Marmot Spire Jacket Review 2016

FEATURES

The Marmot Spire has a snow skirt, which is a real bonus if you are battling to a summit in the snow. It is made from 3-layer Gore-Tex, but it’s not the Pro version. The two huge chest pockets are sealed to prevent water passing through into the jacket. The stormflap over the front zip will help keep out draughts and dampness, while pit zips aid ventilation. The hood peak is stiffened but not wired. 4/5

FIT

Available in men’s S-XL and women’s XS-XL, the jacket is about 3cm longer than the shorter designs. The style was slightly ‘boxier’ than some others and the sleeve movement was not quite as good, as the cuffs and hem tended to ride up a little more than some. Hood fit was pretty good but I’d like to have been able to reshape the peak a little more effectively than was possible. 4/5

COMFORT

The Marmot Spire feels stiff and robust, so in rough weather it feels far more protective and comfy than lighter, softer jackets. Of course in calm weather it feels a bit stiff! The snow skirt is ideal for locking out winter draughts and powder snow. Condensation management is not quite as good as Gore-Tex Pro, but it’s plenty good enough. 5/5

IN USE

Having a snow skirt is a real bonus when you’re plodding through powder snow, and you can zip it out to remove 56g (though this is still quite a heavy jacket). I like the two huge pockets, but for me a third large external pocket would be even nicer. The hood is good but not quite the best, but it’s still better than many. Slightly better sleeve movement would also be good. So not perfect, but not far off either. 4/5

VALUE

The Marmot Spire costs less than many other jackets that have only tiny benefits, so in terms of value for money this is above average. RRP: £300. 4/5

VERDICT

A very robust jacket with a snow skirt that’s ideal for tough winter conditions – if it matches your needs. 4.2/5