We’ve had several long freezing snaps in the mountains of Tennessee this winter. During the last one, which lasted about a week, I realized my wardrobe was seriously lacking in decent base layers that I could wear underneath my jeans and sweaters. I’ve been wearing the same pink Lands End long johns for about 15 years now. They’re warm and comfy and still fit, but they’re so thick they don’t fit very well under my skinny jeans. Because I knew we’d probably have a few more cold snaps and because I have a weeklong New York City trip later this month, I decided to invest in some new long undies this winter that would work under more than just my ski pants.

That’s when I fell in love with Patagonia’s Capilene line.

Capilene is a fabric made with at least 50 percent recycled polyester and is recyclable when you’re done with it. It wicks, it dries quickly, it’s super-thin but still super-warm. It moves naturally and washes easily in your washing machine. Patagonia makes it in four different weights, so you can have both silky thin items (like my new long johns) which are light enough to wear in warmer weather, and you can have some heavier items to wear on the outside. And ohhhh, the options. Lots for women, men and the kiddos too! The price is reasonable too. Sure, $40 is more than my Lands End circa 1995 long johns, but it’s a good price for quality material that you can recycle way down the road. If you shop around, you might find a deal or two like I did at my favorite outdoor goods store, Moosejaw.

It’s worth noting just how environmentally friendly Patagonia is, and it’s not just their Common Threads recycling program (which is awesome and takes Capilene, fleeces from various manufacturers and cotton Ts — info on how to recycle here). The company gives grant money to small, grass-roots environmental projects and groups, many of whom aren’t funded by any other major grants. Customers who visit Patagonia stores can cast votes for organizations who deserve to receive their grants. Patagonia is also working toward creating a national park in the Patagonia region of South America and throws its support behind The Conservation Alliance and One Percent for the Planet.

Patagonia, you’ve earned The Modern Gal’s longtime business, and I’ll definitely be visiting your retail store while I’m in NYC! (And you better believe I’ll have my Capilene pants on if it’s cold.