disappointing, but should work for some folks

By rev Ranked #79 - Men's Softshell Jackets January 30, 2011

I've been trying to find a lightweight softshell to use as winter activewear. A breathable shell to wear over a light to heavyweight base layer when hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. For these situations, you want something that is unlined or only lightly lined, wind resistant, very breathable, and fit snugly enough to layer over and not get in the way of movement.

I ordered the Approach, and I ended up returning it. In some ways, it was spot on- the cut was a lot slimmer/more athletic than the Leadville or TNF Apex Bionic and the arms didn't have a bunch of extra material flapping around. I liked the Arc'teryx-esque zipper- big, chunky plastic zipper that is easy on, easy off. Those are the positives...

Negatives:
- NO stretch. This was the biggest disappointment. Frankly, it was quite surprising! Some of the mechanical stretch (no spandex) softshells I've tried had more stretch than the Approach.
- Cuffs: *way* too tight. Too tight to get it over my light Primaloft gloves without really fighting it.
- Chest was cut a bit small, considering their sizing charts. Wasn't athletically cut so much as sized down; the Approach in XXL fit like a Leadville in XL.
- Didn't seem very wind resistant, even compared to other non-membrane softshells like the Arc'teryx Gamma LT, First Ascent Mountain Guide, or jackets made of Schoeller Dryskin. Even so, should probably be good enough for mid to high activity in mild conditions.

If I could, I'd probably give the approach 2.5 stars, but IMHO it wouldn't be fair to go all the way down to 2, so I'm sticking with 3.

View Details: Marmot Approach Softshell Jacket - Men's

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