OVERVIEW: The High Grade is an excellent choice for those who want a natural fiber, cold weather base layer that will perform remarkably well at retaining heat, even when wet. Merino wool is known for its exceptionally soft characteristics, is naturally breathable and extremely efficient at regulating body temperature due to its great warmth-to-weight ratio. This base layer is ideally suited for pairing with our cold weather and thermal outerwear for defense against the harsh cold and winter conditions, and temperatures between 0° - 40° F.
Best in Test Selection - "Thanks to the garment's anatomical cut, it's outstandingly comfortable. Designed to be worn in sub-zero temperatures, although we didn't manage to test in quite as low as the - 17° C Pactimo claims it will work in, we found this to be really effective on chilly night rides."
"Pactimo has a relatively simple plan to handle temperatures between zero and 45 degrees Fahrenheit, and it actually involves very little layering. Up top, Pactimo recommends a very warm base layer—like their High Grade Wool or Thermoregulator—matched to a really warm jacket with zippered vents, like the Vertex WX-D. And that's it. No jersey. If this feels a bit warm, go with a lighter base layer. As you warm up while riding, open your jackets zippers to drop heat and you won't need to worry about shedding layers."
FABRIC & CONSTRUCTION: This base layer uses a Merino wool/polyester blend for increased durability and to enhance the natural wicking natural of the fabric, thereby reducing overall dry times. The resulting garment offers an increased performance capability under exertion while remaining characteristically soft against the skin. It also means this garment can be machine washed.
THE SPECS:
- 69% Polyester; 31% Merino Wool
- Stretchy, zero-weight mesh in shoulders for excess heat discharge
- Pactimo TotalFit™ design for excellent anatomical fit
- 0° - 40° F
PAIR WITH
While you can pair the High Grade with any of our cold weather garments, including garments in the Alpine category, the ideal pairing for maximum weather protection is with the Vertex WX-D Jacket. With that combination you'll be toasty warm down to 0° F.