Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket Review

When it comes to picking out a ski jacket, it's all about reliability and durability. Will it keep me warm and dry all day? Will it last me through at least a handful of seasons as I put it through the wringer? The Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket performance has been outstanding this winter and although I've only been testing it for one season, the construction feels strong and sturdy and I'm confident it will last for years to come. Like most Patagonia products, there's also an environmental story to this product; the jacket contains 35 recycled plastic bottles within its 100% recycled polyester GORE-TEX® face fabric.

The first thing I noticed and loved about the Powder Bowl was the slim, durable construction. The zippers and pockets are low-profile for minimal bulk, but they feel super solid. The zippers keep all moisture and wind from making their way in so even when you top out on the lift or you're skinning along a ridge line on a windy day, you'll be toasty. On the flip side, when you're working hard on the skin up or it's a warmer day at the resort, the armpit ventilation zippers come in handy and are easy to reach and use. 

There's just the right amount of pockets in the Powder Bowl; two hand warmers (featuring in-pocket access to the hem drawstring), one forearm pocket, one external chest pocket that includes a secure media pocket and cable routing, and one internal pocket. All of those pockets are zippered, plus there's a drop-in mesh pocket for quickly stashing your beanie, gloves, or anything else you don't want to put down in the snow. I found myself using this drop-in pretty often, especially while touring.

The hood and collar on this jacket are awesome. Some ski jackets I've worn can't quite find the balance between providing enough room for your helmet while it's up over your head and still fitting snug when the hood is down. Patagonia nailed it with this jacket; I never found myself struggling to find the right fit. There are drawcords on the front of the hood and on the rear, but I actually never really needed to adjust them too much. The default fit was pretty much perfect for me (I wear a Smith Holt Helmet).

The fit is super comfortable and moves with me whether I'm shredding, transitioning from skin to ski, or getting in and out of the truck. It just feels good on. I'm 5'11'' 185lbs and I ordered a Large. I like to have extra room for layering and movement (especially when I've got a beacon between my shell and my midlayer) and this size didn't feel too bulky for my liking. However, if you like a more slim fit, I might recommend a Medium for someone my size. 

Overall, I can't recommend this jacket enough. 10/10 performance in my book and the sustainability story only adds to the value. See below for a cool video Patagonia made to share their process for creating this jacket as well as a breakdown of materials. 

Materials

Shell: 2-layer, 4.6-oz 150-denier 100% recycled polyester GORE-TEX® fabric with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish.

Lining: (torso) 3.8-oz 100% brushed-polyester mesh; (sleeves) 3.8-oz 100% polyester mesh.

Powder skirt: 2.2-oz 50-denier 100% polyester taffeta.

Fabric is certified as bluesign® approved