Description of Marmot Super Hero Softshell Jacket - Men's:
You probably don’t want to try flying in the Marmot Men’s Super Hero Softshell Jacket, but thanks to Gore Windstopper fabric, you’ll feel pretty close to invincible when entering harsh alpine conditions. Part of Marmot’s M2 Softshell series, the Super Hero’s comfortable and stretchy construction blocks 100% of wind and repels water, making it ideal for everything from spring skiing, to alpine rock climbing, to a trip to the local pub. A zip-off hood and vented underarm gussets give you versatility in changing conditions. Marmot added reinforcements on the shoulders and elbows for gritty rock climbs, and DriClime microfleece on the collar and chin guard for added comfort.
Bottom Line: Get that superhero feeling, minus the flying, x-ray vision, and superhuman strength.
This is an outstanding jacket. When you first pick it up, it is so light you think there is no way it will keep you warm. That would be wrong. Part of the reason for that is the WindStopper.
This jacket is ideal for use in a three layer system. The perfect second layer to use with this jacket is a Marmot DriClime Windshirt. Vary your baselayer weight (silk, midweight, expedition) and you have a jacket good from 15 degrees on up. For even colder temps, add (or replace the DriClime) a Primaloft vest, such as the Patagonia Micro Puff. Stay away from fleece midlayers as they will not move as freely with the jacket.
This jacket does not have pit zips, but if you have the right midlayer on, this will be no problem. Just make sure your midlayer is very breathable (the DriClime is perfect for this) and the breathable underarm panels on the Superhero will do their job.
Also, this jacket is cut an inch longer in the back, which is nice.
Pros:
Fit was good, almost athletic cut like Arc
Gore Tex works really well
VERY LIGHT
Nice pockets
NO problems with zipper
DWR performed well
CON:
Could not get over that Darn Collar. DUDE its huge. EVEN when I unzipped the hood the collar was still gynormus.
I do want to warn people about the sizing. I own 10 yr old Thunderlight and the Tech Sweater from Marmot which I still wear regularly. I own both in MEDIUM and they were loose on me. When I purchase the Superhero I got the Large and it fit me perfect. I'm 5'7' 175lb. with broad shoulder. Either Marmot resize their jackets by making them smaller like TNF, MHW, & ARC or the cut of this jacket is different.
I couldn't get over the collar so I had to return it.
High quality construction with an athletic fit that's breathable, wind-proof, and nearly water-proof are what make the Super Hero my "go to" outer-layer for all but the stormiest days, and then it's an outstanding mid-layer. Great buy.
