Let’s Talk About Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium
The Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium is Marmot’s updated take on a classic rain jacket, now focusing on sustainability. It’s designed to be a lightweight, packable, and reliable shield against unexpected downpours. Made with recycled materials and a PFC-free water repellent finish, this jacket aims to be both environmentally conscious and high-performing.
I needed a dependable rain jacket that wouldn’t take up much space in my pack for hiking and backpacking trips. My old rain shell was bulky and outdated, so the promise of packability and eco-friendly construction drew me to the PreCip Eco. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by how incredibly lightweight the jacket is, almost featherlight. The material feels durable, despite its thinness, and the color (I chose a vibrant teal) is true to the online images.
Compared to the Patagonia Torrentshell and the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket, the Marmot PreCip Eco seemed to offer a better balance of price, packability, and features. The Torrentshell felt a bit heavier, and the Helium, while lighter, lacked pit zips, a feature I value for ventilation during strenuous activities. I was excited to test its waterproofness and breathability on the trail.
Real-World Testing: Putting Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium during a three-day backpacking trip in the Olympic National Forest. The weather was predictably unpredictable, with periods of sunshine interspersed with heavy rain showers. The jacket performed admirably during the downpours, keeping me dry and comfortable.
The rain beaded up nicely on the surface, and the taped seams prevented any water from seeping through. The PitZips were a lifesaver when hiking uphill, allowing me to vent excess heat and moisture. After a few hours of hiking, the jacket felt slightly clammy against my skin, a common issue with most waterproof/breathable membranes.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium has proven to be a reliable companion. It’s been through numerous hikes, camping trips, and even a few unexpected thunderstorms while running errands around town. The jacket continues to perform well, maintaining its waterproofness and packability.
I’ve noticed some slight wear and tear in high-abrasion areas, like the shoulders (from backpack straps). However, there are no rips or tears, and the jacket seems to be holding up well overall. Cleaning is easy; I simply wash it on a gentle cycle with a technical wash and hang it to dry. Compared to my previous rain jacket, the PreCip Eco is significantly lighter, more packable, and equally waterproof.
Breaking Down the Features of Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Marmot.
- Length: Regular.
- Sleeve Length: Long.
- Center Back Length: 28.5 inches.
- Fit: Regular.
- Apparel Fit: Regular.
- Gender: Female.
- Age Group: Adults.
- Application: Outdoor, Rain.
- Fabric/Material: NanoPro Eco 100% Recycled Nylon Ripstop. This fabric is lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly.
- Weight: 9 oz, 255 g. This lightweight design is perfect for backpacking and travel.
- Jacket Style: Lightweight Softshell.
- Pockets: Yes.
- Insulation: Polyester.
- Reflective/High Visible: No.
- Lining Material: Recycled Polyester.
These specifications are important because they highlight the jacket’s balance of performance, weight, and sustainability. The recycled materials appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, and the lightweight design ensures comfort and packability for outdoor adventures. The features such as PitZips provide enhanced ventilation and temperature regulation during high exertion activities.
Performance & Functionality
The Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium performs its primary function – keeping you dry – exceptionally well. The waterproof fabric and taped seams effectively block out rain, while the PitZips provide adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. It meets my expectations for a lightweight rain jacket.
However, the breathability could be slightly improved, as I did experience some clamminess during high-intensity activities. The Attached Adjustable Hood is a great feature, offering good coverage and staying securely in place even in windy conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium has a simple, functional design. The Regular Fit allows for layering underneath without feeling bulky. The jacket’s lightweight construction makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
There’s a slight learning curve in mastering the art of stuffing the jacket into its own pocket, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quick and easy.
Durability & Maintenance
The NanoPro Eco Recycled Nylon Ripstop fabric seems durable enough for most outdoor activities. While I’ve noticed some minor wear and tear, the jacket shows no signs of major damage after months of use. Maintenance is simple: machine wash on gentle and hang to dry.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium comes with minimal accessories. The primary “accessory” is its own pocket, which it stuffs into for compact storage. The hood is adjustable, and the cuffs have Adjustable Velcro Cuffs for a customized fit.
It’s compatible with layering pieces from Marmot and other brands, allowing for versatile use in different weather conditions.
Pros and Cons of Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium
Pros
- Lightweight and Packable: Ideal for backpacking and travel where weight and space are critical.
- Waterproof and Windproof: Provides reliable protection from the elements.
- Eco-Friendly Construction: Made with recycled materials and a PFC-free water repellent finish, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
- PitZips for Ventilation: Allow for temperature regulation during high-exertion activities.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers excellent value for its performance and features.
Cons
- Breathability could be better; may feel clammy during intense activities.
- Durability is adequate, but may show wear and tear in high-abrasion areas over time.
Who Should Buy Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium?
Perfect for: Hikers, backpackers, campers, travelers, and anyone needing a lightweight, packable rain jacket for everyday use. It’s also an excellent choice for environmentally conscious individuals who want a sustainable outdoor gear option.
Who should skip this product? Those who require extreme durability for rugged terrain or very high breathability for intense aerobic activities in wet conditions might want to consider a heavier-duty jacket with a more advanced waterproof/breathable membrane.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A lightweight base layer and mid-layer for colder conditions.
Conclusion on Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium
The Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Women’s, Extra Small – Medium is a solid, reliable, and environmentally conscious rain jacket that offers excellent value for its price. It’s not the most breathable or durable jacket on the market, but its lightweight, packable design, and waterproof performance make it a great choice for a wide range of outdoor activities. At $83.99, the price is definitely justified.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable rain shell that won’t break the bank or weigh them down on the trail. Gear up, get outside, and stay dry with the Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket!