Over the years, we’ve tried a lot of apparel designed for sun protection and performance in hot weather. Too many of these garments were not as hydrophobic or breathable as advertised—and ended up feeling sticky or itchy with use. However, the Patagonia Capilene Cool fabric feels unbelievably soft and light next to the skin. It also offers a reassuring 50+ UPF sun protection rating.
It’s Cool to Recycle
This versatile performance knit, for use on trails or on the water, also provides HeiQ® Fresh durable odor control. Made from 50-100% recycled content, the entire Capilene Cool lineup will keep you comfortable when you’re working hard in conditions ranging from cool to hot.
Cap Cool: Ideal for Paddling & Sun Protection
We tried out the Long Sleeved Capilene Cool Daily shirt for paddling and found it to be ideal for SUP and kayaking. It moves with you, does not get slick with moisture when you sweat, and stays dry and light on the hottest days. In other words, it won’t slow you down.
Features
-Built with set-in sleeve construction for chafe-free comfort and total shoulder mobility.
-Capilene® Cool Daily is made from quick-drying, moisture-wicking stretch fabric that provides enhanced comfort during activities both in and out of water.
-miDori™ bioSoft increases the wicking performance of Capilene® Cool Daily and the softness; with built-in HeiQ® Fresh durable odor control you’ll stay welcome among friends at the end of the day.
-50+ UPF Sun Protection.
-Fair Trade Certified™ sewn, which means the people who made it earned a premium for their labor.
-Fabric is certified as bluesign® approved.
Capilene Cool also comes in hoodies, short-sleeves and more.
Patagonia’s Recycled Poly—Some Background
To make Patagonia Capilene Cool and other products, Patagonia recycles used plastic bottles, unusable manufacturing waste and worn-out garments (including their own) into polyester fibers. And compared to when they started doing this in 1993, they offer recycled polyester in a lot more garments, including Capilene® baselayers, hard shells, boardshorts and fleece.
Patagonia has very little virgin polyester left in its line, and they’re actively working to convert the remaining amount to recycled material.
For the Spring 2020 season, Patagonia is making 80% of their polyester fabrics with recycled poly.
UPF Sun Protection Treatment—Some Background
Patagonia employs several methods to improve UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) across their clothing lineups. One way is using yarns made with a titanium dioxide (TiO2) additive. This is similar to the active ingredient contained in sunscreen, that can help block the sun’s harmful rays. And this method provides very durable protection because those additives are permanently locked inside the yarns.
Comments