Hey 2'wheeler', thanks for the question regarding Polartec Neoshell and specifically the Marmot Nabu Jacket.
To start I would like to say that when comparing Gore-Tex and eVent fabrics to Neoshell, I find Neoshell has far better breathability and also quite a bit of stretch where as the other fabrics do not. These two factors alone made me a Neoshell believer and over the years of testing many, many jackets with various big name fabrics as well as proprietary ones, Neoshell still comes out on top for me.
Both myself and 'Admin#2' have been testing the Marmot Nabu Jacket since mid march of last year. We both skied the remainder of the season in our Nabu jackets and now that the weather has started to turn I have brought mine back out of the closet for these cold and wet Kooteany fall days. I have purposely been leaving my rain shell in the closet as I want to see how the Nabu and Neoshell can hold up to continued abuse of hikes and daily wear as well as non-stop rainy days (not just backcountry skiing). While it is still too early to tell how the Nabu will perform over the long haul it has so far been flawless. The Marmot Nabu Jacket has a soft shell feel unlike other Neoshell jackets that are more hardshell in nature. This is one of the best features of the Nabu Jacket, it also has incredible stretch and mobility but I want to ensure that the Neoshell retains its waterproof/breathable performance as well. Stay tuned for an updated review at some point over the winter where we will be sure to let you know how the Nabu and the Neoshell are both performing.
If you are interested in other Polartec Neoshell reviews have a read over the Westcomb Shift LT Hoody review, the First Ascent Neoteric Jacket review and the Mountain Equipment Arclight Jacket review. We'll also be reviewing the Montane Fast Alpine Stretch Neo Jacket and the Jottnar Bergelmir Jacket and Vanir Salopette Pants so check back for those shortly.
