As I age, I’m more likely to be warm than cold, and the long-sleeved sweatshirts I used to wear on airplanes have been replaced with thinner short-sleeved shirts. That usually works, but sometimes on long-haul flights, the temperature is even too cold for me.
Because I want to bring something that will keep me warm but not too warm, and can also be used in various ways when I finally get to my destination, I’ve been packing the Athleta Pranayama Restore Wrap in my carry-on bag.
The wrap is thick enough to keep me warm, but thin enough to pack small. Athleta’s Nirvana fabric is 97% Tencel and 3% spandex with all-around stretch. It’s breathable and extremely soft.
The wrap’s fit is relaxed (without being schlubby) with room to move and has a longer length so you can pair it with leggings. It’s great for layering over tanks, tees, long-sleeved shirts, and even workout clothes.
The roomy side pockets are ideal for stashing your phone, earbuds, lip balm, and whatever you need to be comfortable in your airplane seat without having to rummage through your bag. Thumbholes hold the sleeves in place and keep you warm if the air conditioning is blasting away.
The wrap can be machine washed and dried, and I’ve also washed it by hand. If you do so, don’t scrub too hard. The fabric is wonderful, but a lot of friction can cause it to pill over time.
The Pranayama Restore Wrap lists for $89 on the Athleta site and comes in black, navy, maritime, plum, pine, mortar mushroom, light gray heather (pictured), black rib, truffle rib, and bone rib. It’s the kind of clothing item you can have in a few colors and use for both travel and at home.