Gear: Patagonia Merino Lightweight Crew
A breathable merino technical top, designed to naturally regulate your temperature, control odor, and keep you comfortable when you’re working hard in the widest range of conditions. Made from a blend of 65% RWS-certified merino wool and 35% recycled polyester. All of the virgin wool Patagonia sources is certified to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS.
Category: Clothing
Weight: 5.1 oz
Price Range: $79
Pros: Lightweight, packs down very small, dries fast, excellent odor control
Cons: None
On a previous backpacking trip to the Palisades Glacier in the Eastern California Sierras, we were hit by a freak white-out snow blizzard at 12,323 ft. All I had on me was the Patagonia Merino Lightweight Crew and the Patagonia Capilene Thermal weight zip-neck hoody. Even though I was soaked and iced over, the two Patagonia products kept me warm. Once we were back at base camp it didn’t take long to dry both items. I have been using both of these items for over 5 years now. Has a few holes, but still works great.
Pros of the Patagonia Merino Lightweight Crew:
Superior Comfort: The Patagonia Merino Lightweight Crew is made from high-quality merino wool, known for its softness and luxurious feel against the skin. It offers exceptional comfort, even during extended periods of wear.
Moisture Management: Merino wool has excellent moisture-wicking properties, meaning it can absorb and release moisture efficiently. This helps keep your body dry and comfortable by wicking away sweat during physical activities.
Temperature Regulation: Merino wool is naturally thermoregulating, which means it helps keep your body at a comfortable temperature in various weather conditions. It provides insulation in cooler temperatures and breathability in warmer environments.
Odor Resistance: Merino wool has inherent antimicrobial properties that prevent the buildup of odor-causing bacteria. This makes the Lightweight Crew naturally odor-resistant, allowing you to wear it multiple times before needing to wash it.
Versatility: The Lightweight Crew can be worn as a standalone piece or as a base layer. It works well for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and camping. It can also be worn casually for everyday wear.
Cons of the Patagonia Merino Lightweight Crew:
Price: Patagonia products are known for their quality, but they often come with a higher price tag. The Merino Lightweight Crew is relatively expensive compared to synthetic base layers or lower-priced merino wool alternatives.
Durability: Some users have reported that the Lightweight Crew may develop small holes or pills after repeated use. While this may not be a widespread issue, it's worth considering if you expect high durability from your base layers.
Limited Color Options: The Lightweight Crew is available in a limited range of color options. If you prefer a wide variety of colors or patterns to choose from, you may find the selection somewhat limited.
Sizing: Patagonia's sizing may not be consistent with other brands or may not fit everyone perfectly. It's recommended to refer to the sizing chart or try on the garment before purchasing to ensure the right fit for your body shape and preferences.
Slow Drying Time: Compared to synthetic materials, merino wool tends to take longer to dry. If you're in a humid or wet environment or need a quick-drying base layer, the Lightweight Crew may not be the ideal choice.
Overall, the Patagonia Merino Lightweight Crew offers exceptional comfort, moisture management, temperature regulation, and odor resistance. However, it comes with a higher price tag, potential durability concerns, limited color options, sizing considerations, and slower drying times. It's important to weigh these factors against your specific needs and preferences when deciding whether to purchase this base layer.