Patagonia Radalie Jacket

Well, the Patagonia Radalie jacket is undoubtedly the right choice if you want to look good on the move this autumn.

Sporty yet stylish and warm yet short, the women's Patagonia Radalie provides everything you need for winter with its quilted nylon shell, Durable Water Repellent finish (DWR), and Thermogreen® fill insulation.

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Our Conclusion
When the leaves are still orange and the ground hasn't yet begun to freeze, a bulky, too warm jacket isn't always what you need. In contrast, the Radalie is perfect for fall and winter weather as it's insulated but not too bulky.

This combo allows you to stay warm without overheating drastically when on the move. Staying dry in light rain isn't tricky either with the Durable Water Repellent, which adds a convenient level of water resistance.

You don't just get style with this Patagonia range, and you also get comfort, warmth, and functionality. I particularly like having two handwarmer pockets plus two extra zippered pockets to store your phone, keys, money etc. Of course, no one wants to share their handwarmer pockets with their keys and phone.

With nearly 50 years of experience in outdoor gear, you know you're getting quality with the Patagonia brand, something that I always reassure when buying a product. So, let's have a look at what else you get with the Radalie.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
Warm
Stylish
Breathable
Water-resistant
Multiple pockets
Uses recycled materials
Several fashionable colours are available
Cons
Slightly expensive
Tight in the arms and shoulders
Runs small – you will need to size up
Key Features
Key Features
Design

I particularly like the short, hip-length version of the Radalie because it doesn't constrict movement. Because it functions like a light jacket, the Radalie allows for greater exertion without getting too hot. However, it keeps you warm in blistery cold conditions.

If you get your standard size, you will struggle to get anything but a thin layer underneath. You might not need any more due to the added insulation. But if you are planning on extra cold camping trips, you may want to size up so you can wear a thicker middle layer.

Comfort doesn't have to come at the expense of style. The Radalie proves that with its stylish and slim fit puffer design. The fit isn't too boxy either due to the various quilt lines and the princess seams. With multiple vibrant colors to choose from, you'll be sure to find a color to suit you. Of course, you can opt for plain black if you prefer.

Adding handwarmer pockets plus a hidden secure zipper closure and a discreet welt is a great addition to keep your hands warm. I'm never a fan of sharing my handwarmer pockets with my phone and keys, so I'm grateful for the two extra pockets.

However, a retro-X-style patch pocket with an exposed zipper on the left chest and an interior zippered pocket on the right chest means no more sharing.

Although coated with a water-resistant Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, it's not entirely waterproof. Trekking in light to moderate rain will probably be ok, but for days when you are likely to be hammered with rain, you may want something fully waterproof.

Comfort

Superior warmth comes from the mega 150g of Thermogreen® fill and durable water coating. Both keep you warm and dry in most cold weather conditions while staying lightweight. However, if you plan to be trekking in alpine conditions or super cold weather, you may want to consider something bigger and even warmer.

Patagonia also keeps you warm with the centre-front Vislon® zipper and stand-up collar, which both offer extra warmth. A soft brushed tricot liner is also used for the cuffs, inner collar and handwarmer pockets, creating an extra level of warmth and comfort.

Not only does the more tailored, slimline fit looks good, it also makes this Patagonia jacket more comfortable to wear.

Although the only common problem with this slim fit is that some reviewers find that the arms are too tight and restrictive, while others find the arms ok but the back and chest restrictive. As mentioned, this jacket does run a little small, so make sure to size up, and I think you'll be fine.

Material

Patagonia always seems to use quality materials in their outdoor gear, with the Radalie being no different. Showing a solid effort towards sustainability, the Radalie contains recycled materials and materials that meet the Bluedesign criteria.

For example, this fall jacket comprises just over an ounce of recycled nylon plain weave and 92% Thermogreen polyester fibers.

In addition, the 2.2 oz. of Polyester taffeta and brushed tricot liner for the collar, cuffs and handwarmer pockets also add further warmth and comfort.

Durability

From looking at the reviews, I see very few issues with durability or any complaints in that manner. Patagonia is known for creating quality products that last, which is why their products usually come at a slightly higher price (although I do think you have to pay for quality).

On first impressions, the jacket looks and feels like it has been designed and constructed well, with all the zippers and seams appearing sturdy and of high quality.

Being mainly comprised of nylon and polyester is also a cracking choice, as both materials are naturally long-lasting. Adding a Durable Water Repellent Coating also means your jacket will keep its water-resistant ability for quite some time.
Comparison to Similar Insulated Jackets
I love this Patagonia insulated jacket for the warmth, comfort, and style it provides. But there are slightly lighter jackets that may be more suited to fall weather and more vigorous hikes.

For example, you can try out the Patagonia Nano Puff, which is stylish and comfortable like the Radalie but weighs about 5oz less. However, although the Nano Puff is warm, it isn't quite as warm as the Radalie. But you do get more flexibility with the Nano Puff, being available in a jacket, hoodie, and parka.

That brings me on to hoods. The only thing the Radalie is missing is a hood, making it less useful for rainy weather. If you prefer something similar but with a hood, you can try out the Patagonia Nano-Air Insulated Hoodie.

It comes with most of the aspects that the Radalie does. The stretchy, warm, and breathable 60 g FullRange® polyester insulation lets out excess heat when you're on the move and keeps you warm when you're not. However, it's arguably less stylish than the Radalie.

Another great product we reviewed is the Patagonia Silent Down Jacket, so make sure to check it out as well.
Verdict
Are you looking for something more stylish and less bulky this autumn? Yes? Then the Radalie is perfect for you with lots of color options, a slim and flattering fit, and a combination of warmth plus breathability for more active adventures.

It's the perfect fall and winter jacket that lets you look and feel great. Just make sure you find the right fit to suit your frame (usually order up a size), and you'll be ready for anything, whether that's hiking, camping, backpacking, or meandering around town.
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Sarah-Jane
By Sarah-Jane
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Best offer on: Oct. 04. 2024