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Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Review

A durable jacket with function focused design that will keep most satisfied, without putting a hole in your wallet
patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Patagonia
Price:  $179 List
Manufacturer:   Patagonia
By Ian Nicholson ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Mar 22, 2023
72
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#10 of 16
  • Water Resistance - 30% 8.0
  • Breathability & Venting - 25% 6.0
  • Comfort & Mobility - 20% 8.0
  • Weight & Packability - 15% 6.0
  • Durability - 10% 8.0

Our Verdict

The new Patagonia Torrentshell 3L might share most of its name with the older 2.5 layer version, but this extremely popular has certainly received a pretty major overhaul. The biggest changes involve the fabric itself, with the older Torrentshell using a 2.5 layer fabric, while the new version is a full-fledged three-layer design. This makes the jacket more durable and longer-lasting, as the internal tricot fabric does a better job than a "coated" layer at protecting the waterproof membrane from grim and sweat. Versatile and light enough as a just-in-case layer on shorter day hikes but tough enough for a rainy week-long backpacking trip, where you are likely to wear it all day every day.
REASONS TO BUY
Versatile
Durable
Long lasting DWR
Good stormworthiness
Minimal clammy feel
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
Average packed size
Mobility
And freedom of movement
Editor's Note: We revised this review on March 22, 2023 with info on updates to this jacket's DWR coating.

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Overall Score Sort Icon
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Pros Versatile, durable, long lasting DWR, good stormworthiness, minimal clammy feelStormworthy, versatile, durable, comfortable, high level of ventilationStretchy material, great freedom of movement, pleasant cut, solid storm protection, lightweight, compresses into its pocket, good valueIncredible price, Gore-Tex, solid weather protection, excellent hood design, weight and packed volumeBetter breathability than others in its price range, decent ventilation, roll away hood, nice pit zips, affordable
Cons Heavy, average packed size, mobility, and freedom of movementOn the heavier sideSo-so breathability, hood doesn't fit very well over a helmetWets out quicker than other Gore-Tex models, two layer design isn't as long-lasting, clammy interiorNo chest pocket, not quite as breathable as models that use non-coated membrane
Bottom Line A durable jacket with function focused design that will keep most satisfied, without putting a hole in your walletA fantastic all-around shell with great ventilation features in a fairly light, durable, and stormworthy packageA solid all-around option for the price, with great mobility and respectable storm protectionOne of the best values you can get for a piece of rain gear, this Gore-Tex model is packed full of functional featuresA great jacket that offers above-average breathability, with an excellent price tag
Rating Categories Patagonia Torrentsh... Outdoor Research Fo... Black Diamond Storm... REI Co-op XeroDry GTX Marmot PreCip Eco
Water Resistance (30%)
8.0
9.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
Breathability & Venting (25%)
6.0
9.0
7.0
8.0
6.0
Comfort & Mobility (20%)
8.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
Weight & Packability (15%)
6.0
4.0
7.0
6.0
6.0
Durability (10%)
8.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
6.0
Specs Patagonia Torrentsh... Outdoor Research Fo... Black Diamond Storm... REI Co-op XeroDry GTX Marmot PreCip Eco
Measured Weight (Medium) 14 oz 16 oz 11.5 oz 12.5 oz 13.5 oz
Waterproof Fabric Material 3-layer H2No Performance Standard shell 2.5 layer Gore-tex with PacLite Technology 2.5 layer propriatary BD.dry 2-layer GORE-TEX Paclite NanoPro
Pockets 2 zippered hand pockets 1 chest pocket, 2 hand pockets 2 lower hand pockets 2 hand 2 zip hand pockets
Hipbelt Friendly Hand Pockets No Almost No No No
Pit Zips Yes Yes Yes No Yes
Helmet Compatible Hood No Yes No No Yes
Stows Into Pocket Yes Yes Yes No Yes

Our Analysis and Test Results

Updated Torretshell
Patagonia is on a constant mission to make its products with more sustainable materials and less harmful practices and chemicals. Their latest update to the Torrentshell 3L boasts a PFC-free DWR coating, which means the durable water repellent finish no longer contains perfluorinated chemicals.

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is the newest version of Patagonia's mega-popular and value-focused line of Torrentshell jackets. The newest version has a 3L construction, which provides a step up from the previous 2L and 2.5L models they've made over the past decade. The fabric upgrade makes this model more durable, less clammy feeling, and improves its weather resistance, with almost no weight or packed volume penalty. This helps this model be incredibly versatile, remaining light and compact enough to throw in the bottom of your pack for even a short day hike, but durable and storm-resistant enough to carry into the mountains where the possibility of severe weather is very real.

Performance Comparison


patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Water Resistance


Not a lot of complaints here; this contender uses Patagonia's tried-and-true proprietary H2No waterproof membrane, sandwiched inside a durable 50D face fabric (which is thicker than average), and a durable tricot liner for a stormworthy 3-layer design. We were impressed by the weather resistance offered, and the Torrentshell performed well in real-world use as well as in our side-by-side shower and hose tests.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review - the torrentshell offered superior water resistance to most other...
The Torrentshell offered superior water resistance to most other jackets in its price range, and its DWR held up among the best in this category.
Credit: Ian Nicholson

The Torrentshell features a large hood with a stiffened brim and elastic cord that tightens around the user's face, helping to seal out the elements. While the hood is on the larger side, it should be noted that it does not fit well over a biking or climbing helmet. The front zipper has storm gutters on the front and the back, meaning you are more likely to stay dry while hiking up wet overgrown trails, or while traveling in exposed areas.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Breathability and Venting


We can't visually tell the difference in the 3-layer model's ability to move moisture versus the 2.5-layer model, but there was certainly a difference in feel; this is an aspect that all of our testers noted, particularly that the 3-layer design was less clammy. The new Torrentshell is not only significantly less clammy feeling than the previous 2.5-layer Torrentshell but compared to 2.5 layer models in general.

In fact, this is one of the least clammy feeling models in the $200 an -under category. There was an even bigger difference in warmer conditions, where the jacket was breathing less overall. While on the more breathable side for its price, it still scored lower compared to air-permeable models or jackets that used Gore-Tex Paclite, Gore-Tex Active, or eVent.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

To help with moisture and to dump heat, this product offers two 11 inch long pit zips, one under either arm. At 11 inches long, they are a good length, and assist in heat and moisture management. This is a reminder of the importance of layering appropriately for a given activity, as even the most breathable fabrics can't handle the average person hiking uphill when wearing too much clothing.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Comfort and Mobility


There's nothing too fancy about the Torrentshell, and it has a functional but minimally focused design. It doesn't have a fleece patch at the chin but does have one at the back of the collar, though this is mostly to absorb sweat and grim and keep it from working its way down to the waterproof membrane. The hood design is comfortable around its wearer's face, using three cord locks to adjust it and lock it into place.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Compared to other similarly priced jackets, the Torrentshell offers better mobility and range of motion with the least amount of restriction or bunching. The Torrentshell has shifted to a 3-layer design and feels far more comfortable against your skin and less clammy than previous models or similarly priced options.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Hood Design

The Torrentshell has our favorite hood design in its price range. We liked its drawstring closures, which allow the wearer to maintain a decent level of peripheral vision. While the hood is deep, it doesn't fit well over a climbing or bike helmet, and these types of users will need to wear their hood underneath their helmet.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Pocket Design

The Torrentshell features two basic waterproof handwarmer style pockets. These pockets sit under a waist belt while backpacking but weren't uncomfortable, as their zippers are low profile. For backpacking and mountaineering, we still prefer a model with pockets that are slightly raised and entirely out of the way of a pack's waist belt. This is so we have easier access to them and to avoid any possibility of them pinching our hips. After extensive use, we did not find the low pockets were an issue.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Weight & Packability


The Torrentshell stuffs into its left-hand pocket, and there is a webbing clip-in loop for securing it to a harness or backpack.

We liked the size Patagonia opted for its stuff sack/stuff pocket; it's not so hard that it is a total pain to get it in but small enough that it does a good job of actually compressing the jacket to minimize space in your pack or on your harness. The Torrentshell has an average packed size but is still plenty small enough to be used as a just-in-case layer while out on day hikes (and hoping to save weight).

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

The increase in durability and superior longevity does have a downfall, but it isn't a significant one. The Torrentshell increases its weight from the previous 2.5-layer version a total of 1.5 ounces, going from 12.5 to 14 ounces.

While 14 ounces is on the heavier side of jackets we tested, it can hardly be considered heavy. Its weight is in line with similarly priced models, and we feel the 1.5 ounce increase is well worth it for what you get in durability and versatility.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Durability


The Torrentshell is one of the more durable jackets we tested, which added to its versatility. Patagonia's construction quality is top-notch, and the 50D ripstop 100% recycled nylon face fabric is thick and more tear-resistant. The 3-layer design protects the waterproof membrane better than a 2.5 layer jacket would.


The durability makes it a better option for folks who are hard on their gear, but doesn't present much of a weight penalty. The Torrentshell is notably tougher than the 2.5 layer proprietary products we tested and thus will hold up better for extended backpacking trips, climbing, or off-trail travel.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Value


The new 3-layer version is a little bit more expensive than the previous model, and more costly than many "price-pointed" 2.5 layer jackets from competitors. However, we feel that its slightly more expensive cost is easily worth the investment for superior durability, longevity, and versatility. Sure, you can buy a less expensive jacket that will keep you dry, but no model that costs less will last as long with the same level of use; this 50D 3-layer design is simply going to last longer than 2.5 layers, which only have a coating to protect the waterproof membrane.

patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket men review
Credit: Ian Nicholson

Conclusion


The cleverly named Patagonia Torrentshell is a rugged but value-oriented 3-layer rain jacket. Its weather protection is fantastic for its price range, and it breathes reasonably well. It also sports a functional, comfortable hood and some of the better storm protection for the cost. It strikes an ideal balance of toughness and weight, and it's light enough to throw into the bottom of your pack and forget about for short afternoon hikes. While it's crafted with backcountry enthusiasts in mind, it's also an excellent jacket for casual hiking or strolling around town.

Ian Nicholson
 
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