Patagonia Dragonfly Full-zip Jacket
Posted: 04/19/2004 In Category(s): Reviews :: Product Reviews
It took a couple of years to refine things but the Dragonfly concept has finally achieved near perfection. The new Dragonfly Full-zip Jacket is simultaneously sophisticated yet simple, versatile yet unobtrusive.
![]() |
Made entirely of 1.1-ounce triple ripstop nylon fabric with a good DWR finish, this is arguably the nicest windshell on the market. Compared to previous versions, the new generation of material is more breathable, has a softer hand due to a slight texture, and it's less transparent than before.
While skinning up long hills above treeline on backcountry ski tours, the jacket was a perfect complement to a mid-weight zip-T base layer. In the past, we might have worn something like the venerable Marmot Driclime Windshirt. But the Dragonfly was even better for high-aerobic output while taking the edge off a strong breeze. Since more skiers are opting for soft shell jackets, this is an ideal addition to the clothing system.
The entire jacket (size large) weighs just 3.6 ounces (102 grams), which is actually less than the catalog specification, and compresses to a tiny ball. For comparison, one of the lightest Gore-Tex PacLite jackets available, the Arc'Teryx Sirrus SL (a superb jacket itself), comes in at 13.7 ounces (388 grams). Sure, this is apples and oranges (water resistant/highly breathable versus waterproof/fairly breathable), but the Dragonfly is also a third the weight of the Marmot Driclime Windshirt. The Dragonfly also stuffs into its own chest pocket -- a feature sorely missing on many ultralight products -- which even has a carabineer loop.
As we've come to expect from Patagonia, the fit is impeccable. This is a shell made for athletic people who demand unimpeded movement when climbing, biking, skiing or whatever. There is also little excess fabric to flap in the wind; a noisy issue with less sophisticated shells. While simple, the hood is cut better than most and has a nice brim that works well with glasses.
At first blush, $135 seems like a lot for a simple windshell. But after using the Dragonfly in the field, it's obvious you get what you pay for. This is a product so good that any other changes would probably just screw it up…hence, our perfect rating.
SNEWS Rating: 5 hands clapping (1 to 5 hands clapping possible, with 5 clapping hands representing functional and design perfection)
Suggested Retail: $135
For more information: www.patagonia.com
| Rating: |
To learn more about how SNEWS® conducts product reviews, click here. |
|
|
Lilypond Roadrunner Carry-on Rolling Duffel Aug 30, 2010 Lilypond's Roadrunner duffel not only looks great, but this rugged hauler also stands up to the all the abuse airport luggage handlers can dish out. Read Review | Comment on this review | Go to all Product Reviews |
|
|
TrakFitness weight attachments Aug 23, 2010 Attach TrakHandles and a TrakBar to strength training equipment in your home or at a gym, and you'll have complete, smooth movement on three axes for better mobility, less strain and better functional training. Read Review | Comment on this review | Go to all Product Reviews |
|
|
Scape Sunscreen Aug 16, 2010 The SNEWS team was very impressed with Scape sunscreen, which goes on smoothly, stays put when you're in water or sweating, and has a mild fragrance. Read Review | Comment on this review | Go to all Product Reviews |
Eagle Creek - Sales Admin Assistant - VF Outdoor
Listed - 09/02/2010
Director of Facilities and Grounds - Alyeska Resort
Listed - 08/31/2010
Footwear Sales Representative II - Ohio Valley - Columbia Sportswear Company
Listed - 08/31/2010
Graphic Designer - Chums, Inc./Beyond Coastal SunCare
Listed - 08/31/2010
Indp Rep: Volant - Atomic
Listed - 08/31/2010
Domestic Sales Manager for Archery - Easton Technical Products
Listed - 08/31/2010
Product Developer - Chrome Industries/Rofu Design
Listed - 08/30/2010