Patagonia Powder Town Ski Collection Review
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Background and Initial Thoughts On The Patagonia Powder Town Collection
Hitting the slopes this winter is certainly happening in style. When I look good, I feel good. I’ll certainly dive in a little deeper for the performance and technical details that demonstrate the features that make me comfortable on the slopes. That is likely the reason you are here reading this. Patagonia makes quality gear, and that’s why they are a successful outdoor clothing brand. They’ve been around long enough to figure out a few things when it comes to perfecting their line of clothing.
I picked up this red Patagonia Fleece beauty back in 1996 in a thrift store in Jackson Hole. I was attempting to be a ski bum, but life, career, and love interests ultimately pulled me away. Neither here nor there, I scored this sweet vintage, warm Patagonia pullover back then. And I tell you what, I can’t seem to let go of it. The fact is that it’s in good shape, plus it keeps me warm. It’s a bit of nostalgia, but also proves that Patagonia outerwear can practically last forever.
All that said, let me go find some snow and mountains to test this Patagonia Power Town ski collection. I am eager to make the trek West on I-70 to Summit and Eagle Counties for some fluffy powdery turns.
Features Of The Powder Town Ski Pants
The first thing I noticed was the adjustable waist with elastic tabs that customize the fit. The belt loops are there to provide that last little bit of cinch to tighten it up. I have the Mediums, and these are still quite roomy. For reference, I am 6’-1” and 170 pounds with a 31’ waist. At first I thought it would be too big, but with layering and use, the little bit of extra room works just fine.
The microfleece panel in the seat adds that extra little bit of warmth especially on that first run after some snow when the chair lifts are coated with that overnight snow. The inside gaiters have a rugged and tough layer. They will see their fair share of action with skis and boots and poles clanging away.
The two hand warmer pockets are good for my car key and wallet. Two mid thigh pockets actually haven’t been used much, but serve a similar purpose for something flat and simple.
There is a webbing loop on the rear yoke that securely attaches these pants to the powder gasket on my jacket. I have yet to really see the full use of this having mostly been on groomers the beginning part of the season. I may report back later to chat about this feature.
The leg vents are mesh lined at the outer thighs to expel some of that heat with exertion or warmer temps. The cool thing is that it does keep the snow out.
I took the pants out for a snow shoe hike along the Continental Divide.
Weight: 619 grams.
MSRP: $249
For more information please check it out HERE
Powder Town Ski Jacket
The Powder Town Ski Jacket is all about mobility, battling the elements and versatility in its use. Equipped with an N2No Performance Standard 2-layer shell, the jacket provides water and windproof protection while still allowing for breathability. Ski Jacket sizing is always rather roomy (as it should be), and my Medium fits quite large to allow for that layering. However, the fit is articulated to allow for freedom of movement.
inside zippered pocket for the valuables. Chapstick and extra “hotties” seem to always end up in there as extras for my kids.
Zipped up completely the jacket hood provided solid full face coverage.
With a face mask, I could pretty much block out the last remaining bit of cold and wind.
The helmet compatible hood is a two-way adjustable hood with visor to help with visibility in poor conditions. What I appreciate is the tall collar that protects the neck and face even with the hood down. It will have to be pretty miserable out the for me to put the hood on. I feel the hood limits my awareness visually and from a sound perspective. Late December and early January have brought on some extreme cold temperatures and an abundance of snow. Hence, the hood in the up positions is seeing more and more use. In addition, the low-profile powder skirt with webbing loop at center back connects nicely to my snow pants.
The cuff straps are able to be tightened even with my thick mittens.
The hand warmer pockets have a brushed lining for comfort and warmth. There are easy access pit zips which will probably see more action come Spring time. The mobility is good with the arms, and the zippers can easily be opened even with gloves.
This zipper is one of the simplest and best features. It holds my Epic Ski pass which the ski lift operators can easily swipe.
Front pocket is perfect for the phone.
The built-in RECCO reflector is concealed away, but serves a very important function. I don’t venture to the back-country too much, so hopefully I won’t need that.
Weight- 700 grams
MSRP: $349
For more details, information, and ordering please check out Patagonia.
Men’s Micro Puff Jacket
The Micro Puff® Jacket is versatile, warm, and stylish. The “warm” element is kind of expected. The latest and greatest technologies are compiled into this with ultralight Pertex® Quantum shell fabric with PlumaFill insulation.
The shell fabric is made with NetPlus® 100% postconsumer recycled nylon with a ripstop made from recycled fishing nets. The insulation is 100% recycled polyester and has been Fair Trade Certified™ sewn.
The micro puff jacket is serving its purpose as a mid layer for skiing, a casual commuter coat, and a walk-around-the-woods hiker. Light, comfortable, and warm is all I can ask for, and that is what it has done. The hood fits nicely with enough room to not feel like my head is being pulled down. The zipper comes up over the chin to prevent any wind from creating a chilly draft.
Apres Keystone Resort Ski
MSRP: $ 249
See HERE for more information.
Taking Patagonia Powder Town Out On The Slopes
Let’s talk about pockets first. I know that may seem odd, but some could say that you can never have enough pockets. And I hear you on that. On the flip side, I can’t remember where I put all the stuff I have to carry some times. Hence, a proper amount of storage options in good locations are just fine by me. Keep it simple I say. I don’t need an individual pocket for every little thing I carry up and down with me. The arm ski pass is a good thing. Simply hold it up for the lift operators, and off you go. Keeping my phone, wallet, and key secure in a zipped pocket is also very important. After that, give me some roomy side pocket compartments for the extra stuff (snacks mainly) my kids may need, and I am all set.
The nature of this product is that it’s made for layering. The shell isn’t super thick or rugged. Not that it needs to be. That said, I was amazed at how well it kept the cold and wind out. Bombing down mountains to then sit on a cold chair lift can take its toll after a while.
What I’ve come to appreciate is the fact that the wind has been kept at bay with these outerlayer pants and jacket. The top of Breckenridge is quite windy at times, and that last stretch on the lift is where these have proven very valuable. The functionality to take this outerwear alpine skiing, nordic skiing, snowshoeing has been really good.
Final Thoughts On The Patagonia Powder Town Ski Outfit
The Patagonia Powder Town ensemble is a primo winter gear outfit to keep one warm and able to enjoy the snowy mountains. I am wearing all three pieces alpine skiing, nordic skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, commuter biking, and as a casual winter coat. The fit is good, the purpose is warm, and the result is that I am able to stay out longer to play in the snow. A rather simple resolve, but the winter elements are combatted nicely.
The value is something that can be up for discussion. These pieces are not necessarily cheap, but you pay for what you get. There are certainly cheaper as well as more expensive active outerwear coats and jackets out there. The value is there, and I am certain that with time, it is an investment that will pay off in the long run. You won’t be sorry in this purchase. I hope these pieces will still be part of my ensemble in twenty plus years.
To learn more about these pieces and other Patagonia gear, visit www.patagonia.com.
