Patagonia Alpine Guide Softshell Jacket Review

Patagonia likes to brand this softshell as a climber’s jacket. After all, it has “Alpine” in the name and a ton of great features climbers will come to appreciate.  All of these are extremely useful when tackling peaks and heading into high altitude territory.  Yet users will arguably spend more time wearing it around town on windy or wet spring and fall days.  Regardless, it’d be tough to find a more versatile, comfortable, and favored jacket in your closet.  This is one you’ll have around for decades.

• DWR (durable water repellant) finish making it wind, water, snow, and abrasion resistant
• Stretchy and highly breathable
• Articulated sleeves
• Brushed fleece interior
• Chest pocket and two handwarmer pockets above the harness line
• Water resistant zippers
• Dual-adjust drawcord hem

Durability (10/10) – After years of use and abuse, the softshell shows little to no signs of wear.  Even after many washes, the DWR finish still repels water and snow nearly as good as day one.  Numerous brushes with branches, rock faces, and backpack straps have not had a noticeable impact.  This thing was constructed to last longer than Kings of Westeros.

Protection (9/10) – The elements are nary a concern when donning this jacket.  It repels water and resists wind nearly as good as a hardshell.  Even with this tough nylon and polyester armor, it still retains excellent breathability.  Opening the zips helps to maintain a comfortable internal temperature throughout activities.

Weight (9/10) – At just over a pound and with a slim fit, it never felt like a burden.  I’m more inclined to toss it in my pack as an emergency back-up for high altitude climbs even on warm days.

Versatility (9/10) – Spring and fall are when this softshell gets the most use, but I’ve used it regularly at high altitudes in the summer.  Its weight and flexibility make it a great choice for most outdoor activities.  Even on cold and snowy winter days (see video above), it works very well as an external layer for trail runs.  Just don’t stand around for too long…or at least have a down jacket to throw on top.