Comparison of old and new Patagonia Capilene fabrics

Probably easily answered, but I haven't found the information: what is the best baselayer fabric from a warmth-to-weight ratio?

Hi Brett,

Nice job of comparing the weight of the different material.

When the new Capilene came out I bought a #1 long sleeve shirt. I didn't think it was as comfortable as the old material. I also don't think it is as warm.

I have a lot of the old Capilene in the different weights. I watch for the old style at the Patagonia outlet store and buy some when ever they list it – mostly the silk weight stuff.

I wear the old Capilene under my street cloths during the winter almost ever day and to sleep in (Expedition Weight). I have some on as I type this. I have yet to turn on my heat this winter. My house has been as low as 43 (F) degrees overnight. I just put on some of my really nice insulated clothing and sleep in my RBH – VB things under one of my Down Quilts.

I happen to be one of the lucky ones that can wear the capilene almost forever before it starts to – "need washing".

Your Cap 3 stuff is the most versatile as it does offer some insulation but you are not roasting in it like the Cap 4 stuff. From there get an R2.

I have quite a bit of the old stuff too and I agree with you that the older stuff is warmer. I have a set of expedition weight also. I had some really nice old pieces up until I sent them in to get repaired and they kept them and gave me credit at their last price to buy new stuff which is way below what the new stuff that replaced it costs.

I really miss the old stuff :(

My kid had top and bottom in midweight that he used as pajamas for a long time. When he grew out of them and I got him a set of the new Cap 3 in a nice blue color. "These feel like plastic." He was so dissappointed.