Gear Review: Marmot Mica Ultralight Shell
While editors were wringing out their socks, nothing penetrated the Mica's waterproofing.
For complete waterproofing for the least weight and bulk, nothing beats the Mica (women’s version is the Crystalline). It delivered on a three-day Adirondack soaking that ended with testers wringing out their socks. It’s made with Marmot’s MemBrain Strata, a ripstop nylon laminated to a polyurethane membrane with a silky inner coating that keeps it from feeling clammy. The translucent fabric looks delicate, but it held up well to normal wear and tear on several multiday trips. Downsides: Breathability is fine for moderate trail hiking, but not for steep, sweaty climbs; the DWR wet out (but the fabric didn’t leak) in prolonged rainstorms; and the low pockets aren’t hipbelt friendly.
$130; 6.5 oz. (men’s M); men’s S-XL, women’s XS-XL; marmot.com.