Patagonia Torrentshell 3L vs. Rainshadow Jacket

Both Torrentshell 3L and Rainshadow are durable rain shells with function-focused designs. They are waterproof, windproof, and long-lasting. The only major difference is the price and popularity. The Torrentshell 3L is slightly cheaper but more popular than the Rainshadow. Below is a detailed comparison of both jackets. I have covered features, weather protection, and overall durability.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L

Fabric: 50D ripstop nylon
Lining Fabric: Tricot
Waterproofing: 3-layer H2No
Windproof/waterproof: Yes
Ventilation: Pit zips
Weight: 13.9 oz.

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L jacket is an iconic waterproof and breathable hardshell jacket. It is a great option for hikers and backpackers seeking a lightweight balance of features and minimalist design. You can count on Patagonia to offer all this performance with 100% recycled fabrics and Fair Trade Certified sewing.

The waterproof, windproof, and breathable bluesign approved 50-denier ripstop recycled nylon fabric protects from the elements. This 3-layer weatherproof H2No fabric also features stretch, which yields uncommon fit and freedom of movement to this hard shell. The fabric is 100% recycled and the sewing is Fair Trade Certified. No matter how storied, it’s difficult for any jacket to keep up with the heat and water vapor we produce when we’re working hard on the trail. This jacket thoughtfully includes underarm pit zips to allow you extra ventilation when needed.

An adjustable full-featured hood extends protection. The laminated visor keeps the rain out of your eyes. Peripheral vision adjustment drawcords allow you to fine-tune the hood so you can stay dry and see where you’re going. The hood can be rolled up when the weather improves. Other features include zippered hand pockets for secure storage.

This jacket is famous for keeping people protected in wet weather. It offers a stretch fit, excellent protection including an adjustable hood, and sustainable production.

What I like: Uses a durable 50D fabric, excellent weather protection, the jacket is very versatile to use in different weather conditions, the DWR coating is long-lasting

What I don’t like: In my opinion, the 3-layer model is less breathable than the old 2.5-layer model, the pack size is also a little big, and there’s less freedom of movement.

See the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L See the Women’s Torrentshell 3L

Patagonia Rainshadow

Fabric: 30D ripstop nylon
Lining Fabric: Tricot
Waterproofing: 3-layer H2No
Windproof/waterproof: Yes
Ventilation: Pit zips
Weight: 14 oz.

The Patagonia Rainshadow jacket is built to provide year-round protection. It features durable reliable waterproof breathable technology. Unlike many traditional rain layers, this jacket offers fit-enhancing stretch fabric and it’s got Patagonia’s promise that it’s produced in a socially and ecologically responsible way.

Protection from wind and water along with high breathability is provided by the 3-layer H2No fabric. Its lightweight recycled 30-denier stretch ripstop nylon. The addition of stretch fabric gives you a full range of motion that many hard shells can’t provide – enabling more natural movements.

We all know that even the most advanced fabrics can’t keep us completely dry and allow complete breathability when we’re working hard on the trail. This jacket offers underarm pit zips that can be opened to vent releasing excess heat. A fully adjustable hood provides extended coverage in bad weather. The hood can be rolled down and stowed away when the sun comes out. Two zippered hand pockets and a smaller zippered chest pocket give you a secure place for small stuff.

In addition to the recycled fabric, the jacket is Fair Trade sewn. I wear a large and this jacket has a regular fit which I prefer because it allows you to easily slide it on over other layers. It’s a jacket you can rely on when the weather is unreliable it’s got tough waterproof breathable protection, pit zips, and it’s sustainably produced.

What I like: The jacket is stylish enough to wear around town, stretchy, and comfortable

What I don’t like: The pit zips are sticky, even less breathable compared to Torrentshell 3L, not the best value, expensive

See the Patagonia Rainshadow See the Women’s Rainshadow

Conclusion

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L and Rainshadow are both lightweight rain jackets that can be used in different wet weather conditions. They are quite similar in terms of design, features, and usability. The only major difference is the fabric material and price. The Torrentshell 3L uses a slightly durable 50D fabric while the Rainshadow is made of 30D ripstop nylon. If you are deciding which one to choose, I’d recommend go for the 3L jacket because it’s the best value compared to the other option within Patagonia’s own lineup.