“Be bold, start cold” is a common mantra here in the PNW. It’s a tale as old as time itself. You feel a little chilly at the trailhead, maybe throw that extra layer on. Ten minutes later (if you’re lucky), you’re dripping sweat. Tricked again.
Having lived here for several decades, one might think I’d have learned this lesson. But no, I (like so many others) am a chronic over-dresser.
Enter the Dirt Roamer jacket. It’s so soft and stretchy that I can’t help but throw it on to start every ride. I’ve worn this jacket all through the fall, winter and spring (aside from a two-week hiatus while it was out of commission - more on that in a moment), and unlike other riding shells I’ve used, this one doesn’t come off. It’s incredibly breathable and stretchy, and easily shrugs off wind and most precipitation. This is not a membrane-style jacket (Gore-Tex, etc), so it is not “waterproof”, but the DWR-coated nylon face (100% RECYCLED!!) repels all but the most heinous of rain. If conditions call for something heavier, it’s Tiger King and chill time for this reviewer.
The Dirt Roamer has a large (but adjustable), helmet-compatible hood that easily rolls in on itself and stores via a clever hook-and-loop system. There are two pockets; I’ve found the chest pocket to be super handy for stashing small items such as headphones or VOKE tabs, and the rear pocket can be used to pack and stow the jacket (though I’ve never used this feature it will probably come in handy for summer days). The bike-specific fit is slightly longer in the back, and the articulated sleeves are long enough to prevent a wrist-gap with outstretched arms.
Being such a lightweight shell, there is always the worry that one crash will be the end of things. I’ve had several off-bike experiences that didn’t leave a scratch, the nylon face is impressively tough. I did, however, take a bad crash in the fall that left a good portion of the back tattered. This is where Patagonia really impressed me. I filled out a form on their site, and paid $5 for a return label to send the jacket in for evaluation. Two weeks later, the jacket was back, with a new back panel sewn in and seams re-taped. If I didn’t know what it looked like before I wouldn’t know the difference.
At $229, this jacket is one I plan on using for many years to come. It’s versatility lends it to a huge variety of climates and conditions, and it’s comfort makes it my go-to any time I hop on the bike. Add in the 100% recycled fabric, and a company that encourages repair over selling a replacement, and you’ve got a truly exceptional piece to add to the kit.
Size tested: Large
Reviewer: 6’ 3 190 lbs
