As we mentioned previously, the Storm Racer ain’t no slouch in the waterproofing department. This is thanks to a three-layer H2No fabric being used. H2No is, of course, Patagonia’s own in-house waterproof material, which boasts a 100% recycled 30D nylon ripstop face fabric. However, we’re still a little miffed that Patagonia have stuck to using PFCs in their fabrics (NB. they’ve pledged to rule them out by the end of 2020).

This use of PFC’s is slightly frustrating, particularly in a time where many brands are already adopting their own alternatives. After contacting Patagonia to ask why these are still being used, they informed us that it’s for durability/longevity reasons. Without the DWR they use, Patagonia simply wouldn’t be able to create a durable waterproof membrane right now that would be able to stand the test of time. 

And this makes sense to us, as the Storm Race is quite possibly one of the most durable lightweight trail running jackets we’ve got our hands on – there certainly won’t be a need to replace it, even after a good few years of hard trail use.

Tester’s Verdict

Holly Burns, Outdoors Magic gear tester

“Now I must admit I wasn’t fully ready for how much I would come to love this jacket! I love Patagonia and I know how great their kit is. It lasts a lifetime and these are not just empty words, I own a Nano-Puff which I have had for nearly a decade and it’s still going strong. So, if you are feeling put off by the price tag, know that you will get your money’s-worth with this jacket, ‘buy cheap, buy twice, and all that’.

“I headed off to the Lake District for a week of trail running and took this jacket for a spin up three of England’s classic scrambles. Arriving on Blencathra the clouds rolled in, the rain started and on the Storm Racer went. One of the things that really sets this jacket apart from other running jackets I’ve worn is just how bombproof it feels whilst still being so lightweight.

“I was impressed with the texture of the fabric as it feels thicker than most running jackets, so I wasn’t so worried about how it might fair in close contact with some rocky ridges. Something else that also stood out was just how breathable it is – while still making me feel confident that it would keep the elements out.

“Designed to fit your running vest underneath, it’s amazing how I can pack two water bottles, a GoPro, snacks (everyone loves a snack!) AND my Nano-Puff into my trail vest underneath the Storm Racer without looking like the Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Two zips at the front give access to anything that I need from my trail vest on the go – this is so imperative in the mountains, especially if the weather is bad and you don’t want to stop. You can even undo both zips and fold away the front section of the jacket allowing easy access to your hydration system and also increasing airflow. One zipper is the full length of the jacket meaning it’s not just a smock, but you can unzip like a regular jacket if needs be.

“After a very wild, wet and windy blast along the summit plateau from Sharp Edge it was very apparent on the descent that I was still bone-dry underneath. I remember commenting on how the inside of the fabric wasn’t cold against my skin even though it was cold and wet outside.

“The Storm Racer comes with a small stuff sack, located at the back of the neck. When packed away it ends up being about the size of the palm of my hand and super light which means it can easily be fitted into a pocket on your trail vest and you won’t even know it’s there.

“To all you female trail runners (men’s version also available) who enjoy getting up high in the mountains, you will not be disappointed with this jacket. That being said, although it’s not it’s original intention, this jacket has great capabilities to also be a great lightweight summer hiking jacket. In my opinion, it’s a must have for any summer mountain adventures.”

Patagonia Storm Racer

• Price£220
• Weight173g
• More info patagonia.com