Patagonia M10 Anorak & M10 Storm Pants Review: A stripped-down, knife-sharp, ultralight, technical shell for year-round use
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
The Patagonia M10 alpine shell series has been extremely popular among alpine climbers who seek every gram of lightness and millimeter of freedom in the harsh winter environments, but was sadly discontinued for product improvements.This winter , however, it has been revived for the first time in approximately six years, with improvements made.
This 3-layer waterproof and breathable shell, which is as lightweight as possible with minimal functionality, is highly rated not only by alpine climbers but also by overseas backcountry skiers and UL backpackers, and its balance is surprisingly good, as evidenced by its minimalist design.As someone who loves snowy mountains, backcountry skiing, speed hiking in the snow-free season, and river climbing, I suspected that this shell had great potential
M10 Anorak and M10 Storm Pants which I would say best embody the essence of the M10 series, in the winter mountains, as someone who enjoys activities such as fastpacking, trail running, river climbing, backcountry skiing, snow-covered mountain traverses, and slightly varied routes.
What are the appeal and features of this cutting-edge technical shell, which is neither a so-called hard shell nor rainwear? Are there any concerns or things to be careful about? Let's take a quick look at this review
table of contents
Key Features of the Patagonia M10 Anorak & Storm Pants
The Patagonia M10 is a lightweight, highly mobile technical shell designed to meet the demanding demands of even the most demanding alpine climbing. Prioritizing freedom of movement, the streamlined silhouette and meticulous, unique patterning allow for stress-free, dynamic movement throughout the body, from shoulders to hips. The ultra-thin 20-denier fabric (M10 Anorak only) features a PFAS-free X-Pore Nanoporous Membrane, providing excellent weather protection and breathability despite its light weight. Features like a comfortable, protective hood, a 3/4-inch front zip, a chest pocket, and packable construction make this a versatile piece, ideal for alpine climbing and a wide range of other adventures, whether on snow or not.
Favorite points
- Streamlined cut for a comfortable fit and exceptional freedom of movement
- It's so lightweight and compact you'd never guess it was a shell designed for use on snowy mountains
- Flexible and ultra-thin, yet highly abrasion-resistant, weather-resistant and breathable
- Front 3/4 zipper that can be opened up and down for comfort and ventilation
- Helmet-compatible hood for a comfortable fit and protection
- High versatility for all high-tempo activities
- Carefully crafted and high manufacturing quality
Points of concern
- Few pockets and poor sleeve and hem adjustment (not suitable for casual outdoor activities)
- Due to the slim fit, depending on your body type and size, it may be difficult to layer thick layers
- Anxiety about being scratched by sharp objects
Main specifications and evaluation
| item | Patagonia Men's M10 Anorak | Patagonia Men's M10 Storm Pants |
|---|---|---|
| weight | 274g (measured size M) | 212g (S size actual measurement) |
| color | Endless Blue, Forge Grey | Smolder Blue, Forge Grey |
| size | XS / S / M / L / XL | XXS / XS / S / M / L / XL |
| Women's model | △ (Women's M10 Storm Jacket only) | ◯ (bib type) |
| Waterproof and breathable | PFAS-free H2No Performance Standard Shell (3-layer construction) | PFAS-free H2No Performance Standard Shell (3-layer construction) |
| material | 3-layer, 2.7-oz 20-denier 100% recycled nylon ripstop with an X-Pore nanoporous membrane and a smooth jersey backer, with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish (PFAS-free) | Made from 3.4-oz 30-denier Econyl 100% recycled nylon ripstop with a smooth jersey backer and waterproof/breathable barrier, it's treated with a PFAS-free DWR (durable water repellent) finish |
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| Other features |
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| Outdoor Gearzine Review | ||
| Weather resistance (waterproof, windproof, and insulating) | ★★★☆☆ | |
| Breathable and non-stuffy | ★★★★☆ | |
| Comfort and ease of movement | ★★★★★ | |
| weight | ★★★★★ | |
| Functionality | ★★★★☆ | |
| durability | ★★★☆☆ | |
| versatility | ★★★★☆ | |
Detailed review of wearing it on snowy Mount Akadake and speed hiking on low mountains
Surprisingly light weight for a snowy season
Actual measurements for size M. Although the M10 Anorak is slightly heavier than the previous model, it is still as light as lightweight rainwear
The Patagonia M10 series takes its name from the "M10" grade, a tough mixed climbing grade on rock and snow that only a select few experts are allowed to complete M10 Anorak & M10 Storm Pants a top-and-bottom set that particularly emphasizes this concept , are ultra-lightweight hard shells designed for technical climbing.
However, the first thing you notice about this minimalist design is its lightness, which is the polar opposite of so-called hard shells, which are heavy, stiff, bulky, and noisy when you move
When I actually weighed the medium size, it was surprisingly light for a winter 3-layer hard shell, weighing just 274g (the Storm Pants size S weighed 212g). To be honest, when I wore it, I didn't feel any discomfort at all, and this lightness is obviously a major advantage for missions in the winter mountains, where you tend to carry a lot of heavy equipment
And, as befits its light weight, it also packs very compactly. It's packable, so you can easily roll it up and store it in your left chest pocket. For example, when starting a climb from a low altitude, you can roll it up and attach it to a carabiner clip. Of course, it's also great for use as rainwear not only in winter mountains but also in snow-free seasons, where you can easily store it at the bottom of your backpack without it even bothering you
A stunning pattern that combines exceptional freedom of movement with a streamlined fit
About the size
The M10 Anorak is basically a "slim fit" that follows the lines of the body, but because it is designed to allow for ease of movement during alpine climbing, it is roomy, especially around the shoulders, and the hem is tapered to fit under a harness. For me, who is slimmer than average, this cut was no problem.
However, when I tried on the small size that I usually choose for Patagonia outerwear, I found that while the small size was just right if I was only focusing on movement, I felt that I wanted a little more room in the waist, as I intend to use it for a wide range of activities such as backcountry, snowy mountain traverses, and stream climbing rather than ice climbing
After some deliberation, I decided on a size M. I've been wearing it for about a month now and it's comfortable to wear. I also have enough room to wear a lightweight down jacket underneath, so I'm happy with how easy it is to layer
Wearing size M (176cm, 64kg)
On the other hand, when it comes to pants, my body type is right between S and M, so I always try them on before deciding. This time, I tried on S and found that it fit perfectly. This is because S was the perfect fit, especially in terms of the waist; usually, this would make the pants feel tight around the waist, but the pants themselves have more than enough room in the gusset, so S was just right
At first glance, the pants in particular appear to have a very ordinary silhouette, but they actually feature a bold gusset crotch that doesn't feel too tight even when you spread your legs wide (see photo below). This groundbreaking cut is said to have been inspired by Japanese judo uniforms
As you can see, the sizing is a bit quirky, so I recommend trying them on before purchasing, but once you've got that down, I felt the M10 offered the best fit I've ever had
Incidentally, one of the main reasons I was able to make the most of these shell pants this time was the Nano Air Light Bottoms . New for this season, these layers combine warmth, stretch, and breathability, and wearing them underneath didn't hinder the high mobility of the M10 Storm Shell at all, and kept me comfortable without freezing.
I wore the Men's Nano Air Light Bottoms in size M as a mid-layer. They're great liner pants, with a loose fit around the waist and a sharply tapered hem, providing both roominess and ease of movement
This time I layered my underwear with Nano Air Light and then a shell, but if it gets even colder, I could wear long merino wool tights underneath for extra warmth and be perfectly prepared
Ease of movement
The M10 is a jacket for alpinists who insist on performing at their best even in harsh environments , and the most important thing about it is "ease of movement." As the developers also mentioned in an interview, they spent a lot of time studying not only the movements of climbers but also the movements of dancers, and as a result of a lot of trial and error, the design of the underarm gussets was significantly revised.
As a result, (compared to the previous model) the shoulders are now even more mobile and the hemline is said to ride up very little. I didn't own the previous model, but just moving around in the new model gave me a level of freedom of movement that was unimaginable with previous hard shells (the fabric actually has a slight stretch). The hemline doesn't ride up (though I wouldn't say it doesn't happen at all), so there's no need to worry about it messing up your harness. This slim pullover is supple, makes little chafing noise, and doesn't flap at all, so there's no zipper fussing around the harness, and it has a clean silhouette that makes it comfortable to wear
As expected, the fabric doesn't get caught on your shoulders when you raise your arms, and the hem barely rides up, so the high level of mobility is impressive
the M10 Storm Pants developed as hard shell pants for technical alpine climbing that do not restrict movement at all , feature a huge diamond-shaped "4-point gusset" under the crotch and clever three-dimensional cutting at the knees, which means that even when wearing a harness, the movement of the lower body is not restricted at all, and the cuffs do not ride up when raising the thighs. At the beginning of the test, I was worried that gaiters around the legs would be better, but the tight elastic fit around the ankles kept them covered over the hiking boots without riding up.
The thin knit lining is comfortable against the skin, and the thin, flexible seam tape minimizes stiffness of the fabric, making it truly impressive how measures have been taken to prevent all stress when wearing the garment
The seam tape is flexible and extremely thin at just 10mm. The back of the neck, which is prone to getting dirty, is carefully reinforced to prevent stains
New PFAS-free membrane provides excellent weather resistance and breathability
The waterproof and breathable membrane used in the M10 Anorak is a 3-layer H2No Performance Standard Membrane, but unlike the jacket type, it uses Xpore's nanoporous membrane and an ultra-thin 20-denier outer fabric. While the subtle differences aren't disclosed, the anorak feels clearly thinner and more flexible to the touch. It's fair to say I chose the anorak for this comfortable feel
Regarding waterproof and breathable performance, we tested its water resistance and water repellency by continuously showering it with water for a set period of time in an indoor shower. As expected, it prevented water from getting in so well that it was hard to believe it was thin, and performed at the same level as major waterproof and breathable membranes. It also provided excellent protection against strong winds on ridgelines, so there should be no problems with its basic functionality
As for breathability, (although I didn't test it in a hot and humid environment) it smoothly eliminated the stuffiness that occurs during winter mountain climbing before it became uncomfortable. During testing, I wore the company's Nano Air Light Hybrid Jacket over a base layer in temperatures around -10°C, and I never felt the need to take this set off from the start of the climb to the descent. On speed hikes in low mountains, opening the long front zipper allowed for ample ventilation when I felt hot, and the thin fabric (for better or worse) prevented body heat from building up, so I remained comfortable here as well
As an aside, the M10 Anorak an adaptation of a technology originally developed in the manufacture of car batteries: "nanoporous membranes are created by mechanically stretching materials to create uniform, tiny holes." It offers more stable performance than the non-uniform pores of conventional chemically manufactured porous membranes used in clothing, and it will be interesting to see whether this technology will be applied to other items in the future.
Good abrasion resistance and scratch resistance
Regarding durability, which is something I'm always concerned about, I think it's durable enough for such a thin and lightweight garment. I've hardly seen any other jackets in this class that the M10 Anorak . It's supple, yet has a firm, sturdy feel.
That said, it cannot be said that it is so sturdy that even beginners who are not yet accustomed to winter mountain climbing can use it without any worries
People (including myself) who are not used to carefully using sharp tools like axes, crampons, and ski edges tend to accidentally catch the fabric if they let their guard down for a moment, and it seems like this thin fabric would not be able to withstand that
the M10 Storm Pants crampon guards, which are usually placed on the inside of the pant legs . I'm sure I'll catch even a little something in the next year or two. You'll definitely need to be extremely careful about this, or be prepared and ready for a tear.
Stripped down to just the essentials
- Adjustable hood
One of my favorite features of Patagonia jackets is the hood, the M10 Anorak was no exception.
The hood has a single adjustment cord lock on the back, allowing you to easily pull and tighten it with one hand while on the move, and once fitted, it stays securely in place, moving with your neck and providing an unobstructed view, whether you're wearing a helmet or not
The collar covers your chin and the hard visor (with Recco reflector) provides excellent protection from the wind and rain
Front zipper for excellent ventilation
The M10 Anorak 's front zipper is very long (longer than half, about 3/4 length) and has a double zipper that can be opened and closed both at the top and bottom. This provides excellent ventilation and minimizes the need to take off and put on the jacket while on the move. Of course, even though it's long, it's an excellent length, not so long that it interferes with the straps of a backpack or a climbing harness.
Chest zip pocket that can be turned inside out to become a storage pouch
The jacket's only zippered pocket on the left chest is large enough to hold a large smartphone, and as mentioned above, the jacket is packable, meaning you can turn it inside out, roll it up, and store it in this pocket, ensuring excellent storage
On the other hand, the pants also have one pocket: a slightly large zip pocket on the right thigh that is just big enough to fit a large smartphone
Diagonal fly zipper for easy peeing while wearing a climbing harness
Simple elastic cuffs
Unlike typical hard shells, the sleeves of the M10 anorak and pants are made of elastic rubber
On the plus side, it's simple, easy to use, and lightweight with no unnecessary features. The cuffs are stretchy and just tight enough to prevent cold air from getting in or the jacket from riding up
However, on the downside, you cannot adjust the width of the cuffs to suit different situations, so it may be inconvenient for people who prefer wider cuffs or who don't have a set way of using them
Summary: A technical shell that meets the needs of all adventurers, including alpinists
The Patagonia M10 is clearly designed for a niche audience of serious alpinists and mountaineers, with the developers clearly stating that "ease of movement is prioritized above all else, with minimal functionality." If you simply want a decent rain jacket or hard shell, there are plenty of more affordable options.
On the other hand, for anyone willing to push their limits in the harsh outdoors with the best possible equipment, regardless of their skill or experience level, the M10 Anorak is one of the few options that will meet your exacting needs.
When I tried it out, I was amazed at how versatile it was. the M10 . If you understand its features and use it properly, I realized it has the potential to be useful not only for alpine climbers, but also for backcountry skiers, casual mountaineers, trail runners, speed hikers, and anyone else involved in any tough activity. It's sure to be useful both as a hard shell to wear all the time while on the move, and as a piece of gear to keep in your backpack for emergencies.
One of the phrases Patagonia holds dear is "The more you know, the less you need," and perhaps the M10 series embodies this saying, as such high-performance products are born as a result of eliminating all unnecessary elements. If this report has piqued your interest, we highly recommend that you pick up a copy. You'll be able to experience the "Patagonia-ness" of Patagonia, a side closer to the brand's origins, which is different from the side that is widely loved by the general public.
Disclosure: The author was provided with the product for this review and has maintained complete independence in accordance with our editorial policy
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