Pat Clements

I bought a Marmot Precip after my first Bearwaller Gap hike (Jan 07), and before my GSMNP Hike (Feb 07.)  It’s time to make a few comments about it.

LIKES: 

• I like the fit, I like the pit zips. 
• I like the hood and it’s the first real rain jacket that has the potential to keep you dry (without rain running down your neck.)  I like the double sealed zippers – velcro that covers over the zippers to keep dry. 
• I like the large pockets for stuffing gloves, hats and whatever in, to dry via body heat.

DISLIKES:

• The material wets out.  Rain soaks through if the material isn’t pristinely clean.  I called Marmot about it and they recommended I wash it.  I did, it seemed to work a while, and it’s soaking through again.  The arms are particularly bad.
• It’s also not breathable.   Don’t believe all that crap.  I think the only material that’s potentially breathable is eVent, but I haven’t tried it.

For the price, it’s OK.  The Precip is a great windbreaker, and outside layer for light precipitation.  I recommend a poncho plus some breathable rain pants and a sombrero hat for real rain.   A small umbrella is a pretty good idea too, if it’s not too windy.  Ponchos and umbrellas don’t work too good as a layer for cold weather.

Long story short, save your money for something better.