Used & Abused Review: PATAGANIA TORRENTSHELL
MY PATAGANIA TORRENTSHELL HAS been a handy companion during my adventure-race training over the past three months. I’ve worn this waterproof, windproof and lightweight jacket to my early morning kayak training sessions and while it has kept my upper body warm and dry, I haven’t overheated. Although the mornings have been cool, I think my even body temperature is owed to the fact that the Torrentshell is made from 2.5 layers of H2No – a fabric that combines a waterproof and breathable laminate with a high-performance shell material and which keeps you dry while allowing body heat to escape.
I love that for the windy mornings on the water I can get extra protection by adjusting the Velcro cuffs and draw-cord hood. And, when the weather gets warmer and I start to heat up, I can unzip the pit-zips for extra ventilation.
I’m also impressed with how easy it is to carry around because it folds up to be super small – many a time I’ve chucked it in my handbag and been on my way. Also, after seven training sessions it still looks as good as new, there’s no whiff of body odour and it hasn’t needed a wash. Big points for convenience.
And importantly, I’ve found it to be really comfortable during kayak training due to the elbow and arm articulation and the gusseted arm pits. I’m a big fan of the colour and style – it may be a jacket designed for training, but you’ll often find me wearing the Torrentshell around the office when the air-con is on overdrive.
RRP: $195, www.patagonia.com.au
