Patagonia Jetstream Jacket - Men's - 2007 BCS

This is a lightweight basic shell. Although it has large pit zips and a pair of venting pockets, they are virtually useless for storage as they let the cold/wet in when opened. Anything placed in them such as a trail map will easily get clammy from condensation. Don't count on using them for storage. I've used it snowboarding for several days, and around town. The stretch panels work well to provide full arm articulation while remaining completely waterproof. Although it does not have a powder skirt the jacket is cut well enough so that little snow went up the back. The jacket is very thin, initially I was concerned about the durability of the jacket, but it has held up well through many falls and crashes. It can make a little noise, but I've only noticed occasionally. The hood does fit over my helmet, but was too snug to allow the full range of head motion I require when boarding. Overall I'm very pleased with this jacket, it looks sharp but low key on the slopes or in town. Not too pricey and it's versatile.

In a word, this shell is amazing. It keeps me dry from any kind of rain or snow, blocks any and all wind, is super light and packable, has a great hood that seals tight and still allows me to see when I turn my head (somehow, this is a rarity in these shells) and HUGE pitzips. What else can I ask for? Well, the green color is pretty sweet too, and is incredibly light! Wow. Runs true to size, I wear a Medium in everything from Patagonia, and this is no different. Highly recommended!!

It's not surprising that the company that brought us "high-tech" gear over a quarter century ago is still making some of the finest outdoor clothing available. I bought my first piece of Patagonia clothing in the late 1970's — still have it — and I still use it occasionally. I've owned many fine examples of Patagonia clothing since then.
Although I've [never-say-never] retired from extreme climbing, I still have the need for high quality, lightweight, waterproof gear for other pursuits. As an aspiring Professional Disc Golfer, I had need of a very lightweight, very waterproof jacket to be carried in my small, yet ample, disc golf bag. Colorado is one of the greatest states for disc golf, and we like to spray about how we play here year-around. Rain and snow are welcome, and it's not surprising to see disc golfers out on the course even in the worst conditions.

Pros:
The Jetstream has top-notch construction, it's completely waterproof, and stretch panels offer flexibility for any activity. The lightweight fabric can be compacted neatly and takes up very little room in a bag or pack. This is my go-to garment for heavy rain or snow. The closures are comfortable and easy to use. An adjustable drawstring around the waist gives allows fit for any activity. Generous pit-zips make it easy to vent when you're heating up, or it's warm but wet.
Last, but not least. It's made by Patagonia ... so I know it will be with me for years to come!

Cons:
With the invention of "soft-shell" rain/snow gear, I've become a little spoiled with products from companies such as Cloudveil and Arcteryx. They are so "quiet" to wear. When you are moving, you very rarely notice you have them on. The drawback? They are too big to compact into a small pocket.
Having worn many Gore-Tex products in the past, I am familiar with jackets that are kind of "noisy" — that can be annoying. The Jetstream is made of breathable 2.5-layer H2No nylon that is not silent, but it's not loud. The fabric is light and has some flex, so it's quiet enough not to distract me a whole lot.
The hood is LARGE. I would like some way to keep it in check [out of my face] when not wearing a helmet.

Summary:
Do I still prefer softshell jackets to hardshell? Sure I do! However, for the price [my wallet barely noticed the money was gone], protection, function, weight and compact size, the Jetstream is a great product. I highly recommend it. I'm proud to wear a green jacket made by one of the greenest companies in the USA. The Jetstream Jacket fits my needs perfectly.