As a GB Ultras running ambassador I have ran plenty of ultramarathons including the Manchester to Liverpool Ultra, the Chester Ultra – 50 and 100 miles, as well as the Warrington Way in Cheshire and the Pendle Way in Lancashire. I also run my very own Tinsel Tracy ultramarathon on Christmas Day, solo for children in hospital at Christmas. I love running on trails and train 6 days a week, so I’m ideally placed to test the Airshed Pro Pullover by outdoor sports specialists Patagonia.
First up they are a very well-known company with excellent environmental credentials. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia originally started selling bespoke mountain climbing gear before expanding to include clothing for other outdoor sports such as surfing and trail running.
“Whether it’s endless forest single-track or lung-busting mountain pass, their trail running apparel thrives on wild trails.”Patagonia
I usually do most of my training on the Trans Pennine Trail near where I live in Cheshire and I wore the Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover in Steam Blue on several 6 mile runs. It was great for layering in the cold weather, managing to keep me both warm and cool, with light wind protection. Constructed with Capilene® Cool Lightweight fabric in the sleeves and lined hood I felt like the DWR (durable water repellent) finish definitely provided some weather resistance, particularly in some quite blustery conditions.
The long zipper on the Pullover is great for when it gets warm as it can be opened up easily, allowing me to cool down while on the move. It’s been deliberately designed with longer sleeves to make it possible to cover your hands so you can skip bringing gloves, though I would have preferred thumb hole cuffs.
The material is light weight and comfortable, again made from Ultralightweight 100% nylon (54% recycled) Capilene® fabric, which was stretchy and easy to fold away back into the hood.
Overall I think it’s a great choice for ultra runners.
Review by Tracy Halligan
Patagonia
Airshed Pro Pullover
£120