We've seen what changed Patagonia's latest base layer [Full Remodel]

Clothing

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Base layer , Patagonia , Merino wool

Written by Yasushi Hisatomi

table of contents

Major changes in materials and construction! Suitable for a wider range of users
Test drive report: What's changed?
summary

Major changes in materials and construction! Suitable for a wider range of users

Patagonia's base layers come in two varieties: the time-tested synthetic fiber "Capilene" that has been popular with many fans, and the high-quality wool material "Merino wool (more accurately, a blend with Capilene and other materials)." I'm a big fan of Capilene 2, thanks to its affordable price, wide selection, and environmentally friendly feel. Now that the line has been completely redesigned, I decided to take a look and see what's changed

Due to scheduling conflicts, I was unable to purchase the product in Japan, so this is a report on purchasing and trying it on in the US. I purchased it here at Patagonia in Chicago

The branding is reassuring, with an organic atmosphere and friendly staff that meets expectations in both Japan and the US

The new items seem to be very popular here as well, with the M and S sizes almost all sold out. However, luckily there were still smaller sizes available for Japanese customers, so I managed to get my hands on the new items

From left: Capilene Lightweight Long Sleeve, Merino Daily Polo, Capilene Midweight Zip Neck

As you can see in the photo, the new base layers are innovative, even in their packaging design. They're also made from 100% recycled cardboard, without any glue or adhesive, so recycling is a top priority. As always, it feels very Patagonia-esque. This time, I wanted to try out the Capilene base layers, which are perfect for the upcoming midsummer, so I checked out the three products above. The new Merino polo was simply an impulse buy. Incidentally, I even tried on the newly released Merino Air merino wool material, but I figured it wouldn't be useful until autumn. I'll write a review of how I used it at a later date

Test drive report: What's changed?

Introducing the latest proprietary merino wool material, "Merino Air" (try-on report)

Patagonia's new Merino Air fabric is eye-catching for its unique texture and shape. As always, it's made with a blend of high-quality Merino wool sourced locally in Patagonia and Capilene® fabric, but the secret lies in the process. This time , , resulting in more warmth per ounce than ever before. This , combined with a seamless , streamlined knit for a precise fit and a textured surface for exceptional warmth and breathability results in a lightweight, warm, breathable, and highly packable Merino baselayer

Computer-controlled seamless lacing allows for a three-dimensional, seamless fit

I tried it on straight away in the store. First of all, it's incredibly stretchy, way more than I expected! Thanks to that, it fits snugly against the skin, and it's light so it doesn't feel too tight (though it might be a bit too much for midsummer unless you're at a very high altitude). Depending on how well it retains heat compared to other 100% wool competitors, I think it could be an incredibly functional and easy-to-use winter base layer. Personally, I think the hoodie version in particular will be extremely useful for all kinds of winter outdoor activities...

The uneven surface creates dead air for increased heat retention, while the zigzag structure creates air passages for increased breathability

The lineup has changed

From here on, we'll talk about both Capilene® and Merino. Until now, Patagonia's base layers have been available in models with increasing numbers in order of material thickness, such as Capilene® 1 to 4, but this time they have Daily, Lightweight, Midweight, and Thermalweight . The Daily pattern is literally designed for everyday use in town, while the subsequent patterns are intended for use as outdoor base layers depending on the season and purpose.

What's a little confusing here is that the four new patterns don't simply fit into the previous four. This is particularly true of my favorite, Capilene 2. While one might normally assume that Capilene 2 is "lightweight" based on its order, the store says that number 2 is closer to "midweight." However, based on specs and actual comfort, "midweight" is thicker than the old Capilene 2 (closer to number 3), while "lightweight" is significantly thinner than the old Capilene 2 (closer to number 1) . In other words, there's no clear line that perfectly matches Capilene 2. For this reason, I think old Capilene 2 users will be happier if they start from scratch and consider these subtle differences, rather than looking for the same thing as number 2. Simply put, if you're prioritizing early spring or late fall, choose midweight; if you're primarily concerned with summer comfort, choose lightweight.

The fit has changed

As officially stated, the patterning has changed from the previous model. The change from the previous "regular fit" to a "slim fit" results in a slimmer silhouette. For reference, I've compared the old and new models wearing the same Capilene 2 Zip Neck. It's a subtle difference, but looking at the photo, it's clear that the new model is slimmer around the armpits and sleeves. Personally, I like the fit and silhouette, which are excellent

Old Capilene 2 Zip Neck (Asian Fit, Size L)

New Capilene Midweight Zip Neck (Size Small)

The size range has changed

Until now, Patagonia base layers have been sold in an "Asia fit," meaning they were offered in sizes similar to Japanese-made clothing, but now they're standardized worldwide. When I tried them on, it seemed like the sizing varied for each item, so those considering purchasing should be careful. For reference, for me (height 176cm), in slim fit (light mid-thermal), a size S for the midweight zip neck just right, or XS for the lightweight long-sleeve type felt right (I chose XS for the lightweight because I wanted a snug fit), and an XS for the regular fit (everyday type) . This is how it felt for me, but it's definitely going to vary from person to person, so it's probably wise to try them on in the store before deciding.

The texture has changed

Not only has the new Merino wool material been introduced, but Capilene has also undergone subtle changes in terms of feel and comfort. (Based on Capilene 2) The midweight version features a smooth surface made of Polartec Power Grid material and a brushed lining for excellent moisture absorption and warmth. Meanwhile, the lightweight version has finer fibers for a more supple feel .

Made with merino wool, it's incredibly light and comfortable, and the blend with Capilene makes it quick-drying

Also, this was unexpected, but I'm very happy with the comfort and ease of use of the daily-use polo shirt . It's light and cool, and even in temperatures over 30°C, it's super comfortable and odor-free, so I've been wearing it almost every day (washing and drying) on my trip to the US. The material is also perfectly fine for wearing in the mountains, so it's a hidden recommendation for me.

Detailed functions added

Details are illustrated on the official website , but the convenient loop and the old-fashioned logo (woven tag) have been revived.

Thumb loop
Hanging loop
Taped neckline
Patagonia woven tag at hem
Flat waistband

summary

I've written down my impressions here, but I'm generally very satisfied with all of the new models in terms of both functionality and design . The wide range of models that can be used in any season or for any purpose, combined with the "comfort" of design and comfort, make these new models flawless and instantly seem to have become the top choice for base layers. Furthermore, not only have they evolved as technical wear, but their range as everyday wear has also expanded, making them suitable for a wider range of people.

However, since this is a major renewal, there are few parts that have been carried over from the previous model, and it is undeniable that this can be difficult to understand, so when purchasing, it may be best to choose carefully, taking the above changes into consideration

For details on specifications and lineup (official website)

Major changes in materials and construction! Suitable for a wider range of users

Test drive report: What's changed?

Introducing the latest proprietary merino wool material, "Merino Air" (try-on report)

The lineup has changed

The fit has changed

The size range has changed

The texture has changed

Detailed functions added

summary

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