Marmot Oracle Jacket Review
First Impressions
When looking for a lightweight rain jacket, you need to consider the Marmot Oracle. It’s definitely not the least expensive option at $165 MSRP. It’s also not the lightest on the market, Marmot’s Precip is lighter. But the Oracle may offer the best combination of features available for the price.
Out of the box, the Marmot Oracle just works. The construction is top notch and it has all the right features for a range of outdoor activities including camping, hiking and spring skiing.
Features
The Oracle definitely delivers in the lightweight category. It’s just 17 ounces and will pack down into about the size of a softball for carrying in your pack or luggage. The jacket has breathable membrane – Marmot’s own proprietary offering – and it works pretty darn well. The shoulders and sleeves have a heavier weight fabric reinforcing these key areas. And there’s a nicely sized and adjustable hood (that zips off for storage when you don’t need it).
On both the interior and exterior, there are plenty of pockets. There’s a napoleon pocket on the upper chest, two exterior handwarmers, and two interior pockets (one mesh and the other zippered). Pit zips are also part of the package.
Fit
The Marmot is sized to fit over a base layer and fleece or softshell. It’s definitely large enough to do that and not feel restrictive or tight. The medium was a perfect fit for my 170 lb frame.
Final Verdict
The Marmot Oracle sets the benchmark for the category as far as I’m concerned. It works for a variety of outdoor activities and despite its light weight has proven to be fairly rugged. I’ve worn it hiking, camping in temps down to the low 40s and spring skiing. It compares favorably with the Cloudveil Koven Plus which is 25% heavier(23 ounces) and 200% more expensive ($399 MSRP).
Available at Massey’s Outfitters.
February 14, 2011
I’ve been rocking one of there for years and it has performed very well. Like all rain jackets it could breath better in warmer weather but pit zips and mesh backed pockets help a lot here. Finally after 5+ years of usage (serving the last few as a winter shell seeing daily use) the precip waterproofing has totally warn away on the shoulders and back (and pretty much most of the jacket). That being said the jacket has a nice fit for layering a fleece under and I’m still using it during the winter and as a windshell. Would buy again.
February 5, 2012
Hello,
Thank fo your review and impressions. You said you’re 170lb and M size fits you perfect. Please, can you tell how much tall are you? I need to buy this jacket soon, about same weight as you. I’m 6″2′.
Thank you!
February 5, 2012
Stole, thanks for the comment. The Marmot website has a great sizing chart which you can find on their page covering the Oracle. According to that chart, if you’re 6’2″ and less than 160 lbs, a medium might work. If you’re over 160 lbs, then a large is the right option.
Hope that helps.