A day may come when a Patagonia product fails to win our Best in Test award, but it is not this day. Having tested 13 different fleece jackets over the last month, we've come to the conclusion that Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody is the only one you'll need to buy for technical adventures.
We can't help but be bowled over by the balance of warmth, breathability, and lightweight flexibility, all delivered in a stylish, form fitting package.
Ideal for fast-paced activities in variable conditions, it’s a versatile mid-layer that excels in everything from hiking to climbing to mountain biking. Here’s an in-depth look at how the R1 Air performs across fabric, fit, and sustainability.
Pros
- Fair Trade Certified
- Good breathability and moisture wicking
- Looks lush
- Great for layering
- Crew and Hoody versions also
Cons
- Doesn't pack down as small as some other fleeces
| RRP | £140 / $179 |
| Fabric | Bluesign-approved, recycled polyester |
| Sizes | XS - XL |
| Weight | 306g / 10.8 oz (UK size small) |
Fabric
The Patagonia Women’s R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody is crafted with 100% recycled polyester, utilising a high-loft, textured grid pattern that’s both breathable and quick-drying.
This construction, made with Patagonia’s proprietary R1 Air fabric, is designed to insulate while actively moving moisture away from the skin, making it an ideal choice for intense activities. It's remarkably warm and breathable at the same time, but does lose a little bit of windproofing ability because of this.
The knit design not only aids in moisture management but also enhances stretch, allowing for ease of movement on hikes, climbs or runs. Soft to the touch and easy on the skin, the R1 Air fabric balances warmth and breathability, making it adaptable to changing conditions.
Fit
With a slim yet comfortable fit, the R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody is streamlined for performance without excessive bulk. The cut is close to the body, allowing the fleece to work effectively as a mid-layer under outer shells or as a standalone layer in milder conditions.
Patagonia has designed the hoody with a female-specific fit, which feels comfortable yet functional, even on my short, dense body, with enough room for layering underneath.
Articulated sleeves and stretch fabric provide additional mobility, ensuring that the jacket moves with you, which is particularly useful for climbers, skiers or anyone else needing a full range of movement.
Weight
One of the highlights of the R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody is its lightweight construction, coming in at 305g on my kitchen scales (UK size small).
Patagonia has engineered this fleece to offer substantial warmth with minimal weight, making it an excellent option for those who want to keep pack-weight low on longer trips or in multi-sport settings.
The hoody’s lightness also makes it easy enough to compress and stow when not in use, allowing it to pack down efficiently into a rucksack, although not quite as efficiently as other fleeces we've tested. For those prioritising a lighter load, however, without sacrificing warmth, this is a top choice.
Features
The R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody is equipped with several thoughtful features aimed at enhancing its functionality. The full-length front zip offers variable ventilation, allowing the hoody to adapt to changing activity levels or temperatures.
Its snug-fitting hood, crafted without excessive bulk, comfortably fits under helmets, making it suitable for climbers and mountaineers.
Two zipped hand pockets offer ample storage for small essentials, while their positioning is high enough to remain accessible even when wearing a harness or pack. A chest pocket, useful for keys or other small items like earbuds, completes the look.
Sustainability
Patagonia continues to lead in sustainability efforts, and the R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody is no exception. Made with 100% recycled polyester, the jacket showcases the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
The recycled polyester used in the R1 Air fabric comes from repurposed plastic bottles, minimising reliance on virgin materials and supporting a more circular approach to production.
Patagonia’s dedication to fair labour practices and transparent supply chains further enhances the sustainability credentials of this fleece, making it an eco-friendly choice for conscious consumers.
Value & Verdict
At a slightly higher price point (£140/$179) than other fleeces of the same weight, the R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody represents a significant investment, but it’s one that pays off.
While more affordable fleece jackets are available, few brands match Patagonia’s commitment to quality, sustainability and functionality. For those who value high performance and environmental responsibility, the R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody is an almost unregrettable purchase.
Overall (and if it wasn't already abundantly clear) we rate this hoody with a 5/5 verdict - a top choice for anyone looking for a quality, technical mid-layer fleece.
How we tested
I've worn the R1 religiously for the last three weeks, including while hiking, biking and generally farting about outdoors. In fact, I should probably take it off soon as it'll need a wash.
About the author
Fliss Freeborn is a writer and hardcore fleece enthusiast. She absolutely loves nothing better than staying cosy in her native habitat of Scotland, where she is often found wild camping and terrorising lobsters while snorkelling.