Customer Reviews

Patagonia R4 Fleece Jacket - Men's Olivine Large

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have owned many Patagonia producs over the years, and one of my favourites has been the R4. However, I returned a recently purchased R4 because of changes to the jacket. Earlier versions of the R4 included R2 fleece lining in the collar and the sleeve cuffs (now gone). The sleeves at that time also had an elastic band (now gone). By far the most significant change, though, has been the elimination of the draw-string at the hem.

This is a serious omission in a jacket that is touted as being 'wind-proof'. While the wind-resistence of the fabric remains the same, the absence of the draw-string allows gusts to penetrate underneath, greatly reducing the protection afforded by earlier versions. The problem is aggravated, too, by what appears to be a looser cut at the waist.

I have witnessed in recent years a decline in the quality of Patagonia products. Since this decline has been accompanied by some rather steep price increases, I'll be looking to other brands in the future.

Patagonia's R4 Fleece Jacket is a great cold weather clothing item for hikers and anyone else who expects to be active in the teens to 30's temperature range of dry cold. The jacket is windproof, relatively lightweight, stretchy, and non-bulky enough to wear comfortably under pack straps or other gear. This reviewer has worn it extensively in spring, fall, and early winter Alaskan conditions. It has two handwarmer pockets, a chest pocket big enough for a wallet, and a single point waist cinch. The plush fleece surface wears well under repeated use, and looks good enough for casual wear, if needed.

The Patagonia R4 Fleece Jacket is highly recommended as another quality Patagonia product.

The R4 is hands down one of the best pieces of clothing I've ever owned. It is easily the warmest fleece I've ever had, and I've used TNF, Mountain Hardwear and REI fleeces for years. While it is a bit pricey, the quality is certainly worth it.

From a functional perspective, the main advantages are warmth and wind resistance. Many fleeces are fine to wear when there's no wind, but even a light breeze can cut right through them. Not so with the R4. If I had to nitpick, I would say that the only downside is that it's a bit bulky for backpacking, though I've taken it on the trail before in lieu of my Marmot Sharppoint.

The only other comment I would make is that this might not be the best fleece if you live in a warm area that seldom gets below 50. If you live in SoCal or South Texas, the R4 Lightweight might be a better choice.

The Patagonia R4 Jacket is a great cold weather item for folks who expect to be outdoors and active in the teens to 30's dry cold temperature range. The jacket has a velour outer surface, a wind-proof lining, and enough bulk for real warmth. It has a full-length zipper, two handwarmer pockets, and a small chest pocket. The bulk of the fleece may be an issue for anyone doing lots of overhead work or needing lots of arm mobility. This reviewer found it works well for hiking and backpacking in southcentral Alaska under spring and fall conditions. The jacket tends to hold up well under moderate to heavy use.

The R4 Jacket is highly recommended to fans of quality Patagonia gear.

This jacket it amazingly comfortable, almost entire windproof (more on that in a second), and absurdly warm. I am able to stand outside in 20 degree weather wearing only a t-shirt under this jacket. The fit is classic/regular; I am a wide back/shouldered 6'1 240 lbs, and the XL fits me perfectly. Everything about this jacket is designed for semi-technical use; from the full range stretch fabric to the offset seams for comfortable pack carrying. However, there is no waist cord, which seems odd for a jacket that has so many other technically oriented designs. I imagine most people will buy this to just throw on and walk around town. In that case, it's one of the best jackets I have owned, as I will always use a waterproof shell as my technical shell, so that isn't what I was looking for when I purchased the R4.

Exceeds the hype! By far, the warmest fleece I have ever owned. It's so light you won't believe how warm and wind proof this jacket actually is. I have used this for snow shoeing, snow blowing, walking the dog and other outdoor activities. In most cases, I only have one light breathable shirt underneath. I have stayed very warm and dry. Great Patagonia quality. My only complaint is the color (green) is a little bright. Highest recommendation without any reservations. Have owned many other jackets by a variety of manufacturers. This one is light years ahead of anything else on the market.

I purchased this jacket for my husband who was looking for something to replace his old Patagonia jacket which was well-worn after several decades of use. He loves this jacket: it's wind proof, repels water to some extent and is warm for Winter hiking. A perfect birthday gift!

First of all, I'm not a person who goes hiking or skiing. I'm not an a mountain climber or an outdoor adventurer. In fact, I tend to stick to the urban landscape of Houston, TX that has rather mild winters. Why did I by this jacket? Simply, I'm just a dude that doesn't like to be cold. I was looking for the warmest fleece I could find at any cost. I would be surprised If I could find anything warmer than this one. I tried the North Face Denali, which was just stiffer, stuffier, heavier, and less wind resistant that this jacket.
I kept the tags on my Denali for a few wears because I was having doubts. After one wear of the R4, I ripped the tags right off. For those times when this jacket does get a little toasty, I just zip down the zipper a little to provide more breathing room and ventilation and the problem is solved! But even on the coldest days in Houston (mid 40s at worst), I grab this jacket and the cold doesn't touch me! I can't wait to test it out in below freezing temperatures. I probably wont be finding that in Houston anytime soon, so I may try to find a walk in freezer. :)

This jacket is surprisingly warm, and yet cool enough to wear, e.g., in the car. Fits perfectly, even on a fat man like myself, and looks great. Just all-round outstanding jacket. If you are on the fence because of the cost, jump off it. This is a great jacket.

This jacket looks great. It also fits me just right (XL/I'm 6'1' & 212 lbs). For cold, windy weather, I actually prefer my Retro-X Jacket to this one. The R4 Jacket does not seem to be as warm to me as the Retro-X. I was surprised at how thin the R4 material is. (Patagonia claims it is 300 weight and their warmest fleece. Their Snap T's seem MUCH thicker & warmer fleece to me than the R4 Jacket). Having said that, the R4 Jacket is a great, well-made jacket and looks nice, in my opinion.