| What it is | Iconic grid-fleece layer (Patagonia) |
| Fabric | High/low grid (Polartec Power Grid) |
| Strengths | Warm-for-weight, breathable, versatile |
| Role | Active mid layer / cool base layer |
The Patagonia R1 is an iconic technical fleece built from a high/low grid fabric (Polartec Power Grid) that traps warmth in raised channels while the recessed grid cuts weight and boosts breathability and moisture movement. A versatile mid layer or cool-weather base layer, it’s prized by climbers, skiers, and hikers for excellent warmth-for-weight and all-day comfort during active use.
The classic grid layer
The piece that popularized Power Grid fleece, working as a mid layer or base layer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Patagonia R1?
The R1 is a classic Patagonia technical fleece made from a grid-patterned fabric (Polartec Power Grid) that combines warmth, breathability, and low weight. The grid traps warm air in raised areas while the recessed channels move moisture and reduce weight, making the R1 a do-everything active layer.
Is the R1 a base layer or a mid layer?
It can be both, depending on how you layer. Worn next to skin in cool conditions it acts as a warm, breathable base layer; worn over a thin base layer it's a light, breathable mid layer. This versatility is a big reason it's such a popular piece for climbers, skiers, and hikers.
Why is the R1 so popular?
Because of its outstanding warmth-for-weight, breathability, and versatility for high-output activity. It keeps you warm without overheating during hard effort, dries quickly, layers well, and is durable — a combination that has made the grid-fleece R1 a long-running staple of technical layering systems.
Sources
- R1 fleece — Patagonia
- Grid fleece layering — The Mountaineers