Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket – Men’s

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.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web, including here: 1, 2, 3.