Polarmax® Technical Base Layer: The Base with Instinct

This was the chance of a lifetime! Travel to Patagonia, Argentina has always been a dream of ours.

Fortunately, or unfortunately, however you look at it, our timing forced us to travel to southern Patagonia in June, which is the beginning of their winter. At first, we questioned whether or not we should go given the potential for snow, cold temperatures, and possible trouble getting around at that time of year, but then we realized that the beginning of winter is the best time to visit Patagonia!

We prepared extensively for this trip, making sure we would have the right clothes with us for what we would be doing. Traveling some in Buenos Aires and in a few other parts of the country--in addition to hiking on a glacier in Patagonia--meant that we had to have clothes that could serve many different purposes, could pack easily, and stand up to multiple days of wear without falling apart or needing washing. Fortunately, we had a few different weights of Polarmax leggings and top layers with us to keep us warm and dry on the Perito Moreno glacier, as well as stylish in the Buenos Aires restaurants!

The highlights of our trip included:

Hiking on Perito Moreno Glacier

One of only three glaciers in the world that are not retreating, this glacier is located in the Los Glaciares National Park in the south west of Santa Cruz province, near El Calafate. It is one of the most important natural attractions in Patagonia. The face of the glacier, or terminus, is approximately 3 miles wide with an average height of 200 feet above Lake Argentino. At its deepest section, the glacier is approximately 2,000 feet deep. This glacier advances about 3 feet per day, but looses mass at approximately the same rate per day and thus has not advanced or receded in the past ninety years. Having an opportunity to hike on this natural marvel was truly an experience, especially in the snow and freezing rain-- fitting weather in our opinion!

Hiking In El Chalten

El Chalten is a small mountain town north of El Calafate. It sits on the Rio de las Vueltes river within the immense Los Glaciares National Park. El Chalten serves the Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy mountains, which makes this village very popular for climbers and trekkers. There are numerous hiking trails that head out of town and into the park where you can find stunning views of the Rio De las Vueltes valley and the peaks of the Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy mountains. Unfortunately from a view standpoint, it was snowy and cloudy during our time in El Chalten, but we did manage to have great views of the river valley and do some great hiking!

We can’t wait to go back!

Visiting Patagonia is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. There is a lifetime of trails, towns, views, and excitement to explore. We traveled around the entire country including the northwestern high desert region, however Patagonia was the highlight of our trip. We hope you enjoy the photos and video from our trip!

Regards,
David and Laura