Patagonia - Capilene
Posted by The Great Outdoors Magazine on Aug 18, 2022
Patagonia's Capilene base layers have been around for many years, through multiple redesigns and generations, and are available in a range of weights from light to heavy. The Capilene Midweight is, in my opinion, the Goldilocks base layer. Despite being a slightly thicker and heavier garment than the others tested, it's light enough to perform well in warmer conditions (although the black colour of my sample will soak up plenty of the sun's energy) and is chunky enough to feel reassuringly durable. If you prefer a warmer base layer for winter, then this will get the job done there too. The diamond-grid double knit feels luxurious against the skin and wicks moisture like a champ, no matter how filthy the weather is (or how much you're sweating). The HeiQ odour control works too - I've been unable to get a whiff out of it despite putting it through hot, humid, soggy hill days. There are also intelligent details such as low-profile hidden thumb loops, there if you want them and hidden if you don't. I like thumb loops but only tend to use them in winter, so this is a welcome feature. As you'd expect from Patagonia, the product's environmental credentials are impressive. It's made from 100% recycled polyester and is both bluesign-approved and Fair Trade Certified sewn. It's hard to find anything at all to complain about here; price is premium, yes, but in my opinion it's well worth the money. If you're looking for a well-made performance base layer that will last for years, this is a good choice.