Wilderness Review July 2010 - Marmot ROM $399
The old Antoine de Saint-Exupery saying goes that ‘Perfection is finally attained not when there is no longer anything to add, but when there is no longer anything to take away.’ Over the years it’s become a bit of an outdoor gear designers’ mantra and, if the ROM jacket’s elegantly pared down design is anything to go by, it’s a philosophy to which Marmot subscribes.
The ROM (Range of Motion) is a really nice clean, simple design with all the bells and whistles you need, but none of the bling you don’t. It’s not waterproof like some of the high end soft shells, but it’s Gore-Tex Windstopper while still highly-breathable and quick drying. It has some really nice touches built in, like breathable panels under the arms that do away with the need for pit zips and reflective logos – great if you’re using it on the bike.
Part of the appeal of the back country is that no one really cares what you look like, but it’s always nice to have gear that is presentable enough to wear around town, too. The ROM certainly ticks that box. My field testing saw this jacket go from muddy mountain bike rides in Skippers Canyon, to the pub; from drizzly Fiordland ridge hikes to meetings at clients’ offices…and then straight out trail running afterwards. In every scenario the ROM performed well and looked stylish (alas the same can’t be said for the wearer).
It’s not quite perfect, however. Two of the pockets are inaccessible with a pack on, and there’s no way to roll away the hood – which turns into a parachute in high winds (a bit silly for a Windstopper garment don’t you think?). Also, Marmot’s website mentions that the hood will fit over a helmet – strictly speaking that’s true, but it’s a squeeze. I suspect the hood is more about looking cool than staying warm.
But those things are minor grizzles; overall this is an excellent offering from Marmot. If you’ve already got a decent softshell, don’t biff it just to buy one of these, but if you’re in the market for one, I’d definitely take a look at the ROM.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
- Mark Banham
