I've been really impressed with a lot of what Marmot has to offer so this jacket caught my eye when I came across it. The first point of note was the fact that it had a 5 star rating after 90 plus customer reviews. That's a really good batting average so I thought a fuller review of the Marmot Optima Goretex Jacket was in order.
One thing I should mention from the start though ... I've searched around and I couldn't see many other places selling this particular jacket so I am wondering if maybe this particular model has seen the end of it's lifecycle. Doesn't really matter if that is the case but just thought I would mention it.
Anyway, let's jump in ...
Please note this product may no longer be available. You can view more men's rain jacket options here.
Summary
Brand and Model | The Marmot Men's Optima Gore-tex Pac-Lite Jacket |
Retail Price | |
Average User Rating | |
Pros | Waterproof breathable shell protects from rain and lets the torso breathe; Utilizes Gore Tex' lightest, most packable and breathable waterproof technology; Fully seam sealed for complete waterproof protection; Adjustable hood with fully reinforced brim; Easy access watertight Napoleon breast pocket |
Cons | Need to pay attention to the jacket cut and fit if you normally prefer a baggy jacket |
Best Uses | All types of hiking, general outdoor activities, day-to-day casual use |
Marmot Optima Gore-tex Pac-Lite Jacket
A great jacket that will meet nearly every hikers needs. This jacket mat no longer be available. If not, be sure to check out the next generation of it, the Marmot Minimalist jacket.
Review
The Marmot Optima Gore-Tex PacLite®, is made from Gore's lightest most packable waterproof breathable technology. The jacket is lightweight coming in at 1 lb so it's a perfect rain jacket to take with you when the forecast ahead is changing and challenging.
This ultralight, packable shell will keep you going hard through the worst of conditions. This jacket is a comfortable fitting waterproof jacket that provides breathable protection while on the move in any inclement conditions.
Durable and windproof, this jacket is an ideal travel companion that will fit snugly into your pack when not needed. The jacket is fully seamed with adjustable hood and storm flaps to provide full waterproof protection whether you're trekking on the trail or crossing the city.
See the customer ratings below for just how good this jacket is. With an average of 5 stars out of 5 across 90+ reviews, delivering comfort and style you can see why this waterproof hiking jacket is a popular choice among many.
Marmot Optima Gore-tex Pac-lite Features Summary
- Non-Insulated, Waterproof (All),Waterproof (Gore-Tex®)
- Waterproof materials: Gore-Tex® PacLite® waterproof breathable membrane
- Seam sealed: Full
- Pit zips
- Closure: YKK®,Zipper
- Zipper: Right
- Length: 28" (based on size large)
- Fabric: 100% polyester
- Waterproof rating: 28,000mm
- Breathable rating: 15,000
- Care: Machine wash/dry
- Total weight: 1 lb.
Conclusion
The Marmot Optima Goretex Jacket is a fitting companion for any hiker out on the trail. It not only looks the part with its sleek design and fit but it is also very functional. As always, a reasona of a quality jacket is the number of great customer reviews it has and this Marmot jacket comes up trumps in that department!
If you're new to buying a rain jacket for the trail, check out the buying advice here. Also, for some other great rain jacket options, check this page out.
Have you ever used the Marmot Optima Goretex PacLite Jacket out on the trail? I'd love to hear about your experience with it in the comments below!
Stephen Chen says
Hi,
The reason its hard to find the Optima is because Marmots Minimalist jacket is the same one just a different name so stores dont have to price match. This is what a gentleman told me anyways. He confirmed it with Marmot. The Optima costs about $40-60 less than the Minimalist.
Cheers!
Colm says
Hi Stephen, thanks for that, good to know.
I see it is still available at the links in the post which is good as it’s a decent rain jacket.
I don’t see it listed on Marmot’s product list anymore. I guess as you say, maybe they redesigned and repackaged it as the minimalist to have a more up to date product offering which can be sold at a higher price.