4/14/26

Patagonia Torrentshell vs Outdoor Research Foray - Which one is best?

Between these two jackets, the Outdoor Research Foray takes the cake, but the Patagonia Torrentshell is better value. It's made of Patagonia's in-house three-layer fabric, which they call H2NO. It's their version of Gore-Tex, and I think it easily performs just as well. The only drawback this fabric has, it's pretty loud whenever you move in it, and that sound gets kind of annoying. I've had this jacket for about 2 years, and aside from some worn out wrist cuffs and dirt, it looks like it's pretty much brand new, and I don't really treat it that nice. The Torrentshell is my go-to for a lot of occasions. It's just not fussy, it's simple, and it gets the job done. It's also loaded with some pretty rad features, including pit zips, which I've always thought are a super nice touch. There's just something about the Torrentshell that I love, and I'll probably always have one. The overall fit and finish of the Torrentshell is solid, and if this is the only rain jacket you have, you're not going to be disappointed. But it's not the only rain jacket I have. The Foray does everything the Torrentshell does, just a little bit better. Outdoor Research also has their own three layer fabric. It's a little bit stretchy and a whole lot quieter than H2NO. It has a hood that adjusts in all the same areas as the Torrentshell, but it just fits on my head a little bit better. The zippers around the jacket feel like they're built for a tank and they have this really cool waterproof looking plastic stuff on the outside that makes me feel all rain jackety. The wrist adjustment is the exact same as the Torrentshell and I bet it'll hold up for about as long, too. The Torrentshell does have pit zips under the arms, but the Foray takes it a step further. When you unzip these all the way, the jacket pretty much turns into a poncho. The fit and finish on the Foray is just a little bit better in every category. But then again, it kind of should be. I mean, the Foray is more expensive, and it's another example of getting what you pay for. But that's why I think the Torrentshell is still the best value. It's considerably cheaper than the Foray. I mean, you could get a pair of clearance rack hiking boots for that price difference. But if you don't have to be price conscious or you're looking for something that's a little nicer than the others, I like the Foray. If you like this video, check out my channel. And if you want to come along, subscribe. But either way, I'm stoked you're here and I'll see you next time. :)

Next

Hiking shoes vs. Trail runners - Which one?