The Patagonia R1 Air Fleece is a technical fleece designed for movement in cold conditions. Whether you’re trail running in the shoulder seasons, ski touring in the backcountry, or climbing in crisp alpine air, this layer is built to keep you warm without overheating. It’s part of Patagonia’s long-standing R1 series, but the “Air” variant introduces a new level of breathability and softness that sets it apart from traditional grid fleece.
Materials and Construction
The R1 Air uses a 100% recycled polyester knit fabric with a zig-zag texture that’s both functional and visually distinctive. This pattern isn’t just for looks—it channels air and moisture away from the body, enhancing breathability while maintaining warmth. The hollow-core yarns trap heat efficiently, and the lofted structure allows air to circulate freely.
The fabric is bluesign® approved and Fair Trade Certified™ sewn, aligning with Patagonia’s sustainability ethos. It’s soft against the skin, stretchy enough for dynamic movement, and dries quickly after exertion. Unlike older R1 models with a more rigid grid, the R1 Air feels more like a hybrid between fleece and technical knit.
Fit and Comfort
The R1 Air is available in several formats: full-zip hoody, pullover, and crew. The fit is athletic but not restrictive, allowing room for a base layer underneath and a shell over the top. The hoody version includes a snug-fitting hood that moves with your head—ideal for climbing or running in wind-exposed terrain.
Sleeves are long enough for full arm coverage, and the cuffs are low-profile, making layering easy. The hem sits at hip level and includes a slight drop tail for coverage. There are no thumb loops, which some users miss, but the overall fit is dialled for active use.
Breathability and Performance
This is where the R1 Air shines. It’s one of the most breathable fleece layers on the market, outperforming traditional grid fleece in high-output scenarios. Whether you’re skinning uphill, scrambling, or running in cold air, the R1 Air wicks moisture and dumps heat efficiently.
Testers consistently report that the R1 Air keeps them dry and comfortable during exertion, even when worn under a shell. It’s warm enough for cool conditions but not so insulating that you overheat when moving. For stop-and-go activities, it pairs well with a wind shell or insulated jacket.
Weight and Packability
The R1 Air Hoody weighs around 275 grams (9.7 oz), making it light enough for fastpacking, alpine missions, and minimalist layering systems. It compresses easily into a pack and dries quickly if it gets damp. It’s not ultralight, but the warmth-to-weight ratio is excellent for a fleece.
The pullover and crew versions are slightly lighter and more streamlined, ideal for layering under harnesses or packs. All versions offer good packability for multi-day trips or variable weather.
Pockets and Features
The full-zip hoody includes:
- Two zippered hand pockets
- One zippered chest pocket (tight for larger phones)
- Snug-fitting hood with no adjustment cords
The pullover and crew versions have fewer pockets or none at all, depending on the model. The simplicity is intentional—this is a performance layer, not a storage solution. The zippers are smooth and low-profile, and the pocket placement works well under a harness or hip belt.
Durability and Care
The R1 Air is built for movement, not abrasion. It’s durable enough for regular use but not designed for bushwhacking or heavy pack rub. The knit can pill slightly over time, especially in high-friction areas, but overall wear is minimal with proper care.
Machine wash cold and hang dry to preserve loft and softness. The fabric resists odours reasonably well, though some users report it retains scent more than grid fleece. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting for multi-day use.
Use Cases and Versatility
The R1 Air is ideal for:
- Trail running in cool weather
- Alpine climbing and scrambling
- Ski touring and splitboarding
- Backpacking and fastpacking
- Everyday layering in shoulder seasons
It’s not windproof or waterproof, so it works best as a midlayer or outer layer in dry, cool conditions. For wet or windy days, pair it with a shell.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional breathability
- Soft, stretchy, and comfortable
- Lightweight and packable
- Ethically made with recycled materials
- Versatile across multiple activities
Cons:
- Limited wind resistance
- Chest pocket is tight for larger phones
- No thumb loops or hood adjustment
- May retain odour more than other fleeces
Comparison with Similar Layers
Compared to the Arc’teryx Delta Hybrid Hoody, the R1 Air is softer and more breathable, though less wind-resistant. Against the Rab Nexus Pull-On, the R1 Air offers better moisture management and a more refined fit. The Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell is more windproof but less breathable.
The R1 Air sits in a sweet spot for high-output activities where breathability matters more than weather protection. It’s not a shell, and it’s not a heavy fleece—it’s a technical midlayer that excels in motion.
Final Verdict
The Patagonia R1 Air is a top-tier fleece for active use in cool conditions. Its breathable design, soft feel, and ethical construction make it a favourite among climbers, runners, and backcountry travellers. While it’s not built for heavy abrasion or wet weather, it performs exceptionally well as a midlayer or standalone piece in dry, cold environments.
If you’re looking for a fleece that keeps up with your pace and doesn’t trap sweat, the R1 Air is a smart investment. It’s a layer you’ll reach for again and again—whether you’re chasing summits or just walking the dog on a frosty morning.
