User Review: Patagonia Direct-X Jacket

Reviewed November 6, 2000 by STW

Rating: rated 5 of 5 stars
Fabric: H2No HB (or something like that...)
Price Paid: $350 or so

Well, if was finally time to replace the Lowe Alping Flash Jacket I've used for climbing, hiking, raincoat, etc. for almost 10 years. The thing wets out hopelessly now even after washing in that Nikwax stuff that's supposed to reapply a DWR. And, it's pretty dinged up with small tears, scrapes etc. It's been a good jacket; but it's time for something new.

After much research, I've purchased a Patagonia Direct-X Jacket. I've only used it on one trip since I bought it, and so far, I think I've hit the bull's eye.

It uses Patagonia's own waterproof/breathable fabric (similar to Gore-tex). I believe it may not be as breathable as Gore-tex, but in my experience the difference is negligible. It is completely waterproof, and the DWR is great. Not even the slightest trace of wetting-through. The fabric has a nice soft feel to it -- when you're climbing, it never feels stiff or feels like it's in the way.

However, it's the cut and the details that really make this jacket. It's designed for climbers -- it has a shorter length down to the waist that works better tucked into a climbing harness. The sleeves are long and don't ride up when you extend your hands in the air. The one-pull adjustable hood is really nicely designed - although I don't like the way it rolls down into a collar.

It's light, comfortable, weather-proof, breathable. Two big thumbs up.

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