Patagonia's Retro X has been renewed. A New Charm Connecting the Past and the Future Vol.02 Naoya Kawachi (Director, THE DAY) | feature

The result is a cross between tradition and innovation.

-The windproof property of the "Retro X" is a feature of the fleece, isn't it?

Kawachi: Fleece used to be worn as an inner layer of a shell, but I think "Retro X" has turned the concept of fleece on its head by providing wind resistance so that it can be worn as an outer layer. When I ride my bicycle, I often find that I feel the cold more from the wind than from the temperature.

-Certainly, the windproof fleece was revolutionary.

Kawachi: According to the catalog, at the time of release, it was a 3-layer construction of fleece, windproof film, and "Capilene". Later, the lining went from "Capilene" to a mesh material that had been the standard for many years.

-The mesh lining has been replaced this season by a taffeta fabric made of 100% recycled material, eliminating the use of windproof film. This accomplishes Patagonia's goal of eliminating the use of virgin polyester by the end of 2025. In other words, the windproof properties of "Retro X" were the last thing on our minds.

Kawachi: I think it's great that you use recycled polyester in all your products. Patagonia has been a pioneer in using recycled material for fleece since 1993, but it must have been difficult to cover the fleece with recycled material without sacrificing wind resistance.

-The renewed "Classic Retro X Jacket", please try it on.

Kawachi: It is lightweight anyway. It is soft without the crispness of windproof film. It is comfortable to the body from the beginning.

-As a byproduct of changing the lining to recycled material, it is more comfortable to wear. The size is a loose-fitting silhouette.

Kawachi: The silhouette is similar to the original Retro X Retro Pile Cardigan and Classic Retro Cardigan. I had the impression that Patagonia products were narrow in the arms and body, but this one is loose-fitting and feels like wearing a Patagonia from the 1990s or something. I can wear sweaters and sweaters with plenty of room to spare.

-The breast pocket is inspired by the "classic retro cardigan" design. Incidentally, its coloring is named Cascade Green.

Kawachi: The color scheme is very similar to Hunter.' There was a green and purple color scheme in the 90's "Retro X" called Hunter and Regal Purple. I like how it resembles that combination.

-How about "Classic Retro X Best"?

Kawachi: I also like the vest. I've only ever worn vests as innerwear, but with the "Classic Retro X Vest" I would wear it as outerwear. The coloring is great with the traditional color scheme of the "Retro Pile Cardigan".

-To commemorate the renewal of "Retro X", the old tag from the '70s has been reissued only in this color for this season only. And from this season, the "Retro X" now also includes a hoodie.

Kawachi: The impression is totally different. It doesn't have a chest pocket. With the addition of the hoodie to the lineup, more people will have a chance to pick up the Retro X, and I think it will be a new attraction for Retro X.