The first thing I noticed about this jacket was its weight (or lack thereof). Coming in at a scant 8oz. makes this jacket an ace-in-the-hole when weather turns sour. The Essence packs down to the size of a tennis ball and is my go-to layer if the rain/snow/wind picks up while on the trail. It's breathability makes this a perfect addition to your cool morning bike commutes and since it packs down so small, you'll never struggle to find a place to stash it during the day. If Marmot had made this jacket with adjustable cuffs this would have gotten a full five stars but they saved weight and went with elastic cuffs instead. If you're unsure of this piece follow my directions: 1) Buy the Essence. 2) Go outside. 3)Stay light and dry.

This is a great coat. If you are looking for a functional and LIGHT-weight jacket, look no further...especially if you see it on SAC like I did. 70 dollars for a coat like this is a steal! Not only is this jacket only 8oz and super compressible, it blocks the rain/wind and breaths like a champ. The only thing I would change would be to add a couple more ounces and attach some Velcro or something similar to the sleeves so that you can batten down ALL the hatches:-) I am extremely pleased with this purchase and will update in a year or so regarding durability.

I wear a large in most Marmot jackets, like the Zeus, but a large in this was too small for my 6'4" frame. had to send it back. it was much lighter and much more compressible than i would have thought. it packed down really small when i put it in a package to send back. maybe next season it will work for me.