My new favorite baselayer

By Adam Lewis Ranked #1540 - Men's Fleece Jackets February 12, 2010

The R1 has been my go-to layer for cold weather and skiing for years. I didn't think there was any way Patagonia could have improved on the classic R1 pullover, but with the hoodie they did. There are 3 main additions that make this piece more versatile than the R1 pullover:

1) The hood turns into a instant balaclava when the winds pick up as well as a comfortable way to keep your chin and neck warm when climbing. When fully zipped up this thing covers all the way up to your nose. Also, unlike most neck warmers and balaclavas the hood does not strangle your neck or make you uncomfortably warm in high activity. When it's down, you barely notice the hood is there.
2) Thumb loops keep your hands warm and reduce heat loss from the wrists when you don't have liner gloves at easy access. If you are constantly pulling your hands in and out of your gloves (cooking at camp, setting anchors, adjusting boots, etc) the thumb looks keep cold air and snow from getting up your sleeve.
3) The mesh chest pocket is much less awkward than the less-structured pocket on the classic R1 pullover which tended to flop around next to your body as well as get damp when you sweat.

Bottom line - if you like the R1 pullover you will love the hooded version. I brought it as my only midlayer/fleece to climb La Plata and Aconcagua and it ended up being my favorite, most versatile piece of clothing.

View Details: Patagonia R1 Hooded Fleece Pullover - Men's

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