Tested: Icebreaker Mid and Baselayers – GWC Mag

Icebreaker’s ZoneKnit Explore Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie (for women or men) is a technical midlayer that is unlike any other out there. It’s designed to fit snugly, as the “body-mapped” technology adds insulation at the front arms and shoulders, while the high-output areas (under the arms, the back, etc.) feature a fine but durable mesh of 50% merino wool/ 50% TENCEL lyocell—providing an alternating map of warmth and breathability.

On a cool-not-cold December day we wore the Hoodie with Icebreaker Sonebula baselayers (plus a pair of shell pants) for an optimum trail-run outfit. (Mother Nature had not delivered enough snow, otherwise we would have been skiing.) We carried a shell jacket in case, but never needed it. We did not overheat; merino really does modulate your temperature better than any synthetic.

We plan to use the ZoneKnit Explore Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie as a midlayer not for resort skiing but for touring, running or snowshoeing—any activity where you’re always moving and sweating a lot. The Hoodie even dumps moisture from your baselayer—that’s how efficient it is. (In cold weather you will always want to wear this in tandem with a thick shell because the hoodie itself offers no wind protection.)

Its many other virtues include the natural stretch of the material blend, the fitted hood with high neck and off-set zip opening with chin guard to prevent friction, and the two-way zipper—always a welcome feature. Once you’re accustomed to a two-way zipper, you’ll want every jacket and hoodie you own to have one.

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Merino 200 Sonebula Thermal Top & Bottom

The Sonebula series features Icebreaker’s most versatile merino fabric—200 Lightweight, its third-warmest, meant for moderate to cool conditions. (If you’re in the high alpine or any exposed and very cold place, try Icebreaker’s Heavyweight or Midweight fabrics instead).

The 200 Sonebula Long Sleeve Thermal Top (for women and men) and Leggings (for women and men) are technical base layers that provide ample warmth during high-output activities and pair well with the ZoneKnit Explore Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie.

As always, the soft merino fibres regulate body temperature and naturally resist odour; gusseted underarms and raglan sleeves add mobility and comfort; and flatlock seams prevent friction.

Icebreaker’s merino is custom-made for long, unpredictable days on the trail.

Plus: Unlike most brands, Icebreaker uses plastic-free mailers and packaging. More about Icebreaker’s initiatives here.

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