Patagonia R1 Air vs. Arc'teryx Proton Hoody: Midlayer Breakdown from Ridge and River
Zach from Ridge and River is back with a performance-packed midlayer showdown between two outdoor favorites: the Patagonia R1 Air and the Arc'teryx Proton Hoody. Whether you're scrambling across rocks in Oak Openings or skinning uphill in icy backcountry, this guide breaks down which midlayer fits your adventure style best.
Warmth, Weather & Where It Performs
Arc'teryx Proton Hoody: Rugged Warmth for Extended Missions
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Coreloft insulation delivers consistent warmth
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40D air-permeable face fabric resists abrasion and light precipitation
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Perfect for:
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Cold, wet, and windy conditions
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Backcountry skiing, snowboarding, or ice climbing
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Adventures where durability and protection matter
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Added bonus: Tough enough to scrape against granite and brush without worrying
“If you're heading out on a longer trip and need a midlayer that doubles as a light softshell, the Proton is the one to grab.”
Patagonia R1 Air: Ultralight Breathability for High-Output Days
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Zig-zag gridded fleece made from 100% recycled polyester
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Extremely breathable—you can feel the airflow just by holding it
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Perfect for:
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Rock climbing
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Skinning uphill
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Quick, high-energy outings in dry cold
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Note: Less durable without a face fabric, so it's better for dry conditions and close-to-base adventures
“If you're redlining it—sprinting up hills or pushing hard—the R1 Air is hard to beat.”
Fit, Feel & Features
Proton Hoody: Arc'teryx-Level Tech & Comfort
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Trim fit with articulated sleeves and gusseted underarms
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Zippered chest pocket fits GPS or phone
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Two fleece-lined hand pockets
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Helmet-compatible hood with rear cinch for wind control
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Stretchy cuffs for easy wrist mobility
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Soft, cozy interior from hood to sleeve cuffs
“That interior fleece runs the full length—it’s warm, it’s soft, and it’s built for serious movement.”
R1 Air: Lightweight Simplicity That Breathes
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Quarter zip pullover or full zip hoody options
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No hand pockets (in the pullover)
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One small chest pocket under the Patagonia logo
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Minimalist design—fewer seams, lighter weight
“Great for fast pursuits and layering, but don’t expect heavy-duty storage or weather protection.”
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the R1 Air if you:
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Prioritize maximum breathability
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Want something ultralight and close-fitting
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Plan to stay close to base or be moving fast
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Are layering under a shell or staying in dry cold
🛒 Shop Women's R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody:
Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody – Women's
🛒 Shop Women's R1 Air 1/2 Zip:
Patagonia R1 Air 1/2 Zip Pullover – Women's
🛒 Shop Men's R1 Air Options:
Men’s 1/2 Zip | Men’s Full-Zip Hoody
Choose the Proton Hoody if you:
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Need durability and weather protection
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Are heading into multi-day cold weather trips
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Want a midlayer that doubles as a softshell
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Like a more structured, tech-forward fit
🛒 Shop the Arc'teryx Proton Hoody
Visit Us in Toledo for Expert Fit and Feel
Not sure which one’s best for your adventures around Toledo, Ohio? Come try them on in person!
📍 Visit us in-store: Ridge and River Toledo Location
👀 Or watch the full video review: Watch on YouTube
Stay Connected with Ridge and River
👉 Follow us on Instagram: @ridgeandrivergear
👉 Subscribe on YouTube: Ridge and River YouTube Channel
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Use code YOUTUBE10 at checkout for 10% off your next online order!
