MSRP: $200
I was psyched when Vanessa handed me the Patagonia Men’s Down Jacket at the Snake River Brew Pub in Jackson Hole to try out. I was in town for some AMGA training and spent time touring in Grand Teton National Park and on Teton Pass. After wearing it around Jackson and some in the Northwest – where I’m based – I’ve found it very comfortable, well designed, and of course, warm.
Patagonia’s addition of down to its line rounds out its insulated technical clothing offerings. This jacket has been made with attention to detail. There is a no-snag backing to the front zipper that solves the ever-present nylon-eating-zipper issue. The unique quilted side panels offer a different look to the standard down jacket lines. A soft microfleece-lined collar and pockets add to the overall comfort of this jacket. And the new polyester shell is an improvement in durability over the first generation Patagonia down-shell material. At 22 ounces and 700-fill down, the Patagonia jacket is comparable to other brands’ similar products. The price point on this jacket, however, compared with other 700-fill models make it an excellent purchase. Though generally well fitting, it seems the boxy cut could be tapered a bit more. Whether at base camp or the Brew Pub, this down jacket will treat you well.