Patagonia's Packable Dirt Roamer Jacket Blocks Wind, Keeps Mist at Bay [Review]

The Patagonia Dirt Roamer Jacket retails for ~~$229~~ $249 and is available in sizes extra small through extra large. I tested the size large in black.

I pack for mountain bike rides based on the weather I can see from my garage. This lack of planning often leads to me being too hot, too cold, wet, or some combination of the three. Patagonia has taken up the challenge of providing one jacket for nearly all conditions with the introduction of their Dirt Roamer in the 2019 mountain bike line. The 221g packable mountain bike jacket, composed of 100% polyester circular-knit backer bonded to 100% nylon face-treated with durable water repellent DWR serves as an all-in-one breathable thermal layer, windbreaker, protective shell, and a rain jacket.

Key features include a zippered chest pocket, a centered pocket in the rear drop hem, an easily adjustable hood, and a self-containing feature allowing the jacket to pack into its own pocket.

I am usually suspicious when a manufacturer claims to have invented a “jack of all trades” piece of equipment, so my immediate intentions when receiving the Dirt Roamer Jacket were centered on finding where it faltered. Fortunately for me, this piece performed extremely well within Patagonia’s claims in a variety of conditions.

On the trail

In dry spring weather, where temperatures hovered around 40° F, the Dirt Roamer Jacket was a great layer to begin my rides with, allowing me to stay warm as I prepared my bike at the car and began my warm up.

Once I had pedaled a few miles I usually took the jacket off as it does hold body heat rather well. I never experience sweat buildup on the inside of the jacket, indicating that the breathability is very high. In wet weather, the jacket kept me dry like any other mountain bike specific jacket I have tried, thanks to its taped seams and DWR treatment. While descending, the Dirt Roamer was barely noticeable, as the stretchy fabric and athletic fit don’t inhibit movement, and keep the material close to your skin.

The Jacket has an athletic fit and doesn’t bunch up underneath your stomach. The hood covers most of my size large Smith Forefront helmet without getting in the way of my peripheral vision.

I am 6’1 (185cm), have a 31″ (78cm) waist, a 40″ (101cm) chest, and weigh 165 lbs. (75 kg).

Final Word

Overall I really enjoyed wearing the Dirt Roamer, and there aren’t really any modifications I would ask for down the line. Price wise, Patagonia’s line is on par with much of the industry, and well below other premium brands. This jacket is backed by Patagonia’s warranty program, like all of their other gear, meaning any rip or non-functioning zipper can be sent in for repair.