User Review: Patagonia Retro Cardigan

Patagonia Retro Cardigan
Above: The current Retro Cardigan, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed December 18, 1998 by Trevor

Rating:
Fabric: Polyester pile with inside mesh lining
Price Paid: $160 (approx.)

I've had this jacket for around ten years now, having purchased it in the late 80's. It has held up well, although I cannot say that I have really abused it. It is always charmingly ugly and when the wind does not blow, it is warm. When the wind does blow, forget it! The amount of air permeability is the major drawback to this piece (yes, it does 'breathe' well). I was not surprised at all to see the development of windstopper-type membranes applied to this jacket (now available as the Retro X cardigan)-- it needs it badly. In sum, Retro pile performs well under a shell or in still weather, but avoid solely relying on it for warmth in cold, windy weather.