Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Bottoms - Women's Review

The Capilene Thermal Weight is a step-up from the midweight Capilene with more insulation and great breathability. This base layer is perfect to wear on its own or under a pair of snow pants.

Performance Comparison

The Patagonia Thermal Weight Capilene is a wonderful synthetic companion for colder days through the year.

Photo: Edward Kemper

Warmth

As a super warm synthetic layer, this is one to wear during the coldest days of the year. If you plan on sitting around in cold weather or need a little additional insulation, it will deliver.

The Patagonia Capilene Thermals keeps us warm while we scream down these snowy hills in California.

Photo: Amber King

While the synthetic fibers are not as insulative as merino wool, we felt warm while running, hiking, and sitting on cold surfaces when it was layered appropriately under another layer. If you're a woman that runs cold and likes a super warm base layer, this is a suitable option. When worn on its own, the face fabric actually cuts the wind a little bit, giving it versatility and warmth to wear on its own in cold weather.

Walks in the winter are highly recommended with this base layer pant.

Photo: Edward Kemper

Breathability

Even though its construction is thicker, it breathes very well. The interior fabric is constructed with a grid pattern.

A look at the interior fabric that is both comfortable and exceptionally breathable.

Photo: Edward Kemper

The little motes around the islands of fabric offer airflow channels while the interior fabric grabs and wicks away moisture efficiently. When wearing it under other layers and on its own, it kept us exceptionally dry. It offers the same level of breathability as its thinner cousin, but more warmth. Therefore, it provides a much wider range for thermoregulation. Wear it while hanging out at the ski resort, working the chair lifts, or hiking your next trail in cold weather.

Testing it while running. Even though the material got wet from snow, it dried out quickly. It also kept us warm enough on this cold day, but dry enough to stay warm when we took breaks along the trail.

Photo: Amber King

Comfort & Fit

Built with 92% recycled polyester fibers and 8% spandex, this pant stretches with a nice fit on the body. Given that the fabrics are a little thicker, we found it to be less comfortable than other thinner synthetic options, especially around the waistband.

We take some time to make breakfast while wearing the Capilene Thermal Pants with the Capilene Midweight top. It's cozy enough for around the house wear.

Photo: Amber King

While the exterior of the waist looks like a nice, thick, layer, the band material sits right against the skin, which makes for a little discomfort, especially while running. The band is quite elastic and pinches in without a seamless construction. While the rest of the pants offer this seamless construction, we wish a little more thought was put into this area of the pant.

A look at the overall fit of this great synthetic base layer.

Photo: Edward Kemper

The length is nice and long, with cuffs that offer lots of room for those with thinner or thicker calves. We have worn them plenty of times while running. While the materials aren't as cozy as merino wool, we found it appropriate to wear from the trail back into the house. The materials aren't too rigid and offer decent all-around comfort.

The cuffs are stretchy with a longer fit.

Photo: Edward Kemper

Overall, it's not as cozy and comfortable as merino wool, but we do appreciate it's look and style that makes it easier to wear on its own. Given it's close to body fit, it's also easy to layer underneath a pair of loosely fitted pants. The face fabric isn't grabby and also works nicely under a pair of jeans too.

We only wish the waistband had flat seams at the elastic, which it doesn't.

Photo: Edward Kemper

Durability

The synthetic construction with a heavier weight offers great durability. We haven't observed any pilling, wear or tear, or thread fly-aways after a few months of heavy use. This baselayer bottom will last you for many years. Women who have had the luxury of owning this in the past years have touted its ability to really get worked over and perform. The fibers are durable and stiff, offering great performance for the cold season.

When layering it under a pant, or wearing it on its own, this pant retains its shape and doesn't abrade easily. It's durable and will last for years. Here, we set up a tarp shelter while camping in the mountains on a cooler Fall day.

Photo: Amber King

Value

With great durability and a reputation for performing well, this high-value synthetic base layer is indeed worth the price. Women that prefer a thicker base layer, planning on going to cold places, will find the most value in it.

The Patagonia Thermal Weight bottoms are versatile. Use them on their own or in a layered system. They'll provide the warmth you need while you tackle trails and take time to rest.

Photo: Amber King

Conclusion