Marmot Njord Down Review

Performance Comparison

Warmth

Stuffed with quality high loft 700-fill-power goose down, this jacket kept us warm on blustery days with blowing snow. The goose down is a great insulator, and although the majority of the down is concentrated around the trunk, there is still insulation along the sleeves and down to the bottom hem of the jacket. The long cut of the trench coat keeps more of your body sheltered from the elements and prevents cold updrafts from stealing away heat. While this jacket is warm, the Canada Goose Expedition Parka is still much warmer.

Weather Resistance

Marmot uses their own two-layer waterproof/breathable fabric called MemBrain for this jacket, and this fabric held up well to exposure to snow and sleet. Underneath the shell, the down insulation is coated with a hydrophobic chemical treatment that will keep the down loftier for longer in wet conditions. We liked the long cut, which keeps more of your body protected, and the adjustable cuffs that allow for a tight seal against the cold, though as the only jacket in this review without a hood, it is better at looking good than really keeping you dry, especially if it is raining or sleeting. With a rib knit collar that is so easily exposed, the neck got cold and frosty when it was really nasty out. Having a removable hood like the Arc'teryx Camosun Parka is a better option for those who live in wet environments.

Comfort

With a soft texture despite its durable finish, the outer shell is smooth against the face even without a fleece chin guard, and the inner fabric has a comfortable sheen as well. Two front hand pockets are lined on both sides with plush fleece, and are easy to fit gloved hands into. The rib-knit collar is soft and cozy on the back of the neck too. Those with medium to wide shoulders may find the cut of this jacket too narrow for their given size, and without gusseted underarms like those on the Arc'teryx Koda Parka, the sleeves lift quite a bit when reaching your arms up over your head.

Features

Since this is a full-length trench coat, we were happy to find a double zipper on this jacket, which is a must for sitting comfortably while wearing such a long jacket. Two fleece lined hand pockets, and one Napoleon pocket give outside storage options, while the interior has a drop in wallet pocket and a zippered media pocket with a headphone port and ear bud channels. The lack of a hood certainly sets this jacket apart from others in this category; though it does so in the name of style, this model is at a disadvantage when put into real winter weather conditions.

Style

With an urban sensibility and clean stylish lines, this jacket is comfortable in formal situations. The soft collar is easily folded down to reveal the top of a dress shirt or suit jacket, and the neutral onyx and black colors blend in easily with professional attire. This coat offers a similar refined style with a lot more warmth than the Mountain Hardwear ZeroGrand Trench.

Durability

The MemBrain outer shell is durable and able to withstand the use of everyday casual wear. The zippers are all of good quality and the snaps that secure the storm flaps covering the zippers and pockets are large and durable. The Velcro closures on the wrist cuffs appear solid, though come undone too easily.

Best Applications

This jacket is designed for those in cold temperatures who need to maintain a high level of personal appearance, but do not expect the need for protection from wet weather for long durations. The lack of a hood is a stylistic omission, and while it was a deal-breaker for some reviewers, others gravitated towards the hoodless look.

Value

For $425, we feel that this jacket is a good value. It has quality construction, uses time-tested materials and has an elegant style. It is not as versatile as other casual jackets and has a narrow fit range, but if it fits you, it's a warm and durable jacket at a reasonable price.

Conclusion