Marmot Genesis Jacket

The Genesis is a pretty minimal design. I usually like to see a removable hood, a bunch of interior and exterior pockets, pit zips and a powder skirt (although that’s not necessarily a deal breaker) in a ski jacket.

The Genesis has some of these features. You get the standard handwarmer pockets, an ample hood (it doesn’t detach but can be rolled and secured with a hook and loop tab) and dual-direction pit zips. The interior pockets are interesting. There’s a small one that zips closed for valuables and another – not quite a pocket really, but a special holder for your MP3 player – which, although kind of neat, doesn’t look large enough for an iPhone or iPod Touch.

For a more complete review and photos visit GearGuide.

Overall it is a pretty good softshell, looks great fairly waterproof lots of features. My problem with Marmot is they do not know how to do velcro. I had a Kingpin softshell and had the same problem with flimsy velcro on the cuffs and hood adjustment although seems like it will be pretty warm and has room for a 100wt. fleece under it.

Fit is good. I am 5,8 170 and med fits good. I had an Outdoor Research Mithril and this is much better. Other then the velcro I would buy it again, but not for 399 cad. I think the most I would pay is 250 or so but I hate to pay retail for anything.

This was my first softshell jacket ever. As a long time skier I had always had the usual Gore-Tex shell. This jacket is fantastic. Stretch softshell is great for mobility, large hood fits over a ski helmet and hood has a visor as well, no stitching (seem welded) and all waterproof zippers ensure nothing will get through, all adjustments are easily done with one gloved hand - cuffs, waist drawcord, hood drawcord, zippers, the coat is lined with a dense soft fleece that feels great against skin. I recommend this coat to any winter sports enthusiast. Marmot continues to make the best outwear on the market.