We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket – Men’s and summarize the results below:
Universal Ranking
PeakScore: 76 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4 stars
Expert Rating: 3.4 stars
Number of Ratings Reviewed: 470
Pros & Cons
Reasons to buy:
User Reviews
- Hood features cinching for adjustments and a rigid bill to keep elements out of your face.
- Range of color choices.
- Hood is big enough that it can fit under or over a helmet, which is especially useful in climbing or mountain biking.
- Pit zips to aid in breathability.
- Has shown reliability in windy conditions.
- Can be stuffed easily into left pocket for packability.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other rain jackets.
- Longer fit in the back which can be useful when wearing a backpack, or performing repeated overhead motions.
- Velcro on cuffs for adjustability.
- Good jacket for layering if you get the correct size.
Expert Reviews
- 2.5 layer H2No laminate fabric is relatively breathable.
- Hood has good peripheral-oriented features.
- Large and stiffened brim on the hood.
- Waterproof hand pockets attempt to keep water out, even though they sacrifice breathability.
- Good mobility and range of motion in the jacket’s material.
- 50D ripstop 100% recycled nylon face is very durable.
- Reversible pocket and clip-in lock for easy storage and compactibility.
- Wrist cuffs are lined with soft taffeta.
- DWR coating and windproof exterior offer adequate protection from the elements.
- All zippers have storm flaps.
Reasons NOT to buy:
User Reviews
- Inner layer deteriorates over time.
- Rain flaps get caught in the zipper.
- Some reports of zippers being flimsy and breaking after use.
- Not necessarily fully waterproof in heavy or prolonged rain.
- The H2NO white plastic material on the collar can be seen when stowing the hood away.
- The zippers on the pit zips have a tendency to jam.
- The material can be noisy.
- Hand pockets are not mesh lined, which can help keep warmth in, but do not aid in breathability.
- The neck tags and loops can irritate the neck.
- No chest pocket.
- Reports of hand pockets leaking and water pooling inside.
- Despite pit zips, the jacket is not very breathable, making this an undesirable choice for prolonged activity.
- Doesn’t provide much warmth on its own in colder temperatures, so would need a layer underneath.
- Hood can be difficult to stay secured in strong winds.
- A comfortable fit, but more of a snug fit than an ‘athletic’ fit as advertised.
Expert Reviews
- Small zipper pulls and cord locks make zipping more difficult.
- Coated membrane isn’t as long-lasting as other internal materials.
- No fleece patch on the chin to prevent chaffing.
- Pockets sit under a waist-belt, which can hinder accessibility.
- Exterior will start to absorb moisture in heavy rain.
- Unsecured overlapping flaps do not stay secured.
- Not a high-tech jacket, so overheating is common due to lack of breathability.
- Not the best price for a lack of high-tech features.
- ‘Athletic’ fit but may need to purchase a size up to allow for layering and enough room.
Summary:
The Patagonia Torentshell Jacket for men provides a basic 2.5 layer jacket which features a wide array of color options, stylish fit, basic rain and wind protection, and adjustable hood. The durability and expert-crafted hood make this a decent choice for hiking or around town, but a lack of technical features and less-than-perfect waterproofing make this not an ideal choice for prolonged outdoor adventures.