Very Warm Base Layer for Skiing

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

Runs small

Size Bought

Large

Height

5` 9"

Weight

205 lbs

It is SO hard trying to find the right size of Patagonia item, whatever it may be. I am always either a L or XL. So I love it when people do reviews and include their height, weight and size of item they bought. This helps give me some sort of guidance as to what size to get. SO with that being said I bought both the L and XL. The L was slim fitting but not skin tight, arms perfect length and overall length was good hanging just past my butt. The XL was just a bit baggy, comfortable, arms were good length, but overall length was a bit too long. Seeing as I plan to wear this as a base layer under a mid layer, I opted for the L. I bought this to replace my ancient Duofold part wool red union suit that I have used for 20+ years. After using this to ski it was comparably warm, softer and traps much less moisture that the Duofold. I love it. Hope this helps.

Mark A.

Decent fleece

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Good piece of gear for skiing and other activities. Pata-gucci works ok, the price is spendy but the gear lasts long enough.

Mike Newberry

Best of the Synthetics

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Shirt is the go to for my husband on weekend ski and snowshoe days. Fits great as a base layer and is holding up really well.

Aliza Mills

Warm & Dry!

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Height

5` 7"

Weight

180 lbs

Keeps me very warm and wicks sweat away nicely.

Phil Muirhead

Favorite Winter Shirt

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

I bought this as a gift for a family member. He rarely takes it off. He says it's the perfect weight for wearing under a hoodie or other shirt. It keeps him warm without feeling sweaty. He also says the fit is perfect.

Joe Draper

Warm and toasty for cold days

Familiarity:

I gave it as a gift but have feedback to share

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Large

Height

6` 2"

Weight

165 lbs

Bought this for my boyfriend for the upcoming ski season. Here's his initial take: Always been a big fan of the Capilene. Doesn’t stink and feels good next to skin. The zip enables a bit more thermal regulation over a crew neck. I am 6’2” and 165lbs and a Large fits me well. Not too baggy but plenty long so that it won’t come untucked. Think this will be a great layer for those extra cold days on the hill.

Missy Tracy

light, pack-able, hi tech fabric

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

small

Height

5` 6"

Weight

135 lbs

I acquired this as an alternative to my old favorite but more bulky expedition weight Capilene shirt. Haven't tested it in cold yet but it sure feels good, seems warm and will be a lot less bulky in my pack in Nepal. Also, I can comfortably fit it under a normal long sleeve shirt as a base layer which wasn't practical with the older one.

mark

Wear alone or layer up

This Patagonia Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck Top is everything I needed for a base layer from the thumb loops that don’t feel constricting to the ¼ zipper that dips lower than usual to allow for better airflow. I was also surprised and impressed at how well it wicks sweat without smelling terrible after multiple uses. I will usually wear this base layer paired with a down vest for cross country skiing, hiking, downhill snowboarding or any outdoor activity since it is comfortable and stylish. It’s not skin tight and runs on the boxier side for Patagonia but I wouldn’t want to sacrifice the comfort or ability to move. I want to get the thermal layer now for even colder days!

Joe Coughlan

Keeps you both cool and warm

Great everyday 1/4 zip shirt for skiing or snowboarding. The thermal weight Capilene has the perfect amount of insulation and breathability. The only time I would wear anything heavier than this would be a -20 degree day.

Pete OBrien

A workhorse

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

I purchased this to replace a ten year old version of the same thing. I was sad to see the old one go, but the replacement made it ok. Even after all this time Patagonia seems to be holding to their standards and I am as pleased with their new stuff as I am with the gear I have been abusing for a decade. If it's cold and I'm going to be active, I have this on, no question.

Aliza Mills

Nice versatile base layer

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

Medium

Height

5` 9"

Weight

158 lbs

Have been using for downhill skiing and like it. Quite warm and comfortable on the slopes. The polygiene is effective. Long zip makes venting quick and is comfortable in the lodge. At home is go-to comfort top. I'm 5'9" 158 and fit is just right. Color was accurate on the web site. Two quibbles: as already mentioned the zipper seam base rubs on the chest a bit, but for me not significant. An earlier version of this top (Capilene 4) had longer sleeves which I preferred.

Bernard L.

Irritating seams

Nice quality, but I don't understand how this can be used as a baselayer. The seam for the zipper is very irritating up against bare skin.

Joseph W.

I've developed an emotional attachment

Yes, it's true. This top is without a doubt the warmest, most comfortable thing I've ever put on. I'll go out of my way to wear this whenever possible. It's like wearing a hug. No idea what the other reviewer was talking about. This is designed to be worn under something else. It's insanely soft and feels great, and after you've had it on for a couple of minutes it gets super warm. Absolutly get this thing!!!

Joe Draper

Thermal weight?

I was looking for a heavy weight Capilene 4 level type shirt. Patagonia apparently has changed their rating system so one cannot tell what the heck they mean anymore. This shirt is so lightweight you can hold it up to the light and see right thru it ! Very disappointed.

Jeffrey B.