Marmot Crestone Stretch Jacket

Marmot was actually among the first American manufactures to utilize DrySkin, but alas, they no long make the Crestone model I've got (2000 model I think). It was sort of hidden in their catalogue, but the employees there I talked to all said they were trying to get their hand on one for personal use, so I'd assume Marmot will make an updated version soon if it's smart; overall, they still use Schoeller stuff in a lot of products.

The Crestone is a simply, efficient jacket ideal for multiuse in aerobic situations, as insulation under a shell in extremes, and as a subtle everyday fashion piece. I've used it alone with PS100 well below freezing in the snow and been comfy and also treked in Africa in temps over 110 with the jacket against my skin- not ideal, but it keep me more comfortable than a soaked cotten shirt full of dust. The fabric stretches, blockes most wind, breaths like cotton (really), and somehow repells dirt as well as light rain. I can see why skiers and 'boarders love it so much: anything less than hard rain and howling wind stays out while it keeps you well regulated.

Comes with huge, high pockets, drawcords in the waist and neck (more useful than I expected), a tall collar with brushed lining, and a big interior map pocket. The cuffs are thick elastic and the extra-long pitzips have dual sliders. Two nice features are the lycra hood, which is perfect for keeping ears warm when running or just insulating under a hood, and the two way zipper. Not enough companies emphasize the latter, but I find it useful to be able to adjust venting from the botton and draw up the hem and tighten the drawcord above a harness sometimes.

The Crestone is similar to the Patagonia Dimension, Arcteryx Stinger, and Ibex Icefall.