Patagonia Storm Racer Review

Our top pick for staying dry during a storm is the Patagonia Storm Racer. It's an ultralight, ultra-packable jacket made of 100% recycled ripstop nylon and a tricot backer that feels smooth and soft on skin. The jacket also features an integrated hood and an easy-to-access chest pocket. It has all the necessary features for a tailored fit, but nothing extra to weigh you down.

Breathability

One of the only complaints we have about the Patagonia Storm Racer is that it runs a bit hot. As it is a fully waterproof layer, this comes as no surprise. Unfortunately, that is just part of the jacket that you'll have to accept if you want the stellar waterproofing. However, in future updates, we would like to see some venting or evolution of the fabric to add some breathability qualities.

We tested this jacket in a variety of conditions, during easy running and higher-intensity sessions. Like we mentioned in the paragraph above, the jacket runs a bit warm and can trap some moisture if you start to sweat, but when it's cold and raining out, this is no problem. We were able to get adequate venting by unzipping the jacket halfway to create some airflow. On warmer days, it might be more of an issue.

Weather Resistance

The weather resistance of the Patagonia Storm Racer is the reason it will attract some runners. Despite the name, it might not help you outrun the storm, but this layer will keep you dry and happy while running in the storm. Featuring a H2NO standard shell, the water beads easily and rolls off the fully recycled outer fabric. Fully taped seams ensure moisture can't get through the cracks.

We tested this jacket in a variety of conditions, but most importantly, we wanted to see how the Storm Racer lived up to its name, so we intentionally went out in wet conditions. When the rain started falling from the sky, we pulled out the Patagonia Storm Racer and headed out. We were impressed; this jacket is bomber. Even when the clouds looked ominously dark, it didn't stop us from heading out on a run as long as we had this jacket rolled up in our pack.

Comfort and Mobility

Thanks to the tricot backlayer, the Patagonia Storm Racer feels very comfortable, and the fit is dialed. No matter the type of running you prefer, the Storm Racer is the perfect companion for wet conditions. Whether wearing it on 2-mile recovery days, grueling 10-milers, or technical trail runs, we felt we could wear this jacket all day. We experienced zero chafing or issues with the fit, which allowed us to focus on the miles ahead.

The comfort and mobility of the Patagonia Storm Racer became apparent during a series of fast downhill reps on a technical trail. This asks a lot of the body and jacket, and we are happy to report that the jacket moves fluidly and smoothly with the body in all positions. Thanks to its slim and tailored fit, the Storm Racer is a great option for your next wet trail run.

Portability

Coming in at 7.3oz, the Patagonia Storm Racer is impressively light for its category. We know that on long runs and in high mountains, every layer and piece of gear counts, so the light weight is a huge pro. This jacket packs conveniently into its chest pocket, so it won't get tangled with other items like gels or snacks in your running pack.

Compared to other (less weatherproof) jackets, the packed size of the Patagonia Storm Racer is moderate - not the smallest, but also not the biggest. Given its thicker waterproof fabric, this is understandable, and it is still a no-brainer to toss it into your backpack or running vest. While out in the hills running, this jacket performed to a high standard and is an excellent option for those wanting a fully waterproof packable layer without carrying a full-on rain jacket.

Features and Visibility

While the star of the Patagonia Storm Racer is its waterproofness, it has some other features we appreciate. Other thoughtful details include elastic cuffs and an adjustable hood. There aren't too many extra bells and whistles, just the most essentials to keep you dry.

Compared to other jackets we tested, the Storm Racer didn't have as many visibility features; it's not super reflective or bright. It comes in earth-tone colors (we tested Black), and is more at home in the mountains than in an urban interface, where visibility is most important.

Should You Buy the Patagonia Storm Racer?

The Storm Racer is the most protective and waterproof layer out there. If you are looking to tackle any run regardless of weather conditions, this jacket is for you. Specifically designed for wet high-mountain adventures, the Patagonia Storm Racer is the jacket to get you through all of your wet runs while keeping you dry.

What Other <Running Jackets>s Should You Consider?

Looking for a slightly less expensive waterproof option? Check out the Nnormal Trail Run or the Baleaf Waterproof. Neither jacket is quite as bombproof, but both are significantly cheaper, and the Nnormal is a bit more breathable. If you want something for wind and don't need serious waterproofing, check out the Patagonia Houdini, Asics Fujitrail, or the Nike Stride Repel UV.