Down Sweater

Nice and warm down sweater. Fits into a reasonably small compression stuff sack. The jacket shell is fairly windproof and works pretty well as a Parka over your shell.

As with other down jackets, don't take this on a warm weather trip where it could rain. The exterior shell is not waterproof. I disagree with their advertising that the Gossamer Ripstop Nylon is downproof. I've had plenty of quills come out in the last 2 years. It's no better than regular nylon.

The big thing that I don't like is the fact that it is sewn through construction, and not baffled. I have gotten a lot of use out of it, and I find that trip and trip of putting in the stuff sack, wearing it, and putting it back in has made the down clump up. This has created some cold spots, unless you take extreme care while fluffing it up to redistribute the down.

I got last years model for $100, and feel that it is money well spent. I do have to admit that it is my first down purchase, so I don't know how it compares to other down. It is very warm and compactable and is water resistant. I have wore it in light rain/snow and was very satisfied.

I have had this jacket for about 1.5 years and used it maybe a dozen times. I have been very impressed with it and agree with the other reviews. But this is my first down jacket. I know it is still in like new condition after stuffing it, wearing it, and pulling it back out. One thing to add is that the arm length is longer than many other jackets, as I have found Marmot tends to do. That is good for all us apes out there.

Purchased 2009 model on sale at REI. If you're looking for light weight warmth for moderate conditions, this is a great jacket. Packs really small, & provides a lot of warmth for the weight. However, you need to be careful of snagging it on brush or rocks. If I'm in camp or open country I'll wear it as an outer garment. If I there's a chance of snagging it, I throw on a light wind jacket to protect it.

Some down escapes, maybe 4 or 5 feathers a trip, but that's the cost of an ultralight jacket. No complaints and I'd buy it again.