Marmot Leadville Soft Shell Jacket

marmot.com, 1.02 pounds
The Leadville has been in Marmot’s line for years—with good reason. As one seasoned tester reports, it’s risen to the top of his go-to list for soft shell jackets in cool temps and variable conditions (aka: this jacket is the Holy Grail for gearheads). The Gore-Tex Windstopper fabric locks out averse weather in a variety of activities, from spring skiing in Utah corn to biking in Scotland to hiking through the biting winds of the Andes. It also proves to be about 80 percent waterproof, which is enough to handle all but monsoon-like conditions (though, as with most water-resistant soft shells, the jacket will eventually soak through after an hour of moderately persistent drizzle). The inner panels (under the arms and along the torso, as seen by the differently-colored fabric) are constructed from a slightly lighter mix of poly and elastane, offering additional breathability and stretch.  The pocket construction, including two zippered handwarmers, is the execution of simple versatility.  A draw string at the hem increases protection against truly foul weather, and the mid-height collar is lined with kitten-soft microfleece. The partially elastic sleeve cuffs fit snugly, with Velcro tabs to really lock them down. Gauntlet-style gloves, which pull over the cuffs, fare best, though one tester was able to routinely tuck his lightweight gloves under the cuffs and bike and hike without gaps.  For temps at 50 degrees and up, the Leadville may prove a bit too warm, especially if you’re exerting yourself.  But for mild to cold weather, this jacket is tops.  Refreshingly, little has changed since the jacket first premiered; the logos are now reflective (a nice touch for urban cyclists and runners), and the color schemes have gotten a bit brighter.  But even if you go with the flashy orange hue, rest assured that that near-florescent color will become subdued over years of reliable use.