Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka Review

The Tres is highly versatile, thanks to its modular construction. It also boasts powerful weather resistance and great styling.

Performance Comparison

Warmth

Although not the most insulated, the Tres 3-in-1 is warm enough for most winter use. The down sweater provides insulation in the form of 700-fill power down. The shell layer also has a hanging nylon layer, which provides even more space for air to be trapped. Unfortunately, the handwarmer pockets in the shell jacket don't have any insulation, which can lead to cold hands on chilly days, and there is no insulation in the hood. Overall, this jacket is warm enough for most winter use, but if you are looking for a coat for the harshest winter conditions, you might need something a bit warmer.

Weather Resistance

The Tres 3-in-1 features Patagonia's proprietary waterproof, breathable membrane called H2No. The jacket effectively blocks all moisture from rain, snow, and sleet, almost on par with a traditional rain jacket. However, the zippers are not waterproof, and the horizontal openings to the handwarmer pockets allow precipitation to enter when users put their hands in their pockets on stormy days. Patagonia could have avoided this issue by using a vertical opening. Furthermore, the 3-way adjustable hood doesn't cover the face as much as other jackets on the market, but we still found room for a hat underneath. Patagonia's DWR treatment lasts a long time and effectively beads water, preventing liquid from soaking the shell's outer layer of fabric.

Comfort

The down sweater component, on its own, is very comfortable. But when the outer shell is zipped onto the exterior, and the jacket is used as a combined piece, the garment feels bulky and slightly restrictive as the modular layers rub against each other. However, it can be a cumbersome garment when combined, taking away from the jacket's comfort. The outer shell fabric is relatively comfortable against the skin.

Style

We like the style of the Tres 3-in-1. It is decidedly urban, with long, straight lines and angular accents, including two large flaps covering each handwarmer pocket. The classic Patagonia label is prominently displayed across the chest, which some testers like, and some don't. Other than the label, the jacket is elegantly designed and looks high-end.

Features

This jacket is loaded with features. The 3-in-1 design sets this jacket apart from the competition, allowing for tremendous versatility and the ability to be worn in fall, winter, and spring. It can be used in the form of lightweight puffy, windbreaker, or rain jacket. Furthermore, the Tres 3-in-1 has two large fleece-lined handwarmer pockets and two external chest pockets. The down sweater has two external handwarmer pockets, one exterior chest pocket, and one interior chest pocket. The hood has three adjustable pull cords to create a snug fit. The front zipper flap can be securely closed with buttons down the entire front of the jacket.

Durability

The Tres 3-in-1 features durable, tight seams and burly outer shell fabric. The nylon exterior of the down sweater is less durable, but this component will be tucked safely inside the shell layer in many cases. The zippers are large and feel strong, and a large interior front flap prevents any fabric from getting caught in the front zipper. Down insulation lasts a long time, and we trust that this jacket will provide warmth for many winters to come.

Should You Buy the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka?

Uniquely designed in the field of winter jackets, the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 provides excellent versatility, good warmth and weather protection, and classic urban styling for a reasonable price. It lacks the warmth and comfort that other high-end winter jackets provide, but those competitors can't offer nearly as much versatility as the Tres. If the 3-in-1 concept appeals to you, look no further.

What Other Winter Jackets Should You Consider?

A 3-in-1 design makes the Tres an inherently good investment, as this jacket will be much more versatile than any other winter jacket. It can be used as a winter parka, a shoulder season sweater, and a raincoat. But if you already have a jacket for all these scenarios, and you want a true winter parka, then you may want to look at the The North Face McMurdo Down Parka. Although not as weather-resistant, it is warmer and has more specific features that are good for intense winter temps, like a roomy hood and a more comfortable fit.