I impulse bought a Patagonia R4 jacket that I found a good deal on, thinking that if the R1 was great in normal situations, then the R4 must be great for especially cold hikes.

Now that I got it, I believe it is going to either be too warm or not breathable enough. I'm thinking of returning it, but I was wondering if anyone on the forum has one and has put it to good use. Anybody have any insight on this jacket?

The R4 jacket is windproof which, in my opinion, makes it too warm/not breathable enough for active use. It would probably make a good around town jacket, or downhill ski layer, etc.

I don't think it's an active wear jacket. I love it for general every day use. It's comfortable and warm.

I wouldn't use it for the mountains. Too warm for moving around but not warm enough for the weight for sitting around.

I did try one on for around town use, but the fit was ridiculous, like a lot of Patagonia stuff. Really wide and not long enough.

Only for 'round town, or maybe car camping, which means, at 24 oz. for an XL, it's generally not worth it unless you got it for free (like me--as a gift). And there are better alternatives for 'round town.

The standard R2 is borderline for backcountry use, and so is the R2 bodyrug (no longer made?), as these are far bulkier than their down or synth. counterparts. I do like the Bodyrug in really cold weather when perspiration is an issue, as it dries quickly, vents easily, but is very warm. Hard to pack, though. The R1 is a classic...

I use my r4 with a waterproof shell for skiing in cold temps or for cold days around town. The wind proof aspect has really helped me out in unexpectantly cold weather around town. Mine breathes a bit more now after 4 years of use.

I've used the Light R4 version on multiple occasions for cold weather hiking and camping and its one of the best pieces of gear I have. Plus, its great for casual day hikes during the colder months. The fit is perfect for me, not wide at all.

You can't really compre the R4 to the Lightweight R4.

The R4 has a windproof layer sandwiched between 13.5 and 7.4 oz fleece. It has a regular fit. The michelin man could fit into it.

The R4 lightweight has a windproof layer sandwiched between 8 and 6.5 oz fleece. It has a slim fit. It was still too short for me though.

I'm a bit over average in height and I'm spretty skinny, so that might explain things. It's best to try them on.

Edited by TwoFortyJeff on 11/01/2009 12:12:21 MST.