Patagonia Clothing System - Andromeda Strain
A frigid predawn start quickly turns to midday, with ice suddenly transforming to slush, and as you tiptoe off the belay toward the exit ice pitch, wet snow starts to fall: early season conditions in the Rockies. Even when simul-climbing through the moderate sections and only slowing down to grovel through the tricky pitches, it’s still alpine and things don’t always go as planned. You need versatility – as well as protection if conditions turn grim.
Each piece in an alpine clothing system should complement the next. Our Capilene® Crew and Bottoms carry the primary duty of moisture transport. Then, dress for movement – swapping out midlayers doesn’t work with a harness on, and overheating can leave you soaked in sweat, dehydrated and inefficient. The R1® Hoody is a favorite all-around midlayer for many alpinists, as its deep-venting front zip cools and stretchy balaclava hood warms, making it like an on-the-go thermostat. Those who run cold might add a vest or bump up to the R2® Jacket.
Finally, the shells: the seam-welded no-stitch Ascensionist Jacket and the burly, durable Alpine Guide Pants stretch and breathe while resisting wind, spindrift and dripping ice. These soft shells feature superior breathability, allowing your body’s outward-driving heat to work with the shell fabric’s weather-resistance, keeping you dry. At belays or anytime you stop, the tried-and-true belay parka solution – putting on a high-loft overlayer like the Micro Puff Hooded Jacket over your shell – traps your hard-earned heat.
