At first glance the price of this minimalist jacket from Patagonia is likely to put a lot of people off, and fair enough – you are paying a lot for what you see.
However, Patagonia justify this by the fact that a lot of thought has gone into the design of what is the lightest three-layer waterproof/breathable shell they make (it comes in at just 229g, so you really don’t notice the M10 whether you’re wearing it or it’s in your pack), and the soft, pliable H2No ‘Performance Standard’ nylon ripstop fabric with DWR finish provides surprising durability for its weight, while also protecting admirably against heavy rain and howling winds.
The M10 is actually aimed at alpinists, hence the lack of features, as Patagonia says their sponsored rock athletes don’t want them.
Hence all you get at first glance is a very effective single-pull helmet-compatible hood with laminated visor and excellent peripheral vision, a low volume chest pocket which doubles as a stuff sack for the jacket, and Velcro-adjustable cuffs and hem.
However, the detail is in features like the sonically welded seams which have the narrowest possible tape to keep weight down, watertight zippers throughout and a snug microfleece-lined neck and chin.
The overall feel and look of the jacket in use is great – the fit is ‘slim’ for technical use over light-to-medium layers - and as a utilitarian, hard wearing and very effective lightweight shell for summer use it really is excellent; but at a steep price.
