First Impressions
Looking to replace a hardshell for alpine skiing, this is one of the many options I encountered. It is, of course, not a hardshell but a softshell jacket that’s meant to provide many of the features associated with traditional hardshells. I reviewed a number of the Marmot promotional materials in advance of picking up the Genesis, in particular the many videos they produced and posted to YouTube (see link in the next column), which give you a good sense for the product.
Out of the box, the Marmot Genesis is very cool. I chose the bright green which is definitely eye catching. The Genesis also has a bright silver reflective seam accent and logo treatment that dresses the otherwise monochrome jacket up quite a bit. The fabric is fairly stiff for a softshell with very little give. The lining is lightweight tricot, so layers don’t bind when you slip the jacket on.
Features
The Genesis is a pretty minimal design. I usually like to see a removable hood, a bunch of interior and exterior pockets, pit zips and a powder skirt (although that’s not necessarily a deal breaker) in a ski jacket. The Genesis has some of these features. You get the standard hand warmer pockets, an ample hood (it doesn’t detach but can be rolled and secured with a hook and loop tab) and dual-direction pit zips. The interior pockets are interesting. There’s a small one that zips closed for valuables and another – not quite a pocket really – but a special holder for your MP3 player which, although kind of neat, doesn’t look large enough for an iPhone or iPod Touch.
Fit
In keeping with the minimalist but fashionable theme, the Genesis has a very athletic fit, trim through the shoulders and a little tight through the midrift. Marmot uses what they call an Angel Wing fit for more freedom of movement and I didn’t experience any problems, although the jacket did ride up a little when lifting my arms above my head. Layering more than a base layer and fleece would probably be challenging.
Final Verdict
This is a nice package, very fashion forward and athletic looking. I like the reflective accents and the colors are striking. The minimalist design and lack of pockets might be enough to keep others searching.
Available at Altrec and Moosejaw.
First Impressions:
[Rating:4/5]
Features:
[Rating:3.5/5]
Fit:
[Rating:3/5]
Final Verdict:
[Rating:3.5/5]
