Patagonia’s Capilene Zip-Neck Base Layer Is 40% Off at REI

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In This Story

Why We Love This Deal

When do you need a base layer? All year long. A quality base layer is the foundation of cold-weather outfits, and during the warm months, it’s often the only top you need. Patagonia’s Capilene line of shirts offers some of the best layers you can get, and right now, REI has a few of them on sale with a great discount.

One of them is Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Top, which is on sale for $59, a 40% discount, at REI. You can get it in three colorways at that price, and there are plenty of sizes in stock. REI’s price beats Backcountry’s and matches Patagonia’s current sale price, but REI has more sizes available. 

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Top, $59 (was $99) at REI

What Shoppers Should Know

• Fabric: Polyester
• Other Features: Thumb loops, anti-odor treatment
• Best For: Hiking, cycling, running in cool weather

The Capilene line includes both tops and bottoms of varying weights, but they’re all designed to serve as base layers in a larger layering system. The midweight products, like this Zip-Neck, are true year-round options. They function well under a shell jacket or insulated puffer (or both), but they’re breathable and wick moisture, so they won’t roast you if you wear them on their own in warm conditions.

How Should You Use It?

Patagonia also sells a crewneck version of this top, but I think the Zip-Neck stands out for its versatility. The high stand collar will help block the chill on cold mornings or high-altitude hikes, and the textured polyester fabric naturally traps some heat when you need it (kind of like a very thin fleece). When you warm up, you can unzip the closure for extra ventilation—something the crewneck lacks. And I personally prefer long sleeves in the summer; the extra coverage blocks the sun and keeps damaging UV rays at bay while you’re out and about. Thanks to this shirt’s lightweight and breathable construction, it won’t weigh you down when you’re working hard in the heat. 

Related: Kuhl’s ‘Amazingly Comfortable’ Renegade Hiking Pants Are a Rare 25% Off at REI

What Shoppers Are Saying

Shoppers have used this Capilene Zip-Neck for all kinds of outdoor sports, from skiing to trail running in Arizona, and they’ve been amazed by its excellent performance. Reviewers said it feels “very comfortable and has great temperature regulation” in both hot and cold weather. One shopper called it “a perfect breathable layer for hiking,” and another said Patagonia’s Capilene line, including this shirt, is “absolutely the best there is.”

Finding a functional Patagonia product like this Capilene base layer for 40% off is a rare deal, and judging by the sizing availability over at Patagonia, it won’t last long. Snag yours before REI’s stash disappears, too.

Shop More Deals

• Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Base Layer Top, $53 (was $89) at REI
• Patagonia Upstride Jacket, $174 (was $349) at Patagonia
• Patagonia Waxed Cotton Jacket, $184 (was $369) at Patagonia