The outer material is not the same according to the SG website. M7 uses Hydrashield SS and M5 uses the standard Hydrashield 3-L. I have the M7 and have seen the M5. the M7 is softer and quieter than the M5. IMO the M7 is the better all around choice as a do all outer layer. The wieght is less than the Yukon, not much more than the M5, and is extremely durable and weatherproof. The M7 has replaced my Kuiu Axis jacket. The Axis was slightly quieter, about equal warmth, but lacked the waterproofness/wind blocking to be a do all jacket. I did like the axis but it was difficult to layer with and liked to grab thorny brush. M7 sleeves are a bit long , but thats not a big deal, and rain gear should have slighlty longer sleeves. So far I have really liked the M7 and have been comfortable 45 to 25 with just a base layer. I try not to layer as much as possible. Its annoying to me to have to change layers all the time, and packing those layers ends up more weight anyway. The M7 has been the fix for this in most situations and I have come to really like its versatility.
