Updated Tres Parka
Since we last tested this winter jacket, Patagonia gave it an overhaul. Updates to the outer jacket include two chest pockets instead of one, the switch to storm flaps and snaps from a waterproof zipper, and top-entry handwarmer pockets with zippers and a magnetic snap flap closure. The shell fabric is partially comprised of recycled polyester, and the inner down jacket has changed significantly; note the differences in the images below. The latest Tres Parka is pictured first, followed by the version we tested.
We are linking to the updated jacket, which rings up for $50 more than the previous version. However, since we haven't tested the new one yet, the review below still pertains to the last year's version.
Hands-On Review of the Tres 3-in-1 Parka
The Tres is the only 3-in-1 down parka we tested in this review. We have tested this style in our Mens Ski Jacket Review for years now, but this is the first time we have included one in our all-around Winter Jacket review. We like it. The utility is nice, but it comes with some inherent tradeoffs. Read on as we compare the Tres to the rest of this strong field. It compares in overall construction (that 3-in-1 design) to The North Face Arrowood Triclimate. But, it is more nicely made, better protects in wet weather, and includes down insulation while these other two insulate with fleece. Overall, the Patagonia is nicer than the other three in one style jackets.
The Tres in action at Grand Targhee, Wyoming.
Warmth
With down insulation and more-than-average layers of fabric, the Tres delivers a warm score in a svelte-looking package. The insulation is entirely concentrated in the inner, hoodless "down sweater." However, additional warmth is provided by the air space between sweater and shell, as well as the multiple layers of fabric in the shell piece. The sum is roughly similar to the warmth of Top Pick Arc Teryx Fission SV and former Best Buy winner The North Face Gotham III Parka. The top of the heap Editors' Choice Arc'teryx Camosun and Best Buy Marmot Fordham are both a little warmer. The main drawback in terms of warmth of the "three-in-one" design is that the hood ends up uninsulated. On the Tres, this is noticeable. The hood protects against wind and rain but lets the warmth slowly seep out.
Weather Resistance
The shell of the Tres is made of Patagonia's proprietary, waterproof/breathable laminated fabric they call H2No. The seams are all sealed and the zippers are waterproof. Only the Arc'teryx jackets and the Haglofs Torsang offer similar protection. For shelter from the gnarliest wind and precipitation, the Tres is immaculately equipped. The hood design complements the fabric with protective and sealing function.
The two parts of the Tres can be worn separately. Here, the shell is worn on its own. Notice the free-hanging drape of the loose shell.
Comfort
The inner part on its own is as comfortable as any jacket reviewed. It is essentially a down sweater hanging lightly and warmly on your frame. The shell of the Tres on its own is similarly loose and free, but made of stiffer materials. The catch, comfort wise, when choosing a three-in-one style jacket, is that all the extra layers of fabric and zippers make for a more confining construction. For the warmth and protection provided by the Tres, other jackets are far more comfortable.
Notably, the
Mountain Hardwear Therminator is quite a bit warmer and bulkier, but actually feels lighter. Similarly,
The North Face McMurdo is way warmer and feels similarly confining to the doubled up
Tres. For this level of warmth and protection, the
Arc'Teryx Fission SV is far more comfortable than the combined version of the
Tres. Separate the layers, however, and you return to a comfy jacket providing freedom of motion.
The down sweater "liner" of the Tres worn on its own is light, airy, and warm.
Features
The three-in-one status of the
Patagonia Tres is its most notable feature. The option to use just the shell, just the inner layer, or both together is a huge benefit. Beyond that the hood is effective, the pocket set is useful, and the various hem and cuff seals are solid. Aside from the three-in-one attribute, the
Mountain Hardwear Therminator offers a similar feature set as the
Tres. The other highly weather protecting jackets in our review, like the
Arc'Teryx Fission SV, do not offer as many features as the
Tres.
Like the best long coats in our review, the Tres unzips from the bottom up for range of motion.
Style
This is decidedly an urban coat. The lines are clean and the hardwear is metal. The cut is long and generous, sometimes confining motion but always looking great. We mentioned that there are drawbacks to the three-in-one style jacket, and style is one of them. When you separate the layers and wear just the outside, the shell hangs loosely and looks too big. In order to size the coat for comfortable "unified" wear, this baggy shell fit is inevitable.
The smooth style is most similar to that in the Editors' Choice Camosun. In some ways, the smooth style of these two will also appeal to those that dig the old school look of the Fjallraven Greenland or the Patagonia Isthmus.
Durability
In assessing durability we look for tight seams, heavy fabrics, and long-lasting insulation. The down used in the Tres' inner jacket will last a lifetime. The shell is constructed of beefy fabrics and sewn together with careful Patagonia craftsmanship. We have no reservations about the durability of the Tres 3-in-1 Parka. We anticipate the Tres to be similar in durability to the Camosun or Marmot Fordham.
Best Applications
This is a great, year-round jacket for the undecided, space-conscious user. Wear just the inner on crisp fall and spring days. Wear just the shell when its raining but not yet freezing. Pair the two for nasty weather in all but the coldest of climates.
For cabin life, a warm jacket system is clutch. The Patagonia Tres can provide that system, all in one.
Value
Just like the name says, with three jackets in one the value quotient of the Tres is worth noting. Those that live in areas with four true seasons will find a use for all three versions of the Tres. For them, this is worth the relatively high cost of admission.
Conclusion
As a truly unique piece in this high-end field, it is easy for the
Tres to stand out. Beyond the unique design, the
Tres is lauded for excellent construction.
The Patagonia Tres is a casual coat, with technical features. Notably, borrowing from their ski and alpine climbing jackets, the fully protective, articulating hood is very much appreciated.
