I did a lot of research before purchasing this jacket and based on trying on Patagonia prior year models of fleece jackets, etc., I was convinced I was an XS. However, the R4 from 2004 fit me so snugly it was very uncomfortable, especially under the arms. I could barely get it off me without much pulling. It had to be returned. I went to a store and found that the small fit me much better. So as others have, I highly advise you purchase one size up from what perhaps you have worn in the past with Patagonia, as the R4 from 2004 and onward runs very small!

I have always appreciated Patagonia products, this is no exception. I plan on wearing it skiing under the R4 shell. I really needed added windblocking protection. I also plan to wear this as a stand-alone jacket. The only draw-back is that appears bulky but it doesn't feel bulky, just cozy. If you are looking for sleek appearance don't buy this jacket.

This is the warmest jacket I own! Great for cold and windy weather conditions. It has a beautifully flattering fitted style that is extremely slimming. I found it necessary to order a size larger to accommodate light layering, although you won't need much under this jacket without getting too hot!! If I could recommend an improvement, it would be to have a thin layer of material inside the jacket to allow you to slip your arms into the sleeves without bunching up baseline clothing. Be careful with the breast-pocket zipper as both the jackets I got (yes, one in each color) didn't have zipper-stops. This has become my favorite jacket, lightweight and versatile. Highly recommend!!

The R4 is a great jacket. Form fitting, plush on the outside, and both warm and wind-resistant - a combination I've really been looking for. I tend to be chilly, and this jacket keeps me warm.

To those who say it has no pit zips, I suggest that the front pockets open up right down to the mesh liner and function great for ventilation particularly when backpacking, since pit zips don’t really work with a pack on.

Only small complaint is that the R4 could be a little longer in the front, but it's probably ideal with a climbing harness on.

I looked for a long time for a truly warm fleece jacket. Down is warm but when it gets wet, no warmth. This jacket is pricey but worth every single penny. I used it in Montana at about 6,000 feet and even in high-wind conditions I was toasty warm. It also layers nicely under my rain coat, and it looks great on its own. I own a lot of Patagonia gear and this is truly my favorite (along with my R1 pants)! And all of my Patagonia has worn like iron and looks as good as the day I purchased it! You'll love this jacket!

I had been looking for a really good windproof fleece for about six months before I finally decided on the Patagonia. Accordingly you can probably figure from this that I'm pretty thorough with my research and require good value for my money. Everything I've ever bought from Patagonia has performed as promised and lasted for many years and this jacket is proving to be no exception to that legacy of excellence. It is warm to a fault, I really like the look and form-fitting styling, and it really *is* windproof. I wore it for a walk on the beach (northern CA beaches are quite windy) and what could have been a cuts-like-a-knife wind, barely touched me. The only thing that kept me from rating this a 5 is the fact that the arms are cut a bit too close (precluding any significant layering under this jacket) and the jacket is a bit tight under the arms. However, it has been stretching a bit as I wear it and I'm sure it will eventually feel just fine. For a lightweight layer under a rainshell, or on its own, this jacket is fantastic and performs as promised.

I love my new jacket! It is warm, lightweight, fits me well, has a cute cut, and a great color--Purple!

This jacket is incredibly warm—it doesn’t let any wind slip through the fleece. It’s not incredibly stretchy, so I ended up returning it and getting one size up from my normal size but the length is still perfect. Insulation is much thicker than my old North Face Denali, so great for cold windy winters!

The R4 is amazing, I love it. It is a great fleece for the cool chill of fall / spring mornings and evenings, and can even be used in the cold winters. Its great windproof and soft material is also very manageable and can be packed away taking up little room while traveling!