We knew we had an exceptional waterproof-breathable jacket on our hands when, after field-testing the Super Mica for five months, one of our most jaded reviewers reported, "It's the best backcountry shell I've ever worn." The reason is pretty simple. Normally, ultralight jackets like the Super Mica save weight by forgoing userfriendly features. But Marmot has somehow managed to cram in just about everything you need in a storm shell—from a wire-stiffened brim to gaping pit zips to two big chest pockets—without hitting nine ounces. The fabric is key here. Marmot's 30-denier house-brand stuff is remarkably tough for how thin it is (it packs down to the size of a PB&J) and affords stout protection from the elements. Plus, at high-wear areas at the shoulders and hips, the jacket is reinforced with thin strips of laser-cut seam tape. Add it all up, as one tester summarized, and you've got "everything you want in a jacket." 8.3 oz; marmot.com
Breathability: 4.5 (out of 5)
Packability: 4.9
$200
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