There’s not much more that can be said about Patagonia outerwear other than it’s very Patagonia-esque. Their apparel has long been the standard in durability and function. Well, I guess sometimes styling can be questionable (think the old Patagonia short shorts for guys), but that’s entirely subjective, right?  Regardless of your styling choices, everyone agrees that Patagonia has stuck to its guns as one of the premiere outdoor clothing manufacturers on the market today.

That said, I’ve not had the pleasure of flogging much in the Patagonia line until recently. When the Patagonia R1 Polartec Hoody came my way, I was instantly stoked on the versatility of this piece as a base layer, mid layer or outerwear for all kinds of high-output activities.

About the Patagonia R1 Polartec Hoody

Built with Polartec Power Dry® fabric, this versatile hoody can be used as any part of your layering system from base to outerwear. Cut is slim and trim with extra length to keep you covered whether you opt for the tuck or prefer the untucked look/function. The attached, snug-fitting hood offers additional warmth and coverage from the elements on-the-fly. A simple single pocket offers storage for something small and lightweight.

More features of the R1 Hoody:

• Polartec® Power Dry® fabric
• Capeline® 4 stretch cuffs with thumb holes
• Single mesh chest pocket
• Jersey microfiber face easily slides under layers and offers slight wind protection
• Weight: 10.9 oz
• MSRP: $135

Patagonia R1 Hoody Review

This is a very basic piece that works as-advertised. I’ve worn this hoody by itself and as an insulating base layer and have found it to be comfortable and warm when needed. The soft Poartec fabric is built with little 1/8-inch square columns on the backside that aid in wicking and breathing by pulling the moisture away and allowing it to quickly dissipate. This form-fitting layering piece is the ideal mid-weight base layer or as an outerwear piece when the temps are moderate.

One of my favorite features are the thumb loops. This has been great for cold-weather running where I used the thumb loops to partially cover my hands. Yeah, my fingers were cold, but the bulk of my hand was covered by the cuffs, which made things comfortable while still allowing my hands to breathe.  Though the thumb loops are mostly positive, I have noticed that the Capeline fabric has stretched a little more than I’d like. As a result, utilizing the thumb loop with form-fitting gloves is now a tad uncomfortable. With larger-fitting gloves, this isn’t an issue.

Another great feature is the overall length. When designing base layers, nothing is worse than a top that’s too short. In winter, plumber’s crack is not only unsightly, it can also mean a little extra snow sneaking back there. With the R1 Hoody, coverage is excellent and with proper tucking, exposure is eliminated–even when wearing a backpack while backcountry skiing.

Good R1 Hoody

• Extra-long body stays tucked
• Thumb loops keep sleeves in place
• Hood adds warmth in a pinch
• Fabric provides enough wind protection to use as a standalone piece
• Breathes well and wicks away moisture

Bad R1 Hoody

• Capeline cuffs stretched out a little more than I’d like
• Chest pocket is of minimal value
• Inside of zipper is cold to initial touch

The Bottom Line on the Patagonia R1 Hoody

As a mid-to-heavyweight base layer, the Patagonia R1 Hoody is an excellent choice. It’s lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking–all critical attributes of anything that will be used backcountry skiing, snowshoeing or cold-weather running. Its long length covers your backside and thumb loops keep everything in place. This is a well-executed midlayer that’s versatile enough for multiple uses year-round.

Buy Now: Patagonia R1 Hoody