Patagonia M10 Jacket Women’s

Field Notes: From revealing the 3-layer jacket’s origins to sweating the details, Patagonia continues to impress in this alpine-focused piece that testers wore well beyond couloirs into rain and sleet. The brand calls it “a study in balancing weight and protection,” and Active Junky deems it closer to quiver of one jacket status. A contoured athletic fit sheds shoulder seams to avoid wear with full-rotation freedom of movement for shoulders. Panelized to the point of feeling custom, there’s no wasted fabric to catch the wind in this 8.5oz model. Face-wise, M10 shields the wearer from the elements down past the throat. While evaluation centered on trekking and mountain environments, next up are paddling and pedaling trials.

Pros: Exterior ripstop handles abrasive environments, compact shape cuts through weather without restricting movement, truly helmet compatible

Cons: Pricing elevates to the investment-grade gear category, pockets are on the lower side for belt use, single-pull zipper relies on the DWR fabric’s breathability

Tester Comments: “With sunglasses or goggles, I’m weathering the storm, not by hiding from it, but getting out and getting after it. Urban downpours or alpine sleet, Patagonia literally had me covered. I don’t mind the price because this jacket was made to be worn, not hung up in my closet.”

Key Attribute: Adaptability

Best For: Life-saving, experience-altering trips internationally including rock and ice exploits in most conditions (apart from mid-winter assaults)