REASONS TO BUY
Great water resistance
Incredible value
Effective features
REASONS TO AVOID
Crinkly fabric
On the heavier side
Less breathable than some
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Review
A rain jacket that proves you don’t have to pay top-dollar to get top-tier performance
Credit: Zach Lovell
RELATED: The Best Rain Jackets for Men
Our Verdict
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L breaks the mold as a top-performing garment that doesn't cost an entire paycheck. Waterproof jackets have been historically expensive, particularly for a high-quality model. Still, the Torrentshell boasts Patagonia's 3-layer H2No fabric and several handy features at a price point half that of other high-end options. We love the two-way adjustable hood and effective velcro cuffs for forming a tight seal, particularly in a downpour, and the fabric's water resistance held up throughout weeks of field testing. The Torrentshell is a bit stiffer and more crinkly than some of the competition and, as is common with many waterproof garments, isn't the most breathable jacket out there. Besides a few setbacks, this rain jacket is well worth your consideration, but check out our full article on the best rain shells for men to see how the Torrentshell stacks up against the competition.
Compare to Similar Products
 This Product
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards |  Best Overall Rain Jacket |  Best Bang Bang for the Buck | Best on a Tight Budget | ||
| Price | $125.30 at Evo Compare at 3 sellers | $110 List $83.00 at Amazon | $59.99 at Backcountry Compare at 2 sellers | $50 List $39.99 at Amazon | $32.49 at Backcountry |
Overall Score  |
|||||
| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | This well-made jacket offers high-end performance without having to spend big dollars | A well-made rain jacket that carries your dollar exceptionally far | An incredibly inexpensive layer for shoppers on a tight budget needing a rain jacket | This incredibly inexpensive option is worthy of your consideration if you're only needing a rain jacket occasionally in an urban setting | This inexpensive layer doesn't offer much weather protection, but it's great as a lightweight wind breaker and packs down very small |
| Rating Categories | Patagonia Torrentsh... | Helly Hansen Loke | Columbia Watertight II | OTU Lightweight Hooded | Columbia Glennaker... |
| Water Resistance (45%) | |||||
| Breathability (20%) | |||||
| Comfort and Mobility (15%) | |||||
| Weight (10%) | |||||
| Construction Quality (10%) | |||||
| Specifications | Patagonia Torrentsh... | Helly Hansen Loke | Columbia Watertight II | OTU Lightweight Hooded | Columbia Glennaker... |
| Measured Weight (Men's Small) | 12.7 oz | 8.4 oz | 12.7 oz | 18.7 oz | 8.8 oz |
| Number of Fabric Layers | 3 | 2.5 | 2 | Unlisted | Unlisted |
| Waterproof Fabric Material | 3-layer H2No Performance Standard 50D ECONYL (proprietary material) with a PFC-free DWR finish | 2.5-layer Helly Tech Polyamide (proprietary material) with a PFC-free DWR finish | 2-layer Omni-Tech (proprietary material) with mesh liner | 100% polyester with a mesh liner | Omni-Shield 100% nylon (proprietary material) |
| Pockets | 2 zippered hand | 2 zippered hand | 2 zippered hand | 2 zippered hand, 1 internal zippered chest | 2 zippered hand |
| Pit Zips | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Pit Zip Length | 11.5" | 11.6" | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Stows Into Pocket | Yes | Yes | Yes | Partially | Yes |
| Carabiner Loop in Stow Pocket | Yes | No | No | No | Yes |
| Helmet Compatible Hood | Yes, but very snug fit with partial coverage | Yes, but snug fit with partial coverage | Yes, but snug fit with partial coverage | Yes | Yes |
| Hipbelt Friendly Hand Pockets | No | No | No | No | No |
| Additional Features | 2-way adjustable and stowable hood, microfleece-lined neck, external and internal zipper storm flaps, chin guard, adjustable Velcro cuffs, drawcord hem, carabiner clip-in loop | Adjustable hood, front placket/storm flap, adjustable Velcro cuffs, adjustable drawcord hem | Adjustable hood, chin guard, adjustable Velcro cuffs, adjustable drawcord hem | Adjustable hood and hem, Velcro cuffs, removeable and helmet compatible hood | Hood can be stowed in collar, adjustable drawcord hem, adjustable drawcord hood |
Our Analysis and Test Results
We spent weeks testing the Torrentshell 3L through intense thunderstorms, all-day drizzles, and even snow storms to ensure no stone was left unturned. This option has become one of our favorite rain jackets, thanks to its blend of performance and value. Our lead tester shared, “I had to triple-check the price tag on the Torrentshell since it competed with jackets twice as expensive.”
Performance Comparison
We took every layer, including the Torrentshell 3L, on stormy days out in the mountains to provide as thorough of a review as possible.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Water Resistance
We gave this metric 45% of the Torrentshell 3L's total score since a rain jacket's top priority is protecting its wearer from precipitation. We tested this metric by logging weeks with each option in the field, deliberately going out in stormy weather ranging from afternoon downpours to all-day rains. We also performed shower tests to assess water resistance more objectively. The Torrentshell 3L landed towards the front of the pack in this metric, competing with much more expensive models.
The water resistance of the Torrentshell 3L was excellent throughout field testing, keeping us protected from precipitation while hiking, climbing, and even skiing. The H2No fabric used in this jacket is Patagonia's in-house waterproof material, and as long as we kept it clean, the H2No kept us and our base layers mostly dry. As the jacket got dirty during our field sessions, the face fabric began to sponge the water more than bead, slightly dampening an area of approximately 10 inches square around the chest area (moisture we noted on our underlayers during such prolonged outings). We didn't have this issue as long as we kept the Torrentshell clean. Our review team also commented on the ability of this garment to be sealed in rough conditions, “This jacket really kept the elements out of the sleeve, hem, and hood areas when the weather got nasty.”
While it's not as well-known as Gore-Tex, Patagonia's H2NO fabric boasts decent performance that keeps the cost down.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Our shower tests were included in our testing process to assess each garment's objective ability to repel water. We're pleased to share that the Torrentshell 3L performed very well, allowing only a 2-inch square of surface area to get wet on our underlayers after a series of 15-minute downpours.
We were dry underneath the Torrentshell 3L throughout our shower testing, further confirming our findings from the field.
Credit: Zach Lovell
When comparing the H2No construction of the Torrentshell 3L to other high-end options, we found a slight reduction in weather protection. This was largely due to water that snuck in through the wrists or neck areas. We also occasionally noticed a few wet spots along the zipper when we weren't diligently keeping the flap closed. By the end of testing, we found this rain jacket reliable when the weather gets wet, as long as you regularly wash it.
Breathability
We gave breathability 20% of the Torrentshell 3L's total score. We tested this metric by taking every rain jacket on extended cardio sessions, from lengthy uphill hikes to stormy ski tours. We also performed a standardized breathability circuit with each option, after which we measured the surface areas of sweat underneath. Lastly, we sized up the features of each layer that improved ventilation. The Torrentshell came in around the middle of the lineup.
The 3-layer makeup of the Torrentshell ushers sweat away from the body, especially compared to 2 or 2.5 layer designs. The pit zips also improved ventilation, a feature much of the competition didn't have. While we appreciate the water resistance of this model, it is a thicker jacket overall, resulting in diminished breathability scores. We were comfy enough on our cardio sessions, but on humid days and while it was actively raining, we were getting a bit wet from the inside out. We experienced 9-inch square sweat spots when we tackled our standardized circuit during breathability testing, putting it squarely in the middle of the pack.
We tested breathability by logging hours and hours of uphill slogging in the Torrentshell. While it wasn't the top performer in this metric, it did well in cooler temperatures.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Comfort and Mobility
We gave this metric 15% of the total score of the Torrentshell 3L. We sized up its full range of motion with a standardized set of movements, noting any restrictions or lift at the waist or arms. We also investigated the feel of each model's fabrics. In this metric, the Torrentshell came in average.
The cut of the Torrentshell 3L offers excellent range of motion, allowing us to perform any needed movements without restriction, be it hiking, climbing, or errands. Depending on how one sizes this jacket, we found it possible to fit layers underneath on chilly days without restricting the upper body. The main setback for the Torrentshell in this category was its stiff, crinkly fabric, which is somewhat reminiscent of a potato chip bag. This won't be a deal-breaker for many shoppers, but some competition boasts a much more supple feel and may be preferable depending on your needs.
The Torrentshell strikes an excellent balance between slim fit and mobility.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Weight
This metric totaled 10% of the final score of the Torrentshell 3L. We weighed each option and used an objective weight ratings calculator to formulate a comparative score from 1-10 across all jackets. We also took note of packability features, even if we didn't include those findings in the final score. This model came in around the middle of the pack.
The Torrentshell 3L weighs 13.4 ounces, making it a decent mid-weight option in the lineup. It also easily fits into its left hand pocket, which includes a carabiner loop to clip to a harness or backpack if one needs to keep it handy for quick deployment.
The Torrentshell wasn't the lightest option, but it can be stowed in its own pocket and has a carabiner loop.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Construction Quality
Ten percent of the Torrentshell 3L's score was based on its quality of construction. We tested this metric by logging weeks using each jacket, keeping detailed notes on any signs of wear and tear and its overall durability. We also took a deep dive into every rain jacket's construction and investigated user reports to help expand our understanding on how it has performed for buyers in the long term. This option came in towards the front of the pack.
The Torrentshell 3L is made with Patagonia's high-performance 3-layer H2No fabric. This impressive proprietary material results in a much less expensive product than other jackets using Gore-Tex fabrics. We found H2No needs to be well-cared for to maintain its long-term durability, or you will see a drop in its water-resistant properties. This care revolves around frequent washing, as dirt quickly wears down the performance of the face fabric. The 50 denier nylon face is also made without harmful PFAS chemicals, which have been linked to health issues and can even damage the environment.
The common theme amongst all waterproof garments: your shell needs to be washed often to keep it's weather resistance. The Torrentshell's liner even offers this constant reminder.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Should You Buy the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L?
This option boasts an excellent overall score, particularly in water resistance, which is the primary purpose of any rain jacket. The Torrentshell 3L is also incredibly inexpensive, especially considering its primary competition is twice the price for similar performance results. If you're looking for a highly functional rain jacket without spending big bucks, this model should be on your final list.
What Other Rain Jackets Should You Consider?
If you want absolute top-tier performance and don't care about the cost to achieve it, consider the Arc'Teryx Beta SL, which is lighter and more water resistant than the Torrentshell 3L, but it sells at over twice the price. If you're on a tighter budget, the Helly Hansen Loke carries your dollar very far, even boasting a lighter weight, but it won't be as comfortable when you tackle more sweat-intensive activities.
—Zach Lovell
You Might Also Like
