This jacket is probably good for walking around town in. But backpacking for extended periods of time in heavy rain is not its forte. Not only does it not breathe well, but the inside of the jacket got wet just hanging around camp in the rain. On one particular day while we were moving alot (9 hours) in continous rain, the thing was completely saturated. The pockets are also positioned in a way that makes this jacket uncomfortable to wear when you have a heavy pack on (they dig into your hips). I'd look elsewhere if you plan on being exposed to some serious precipitation for long periods of time. It was a running joke around camp that the jacket got its name because it would only work in a rain shadow.

As far as I am concerned, a good rain jacket is an essential piece of backpacking gear and this one fits the bill. I use it for rain and also for warmth at night. This one works great for both.

I wear it during two raining days and it's not breathable and I was wet after 3 hours walking under the rain.
Good for summer when there is light rain.

There isn't a thing about this jacket that I don't like. Awesome waterproof and breathability, lightweight and compressible for packing when not in use, and a great fit. The fit offers good coverage, and works well for any activity. I've worn this backpacking, ski touring, traveling in Central America, and as an every day rain piece. It has been very durable over the years and has never let me down.

The Rain Shadow is a great, durable product from probably my favorite brand Patagonia. This was my first true rain coat and before I really knew what else was out there it was fine. After more research and testing this jacket is to bulky and full cut. The extra material just provided more space to get hot and muggy in warm temps. It also doesnt breathe as well as some others out there in the same price range (Marmot Aegis for one). I love Patagonia and they always make great stuff this just wasnt what I was looking for.

This jacket was never very breathable, but it was light and it was waterproof. For about 2 years - then it became a sponge. I reapplied DWR coating (twice) to no avail, and finally returned it to Patagonia. I love Patagucc gear (especially my DAS, my down hoody, and my long underwear) but their h2NO fabric is far, far behind its competitors. Buy your rain gear elsewhere.

Two stars because it started out waterproof, and because Patagonia guarantees its gear as well as or better than any company on earth.

I've had this coat for over a year now (slightly different zipper designs) and it's served its purpose for moderate use. I've sat out at a ball game in a steady rain and stayed dry even though toward the end it started to look like the material was getting saturated (mainly shoulders of course). On warmer days, it does get a bit clammy even with the pit zips, but if you use it as a shell on cold windy days (skiing), it's great because it completely blocks the wind. The one thing that really annoys me about this jacket is the placement of the tag, hood strap, and hanger loop. With the hood down, these three things always either poke me in the neck or are exposed for the world to see. Stowing the hood doesn't look the greatest, either. Due to seam taping, it might be tough to relocate them, though, and still get the functionality. I got this for a great price and it's good for casual to moderate use around town or day hikes.

I own and use a lot of Patagonia gear. Had the 1st garment they ever made, the tan fleece jacket from Chouinard Equip. And I really love all this gear - the Das Parka is the best jacket I've ever owned!!!...but the Rain Shadow jacket...well, its an okay jacket but it does NOT breathe...this jacket sucks big time if you expect to stay dry. Its the equivalent of those yellow rubber rain jackets. Does NOT breathe. On the other hand, its the jacket I use for bike commuting to the office. I just wouldn't use it in the mountains where my life could depend in needing to stay dry.. It has a nice cut and is functional, but there's water all on the inside of it everytime I wear it if its raining out.

This works pretty well. It's not comfortable to wear with short sleeves, especially when it's cold. It kind of absorbs water, but it keeps you dry at least. The pockets are great.

I live in Utah and i love this jacket its perfect for hiking and stuff like that, but what i use it for is riding my street/dirt bike in all conditions. Blocks wind and rain very well. 5 stars The bomb

I've been using this jacket in the field for almost two months (when it rains). Withstands up to a few hours of moderate to heavy rainfall. I have yet to get wet wearing this jacket, but I've noticed the fabric becoming saturated after extended exposure to rain. Overall, I'm happy with this investment.