Guide Gear Review – Marmot Women’s Nano Jacket

This summer was wetter than previous years, making the Marmot Nano Jacket an essential in my climbing pack.  It was field tested, not on purpose, on the heaviest hailstorm of my life while climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park.  Fortunately, the storm hit after we’d descended, but the heavy rain and hail pounded on us for at least 45 minutes.  “I am soaked” said my partner, and I almost instinctively said, “me too”, but stopped. “I should have been soaked by now … but I’m dry,” I thought to myself while walking through a few inches of hail.

The key to staying dry are the Nano’s features: GORE-TEX® with Paclite® Technology, water-resistant front and pocket zippers, sleeve cuffs with simple Velcro adjustments, along with an awesome hood!  The hood goes over a helmet and has a stiffened laminated brim, so that water does not run down onto your face or flip around in the wind.  There is a draw cord hem in the back for adjustability in serious weather, and the Nano’s ripstop nylon stands up to bushwhacking abuse.  All this construction is made very simply.

For most of the time, my Nano Jacket lives in my pack.  Since it only weighs 7.7 oz., I do not hesitate to throw it in my backpack even on a fine weather day.  But every once in a while, when I need it, the Nano does a great job keeping me dry.  If you are looking for a waterproof jacket with minimum weight, this is it.  I suggest this jacket for hiking/backpacking, alpine climbing, cycling, skiing, fishing and anything outdoors. Yes, there is men’s Nano Jacket as well, so even smelly boys can stay dry!

Written by CMS Guide Norie Kizaki

AMGA Certified Rock Guide