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The Patagonia R1 is legendary. For years, it has been the gold standard for cold-weather mid-layers, trusted by climbers, hikers, and skiers worldwide. So, when Patagonia decided to update this iconic fleece jacket, we took notice. We’ve put the new R1 Air Jacket through its paces—to see what’s changed, if it lives up to the hype, and whether you should finally upgrade your faithful old model. Read on for our deep dive review.
I remember many years ago, when I was training for my Mountaineering Instructor Award, sitting in a mountain hut in North Wales, soaking up the advice of several qualified instructors. I noticed a common theme amongst them—they were all, each and every one, wearing a version of a Patagonia R1 fleece. Considering that the association had a deal with another major brand (of which I was wearing), this was a bit of an eye opener. I quickly jumped on board that bandwagon and I’ve since owned several models, including the excellent R1 Techface Hoody which I reviewed back in 2024. That has been pretty much a permanent feature of my outdoor kit rotation since I reviewed it.
It’s easy to forget, when you see Patagonia gear on Tech Bros (the ubiquitous Better Sweater Vest) and activists (vintage 90s Snap T’s), that they have a deep connection to performance climbing and mountaineering apparel. The R1 Air fleece definitely fits into this category, as you will see it both on hardcore climbers and in the office. Still, its roots lie in climbing and mountaineering, and that’s what we do best!
Remarkably, the Patagonia R1 Air Jacket is a new addition to the R1 range. So no hood, but you do get a full zip, which is handy for ventilation on those steep ascents. And talking of ventilation, the jacket retains the signature zig-zag pattern, which not only improves airflow but wicks away sweat like a desert wind. It’s not called R1 Air for nothing; the ventilation is second to none. In fact, you’ll need an outer layer on cooler, windy days unless you are trail running in it. The brushed fleece retains warmth when worn as a mid-layer, performing excellently under a Gore-Tex hardshell.
When (notice I said when, not if) you do get damp, it dries out super quickly. I found that I felt drier in about 15-20 minutes once I had stopped, and even quicker when I arrived at a hut or back at the car. As you would expect, the fleece is made using 100% recycled polyester and is made in a Fair Trade certified factory. I would expect no less from Patagonia. So, the fleece is pretty awesome, and you should expect the same performance as your old one if you are upgrading because it’s beyond repair. It feels soft and cosy, and it’s light too—the trusty CGR scales weigh it in at 318g, which is under the stated 340g (maybe that is for a size L).
There have been a few small adjustments to the style of the R1 Air Jacket, which differentiate it from previous models. The sleeve circumference has been slightly widened to offer better mobility when reaching for those high holds when rock climbing. The waist shape has been reduced to improve the silhouette and offer a straighter fit (so it should look better when worn casually), and the collar construction has been altered to offer a cleaner look. The shoulder seams have also been dropped over the back to help cut chafing when carrying heavy loads. So, you should find the jacket comfortable for both adventures as well as casual wear, and the improved features are a real plus.
There are three pockets on the R1 Air Jacket: two side pockets that are reasonably placed for access when using a pack or a climbing harness and a well-sized chest pocket that will fit most phones. All pockets have YKK reverse coil zips to help keep the breeze out and lightweight tags. The side pocket linings are sewn into the piped hem so you have extra pocket room for stashing gloves if you want to keep them warm (also good for tucking climbing shoes in on those cold days at the boulders).
Finishing touches include a colour-coordinated chest pocket with the iconic Patagonia label stitched on, an embroidered R1 logo on the forearm, colour-coordinated hem piping, interior collar piping, and a lightweight hanging loop. As you would expect from Patagonia, the materials and manufacture will be sourced from highly responsible suppliers. We have spoken in depth about the Worn Wear program, so you can expect many years of wear out of it before using the excellent repair program.
So on the redux front, it’s a great addition to the range and neatly fills a gap between the hoody and quarter-zip models. If you have either of those already and it’s trashed and you feel you need an upgrade, then yes, you should absolutely consider it. If you are new to the R1 Air range of fleeces, then totally go for this as it’s a great jacket, and it will quickly become your go-to piece for adventures and casual wear.
The Patagonia R1 Air Jacket comes in sizes XS – XXL. The women’s version comes in sizes XXS – XL. Both offer four colour options.
The SRP is £130 and it can be purchased directly from Patagonia UK and specialist retailers.
Disclosure – CGR reviewers and writers are never paid to provide a review and the website does not take advertising or link to affiliate sales. We are a bunch of keen climbers and travellers who accept sample products and offer an honest and independent review of the item.
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