Patagonia Rain Jackets: What's the best?

Photo of the Patagonia Rain Shadow Jacket from patagonia.com

With all of the rain we've been getting in California lately, I've been thinking about picking up a new rain jacket.  Currently I'm using the Mountain Hardwear Typhoon Jacket that I purchased at REI for half-off a couple of winters ago.  It does the job (Gore-Tex PacLite) but has a lot of flaps and velcro.

I used to own a Patagonia Dimension Jacket and though it was a softshell and I ultimately eBay-ed it because it wasn't waterproof, its simplicity was nice.  That's why I've been considering the Rain Shadow (at the top of the post).  I like its water-resistant zipper in front and the fact that there are no flaps over the center zip or any of the pockets.  Basic, clean rain protection.

Another jacket I've considered is the Patagonia Stretch Ascent.  It's $300 price tag has put the brakes on the idea of actually getting one, but its stretchiness and streamlined design are reminiscent of my old Dimension Jacket.

 Photo from patagonia.com

Then there's the Patagonia Torrentshell which is a nice, basic option (and well-priced too).  I may have to try one of those on when I'm in San Diego this weekend for Christmas.  

 Photo from store.apolisglobal.com

By the way, Apolis (a company I've previously mentioned) is offering the jacket on their website and also has some great "fit shots" if you want to see what it looks like on a real human being.

Patagonia for Apolis

Images from apolisglobal.com

Patagonia has teamed up with Apolis to sell the Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket.  It makes a lot of sense as both companies conduct business with a conscience, an eye toward making a positive difference.  Here's Apolis' philosophy from their website:

"Apolis is a platform for a network of global citizens empowering people through opportunity. Apolis co-creates products with manufacturers and directly allows the market to determine the future of each item we produce. Donating proceeds can be effective, but we believe that giving people access to opportunity is even better. As the line between development and business is becoming blurred in the marketplace, consumers are beginning to see their integral role in the process as they demand to know how, where and by whom their products are made. With select products, Apolis connects developing economies to the global marketplace through seasonal stories and ensures tangible social results."

You can pick up the Patagonia Torrentshell from the Apolis website for $148.