, windy, or drizzly conditions
- Value stretch and freedom of movement for hiking, biking, or active commuting
- Prefer a jacket sized for layering rather than thick insulation
- Care about recycled materials and practical pocket placement
Skip this jacket if you need a fully waterproof or heavily insulated coat for extended wet-weather use or winter mountaineering. For heavy rain, pair it with a waterproof shell instead.
Practical Notes Before You Buy
- Care: Follow the jacket’s care label—typically machine wash cold and tumble low or hang dry to preserve the bonded fabric.
- Layering: Use a base or mid-layer when temperatures drop; the cut accommodates a midweight sweater comfortably.
- Value: At $126 and a 4.7 rating across many reviewers, it represents a strong value for a daily softshell.
Overall, the Odyssey II Flex hits a useful sweet spot: comfortable stretch, weather-ready features, and eco-minded materials at a fair price. It’s an excellent everyday softshell for active people who need protection and mobility without the expense of higher-end technical shells.
Recommendation: If your routine includes brisk walks, commuting, light hikes, or travel in changeable weather, the Men’s Odyssey II Flex Super Softshell® Jacket is worth adding to your closet.
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