Gear Review: Marmot Heat Shield Jacket

It’s springtime in the Rockies…and I’m testing a lineup of quality jackets. And, as one of my favorite brands of all-time, Marmot has provided yet another stellar product: the Heat Shield jacket. This Windstopper for some of the most unpredictable weather months of the year is a must-have for any snowshoe day-tripper.

During my winter travels throughout the Rockies, the Heat Shield acted as a powerful blocker from the harsh wind. When snowshoeing in early March, I used this jacket regularly. And, it’s somewhat unassuming: It’s a fleece that does a substantial job blocking the wind. Go figure. I donned my usual baselayer and used the Heat Shield as my weapon of choice. It worked well…even during the harshest weather of the day.

I was amazed and happy with Marmot’s usual (and dependable) quality products. So, undoubtedly the Heat Shield is a good product, but what are the flaws? No pit zips, which is somewhat uncommon for a jacket like this. However, it almost doesn’t need pit zips – it’s feather-light weight and breathability make up for its unusual construction. But, that’s the Marmot standard hard at work. And, it works to the user’s advantage.

For those of you who care, the Heat Shield is also stylish and designed well. It certainly looks great and can turn heads for sure. If that matters to you, of course.

Specifications:
*Weight: 1lb 7 oz / 652 g
*Shell material: Micro Fleece P-720 Windstopper
*Reinforcement: M-300 Nylon Taslan

Features:
*Gore Windstopper
*Designed to fit over a light layer
*Nylon reinforcements
*Napoleon pockets
*Laminated Velcro cuff tabs
*Wind flap behind front zipper with chin guard
*Zip handwarmer pockets

For more information on Marmot products, visit http://www.marmot.com.  To purchase the Marmot Heat Shield Jacket from Backcountry.com, click here.