 |
| Shana Novak |
1. Keeping rain out is never the problem; a $2 poncho can do that. But if you want a jacket that also holds up the other end of the bargain, letting moisture out, it's going to cost you—usually around $200. Which is why we were so impressed with the Aegis. Unlike most jackets in this price range, it's decked out with thoughtful features, and it breathes as easily as a Buddhist monk.
2. Staying dry on the inside is all about the fabric, and Marmot uses a proprietary and slightly stretchy 2.5-layer membrane (most jackets are made with three layers). The result: a comfy—testers loved the subtle stretch—and respectably lightweight jacket that kept us dry and happy in everything from the clammy, constant rain of southeast Alaska to a drenching Colorado thunderstorm.
3. A pared-down price usually means pared-down features. Not here. Pit zips and mesh-backed front pockets take care of active temperature regulation, and the hood can be rolled up and stashed in the collar. Soft, fleecy patches around the chin and behind the neck prevent chafing—and, as one tester pointed out, "are surprisingly luxurious when it's cold and nasty."
(14 oz) marmot.com
More Hard Shell Jackets Info
2009 Summer Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
2009 Winter Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
2008 Summer Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
2008 Winter Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
2007 Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
2006 Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
2005 Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
2004 Buyer's Guide Jackets Reviews
Related Gear Features
- The 21st-Century Skier Away.com
Technology has merged with the stalwarts of fashion and function in ways you’ve never imagined. Whether you prefer the backcountry, the terrain park, or the slopes at the nearest five-star resort, the future of snow-sport apparel and accessories is here.
- Fuzz Buzz Outside Magazine, February 2006
An extremely cool makeover brings high performance and style to the latest generation of fleece
- The Rain Wear: EMS Thunderhead Jacket and Pants Away.com
- The Headphones: Bose Acoustic QuietComfort 2 Noise-Cancelling Away.com
- The Jacket: Outdoor Research Trance Sweater Away.com
- Hut to Haute Outside Magazine, November 2006
Taking their cues from urban sidewalks and fashion runways, sportswear designers redefine the look of winter
- Post-Piste Perfection Away.com
Stand out amid the standard-sweater scene by donning one—or several—of these fashionable après items and you won’t have to rely on those little white lies about plying the slopes.
- 2010 Winter Buyer's Guide Videos
- Storm Troupers Outside Magazine, May 2005
If you want to chase tornadoes and the thunderheads that spawn them, you need adventure-tested tech and gear that can weather any tempest
- Cold Play Outside Magazine November 2004
Slimmed down and styled up, expedition parkas are taking back the streets. Winter doesn't stand a chance.
- Jacks of All Trades Outside Magazine, November 2009
Yes, there's a world-class ski resort in Steamboat Springs. But as the careers (and hobbies) of these five guys demonstrate, that's just one part of this relaxed Colorado town's allure.
- Heli-Skiing Overview Away.com
- Breaking the Mold Away.com
Leave the hand-me-down gear inherited from distant relatives in the Goodwill box and opt for some of the industry’s best in kid’s ski and snowboard apparel. Because as long as they’re warm, they’re happy.
- Outdoor Retailer Winter 2007 Outside Online
OutsideOnline's Gear Guy reports on the latest trends at this season's gearapalooza.
- Winter Recess Outside Magazine February 2005
New-school technical pieces look after the serious business of snowbound fun, while playing nice with the classics of cold-weather style
The Gear Guy on Jackets
The Gear Blog on Jackets
