If you’ve ever traveled to the Patagonia region of southern Argentina and Chile, you know that dressing for a day of activity is all about layering. Of course, the Patagonia clothing brand — designed for the active traveler — crafts its hoodies and jackets around this idea.
The Patagonia Women’s R1 Thermal Jacket is an ultra light-weight jacket designed to keep you warm while you’re on the move. I’ve always wanted to try a piece from the brand Patagonia, so it’s safe to say I was pretty excited to give this one a shot.
From color selection to fit, here’s what you need to know if you’ve got your eye on this all-around versatile Patagonia jacket.
Pros
- Lightweight and soft
- Neutral color selection
- Full size range
- Made in a fair-trade factory
- Smooth, durable outer fabric to repel wind and snow
- Great for travel and airplanes — very packable
- Zippered pocket on chest
Cons
- Non-hoody version collar rides up a bit
- Runs slightly small
- May not work for those with larger bust
Fit and Usage
When you’re shopping online, it’s important to pay attention to key details in description that tell how you the product will fit. The Patagonia Women’s R1 Thermal Jacket has a very slim fit that I would say runs on the smaller side.
If you’re seeking a jacket with lots of room to layer up underneath, this jacket isn’t your answer. Instead, this jacket is a great option for a light t-shirt or tank top underneath and potentially a winter coat on top.
Like how weather can change from windy to warm very quickly in Patagonia, this is a jacket ideal for layering. My normal size fits me in this jacket but it is certainly on the tighter side, so I’d recommend sizing up if you’re in between sizes and not sure what to order.
Specifications
- Size Range: XS to XL.
- Care: Machine Wash Cold, Do Not Bleach, Tumble Dry Low, Do Not Iron.
- Fit: Slim Fit.
- Options: Hoody, Full Zip, No Hood Full Zip.
- Material: 6.5-oz 91% recycled polyester/9% spandex flat-faced Technostretch fleece.
- Production: Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory.
Color Selection
One thing you’ll notice when you go to order this jacket is the great color selection. Personally, I always tend to lean towards black, an all-around versatile color. However, all four of the colors available in the R1 Thermal Jacket are neutral and will look great throughout the fall and winter.
I’d describe this as a year-round jacket though, which could be worn in mostly any season besides summer.
In addition to the black finish, the Patagonia R1 Thermal Jacket is also available in Smolder Blue (a greyish slate blue color), Dark Ruby, and Current Blue. I chose the option with no hood attached, however, you can opt for a hoody version or a pullover hoody version instead.
Patagonia Women's R1 Thermal Jacket
In My Expert Opinion
Overall, I’m a big fan of the Patagonia Women’s R1 Thermal Jacket. Now, I won’t deny that at a price point of $199, it’s certainly high for a jacket of this nature. For an everyday “running errands jacket”, you could likely find a suitable jacket at a much lower price point.
However, Patagonia as brand makes durable, high-quality pieces that are designed to move with you. I recently traveled to Patagonia for the first time a few months ago and I would have loved to have a jacket like this with me. The weather there is so unpredictable!
When you wear this jacket, it feels lightweight and comfortable without weighing you down. If this is the usage you’re purchasing the R1 Thermal Jacket for, it’s worth the investment. Knowing the jacket is made in a Fair-Trade certified factory is also something I can feel good about (and you can too).
