I have the Alchemy jacket and love it; however, I have never and never plan on running in it--I would be too hot. I live in Alaska and even when the temps are below 0, I still wouldn't want that much warmth when I'm running. A good layering system would be far lighter and breath better for running. But I love the jacket--have used it for skiing, ice climbing and around town. Super durable and looks sexy hot.

I don't know much about the Marmot Ultima, but I've owned both the Apex Bionic and the Alchemy. Although the Alchemy has more features and probably higher quality construction, I actually ended up returning it and keeping the Apex Bionic. The AB does have a roomier fit, though I wouldn't quite describe it as boxy, and I can comfortably fit more layers under it than I can with the Alchemy. I also prefer its velcro closure sleeve cuffs over the extra internal fleece cuff of the Alchemy. Because I tend to be active when I'm outside, I also appreciate the extra length in the AB's torso. In terms of warmth both jackets seemed similar to me - the Alchemy might retain warmth a little better on its own, but you can fit more layers under the AB. I've worn both jackets in wind and rain, and they seem fairly comparable in terms of weatherproofing. So between these two jackets it's really a matter of preference. If you like the room to move and a simpler overall design, go for something like the AB. If you like a closer, more technical fit and climber-friendly features, the Alchemy is probably the way to go. I also want to give a shout out to Backcountry.com's own product line. The Shift and Shift Composite jackets are really great products - in fact, the Shift Composite is my favorite jacket and right now it's almost 50% off full price. You can read my review of that jacket if you want my full opinion on it, but it's definitely something to consider. On a more superficial note, Ian's right when he points out that everyone and their grandma owns a TNF AB, or at least a similar-looking TNF jacket. The first day I wore mine out I saw some guy with an identical jacket (and I'm currently living in a major Midwestern city - no mountains to be found around here). Depending on whether you steer towards or away from popular brands, that might also factor into your decision.

Hey there Ely. Welcome to the world of softshells, my favorite type of jackets. You won't be disappointed. Here are my thoughts on those three jackets. The TNF Apex Bionic is a solid softshell. It's a no-thrills package that is windproof, water resistant and decently warm. It'll breathe fairly well, but it's boring. Every 19 year old kid in the mountains has one. The Marmot Ultima is kind of interesting. I like the carbon from coconut fabric for natural odor protection. However I think you'll find it a little on the chilly side, especially when you're just standing around. If you're a naturally warm person though, this might be a good investment. The Alchemy is lined with Gore Windstopper which makes it totally windproof, but also highly water resistant. The Apex Bionic is also windproof and water resistant, but the pockets are too darn low to get in when I'm wearing a harness or backpack hip belt. If you plan on wearing a pack at all I would suggest going for the Alchemy since the pockets are placed high enough to get at when your pack hip belt is doing its job. The MHW Alchemy is my favorite of the three, and that's mostly due to the pocket placement. Also, the Alchemy will have a very athletic fit to it. The medium for you will be perfect. TNF fits a little boxier, so depending on how much room you want sizing down to the small might be a good idea. I'm the same size as you, just 10 lbs heavier, and the small Bionic fit nicely. There wasn't much room underneath, but sometimes that's okay. I'm not sure what the sizing is like on the Ultima, but I do know Marmot tends to fit rather "athletically". Therefore you should probably try a medium in that one too. Hope that helps.