Marmot Ion-2007 model

Hey JT,
I just saw these at Whole Earth Provisions down on Mockingbird and they looked and felt pretty nice. Please give us an update on how it performs for you when you get a chance. Thanks, Robert

I have one of the 2007 Ion's in XL. It weighs 5.467 ounces.

The L – size fit but was a little short in the length. I liked the added length of the XL even though it must weigh a bit more.

I also have one of the 2006 versions of the Ion so I am hoping for a big improvement.

I asked about the price drop and was told that Marmot said this material cost a lot less than Pertex Quantum. My guess is that the wholesale cost between the two fabrics is so close as to be a none issue.

I bought a 2006 Marmot late last year — it was a bit more breathable than my barely breathable old Golite Helios jacket. However, I was still dissatisfied with it.

After calling Marmot's Warranty Department early this year, Marmot allowed me to return and exchange the 2006 for a 2007 model. As indicated above, this 2007 model is made with a completely different material. Whereas the older model felt "plasticky" to the touch, the new model feels "silky" — very soft and comfortable. It also breathes much better than the old.

On a recent hike, I had a chance to fondle the famed (and much more expensive) Patagonia Houdini. Compared to the much-improved 2007 Marmot, the Houdini is even lighter and silkier! Reading others' posts, I also understand that the Houdini breathes better as well!

I was tempted to buy the Houdini and sell my 2007 Marmot — but finally decided against it. My old Golite Helios, 2006 Marmot, and 2007 Marmot were progressively more breathable — but each came at the expense of ever-decreasing ability to block the wind! Now, I am not saying that the wind blows right through (it doesn't) — but I did notice feeling cooler in the wind as the jackets became more breathable. I decided that the Marmot 2007 struck the right balance for me between breathing and wind-blocking. YMMV.

JT — Good luck with your purchase, I hope you like the 2007 Marmot as much as I do.

Hi Ben,

One other change I have noticed is the 2007 Ion has a heavier zipper. Looks like it might be a #5?? vs the #3?? on my 2006 Ion. I just got it and have only worn it once so far. I will wear it everyday on my nightly walks and see how it does. I know someone here in town that also has a 2007 and they like theirs a lot.

I also have a GoLite Helios and don't like it so it just hangs in my closet. I have two of the older Patagonia Dragon Flies and like it best of the 2006 Ion and Helios. Mine is one before the last Dragon Fly I think and I got them just before the Houdini came out. I like the full zip on the Houdini and was going wait and get one then I found the Dragon Fly on close-out and got two for $29 each. I may put a full zip in one of them someday.

Hi Bill:

Given all the nifty gear you've made, swapping a zipper is child's play for you. Since you've got two Dragonfly pullovers, yeah, you may as well convert one to a full-zip jacket.

Wonder how the Dragonflies compare to the current Houdini's?

Ben,

Someone talked about the difference once but I don't remember who it was and what they had to say about the differences.

I am working on a design that does not use a zipper to vent / open with. Zippers add some weigh and I really don't like to sew zippers. When I decide to bit the bullet and put a zipper someplace or change the type of zipper I take it to my "Zipper Lady". She does a real "Pro" job with all her sewing and doesn't charge a lot.

Still waiting on the Ion to show up ~Apr.20th but I had a feeling it was not going to be anything special, since the price dropped in half. Glad to hear others have already tried it. Will post an in depth report when it shows up and I have had a chance to use it.