Patagonia Capilene Underwear Review

"This stuff wicks like a sponge. It keeps you as dry as a bone even after heavy exertion. Warm even if it does get wet from rain. The new fabric is a large improvement over the old version. I wear it in hot or cold weather, just choose the weight from silk to expedition. It comes in 4 weights. It also comes in a Lyrca/Spandex blend that stretches. Great for skiing or climbing. Contrary to the advertised antimicrobial additive, it still holds a stench after a day's use, but it washes out well. Expensive running about $35-45, but well worth the investment."

"I wore the fleece version of the Expedition Weight Zip-T daily for four months (Feb-May) while conducting on-water fisheries research on a high elevation lake in southern Oregon. Temperatures ranged from single digits to mid-30s (degrees F) during the season. Activity levels ranged from low to high intensity. Normally I would pair this top with a Capilene mid-weight zip-t and wear Capilene light-weight bottoms under a pair of lined pants. Over all of this I wore a Mustang survival/work suit.

I found the Capilene clothing functioned very well over a wide range of exertion levels, moving moisture quickly to keep me dry and comfortable in freezing conditions. Construction quality is top-notch with no deterioration after repeated wear/wash cycles. Unfortunately for Patagonia, I don't anticipate a need to replace any of these items for years to come.

Capilene base layers are now staples in my work and recreation wardrobe. The Expedition weight zip-t is probably the most versatile, fuctioning equally well as a base and outer layer. Since it has such a good weight to warmth ratio it comes along on every backpacking trip, spring through late autumn."

"Best single piece or set of clothing one can possess, in cool or cold conditions. Can literally save your life in severe outdoor conditions when little else is available. Weighs next to nothing and takes up minimal space.

Very few things compare with the performance, fit and function of Patagonia Capilene underwear. The price is high but worth every penny.

Save your money, and get it right the first time."