Is the “Better Sweater” actually Better?

The outerwear supergiant Patagoina has developed into a reputable company that is known for sourcing clients with high quality products while simultaneously preserving the Environment. This reputation does not stop at their line of “Better Sweater” products. 

The “Better Sweater” is a group of products that provides the same aesthetic as a traditional sweater-knit without using high energy and water consumption methods that are typically needed to develop such a product.  

The staple in this line is the “Better Sweater” ¼ zip fleece which features a sustainable polyester design that holds warmth on cold fall and winter days. The quarter zip design allows you to apply this piece to a variety of situations ranging from a casual day in the office or a day out on the trails. Pair this with a crisp oxford under shirt, a clean pair of pastel colored slacks, clean dress shoes, and you may just find yourself in a corner office on wall street managing a hedge fund. Not your style? You may feel more comfortable in the Better Sweater quarter zip on the side of a mountain in your favorite pair of hiking boots. No matter the activity, you are more than prepared to tackle your tasks in a comfortable and stylish manner. 

On Patagonia’s website, the product has racked up a 4.5 star rating on a whopping 368 reviews. The customer reviews that were less than lackluster primarily focused on sizing. The general consensus amongst shoppers is that the sizing is off and mostly loose. The website does mention that the item runs a little larger but this did not stop Andrew C. from saying, “I’ve owned two of these for a few years and pretty much wear them everyday in the colder season. The M fits my build perfectly. I recently bought a new one and the fit has changed. It is slightly more baggy and I can see the seam has changed on the arm. I’m definitely disappointed as I’m pretty picky about the fit.” Andrew still gave the product a three star rating and said he would still recommend it, which goes to show how well designed this product truly is. 

I am the owner of one of these bad boys in a simplistic “stonewash” grey color, and I absolutely love it. I have not let the piece stand up to the elements but as for wearing it on casual occasions I sport it on a consistent basis. So is the “Better Sweater” actually better? My answer is an enthusiastic yes!