My experience is that you can rely on Marmot for high quality, good design, and great value. The Approach Jacket is no exception.

The Approach is a lightweight jacket that's just right for cool, not cold weather. This is the jacket I'd choose to take on an airplane for all but the winter season. Its cut is a bit slim and unless you're a twig, isn't roomy enough to go over a bulky sweater.

The exterior looks as though it will wear well. The interior lining is soft and comfortable. The YKK zippers looks strong and glide without catching or grabbing material on their route.

Marmot's taken a nice approach with the Approach Jacket.

I have had my Marmot Approach Jacket for about two months now and love it. I have used it as a mid layer on cold days of backcountry skiing and as a top layer while climbing in chilly weather. I was in an absolute blizzard with this jacket and have had it in a moderate rain and stayed nice and dry. To test out the water resistance I even wore the jacket while running a hose over it and remained completely dry. I am not wild about the sleeve pocket. I never use it and would prefer to have a napoleon pocket with an MP3 port. If you are going to be using this jacket in temps that are less than 40 degrees F, then I would recommend adding a shell or beefing up your insulating layers underneath the jacket. All in all, I am very pleased with this jacket. Especially for the price.

as mentioned by others simple design- could've used a chest pocket- slim fitting so tough to wear over a sweater- looking forward to wearing as a layer under a shell for New England skiing- by itself good for coolish, 40-55 weather

Returned this jacket because it didn't provide the insulation I wanted (to be honest, I wanted the Gravity jkt but that was only available in large, so I tried this to see if it would fit the bill!). As far as sizing goes, it is a good fit. I am a pretty standard medium and it was nice and snug. Delivery as always was problem free.

I am 5'9", 200lbs with a 41" chest and the large fits well over a baselayer. I was looking for a light, packable wind/water resistant but breathable jacket for cooler temps and this was just right for me. Note that this jacket is intended for movement. Marmot's website provides more information regarding the intended use of this jacket. Pay attention to the M1, M2 or M3 ratings on the website. The burnish is a inconspicuous tan, well suited for blending in with the Sierra high country. I wanted coloring on this layer that was different from what I already use and would minimize visual impact and I am very pleased.

After some thought, I am reviewing this item a little more thoroughly. I still believe that it is not much more than a casual apres type coat - I cannot imagine skiing in it, unless I really didn't have anything else to hand. It really is just a very simple piece - I guess if you dig plain, simple clothing then this could be of interest to you. I do have a slight issue with Marmot and their choice of main zips - as described in my Troll Wall review elsewhere. There is nothing really wrong with this jacket but I cannot for the life of me think of anything special to say about it. It is Mr.Average Joe of Softshells....

I can say this jacket is just about adequate. The price is good though so go for it.

I'm 5'9" and 180 lbs. This jacket fits very well. Usually I wear the combination of lightweight long sleeve underwear, Marmot Power Stretch Half-Zip Fleece Jacket and Marmot Approach Softshell Jacket. That's enough for December and January (normal winter day is 35 F and wind speed 30mph). Real wind stopper with good breathable rate. In addition, its nice choice, if you are energetic person and your life style requires light clothes for daily activities.

pretty solid and waterproof. not much in the way of warmth though

pretty much the best softshell jacket i've ever owned its a sick jacket that keeps you warm and comfortable but its not for the coldest temperatures

Bought this jacket after having an older model Marmot fleece jacket.. I was headed to Banff for a week long trip. Temps hit in the low 40's and I wore a tshirt and this jacket and was very warm through some trips in Calgary...
Excellet Marmot quality, fits a hair snug. But I am very happy with it! Very warm and wind resistant. Got caught in a small rain shower and it shed the water very well! Would definately recommend!

A bit tight in the arms. Overall I'm pretty happy with it. It's not a jacket that will work as an upper layer.

The approach jacket was what I was looking for but it is small in the shoulders and armpit. I am 6'0" 210 lbs and it is tight in the shoulders and armpit. Other than that it is well constructed.

6'2" 175, built slim, jacket fits well. Cuts the wind, but not too heavy. You aren't going to go out in the middle of December with a T-shirt on underneath this thing, but with the right layers this jacket does quite well.

Fits well and the shell feels nice. Good quality jacket for the fall months.