Marmot Essence Jacket - Waterproof (For Women)

I almost returned it when I received the order - the inside feels plastic and has no side pockets. But it is really light and packs small so I decided to bring it for my yellowstone trip. The jacket turned out to be great and functional! It did not only block the rain it also blocked the wind! It kept me dry and warm when we hike up Mt. Washburn on a rainy, windy and cold morning. I still wish it has the side pockets though.

just bought this for an upcoming backpack trip, so haven't rain tested it yet, but it's amazingly lightweight and comfy.

This shell came with me on a Wonderland Trail trip earlier this season. It only rained once, and the rainfall was not too heavy. The shell vented well even without the pit zips. The inner fabric does feel a bit sticky against one's skin, especially as one is working up a sweat, but this is to be expected for a ultra lightweight 2.5 layer shell. I do miss the hand pockets; when carry weight isn't an issue, I'm inclined to go with my heavier 11 oz shell with pockets. That being said, for a shell that feels as heavy as a piece of cardstock paper, it's great! I got the Sea Glass in XS. The sleeves are not adjustable (another way Marmot shaves ounces) so for a shortie like me, they run about 3" past my wrist.

I'm a big fan of ultralight clothing. I didn't need another ultralight raincoat, but this one was getting such great reviews and I couldn't find it anywhere locally that I wanted to check it out. This is last year's 12D fabric. The newer models are 20D fabric. I wanted the lighter fabric, so the model I ordered was what I wanted.

In the reviews I have read, the reviewers said the fabric is slightly stretchy, so I thought it might be like an ultralight softshell material. But it's not. It's a matt-finished tech fabric. It's not shiny like other ultralight ripstop material. So if you want a matt fabric, this is good for you. Also, this jacket is supposed to be the lightest one on the market. I didn't weigh it compared to the other ultralight rain jackets I have, but it didn't feel any lighter, though it might have been by fractions of an ounce.

In terms of fit, I got the large based on sizing, but I could have worn a medium, too. So I think it is cut loose enough that you don't have to size up if you don't want to.

I would have kept the jacket, but didn't really need it and didn't like it more than what I already own.

This is a paired down jacket. No side pockets, so be aware if this is a must for you.
Very Lightweight & packable.
I'm 5'6", 134 lbs, 34C & size medium fit well with room to
layer underneath.
I haven't worn it in the rain yet, but reckon it'll work!