User Review: Patagonia Down Parka

Patagonia Down Parka
Above: The current Down Parka, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 16, 2004 by Dm

Rating:
Price Paid: $150

This jacket is deceptively warm for its weight. I've had it for a week now, and used it for two separate trips. During both trips, it has proven to be ideal for making what would normally be uncomfortable belaying, camping, and sleeping conditions, easily tolerable. Nevertheless, I'm readily able to admit that many of these accolades could stem from the sheer newness of this piece. But, seriously: this is Patagonia. That should satisfy any skeptic.

One point that I haven't tested though, is the durability and water resistance of the shell. It's crazy how thin this stuff is. You feel like it's going to rip with every snag. But, surprisingly it's still intact. We'll have to see though.

Another point: this is a coat for people who are going to use it for what it is intended for: horribly cold conditions one might face, either alpine, ice, and/or rock climbing. Style seekers beware: it's much too puffy to be a social/street piece, despite what Outside Mag. might say. Look to Mountain Hardwear for those goods.