Name: Women's Other Smartwool Women's Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip
Brand: Other
Rating: 5.0 (1 reviews)

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Abigail Lock

Durango, CO

Women's Apparel > Women's Jackets

Other - Smartwool Women's Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip

Summary

Running with windchill this winter? The Smartwool Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip might be the next arrow in your quiver. I've been enjoying this layer for fall and winter adventures and casual wear. It's soft and stretchy with top notch insulation.

Posted Nov 30, 2024

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Smartwool Women's Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip

5.0/5

(1)

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Pros

Thumb holes
Wind-proof panel extends from neck/shoulders to ribs (1CFM rating)
2 Colorways
Insulative
Wicking
Merino wool inside
Reflective elements
1 Zippered chest pocket
DWR finish

Cons

Boxy fit
Special laundering instructions

I'm truly impressed by Smartwool's Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip! If you're a runner or cyclist, you know just how miserable wind can make the activities we love so much. This outer layer has become one of my go-tos since late fall. As much as I love a pair of thumb holes, that's not the only feature that gives this fleece a 10/10 in my book.

Before digging into the details, here are some specs to know:

Made in Vietnam
Main Body: 47% Polyester, 38% Merino Wool, 15% Elastane
Overlay: 85% Nylon, 15% Elastane
Pockets: 100% Polyester

If you've never owned wool clothing, it's important to care for the items properly to ensure longevity. Smartwool suggests the following:

Care

Machine Wash Cold Gentle Cycle
Wash With Like Colors
Do Not Bleach
Dry Flat
Cool Iron As Needed
Do Not Iron Decoration
Do Not Dry Clean

Features

Merino wool lined with synthetic fabrics facing outward. Internal panel prevents wind from coming through the zipper.

Reflective elements are rather small, but can be found on the thumbholes, lower rear panel, and next to chest pocket.

Soft fabric panel protects neck from zipper irritation when fully zipped

Performance

As a runner and cyclist, I'm always looking for ways to make outdoor winter training a bit more enjoyable. The Smartwool Women's Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip is quickly working its way into my regular rotation. The soft, stretchy fabric is lightweight enough to feel athletic, yet it still performs like a wool product; it wicks, insulates, and doesn't hold onto nasty odors. The wind-proof panel is a serious bonus. With the zipper fully reinforced by a soft fabric panel, no gusts are getting through!

Although I didn't love the boxy fit at first, I've come to realize that it accommodates layers underneath--an essential feature for outdoor cycling or skiing specifically.

Since this Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip retails for $170, consider it an investment in your winter athletics. If taken care of properly, this layer will go the distance. I've already put mine through several wash/dry cycles and it shows no signs of wear.