Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket Review [2023 Guide]

We would like to share our Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket review and its comparison with the most popular rain jackets in the market place. Here is the chart that will help you to make a clear decision on this:

Related Article: Torrentshell vs Zeta SL Compared

Related Article: Patagonia is better than the North Face?

Long Story Short: Our Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket Review

A brief summary of Torrentshell 3L Jacket Review: The Torrentshell 3L is both best budged and high performer. I liked its hood design, durability, abrasion and water resistance. I found Torrentshell 3L Jacket very packable as well. None of its contenders (lower priced) were able to beat its price vs performance.

I purchased Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket based on good reviews from a number of web sites. I brought this rain jacket along with me on a backpacking trip; it kept me dry all weekend while it rained almost constantly. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket is nice, lightweight and packable.

In below, we have listed the performance review of Torrentshell 3L Jacket and provided the Pros & Cons. Our performance assessment is based on water resistance, comfort & mobility, breathability, weight, packability and durability. We also compared the Torrentshell 3L with the other popular rain jackets in this review.

Pros    

• Best Price vs Performance      ✔
• Packable          ✔
• Hood design-Good Peripheral vision & No Chafing the chins          ✔
• Has Pit Zips    ✔
• Abrasion resistant       ✔
• Good Storm Protection           ✔
• Durable DWR ✔

Cons   

• No chest pocket          ✗
• Less breathable           ✗
• Heavier than the average of rain jackets we tested    ✗
• Hood design does not suitable with helmet   ✗

See it on REI

Related Article: Best Rain Jackets for Men Review (Top 12 Models’ Comparison)

Torrentshell vs Torrentshell 3L: Updates & Key Differences

We compared Patagonia’s older Torrentshell vs Torrentshell 3L the new version and would like to share the updates and key differences.

The key difference between the new and old version of Patagonia Torrentshell is the layer structure. The old version of the Torrentshell was using 2.5-layer fabric. However, the new version the Torrentshell 3L is made of 3-layer fabric. Therefore, the weight increased a bit (by 1.5 oz) and the breathability decreased.

On the other hand, the water resistance has been improved. Its storm flap has been updated as well in the new version. Previously, the zipper was sticking on it, now it is resolved.

The details of the Patagonia’s older Torrentshell vs Torrentshell 3L the new version comparison are as follows, hope it will give you a foresight:

Bottom line for the old Torrentshell vs New Torrentshell 3L comparison: Honestly, we liked the updates & improvements on the Torrentshell 3L. Its performance is great considering the waterproofness and comfort & mobility, and it is even competing with the best rain jackets in this criteria. Since it is affordable compared to the other rain jackets and performs very well in overall scoring, we picked Torrentshell 3L as the best budged rain jacket.

Patagonia Houdini vs Torrentshell 3L – Men’s

We compared Patagonia Houdini vs Torrentshell 3L – Men’s. Briefly, the winner is the Torrentshell 3L. To begin with, the Houdini is a windbreaker; on the other hand the Torrentshell is a rain jacket. Therefore, although it is not appropriate to compare these two jackets directly, we have scored them from “rain jackets” aspects to give you a foresight.

The details of the Torrentshell vs Houdini comparison are as follows, hope it will give you a foresight:

Apart from these, we have listed the technical details of the Torrentshell vs Houdini – Men’s review:

Bottom line for the Patagonia Houdini vs Torrentshell 3L comparison: The Patagonia Houdini is a windbreaker, and therefore it does not have any waterproof membrane. It is very possible to get wet, if you wear it on a rainy day. However, the Torrentshell 3L is perfectly waterproof. The only water resistant factor on the Houdini is the DWR coating on it. Yet, this coating is prone to rub off while wearing a pack. On the other hand, the Houdini is very breathable as it is expected from a windbreaker, but we cannot say the same for the Torrentshell 3L. As a standard of windbreaker jackets, the Patagonia Houdini is extremely lightweight, incredibly packable, and relatively cheaper compared to Torrentshell 3L rain jacket.

But remember that the Patagonia Houdini does not meet the requirements of “Rain Jackets”, it is just a windbreaker, not water resistant at all.

Torrentshell vs PreCip Eco – Men’s

We compared Torrentshell vs PreCip Eco – Men’s. Briefly, the winner is the Torrentshell 3L by a small margin.

The details of the Torrentshell vs PreCip Eco – Men’s comparison are as follows, hope it will give you a foresight:

Apart from these, we have listed the technical details of the Marmot PreCip vs Torrentshell 3L – Men’s review:

Bottom line for the Torrentshell vs PreCip Eco – Men’s comparison: The Marmot PreCip Eco is more affordable than the Torrentshell 3L. However, the Torrentshell 3L is more durable and offers better mobility. Based on our real life experience, the Torrentshell 3L is more storm worthy compared to the PreCip EXo and finally, the Torrentshell proved a better water resistance. Therefore, we picked the Torrentshell 3L as the best buy rain jacket.

Marmot Minimalist vs Patagonia Torrentshell 3L – Men’s

We compared Marmot Minimalist vs Patagonia Torrentshell 3L – Men’s. Briefly, the winner is the Marmot Minimalist by a small margin.

The details of the Torrentshell vs Minimalist comparison are as follows; hope it will give you a foresight:

Apart from these, we have listed the technical details of the Torrentshell vs Minimalist – Men’s review:

Bottom line for the Marmot Minimalist vs Patagonia Torrentshell 3L comparison: Marmot Minimalist is a heavy jacket, although it is stated as “Minimalist”. It weighs 450 gr or 16 oz (Medium Size), one the heaviest rain jacket in our list. On the other hand, the Torrentshell 3L is 400 gr or 14 oz (medium size). The durability rating of both products is almost the same. Yet, the Marmot Minimalist is less packable compared to the Torrentshell. The breathable & waterproof fabric of the Minimalist is Gore-Tex Paclite which is very well, yet these two models compete with each other in terms of water-resistance. On the other hand, the breathability of the Marmot Minimalist is better due to Gore-Tex Paclite. Due to same reason it is more expensive than the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. One more point to highlight, the Marmot Minimalist has a chest pocket and it is compatible with helmet. Based on these facts, the Marmot Minimalist has a higher score and the winner of this comparison. If you are a looking for more budged friendly option, the Torrentshell is a better option considering the price vs performance review.

Torrentshell vs Venture 2 – Men’s

We compared Torrentshell vs Venture 2– Men’s. Briefly, the winner is the Torrentshell 3L.

The details of the Patagonia Torrentshell vs North Face Venture 2 – Men’s comparison are as follows, hope it will give you a foresight:

Bottom line for the Torrentshell vs Venture 2 – Men’s comparison: The North Face Venture 2 is one of the cheapest rain jackets in the market place. Yet, the best budged is still the Torrentshell 3L due to its perfect price vs performance. The Venture 2 has DryVent 2.5 layer waterproof fabric which performs not as well as Torrentshell 3L’s 3-layer H2No Performance Standard shell. Therefore, the Venture 2 is less breathable and waterproof then the Torrentshell. Both models have pit zips, and we did not have any ventilation problem. Also, the Venture 2 has a packed size similar to the Torrentshell 3L. Unlike the Torrentshell 3L it is possible to wear the Venture under a helmet, which is a plus. To sum up, although the Venture 2 is one of the most affordable rain jacket in the market place, the Torrentshell 3L performs better in overall, it is also a better option for climbing-specific activities. You can check out our in-depth comparison of Torrentshell vs Venture 2 comparison, if you need to know more on this topic.

Further Review on Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket

This shell at first glance appears to just be another shell that’s good for touring, backpacking, or whatever your outdoor activity is.

This is super true, and there’s more to this shell than just another shell. The 3L technology used in this shell can be felt before you even finish putting it on. It’s one of those textures you can feel and instantly trust to keep you dry.

What is 3 Layer (3L) Fabric?

Torrentshell is made with 3 layer (3L) fabric. This means that the jacket will now breathe and repel water better than ever. Torrentshell is the type of rain jacket that you can bring with you everywhere. From running errands around town to backpacking in the wind rivers, you can trust it.

My Personal Experience

I’m 5’8″, 172 lbs. with a 42″ chest and 36″ waist. Therefore, I got size “L”, the length is good, and the sleeves are a bit long though. The thing is I wish the length was a touch longer in the back to cover the rear. Other than that, it gets the job done.

The first thing I did when I got this was put it on and run the water in the sink over my arm, and there was no doubt in my mind I would not get wet and I was right. The membrane is perfectly waterproof, super comfortable, and breathes better than any other rain jacket or shell I’ve tried before. The pit zips make it perfect for touring, and the fit of it makes it perfect for layering underneath for resort skiing. This shell is SUPER lightweight and would be the ideal backpacking rain jacket for a light pack and reliable dryness regardless of weather. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket, itself feels nice on the skin. Without a doubt, this is the best shell I know of, with the newest technology.

The most significant improvements are the construction of Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket, which blows any other jacket in this price range out of the water. The 3L structure feels premium and durable. Also, the hood has been tweaked slightly to allow for a better fit on my large head.

There are two hood adjusters: One on the back for diameter, and two pull strings near the top of the zipper. I saw comments in the internet about how they don’t hold which is not true. They have adjusting straps inside of the hood, It is almost at ear level, that adjust height. The feature helps it conform to your head and looks like a more typical hoodie.

Only issue I have with it, which really isn’t bad, but could be adjusted for future models, is the front collar-chin area. It is like either folds one way or the other and doesn’t conform around my chin. I can say that It is definitely not a deal breaker at all. Length of the garment easily covered my upper body layers.

Although there are only 2 hand warmer pockets they are spacious and I found that I can wear a pack and the hip belt does not interfere with the pockets.

I was very comfortable with only a base layer underneath.

I don’t want to ask to much but I wouldn’t mind, if Patagonia added an internal chest pocket. Overall Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket is better than expected, very light, roomy, breathable and seals out the elements.

Very happy to not be drenched anymore and love Patagonia’s lifetime warranty. They produce quality products for customers they care about while being mindful of their impact. Wish there were more companies like this.

Some Customer Insights From Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket Review

• Purchased two of these, one for myself and for my wife while on our honeymoon this month. The very next day we were blindsided by an freak thunderstorm. Luckily we had our jackets stowed away in the Jeep. The jackets worked perfectly. We even went back to the shop where we bought them to thank the women who sold them to us. Top tier product as always.
• Nice color combo in the red and blue. It’s a 3-layer design, so it protects the laminate, and doesn’t stick to the skin. The hood fits well over a baseball cap. It packs fairly well and it’s not heavy.
• More comfy, tougher, and cut perfectly. Fabric micro-backing is much better on skin when it’s muggy yet rainy and you’re only wearing a short sleeved tee etc. More breathable, more noticeable when pits are zipped and the fabric has bear the full burden of the breathability assignment, 75D recycled rip stop and 3 layer build make this a legit 4 season shell, and its cut to not be baggy AF with just a base layer, but I can very comfortably layer it over a micro puff and R2 (or a high-loft down sweater etc.) The increased comfort range makes it much more versatile, for example dark sky says 7AM, 73°F with 97% humidity, it’s the end of July and I have it on with a cap cool trail short tee, an old school cotton long John shirt and I’m not forced by clamminess to take it off just yet that alone is worth the price of admission.

The Purpose of Usage of Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket based on 25 Customer Reviews:

• Athleisure,
• Hiking or Camping
• Climbing
• Casual Wear,
• Fishing, ,
• Ski/Snowboarding

Technical Details of Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket

Features

100% Recycled Waterproof/Breathable Face Fabric

3-layer waterproof/breathable H2No® Performance Standard shell provides the highest levels of comfort and performance, long-term waterproof durability; Fair Trade Certified™ sewn

Adjustable Hood

Two-way-adjustable hood with a laminated visor rolls down and stows with a simplified cord-and-hook design

Microfleece-Lined Neck

Microfleece-lined neck provides comfort and protects with a waterproof/breathable barrier

Center-Front Zip

Snag-free center-front zipper with external and internal storm flaps and zipper-garage chin guard

Pocket Features

Two zippered hand warmer pockets and venting pit zips; all with welted exterior storm flaps and DWR (durable water repellent)-treated zippers

Hook-and-Loop Closures

Self-fabric hook-and-loop cuff closures and an adjustable draw cord hem seal out precipitation

Self-Stuffs into Pocket

Jacket self-stuffs into left hand warmer pocket with carabiner clip-in loop

Country of Origin

Made in Vietnam.

Weight

394 g (13.9 oz)

Materials

• H2No® Performance Standard shell: 3-layer, 3.3-oz 50-denier ECONYL® 100% recycled nylon ripstop face, a polycarbonate PU membrane with 13% biobased content, a tricot backer and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Fabric is certified as bluesign® approved
• Fair Trade Certified™ sewn

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket SIZING-YOUR BODY MEASUREMENTS IN INCHES: Check the Below Table For Your Size Before Order

Varies depending on style. Measurements are stated in inches unless otherwise indicated.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket

Simple and unpretentious, our trusted Torrentshell 3L Jacket uses 3-layer H2No® Performance Standard technology for exceptional waterproof and breathable performance, all-day comfort and long-lasting waterproof durability. Fair Trade Certified™ sewn.

Conclusion for Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket Review

This is the best rain jacket for 95% of outdoor friendly folks. Torrentshell 3L jacket can take a beating-resistant fabric structure, it is breathable, comfortable, and packs very well. If you are using this layer for rock-climbing or more intense activities, I wouldn’t suggest this jacket, since you wouldn’t be looking for a jacket in this price range anyway. It is better to take a look at Gore-Tex layers products.

To read about Gore-Tex layered products:

• Arc’teryx Beta AR Review.
• Arc’teryx Zeta SL Review.

I plan to keep Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket with me daily, stored away in case of any rainy conditions or as a layer on colder days. I think, Torrentshell 3L, the rain jacket, performs and will function well under just about any conditions. Being stylish and fashionable is an added bonus, and will get more use out of the jacket as it looks great when wearing it out on the town.

By Rico Costa.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket: Q&A

Does the jacket have an elastic band at the waist?

No, this jacket does not have elastic at the waist.