In a striking instance of outside-the-box thinking, Marmot’s Warmcube lineup is a unique take on the synthetic puffer jacket. As the name implies, the insulation method here is distinctly geometric, the Warmcube traps rectangular blocks of synthetic insulation inside sewn baffles to trap heat in cold, wet conditions.
Marmot has capitalized on the Warmcube concept in a fully fleshed out line of outwear, and this adaptable active model is our favorite.
There are a couple of big advantages immediately apparent in this build. The first is fill retention: where most puffer jackets hemorrhage their insulation if punctured, these baffled cubes of foam tend to keep damage localized, barring catastrophe. The second is freedom of movement. The cubes are compressible and have less of the claustrophobic feel of traditional down jackets.
If you’re in the market for a new active mid-layer, we recommend giving the Warmcube Active Novus a look.
Things we like:
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Flexible, motile mid-layer great for getting active
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Retains insulation better than typical puffer jackets
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Sleek look for casual use
Things we don't like:
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On the pricey side for a synthetic jacket
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A down jacket would be lighter
- Material: 100% recycled ripstop nylon, Thermal R synthetic insulation,
- Type: Mid-weight Synthetic Puffer
- Waterproof/Windproof: No/No
- Details: Allergen-free down-like insulation, gusseted underarm articulation, zippered hand warmer pockets, adjustable drawcord hem
- Weight: 1 lbs 2 oz
Things we like:
-
Flexible, motile mid-layer great for getting active
-
Retains insulation better than typical puffer jackets
-
Sleek look for casual use
Things we don't like:
-
On the pricey side for a synthetic jacket
-
A down jacket would be lighter
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