Waterproof Jackets

Passenger Five Element Recycled Jacket | Review

Reliable and versatile - there’s a lot to like about this sustainable waterproof jacket from Passenger.

I’ve been using the Passenger Five Element jacket during an unpredictable spring here in the UK, most recently on a gear testing trip to Eryri where myself and the Outdoors Magic team really saw four seasons of weather over the course of a few days. It’s safe to say, this jacket has been well and truly tested out in the mountains.

To see how it compares with the competition, check out our article on the best waterproof jackets for women.

Our Top Line on the Passenger Five Element

Through sustained downpours, lashing winds, and a few eerily warm spells, the Passenger Five Element jacket has performed well during my hikes. I can see it excelling as an everyday walking jacket when you need a reliable and protective waterproof that isn’t overly technical.

Buy The Passenger Five Element Jacket: £169.95 at Passenger-clothing.com

Key Features

Peak to Pub

The Five Element has a nice look to it that wouldn’t look amiss both around-the-town and on the mountain side.

3-layer fabric

In true Passenger fashion, this laminated waterproof fabric is made using 100% recycled polyester with a PFC-free DWR coating. Two thumbs up for eco credentials.

20,000mm waterproof rating

I’ve had absolutely no issues on the waterproofing side of things so far.

Pit zips

Nothing beats a good pit zip. I’ve found these very useful as this jacket runs a little on the warm side.

Adjustability

You’ll find adjustable velcro on the cuffs, an adjustable drawcord on the hood, and adjustable cord-locks at the hem.

The Five Element being tested in the rain in North Wales. Photos: Dave MacFarlane

Who Is The Passenger Five Element Jacket For?

At 400g (we’re double checking that weight), the Five Element sits in the mid weight range. I’d be happy using it in spring through to autumn on easy to moderate hikes here in the UK. For those chillier days, I’ve found that it’s pretty easy to fit a bit of extra insulation underneath due to its loose fit.

I’ve enjoyed wearing it in my day-to-day life too. Love it or hate it – the GORP era seems here to stay, and this jacket has a look that fits right in. In particular, I can see it being a great jacket when you’re exploring a new country and need something that will perform reliably across an eclectic range of activities.

Buy The Passenger Five Element Jacket: £169.95 at Passenger-clothing.com

Sustainability

I can’t mention Passenger without talking about their great eco credentials. Aside from the fact that they plant one tree for every order that’s placed, you’ll find recycled and organic content all throughout their clothing ranges, as well as PFC-free waterproofing every time.

As part of their commitment to a fair and transparent supply chain, they map their suppliers so we know exactly where the clothes are coming from and what each manufacturing company is like. They also work with the Rainforest Trust to help protect tropical rainforests and wildlife around the world. Not bad, not bad at all.

Design

The fabric of the Five Element is made from 100% recycled polyester. This 3-layer laminated waterproof fabric is also seam sealed using Bemis tape, a 2-layer tape with a fabric top and an adhesive backing that is very tough indeed.

The DWR coating is PFC-free and the fabric has been tested with a 20,000mm waterproof rating. In other words, this is a highly waterproof jacket. As per Passenger’s (and our) recommendations, this coating will need to be reproofed each time the jacket is washed to maintain the water resistant properties. Here’s our video guide on how to do that.

During my tests, I faced some pretty relentless spring showers while hiking across various trails in the UK. I found that the Five Element jacket was reliable in keeping my dry and was fairly effective at blocking out wind too. I did get a touch clammy at times, but that’s where the pit zips come in handy.

I’ve found that this jacket runs a little warm – though I do run on the warm side myself – so I have been using these pit zips quite a lot recently. I’ve found them very effective at dumping unwanted heat and easy enough to use on-the-move.

I also like the hood. It’s got a 3-piece design with a sturdy laminated peak and a concealed drawcord at the back. Elsewhere, you’ll find two side pockets with waterproof YKK zippers, adjustable velcro cuffs, and adjustable cord-locks at the hem.

Fit

I’m roughly 5 foot 6 and have a stocky and curvy build. I tried the Five Element jacket in a XL and found it to be a good fit. I did find it a little tight around the hem at times, and would have appreciated more elasticity in that respect, though this largely depends on your hip width.

As for the length, at approximately 67cm I’d say it’s a little shorter than most waterproof jackets. This is partly what gives it that versatile peak to pub look. If, however, you like a longer jacket with more protection on the bum, I’d look to something like the Tierra Nevado instead.

Verdict

All in all, I’ve grown rather fond of this jacket. I reckon it makes a great shell jacket for light hiking, holiday adventuring, day-to-day walking, and the like.

As I said, I wouldn’t necessarily use it for anything super technical but I found it to be a reliable performer when out stomping around the trails of North Wales this spring. And though I haven’t come across that much abrasion on the trail so far, I’d say it’s got a tough feel to it too.

While it’s not a budget waterproof jacket, I still think it’s a very reasonably priced jacket, especially if you’re looking for something that’s made in an environmentally conscious way.