The Patagonia Light & Variable Jacket in Black is a minimalist, windproof shell designed to provide instant protection against unpredictable gusts and light moisture. Made from a 2.2-oz recycled polyester ripstop, this jacket is so light it can be stowed into its own pocket and clipped to a backpack for easy access. It is a "go-anywhere" outer layer that occupies virtually no space, ensuring you are never caught out when the weather shifts during a trip or on the trail. Key Features Crafted from a durable, bluesign® approved fabric that offers excellent wind resistance and longevity while diverting plastic waste from landfills Treated with a Durable Water Repellent coating made without intentionally added PFAS, allowing light rain and mist to bead off the surface The zippered left-chest pocket doubles as a compact stuff-sack, allowing the entire jacket to pack down into a handheld pouch Designed with Y-Joint sleeves to ensure a full range of arm motion, preventing the hem from riding up while you're reaching or climbing Features a reverse-coil center-front zipper with an internal wind flap, a three-piece elasticated hood, and an adjustable drawcord hem to seal out drafts Equipped with two side-entry hand pockets and one secure chest pocket for organizing your trail or travel essentials At Urban Industry we recommend / Ideal For The primary choice for hikers and travellers who need a weather-resistant layer that won't add weight to their kit Ideal for blocking wind chill while walking or cycling through the city, with a discreet Black finish that pairs with any attire Perfect for spring and autumn mornings when a full coat is too heavy, but the breeze is too sharp for just a t-shirt A great choice for those supporting Fair Trade Certified™ manufacturing and recycled materials Our Style, Fit & Sizing Recommendations This jacket is cut with a standard silhouette, allowing enough room for a lightweight fleece or hoodie to be worn underneath We recommend taking your usual size for the intended fit. The elasticated cuffs and adjustable hem allow you to tailor the shape to your body The 2.2-oz fabric is exceptionally thin and smooth, ensuring it glides easily over base layers without any friction or "bunching." Washing & Care Instructions To maintain the technical properties of the recycled polyester, wash on a cold, gentle cycle Never use fabric softeners, as they can clog the pores of the DWR finish and significantly reduce the jacket's water-repellency A short stint in a low-heat dryer can actually help "reactivate" the DWR coating after washing Harsh chemicals will damage the ripstop weave and degrade the weather-resistant treatment Patagonia Light & Variable Jacket - Our FAQs How "windproof" is this jacket?It is designed to block significantly more wind than a standard knit hoodie or shirt. While not a total "gale-proof" barrier, it is engineered to prevent wind chill from stripping away your body heat during moderate breezes. What does "PFAS-Free" mean?PFAS are "forever chemicals" traditionally used in water-repellents. Patagonia has transitioned to a DWR finish that provides reliable moisture protection without these harmful, persistent chemicals. Is the "Light & Variable" waterproof?It is water-resistant, not waterproof. It will handle light drizzle and road spray with ease, but in a sustained downpour, you would eventually need a dedicated 3-layer hardshell. How small does it pack down?Once stuffed into its chest pocket, the jacket is roughly the size of a smartphone, making it incredibly easy to toss into a hip pack, tote bag, or even a deep trouser pocket. Product Code: 20495