This is one jacket that I wouldn't hesitate to own two of. It weighs almost nothing and it's the kind of jacket that is nice to always have with you. I'm thinking about getting a second one to have always packed up and stashed away. It packs down super small - maybe the size of a tennis ball? - so it fits nicely in a camelbak, fishing vest, or ski pack. What has surprised me about it is how versatile it is, and how much I wear it. I bought it to keep with me while fly fishing and on bike rides in case of an unexpected storm, but it has turned out to be worn much more than that. It breathes really well, almost like a super lightweight soft shell, while still protecting against wind (very well) and water (pretty well). You can tell there is a really nice DWR coating on it, and the Patagonia construction is as good as it gets.

I expected it to be stuffy and clammy once I started working up a sweat in it, but it works really well in any temp you would use it in. I've even started carrying it with me on ski tours. Get one for yourself (or two!)

I've had this jack for three years now. Its lightweight material is super versatile...I use it for backcountry skiing in the winter, wearing it over a mid-weight base layer for ascents even in super cold temps then stash in the pack for the descent. Also, Fall mtb rides it's easy to stash in jersey pocket if I get too warm. Same for trail running...if I get too warm I can wrap it around my waist and not even notice it. The fit is a bit baggy but I don't think Patagonia could make it any more form fitted because of the material they use. Anyway, it's a keeper.

This is a great shell when you need to carry a shell, but dont need bomber protection. I carry this on mountain runs when you need to be protected from afternoon thunderstorms. The light weight and compact size fit easily in a small hydration pack or under a bungee on a hip belt. The shell does not breath the best, but it serves it;s purpose. I wore this jacket for the 2008 Leadville Trail 100 where it rained for the entire race. The jacket kept me dry enough to stay warm in the 40F temperatures.

An awesome lightweight piece. Don't expect it to keep you dry, but it'll supplement your layering system nicely. I always have mine in the lid of my pack as an extra layer just in case. It's light enough that I don't even notice the extra weight.

This is one jacket that I wouldn't hesitate to own two of. It weighs almost nothing and it's the kind of jacket that is nice to always have with you. I'm thinking about getting a second one to have always packed up and stashed away. It packs down super small - maybe the size of a tennis ball? - so it fits nicely in a camelbak, fishing vest, or ski pack. What has surprised me about it is how versatile it is, and how much I wear it. I bought it to keep with me while fly fishing and on bike rides in case of an unexpected storm, but it has turned out to be worn much more than that. It breathes really well, almost like a super lightweight soft shell, while still protecting against wind (very well) and water (pretty well). You can tell there is a really nice DWR coating on it, and the Patagonia construction is as good as it gets.

I expected it to be stuffy and clammy once I started working up a sweat in it, but it works really well in any temp you would use it in. I've even started carrying it with me on ski tours. Get one for yourself (or two!)

I own just about every soft shell out there from just about every manufacturer. For the most part, unless you are a committed, top notch, person, these jackets are a complete waste.

This jacket though is what 99% of the populace needs. It provides needed wind break, sun break, and insect break.

I I used it in DC when the sun disappeared and it rained for ten minutes straight in Arlington National Cemetry. Then I pulled it off and stowed it back in my pocket.

Then I used it as a fanny pack. Twirled up my small purchase and knotted the jacket around my waist.

I have been at the beach getting beat to death by the sun and put this thing on. Viola', no sunburn.

I have been in the mountains on a rest break getting bombed by mosquitos. Whipped this jacket out of pocket pulled it on and no more bother.

I was waiting on the top of an 11,000 foot peak for my partner after a trail run to the top. I was getting cold. Whipped out this hidden jacket and was warm, shielded from the sun, and the damn biting horse flies.

This jacket is it. I stuff it in my pack, I am 52 years old, for my bike ride to my office.

Oh yeah, I have been on a sunny beach, windy, in the 80's and feeling the sun burn me to a crisp. Pulled out my sky blue Houdini, and no more sun worries. Also, no sticky, smelly sun screen smeared all over me.

This jacket is a wonderful piece of travel clothing.

Good bye to sun screen and insect repellent, as long as I have this jacket.

The best color. Sky blue. Guys, I know. Sky Blue? Seriously, it is a manly color the way Patagonia did it.

Only $125.00. Now, can I return the closet of soft shells I own that promised this and at three times the price?

The best product I have owned in years.

Love how small this gets, its light, and an over-all nice jacket. The hood has a tightening system so instead of squishing the front so you can't see out, it tightens it around your head and to the back of the jacket so in high winds the hood will stay on your head and you'll still be able to see!

This, however, is not a rain jacket. It'll be ok for sprinkles or flurries, but not actual rain. I am thinking about washing it with Nik Wax to try and waterproof it. Other than the no protection from the rain, its a great layer, and if you're in buggy season, keeps the bugs from eating you alive without making you sweat to death.

Also the picture is a little misleading -- it looks bulkier and puffier than it actually is.

This is a great shell when you need to carry a shell, but don't need bomber protection. I carry this on mountain runs when you need to be protected from afternoon thunderstorms. The light weight and compact size fit easily in a small hydration pack or under a bungee on a hip belt. The shell does not breath the best, but it serves it's purpose. I wore this jacket for the 2008 Leadville Trail 100 where it rained for the entire race. The jacket kept me dry enough to stay warm in the 40F temperatures.

Well, the stars are neither here nor there. At 5'9" and 170lbs and quite wide in the shoulders a lot of Patagonia gear is hit or miss. This may be a nice jacket, but as the medium is too small and the large is too large, I'll never know. As usual, I'm left with Arcteryx as a reliable medium for us chunky types.