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Marmot PreCip Jacket
Marmot PreCip Jacket Review Facts
Do you want a jacket that can do everything at an affordable price? The Marmot Precip jacket is a tough-to-beat contender. The Marmot PreCip jacket is a killer jacket offered at $100. It has above average breathability. The jacket is similar to other coated, waterproof, breathable jacket designs. On a ten-point scale, the Marmot PreCip jacket received these ratings from a group of reviewers: Breathability and venting 5, Comfort and mobility 6, Durability 6, Packed size 7, Water resistance 6, and Weight 5. The jacket won the Best Buy Award out of 17 jackets evaluated by the reviewers. It is a time-tested jacket that has been updated recently with 2.5-layer NanoPro coated fabric. The jacket offers the most bang for the buck.
Robust ventilation features, superior breathability for the price range, and top-notch cuff and hood closures set the jacket apart from its competition. The well-built features of the PreCip make it a very comfortable jacket. The NanoPro technology by Marmot breathes exceptionally well. It has a hood, cuffs, and pit-zips that outperform several jackets that are much more expensive. With the use of a ready-to-clip loop, it stuffs into a pocket quickly. The Marmot PreCip is a well-featured and affordable jacket. Described as a do-it-all jacket, it keeps the wearer dry on a backpacking trip or around town — the NanoPro coating technology breathes well for such a reasonably priced jacket.
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- Better breathability than other jackets in the price range
- DWR last a relatively long time
- Excellent mix of weight, weather protection, and price
- Pit-zips
- Quality hood design having plenty adjustability
- Rollaway hood
- Versatile design
Cons
- Heavy rainfall makes the liner feel clammy
- Interior coating eventually breaks down
- Not as breathable as membrane models
- Velcro over main zipper loses stickiness over time
Brand
Marmot is a sporting goods and outdoor clothing company. ‘Marmot’ refers to large, highly social ground squirrels that are found in mountainous areas. The founders, Dave Huntley, and Eric Reynolds formed a Marmot Club in 1971, when on a Glaciology project in the Alaskan Juneau Iceland.
To become a member, one had to climb a glacial peak with another member. Throughout the summer and during the next two years, the men made down product prototypes in their dorm room. Marmot has grown extensively since its humble beginnings. One thing that did not change is their commitment to design high-quality performance products.
To become a member, one had to climb a glacial peak with another member. Throughout the summer and during the next two years, the men made down product prototypes in their dorm room. Marmot has grown extensively since its humble beginnings. One thing that did not change is their commitment to design high-quality performance products.
Breathability
The NanoPro fabric, used in the jacket, breathes better than others in the price range. Besides the breathable fabric, the jacket offers an excellent combination of ventilation features. They include large pit-zips under the arms that operate with one hand relatively efficiently.
Lower hand pockets are mesh-lined and large to promote airflow when they are left open. In contrast to standard waterproof pockets of hardshell jackets, mesh-lined pockets provide extra ventilation. People are more apt to wear rain jackets when the temperatures are warm, and ventilation is vital. Hardshells jackets are worn in snowy, cold conditions when waterproof jackets are more beneficial.
The cuffs also have room to ventilate at the wrist. They can be cinched closed when it rains. Leaving them loose and open promotes airflow. Ratings earned from reviewers for breathability is also a bit puzzling. Reviewers rated the jacket as a five. Only one of the 17 received a lower, and 11 earned higher marks.
Lower hand pockets are mesh-lined and large to promote airflow when they are left open. In contrast to standard waterproof pockets of hardshell jackets, mesh-lined pockets provide extra ventilation. People are more apt to wear rain jackets when the temperatures are warm, and ventilation is vital. Hardshells jackets are worn in snowy, cold conditions when waterproof jackets are more beneficial.
The cuffs also have room to ventilate at the wrist. They can be cinched closed when it rains. Leaving them loose and open promotes airflow. Ratings earned from reviewers for breathability is also a bit puzzling. Reviewers rated the jacket as a five. Only one of the 17 received a lower, and 11 earned higher marks.
Comfort
Reviewers say the six rating given for comfort is a relatively high score. Only one jacket received a lower score, and 13 scored better. The reviewers go on to say the Marmot PreCip has easy-to-use features and is slightly above average in range-of-motion and mobility.
The added bulk of pockets and pit-zips did not interfere with mobility or comfort. A small micro-fleece patch on the collar at the chin was added for comfort. The hood can be rolled and stowed in the collar for those who wear rain hats or want it tucked out of the way.
Elastic cord locks are situated at the bottom hem and the hood. They are simple to use. Zippers with large metal pulls are used on the jacket instead of tiny metal zipper pulls with strings. They work well.
Operating with gloves on is possible with the easy to grab big metal pulls. The jacket moves well during active use. The shoulder and arm design are called ‘Angel-Wing movement’ by Marmot. The jacket stays put at the torso and waist better than many of the jackets in the review.
Moving the arms overhead does not cause a problem. The mobility of the hood is excellent. A baseball cap can be worn with a comfortable rain jacket. Reviewers like the PreCip versatility but felt there were others in the group that offered slightly better mobility.
The added bulk of pockets and pit-zips did not interfere with mobility or comfort. A small micro-fleece patch on the collar at the chin was added for comfort. The hood can be rolled and stowed in the collar for those who wear rain hats or want it tucked out of the way.
Elastic cord locks are situated at the bottom hem and the hood. They are simple to use. Zippers with large metal pulls are used on the jacket instead of tiny metal zipper pulls with strings. They work well.
Operating with gloves on is possible with the easy to grab big metal pulls. The jacket moves well during active use. The shoulder and arm design are called ‘Angel-Wing movement’ by Marmot. The jacket stays put at the torso and waist better than many of the jackets in the review.
Moving the arms overhead does not cause a problem. The mobility of the hood is excellent. A baseball cap can be worn with a comfortable rain jacket. Reviewers like the PreCip versatility but felt there were others in the group that offered slightly better mobility.
Durability
The PreCip is not meant to last a lifetime, but it holds up well. Lightweight jackets do not last as long as more expensive hardshell or rain jackets. The face fabric of the jacket is made of ripstop nylon. Velcro closures and zippers are high-quality.
Zippers are faultless. The large teeth of the YKK zip in the center and the coil design of the hand pockets are smooth. The interior coating of the 2.5-layer construction deteriorates and starts to flake after extensive use (many years).
The mesh hand pockets are not very resistant to ears. The Velcro that secures the flap over the main zipper loses stickiness over time. Because the material is lightweight, be wary around sharp equipment, but the PreCip is impressively tough for its weight and size.
Reviewers rated it as six for durability. There were three deemed to be less durable and 11 more so. Those with the highest durability were five ounces heavier. They were also significantly, more expensive.
Zippers are faultless. The large teeth of the YKK zip in the center and the coil design of the hand pockets are smooth. The interior coating of the 2.5-layer construction deteriorates and starts to flake after extensive use (many years).
The mesh hand pockets are not very resistant to ears. The Velcro that secures the flap over the main zipper loses stickiness over time. Because the material is lightweight, be wary around sharp equipment, but the PreCip is impressively tough for its weight and size.
Reviewers rated it as six for durability. There were three deemed to be less durable and 11 more so. Those with the highest durability were five ounces heavier. They were also significantly, more expensive.
Size
The jacket fits well in the usual size of the wearer. It is comfortable and perhaps a bit roomy with a thin base layer worn. The Marmot Precip feels light in hand. The rain jacket weighs 13 ounces. That is an average weight for shell jackets but lighter than the ordinary raincoat.
Five of the jackets reviewed weighed more than 13 ounces. There were 11 that weighed less. Some weigh only by a fraction less. Those closest in weight to the Marmot PreCip did not offer the same amount of ventilation options.
When compressed, the Best Buy Award winner stuffs into the left-hand pocket. Depending on how the stuff pocket is manipulated when stowed, the jacket is approximately the size of a grapefruit.
Only four jackets received higher scores for the packed size rating. It is the smallest standard jacket when stuffed in the pockets. A webbing carabiner clip loop provides carrying options for the stuffed jacket.
Five of the jackets reviewed weighed more than 13 ounces. There were 11 that weighed less. Some weigh only by a fraction less. Those closest in weight to the Marmot PreCip did not offer the same amount of ventilation options.
When compressed, the Best Buy Award winner stuffs into the left-hand pocket. Depending on how the stuff pocket is manipulated when stowed, the jacket is approximately the size of a grapefruit.
Only four jackets received higher scores for the packed size rating. It is the smallest standard jacket when stuffed in the pockets. A webbing carabiner clip loop provides carrying options for the stuffed jacket.
Use
The model is a do-everything jacket. It can be carried on long climbing and backpacking trips. The ventilation allows the jacket to be worn for high energy activities. A rain hat can be worn around town when the hood rolls away into the collar.
Reviewers hesitate about recommending the jacket to climbers because the mesh pocket can tear on rocks when attached to a harness. Large hand pockets can be used to hold gloves, phone, and keys.
The testing team thinks the jacket is durable enough to be used for occasional downhill skiing. There is no jacket among those tested that is more versatile for less money than the $100 Best Buy Award winner.
Reviewers hesitate about recommending the jacket to climbers because the mesh pocket can tear on rocks when attached to a harness. Large hand pockets can be used to hold gloves, phone, and keys.
The testing team thinks the jacket is durable enough to be used for occasional downhill skiing. There is no jacket among those tested that is more versatile for less money than the $100 Best Buy Award winner.
Flexibility
Every outdoor lover looks for clothing that allows free movement when on an adventure. The Marmot PreCip has a surprising amount of mobility. The Angel-Wing movement design ensures wearers can move freely, whether arms are in front of them or over their heads. The waistline does not lift during activities or movement. The mobility makes the jacket an excellent option for days having a long to-do list that has to be accomplished rain or shine.
Cleaning
An investment in a technically advanced piece of apparel should be accompanied by the proper care to assure optimal performance and maximize service life. There are two reasons to clean a rain jacket - campmates walk downwind of the wearer, or the jacket is not as breathable and waterproof as it should be.
Users are encouraged to wash the jacket as often as needed. High-tech breathable, waterproof garments perform better when clean. Cleaning a rain jacket restores its breathability and water resistance. Follow the washing recommendations that include preferably washing in a front loading machine with warm water on the delicate cycle.
Close all zippers and tabs. Apply a tech wash solution that is free of fabric softeners, enzymes, perfumes, and surfactants to soiled areas and add it to the wash water. A water and white vinegar solution can be used instead of soap.
Despite proper cleaning, a jacket that wets out continually needs the DWR retreated. Most re-waterproofing agents are applied while the jacket is still wet. Use one of two options - topical or wash in treatment.
Users are encouraged to wash the jacket as often as needed. High-tech breathable, waterproof garments perform better when clean. Cleaning a rain jacket restores its breathability and water resistance. Follow the washing recommendations that include preferably washing in a front loading machine with warm water on the delicate cycle.
Close all zippers and tabs. Apply a tech wash solution that is free of fabric softeners, enzymes, perfumes, and surfactants to soiled areas and add it to the wash water. A water and white vinegar solution can be used instead of soap.
Despite proper cleaning, a jacket that wets out continually needs the DWR retreated. Most re-waterproofing agents are applied while the jacket is still wet. Use one of two options - topical or wash in treatment.
Style
Reviewers think the jacket is a superior design for the price point when compared to jackets with unsecured flaps and cheaper Velcro designs. The hem cinches on the right side with a single drawcord. It causes the hem to bunch a bit in that direction when pulled tight. Reviewers consider it a fine trade-off for the weight of the jacket and say it does not take away from the everyday appeal.
Water Resistance
Even in the pouring rain, the PreCip NanoPro waterproof coating gets the job done. Elastic cinches on both sides of the face seal the hood. The reviewers like the fact the cinches do not extend across the brow.
They are sewn at temple height on the hood sides. The area across the brow is more comfortable and does just as well sealing out the rain. Adjustable Velcro tabs nicely seal the wrist cuffs. Velcro tabs are a feature considered mandatory by some reviewers.
Water beads well, and the DWR was found to be durable during months of testing. Quickly washing and drying the jacket restores it nicely after a few months of wear. The reviewers praised the water resistance but rated it only six out of ten. Ten other jackets received a higher score.
They are sewn at temple height on the hood sides. The area across the brow is more comfortable and does just as well sealing out the rain. Adjustable Velcro tabs nicely seal the wrist cuffs. Velcro tabs are a feature considered mandatory by some reviewers.
Water beads well, and the DWR was found to be durable during months of testing. Quickly washing and drying the jacket restores it nicely after a few months of wear. The reviewers praised the water resistance but rated it only six out of ten. Ten other jackets received a higher score.
Wind Protection
As a wind blocker, the PreCip is a leader among jackets in the price range. It is built with a breathable and waterproof shell that provided reliable protection in occasional snowfalls, drenching rain, and gusty winds.
Beyond the shell fabric, other touches keep the elements at bay. The adjustable hood and collar offer excellent coverage at the sides of the head, forehead, and chin. A moldable hood bill would provide more security in the wind.
In moderate weather, the PreCip is tough and stacks up well among competitors. Overall, the $100 PreCip excellently defends against snow, rain, and wind, but not as well as a $400 hardshell jacket.
Beyond the shell fabric, other touches keep the elements at bay. The adjustable hood and collar offer excellent coverage at the sides of the head, forehead, and chin. A moldable hood bill would provide more security in the wind.
In moderate weather, the PreCip is tough and stacks up well among competitors. Overall, the $100 PreCip excellently defends against snow, rain, and wind, but not as well as a $400 hardshell jacket.
Key Features
* 100 percent taped seams aid in sealing out elements
* Angel-Wing movement permits a full range of motion to the arms and prevents the jacket from lifting when arms are raised
* Chin guard is soft and wicks away moisture
* Drawcord hem
* DryTouch finish reduces sticky, clammy feeling and condensation
* Fully adjustable hood can be rolled and stored inside the collar
* Hook-and-loop closures secure storm-fly over front zipper
* Hook-and-loop cuff adjustments
* NanoPro fabric is 43 percent more breathable compared to previous PreCip technology
* One pocket is used as a stuff sack
* Pit-zips quickly release excess heat buildup and circulate fresh air
* Zippered hand pockets are easily accessible, even when wearing a pack
* Angel-Wing movement permits a full range of motion to the arms and prevents the jacket from lifting when arms are raised
* Chin guard is soft and wicks away moisture
* Drawcord hem
* DryTouch finish reduces sticky, clammy feeling and condensation
* Fully adjustable hood can be rolled and stored inside the collar
* Hook-and-loop closures secure storm-fly over front zipper
* Hook-and-loop cuff adjustments
* NanoPro fabric is 43 percent more breathable compared to previous PreCip technology
* One pocket is used as a stuff sack
* Pit-zips quickly release excess heat buildup and circulate fresh air
* Zippered hand pockets are easily accessible, even when wearing a pack
Bottom Line
The rain jacket hood has two adjustable elastic cords around the face. Cord locks on the inside are next to the face. With a completely zipped up collar, the hood is more waterproof but more challenging to adjust.
A Velcro tab allows the brim of the hood to be raised or lowered on the brow. It does double duty by securing the hood so it can be rolled into the collar. Being able to hide the hood is an excellent feature for those who wear a rain hat.
The collar has a hang loop and a small micro-fleece patch. The hanging loop is at the back, and the patch is at the chin area. Traditional zippers on the pit-zips of the jacket are protected by an external fabric rain flap.
Two traditional zippered mesh-lined pockets are protected by fabric storm flaps. When closed, the zipper pulls are located at the top which allows some pocket access even if the waist belt of a backpack partially blocks the pocket. The jacket can be stuffed into one that has a clip-in loop. Wrist cuffs have an elastic hem cinch. and a Velcro tab adjustment. Having a cord lock on the right side makes it easy to adjust.
A Velcro tab allows the brim of the hood to be raised or lowered on the brow. It does double duty by securing the hood so it can be rolled into the collar. Being able to hide the hood is an excellent feature for those who wear a rain hat.
The collar has a hang loop and a small micro-fleece patch. The hanging loop is at the back, and the patch is at the chin area. Traditional zippers on the pit-zips of the jacket are protected by an external fabric rain flap.
Two traditional zippered mesh-lined pockets are protected by fabric storm flaps. When closed, the zipper pulls are located at the top which allows some pocket access even if the waist belt of a backpack partially blocks the pocket. The jacket can be stuffed into one that has a clip-in loop. Wrist cuffs have an elastic hem cinch. and a Velcro tab adjustment. Having a cord lock on the right side makes it easy to adjust.
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