Comments about Marmot Genesis Jacket (Men's):

Bought this to compare with the ArcTeryx Venta SV. The Genesis is advertised as being for intermittent aerobic activities. Very true. You're trading vapor transport for moisture/wind resistance. The pit zips obviously help but you can't overcome the basic fabric design. If the temps are cool enough (<20F) you can hike moderately without vapor/sweat build-up. The zippers are somewhat annoying in that you often need two hands to get the zippers up (and sometimes down). The SV zippers are one-hand, substantially larger and smoother. Snow and blowing snow resistance is great. I've only had light rain experience so far and all new jackets seem to handle that level well. Although I've only had the jacket a few months, durability seems very high, the nylon outer layer appears more robust than the SV. Pockets are good since the depth goes down to the hem instead of being arrested 2"-3" up like the Sv - this tends to uncomfortably bunch your trapezius after awhile. Also, the pocket zipper doesn't extend up too far toward the armpit which increases the pocket volume and opening and compromises hand warming ability. Odors like campfires and onions from your cheeseburger are absorbed by the SV but much less so by the Genesis. Sleeve length is 1/2"-3/4" longer than typical and I really appreciate this - good for short gauntlet gloves etc. Overall, I really like the protection of the jacket and I'm ok with the breathability trade. SV is a breather, less protection and you can't beat the drop collar.