Marmot Snaz Softshell Jacket - Outdoor Gear Review

Softshell jackets are unique hybrids offering insulation, wind resistancy, and water repellency. They can replace several items in a typical pack and have quickly become a staple for many outdoor enthusiasts.

The Snaz is one of Marmot’s newest softshells, rounding out their collection nicely. The medium-sized jacket we tested was a lightweight 1lb 9ozs and included many nice features like Napoleon pockets, collar and waist draw cords, and adjustable cuffs. It even comes in a variety of urban-friendly colors, unlike some Marmot products from previous years.

The fit and feel of the Snaz was impressive. It features a rounder cut than many other popular brands, resulting in a less-bulky product that fits closer to the body all around. The comfortable fit was possible in large part due to good elasticity in the shoulders and arms, providing lots of room for movement.

We put water repellency to the test in the field with a series of day hikes and backpacking trips, requiring moderate-to-high aerobic effort. Leveraging Polartec’s Windbloc® material as an insulating and wind blocking membrane, the Snaz held up well to the regular sprinkles of the Pacific Northwest and even the occasional downpour. The jacket seemed best suited for weather below 55 degrees.