In my forever struggle to use only a carry-on bag while traveling, I’m constantly scrutinizing my wardrobe to get the best multi-use out of it. Clothing items that can look great at the dinner table but also have enough solid performance characteristics to take out on the trail (or wherever I’m adventuring) are items that get packed.
The Icebreaker Women’s ZoneKnit Merino Long Sleeve Half Zip always makes the cut when I’m traveling to a place that may have cooler temperatures, but I don’t want to pack a single-use fancy sweater for evening meals. I tested it out on a recent road trip in California, as well as a forest adventure in British Colombia, and in both places was asked where I got it.
Icebreaker’s ZoneKnit is a body-mapping technology that’s designed to regulate your body temperature and let skin breathe during high-intensity activity. The 100-percent merino weave is different in places where you’re warmer during activity, like under arms, on the back, around the waist and at wrists. This top is ideal for mountain and coastal adventures where you want all-natural warmth and temperature regulation.
The top has a drop-tail hem for added coverage. I feel like I wear so many tops with drop-tail hems that I really notice when I try on a shirt that doesn’t have that feature. There’s an articulated rib construction at the elbows for comfortable range of motion, as well as raglan sleeve construction for mobility. The half-zip neck is excellent versatility for added warmth or a casual (and cooler) zip-down look.
This top is an excellent mid-layer for adventures that take you to the city or great outdoors.
The Women’s ZoneKnit Merino Long Sleeve Half Zip comes in grape/cosmic (pictured) and black, and lists for $270 on the Icebreaker site.