Warm and relatively light, this definitely is a standard as the mercury drops for me. While not completely windproof, it is a good standalone. Under a shell on the coldest days is where mine typically ends up for active endeavors.
No pit zips, plus the previously mentioned boxy cut make it less versatile.
Easily the best piece I've ever purchased. I love this fleece. I go to school in Morgantown WV and the winters can be pretty brutal and our campus is alot of walking outdoors. This fleece is COMPLETELY windproof, the jacket impresses me with every strong gust of wind. I got the men's XS because I got a good deal, the men's size fits me perfectly! One of my guy friends has had his Retro X for 10 years... mine's just getting broken in many adventures to come!
The berber fleece gets a little matted where my Patagonia Refugio pack hits on my lower back, but it just shows how much I love this jacket (and my pack!)
There is NO alternative to Patagonia ... make the life long investment!
Windproofing is very nice. I feel like the windstop membrane in this jacket works better than some softshells I've had. And the retro big-pile is a nice touch. I've had mine for five years and it's still going strong.
The cut is kind of boxy. Not bad for layering underneath it, but when you just want a jacket this one can be kind of bulky.
It is very warm and keeps all the wind out. Great as a mid-layer for very cold temperatures. Useful on the windy cold days. Not to mention that it looks great for when you go out with the ladies on the town.
The only bad thing is washing it. Make sure you keep it from getting matted and you will be good to go all the time!
