When a garment has a boastful name such as “Better Sweater®”, you better hope that it can hold its weight. Luckily, this Patagonia product lives up to the name and more.This fleece has accompanied me on all of my travels, whether it is a weekend trip to my cottage in Georgian Bay, a seven-day hike through Gros Morne National Park, skiing at Le Massif, or a simple summer evening BBQ, this sweater is perfect all occasions.
Bulk-free and soft in design, it’s a perfect layering piece, fitting over a simple plaid shirt for the ‘urban lumberjack’ brunch look, or under the Patagonia down soft shell for more adventurous terrain. While sailing along the west coast of Scotland this past summer, I wore this sweater everyday (the proof is in the pictures) – whether strolling along the ports, reading a book on the upper deck, or bundling up on a cold night. The moisture-wicking fabric came in handy when it started to drizzle, but I would recommend carrying a lightweight Gore-Tex raincoat (such as this one from North Face) with you to throw on top in case of extended rain.
The Better Sweater® comes in both a Jacket and Quarter-zip styles and retails between $90-140, making it an affordable staple for any traveller’s wardrobe. Coming in a variety of colours, it also acts as a great gift for those friends and family that are preparing for a trip. In fact, I actually outfitted my entire family with them this year for Christmas before our ski trip, and we are not only the most prepared group on the hill, but the most fashionable as well.
Seems like it was named Better Sweater® for a reason.
For more information, go to Patagonia.