Contributions by Thaddeus (5)

OK, just so everyone knows I have a Denali, and a MH WindStopper, and Patagonia RetroX. I wasn't looking for warmth, or wind-stoppage. But, what I needed was LIGHT-WEIGHT flexible, and presentable for commuting to work (on bike). On hot days, I can put in pack. It needed to be long (it is longer in back). Needed protection from water (if I am on Ferry), or light rain. Some warmth in the fog. This Jacket WAS PERFECT. I would recommend for anyone as a jacket for the specific usage I voiced. It was my first Artyrx, and I like it a LOT!!! Great summer jacket. In winter, the Denali will come out, and the Retro. On the ridge, the MH. But, around the city, on bike, car, or hiking this is one awesome jacket.

I love the brand. My disappointment came from realizing the jacket wasn't constructed with higher priced GOR-TEX fabric. Of course, it's half the price. It is also fully comparable, extremely light-weight, and finally, well designed. I've stayed dry is several downpours, and look forward to the jacket becoming my main winter jacket. The light-weight makes it extremely good for layering. The jacket is long, 2 interior pockets, 3 exterior pockets, good venting, roll-up hood, and soft material around the chin-zip. A nice addition would be a sleeve pocket. If you can get this jacket, do it. You will not be sorry. If you want to spend twice the price for GORTEX, you can do that as well. But, I do not think you'll get a better jacket.

OK, I can't write the best review here, because it's my wife's jacket. (Christmas gift). But she loves it, claiming it's light-weight, flexible, warm (can't figure that comment out), and rain-proof. I know the jacket is very high-tech, and I think it's cool. Zippers, pockets, seams and fabric are first-rate. But, it is a light-weight shell meant for warmer rains. Here is the thing. My wife's not a gearhead like me. So anything she gives a positive review about any equipment, it's worth taking note. So I did.

Patagonia's products typically rock. Aside from being a bit bulky, the WeatherShed meets the high expectations one has come to expect from Patagonia. The compression works well, and the Weather-Proof features keep items dry in all the rainstorms that I've encountered (I have not tested full immersion). The zippers aren't as easy to access, but that is the price of weather-proofing. I recommend this duffle, in either size, to haul gear, or in my case (work-out) clothing to and from the office during down-pours. T.Chwierut

Quick Review : While dating my wife it was determined that I am to NEVER buy her clothing! I figured fine, I bought her all the cool mountain gear already,...nothing left to buy except Victoria's Secret. But this T-Shirt seemed like a can't miss, and my intuition was right! She loves it! So men, I rate this as a near can't miss.