I am completely enamored by the new R1 Air fleece that I purchased earlier this month. Patagonia has always been a leader innovating and perfecting performance base layers, and fleece, in particular. But with this new R1 Air addition, they have created something special that performs exceptionally well. I have worn this quarter zip hiking and on runs in the Bay Area, at temperatures from the high 40's to the low 60's and did not feel overheated or cold. In fact, the innovative zig zag design of the fleece allows for more air flow and really dumps heat during high output physical activity like running. Another impressive thing is that the design does not seem to hinder the fabric's ability to block wind - with a small caveat being as long as you are moving - if you ... MoreI am completely enamored by the new R1 Air fleece that I purchased earlier this month. Patagonia has always been a leader innovating and perfecting performance base layers, and fleece, in particular. But with this new R1 Air addition, they have created something special that performs exceptionally well. I have worn this quarter zip hiking and on runs in the Bay Area, at temperatures from the high 40's to the low 60's and did not feel overheated or cold. In fact, the innovative zig zag design of the fleece allows for more air flow and really dumps heat during high output physical activity like running. Another impressive thing is that the design does not seem to hinder the fabric's ability to block wind - with a small caveat being as long as you are moving - if you are sitting still for an extended time, you can definitely feel the wind if wearing only a base layer and this fleece. Wearing this working and around town, I was comfortable up to 65 degrees, but in temperatures higher than that, it would likely be too warm. Similarly, I'd also recommend a light shell or windbreaker while hiking in rainy conditions as there isn't much in the way of water resistance with the openings in the zig zag fleece fabric. The length of the arms is almost perfect, but ever so slightly long and at 5'10", sleeve length is always a concern for me. I like the slim cut of this fleece and opted to size up, so that I could layer underneath. That being said, I haven't had any issues with the fleece fitting comfortably under my primary slim cut shell jackets. I have washed the jacket three times and have noticed a bit of pilling, particularly in the under arm area, but that didn't impact the fleece's performance and was easily ameliorated with a sweater shaver/stone. The one thing that I'd suggest that Patagonia revisit is that although the hidden internal chest pocket is great (and yes, you can fit a phone in there), I would have appreciated two handwarmer pockets, since there aren't thumb holes. Although having no exterior pockets makes it easier to layer or utilize as a true mid-layer. As a final note, the R1 Air is definitely the softest, coziest and most adaptable fleece that I have stumbled upon in a very long time and I highly recommend it.

Let me first start out saying this is a fantastic piece. The warmth to weight ratio with ability to breath is bar none. Just phenomenal. Not to mention its softer than the normal R1's, which I love. So then why 4 stars? The cut is just a little off for me. The shoulders are snug. The back length is a little shorter than I like my cold weather garments to be (or any top, really, but really important in cold weather). I sized up and can't wear a thin wool baselayer underneath for these two reasons. Patagonia's normal R1's fit me overall a lot better. Fix these two things, and this is a slam dunk winner!

I tend to buy my Wife many Xmas presents, knowing she's picky and likely to send one or two back. Truth be told: I got this super garment in "White" and was surprised to discover it was more of a pale gray. I didn't think she'd like the color. Surprise! She loved how warm and cozy it is; and she loved the color; to the point it is up there among her favorite closet items. She wore it almost every other day in her chilly office; and uses it a LOT outdoors as a base layer. The thermoregulation of R1 Air is remarkable across a very wide temperature range. Get one and be prepared to use it all the time!