I'd been searching for a lightly insulated, waterproof hooded softshell for a while, and this Marmot model fit the bill exactly. Most of what I found online have the hoods as helmet-compatible which means it's too big and balloon-y over the head for a non-helmeted wearer. When I saw a vid of this being worn, I took the plunge. That was easy since it's at least half as pricey as similarly capable jacket from Arcteryx.

As described, it's fit is athletic. If you have a potbelly, it will nudge you to shed the fat to look good in this jacket and that cannot be a negative. It is about two to three inches longer down the hem than my other softshells and I appreciate that because you get the essential butt coverage that you usually get only from a down parka or long wool coat both of which are not as light or packable.

It shipped in a small box measuring 8x6x4" and was packed tight with no wiggle room which attest to its compressibility. It will occupy little space when stashed in your pack or even a messenger bag.

I haven't really tried it on in the cold since I got this at the tail end of spring and haven't verified earlier reviews of how incredibly warm it is. What I experimented on is its waterproofness, which I did by putting a sleeve under tap; water just beads off and there is no feeling of any moisture at all on the fabric when I touched it afterwards. Though I don't intend to use it as a full-pledged raincoat, there will probably come a time when all I have against sudden rain is this jacket and so I hope the stitches don't let in moisture too.

Overall this is an excellent purchase for me and I look forward to making it pay me back with comfort and security from inclement weather for many years.