Like Nearly Everything, Except the Fit

By root4tigers Ranked #261 - Men's Ski Jackets January 16, 2009

I've been searching for two years for a jacket to replace my old Gore-Tex shell, which just looks out-of-date. I thought this could be the one! I just received the jacket (size S, jacaranda green) yesterday and I like nearly everything about it, except the fit. I am 5'8" and about 160 lbs., with a neck size of 15-1/2" and chest size of 39-40. I usually buy size medium clothing. But, based on other reviewers saying this jacket runs large, I decided to order the small. Well, in terms of body length and sleeve length, the small is about right. But it's just too tight in the chest. I could probably get away with it in warmer temps when I'm wearing just a minimal base layer. But if I add a fleece-type mid layer for the cold, it's just too tight. The jacket does stretch a little bit, but I don't want my jacket to fit like Under Armour. I haven't tried on a medium yet, but based on how the small fits, I'm guessing the sleeves and body length on the medium will be too long. I suppose if Patagonia offered a Medium Short, that would probably be perfect for me. I would say that size Small would be ideally suited for someone who's about 5' 9", 150 lbs, with a size 36-38 chest. On the bright side, I really like the fabric (good, solid feel and a little stretchy), the design (pit zips, plenty of pockets, removable hood that appears to fit over a helmet), and the look (sleek and contemporary.) And while the green color is pretty cool and unique, it's not exactly what I thought it was going to be. In the photos I saw online, I was expecting the contrasting color (on the side of the body and inside) was going to be more like a dark brown, but in reality its more like a deep pine green. This coat is probably great for the right body type, but unfortunately, I'm going to have to return it. Hope this helps your decision.

View Details: Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket - Men's

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