Patagonia 2010 Preview

Latest in our 2010 previews from the OutDoor trade show in Gemany is Patagonia, Yvon Chouinard's legendary California-based brand, which incidentally is still at the forefront of ecological awareness with 82 per-cent of the spring 2010 range containing an 'e-fiber' or being recyclable.

'Ultralight' is Patagonia's theme for next year with the company taking advantage of the lightest waterproof fabric it's used to produce a featherweight alpine hardshell ensemble, the M10 Jacket and Pants. The material is 3-layer H2No, the company's own membrane-based breathable waterproof fabric.


The result is the company's lightest ever three-layer jacket and pants. The M10 jacket weighs just 303 grammes in a medium, has a helmet-compatible hood with laminated peak, water-right zippers all round, hand-warmer pocket zips that extend into pit-zips for maximum ventilation.


The M10 Pants are a simple affair and weigh just 240 grammes, giving a combined total of a whisker over 540 grammes. Impressive no? The jacket will retail for £349 and the Pants for £269.

Also new is the Simple Guide Jacket, a stripped-down version of the Guide soft shell made from the same fabric as the company's Lightweight Guide Pants, a woven 4-way stretch soft shell fabric treated with Deluge DWR. Neck and windflap are microfleece lined, but basically, like it says, it's a simple jacket designed to work in spring and summer when the full-weight Guide is often too warm.


It also makes use of 91% recycled Polyester teamed with 9% Spandex and is recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Programme. Retail price in the UK will be £120, weight is 377g.

The lightweight Velocity range has been expanded for next spring with some interesting kit like the Nine Trails vest, a lightweight windproof with a Nylon front teamed with a Polyester mesh back for venting and improved breathability. Weight is a very light 76 grammes and it's DWR treated. UK price £65.


There's also a new Patagonia Merino 1 T Shirt which combines merino wool and polyester in a 63/37 ratio to offer wicking and comfort. Price £69 and, see below, the Sol Patrol shirt made from part-recycled hemp, rated at SPF40 and featuring a neat back vent.


All the above available from early 2010. More information about Patagonia at www.patagonia.com.