Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie Review

First Impressions of Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie

The Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie promises warmth and versatility for outdoor enthusiasts. Marketed as a heavyweight midlayer, it boasts 100% merino wool construction, designed for activities ranging from skiing to alpine climbing. This hoodie caught my attention as I sought a reliable layer that would perform well during demanding hikes and potentially double as a cozy option for shoulder-season camping trips.

I was searching for a mid-layer that was both highly breathable and exceptionally warm. My current fleece options often leave me overheating during high-output activities, or shivering once I stop. The promise of merino wool’s natural temperature regulation and moisture-wicking properties drew me to this Icebreaker hoodie.

Upon unboxing, the Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie impressed me with its substantial feel. The Realfleece fabric has a luxurious softness, while the overall construction feels incredibly durable. My initial impression was of a high-quality garment built to withstand rigorous use.

Compared to my existing fleece jackets from brands like Patagonia and Arc’teryx, the Icebreaker hoodie stands out due to its heavier weight and the natural feel of the merino wool. While other fleeces often prioritize packability and low weight, this one seems to focus on maximum warmth and comfort. I chose the Icebreaker hoodie primarily for the promise of superior warmth in very cold conditions.

My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to test its performance in the real world and see if it could live up to the high expectations set by its initial feel and Icebreaker‘s reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie was a late fall hike in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The weather was crisp, with temperatures hovering around 30°F and a biting wind at higher elevations. I wore it as my primary mid-layer over a merino wool base layer.

The hoodie performed admirably in the cold and windy conditions. The dense Realfleece provided excellent insulation, and the zip-up design allowed me to regulate my temperature effectively. Even when I worked up a sweat during steep ascents, the merino wool wicked moisture away, keeping me relatively dry and comfortable.

I found the fit to be slightly slim, as indicated in the product description. No real learning curve was needed to get used to wearing it.

After this initial hike, I did notice some slight pilling on the inner sleeves where they rubbed against my base layer.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use during hiking, camping, and even casual wear around town, the Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie has proven to be a reliable and versatile piece of gear.

The durability has been impressive overall, despite the initial pilling. The hoodie has held its shape well, and the zipper continues to function smoothly. It does require a more delicate washing cycle compared to synthetic fleeces.

Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring only occasional washing with a wool-specific detergent and air drying. Compared to my synthetic fleeces, the merino wool requires a bit more care but resists odors far better. The warmth this hoodie provides far surpasses my other lightweight fleece options for cold weather activities.

Breaking Down the Features of Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Icebreaker
• Apparel Fit: Slim
• Gender: Female
• Application: Hiking
• Fabric/Material: 100% Merino Wool
• Weight: 12.7 oz

The Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie being crafted entirely from merino wool is a huge benefit. This translates to excellent breathability, odor resistance, and temperature regulation, critical for demanding outdoor activities. The slim fit allows for easy layering under a shell jacket.

Performance & Functionality

The Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie excels at providing warmth and comfort in cold conditions. The Realfleece fabric traps heat effectively, while the merino wool fibers wick moisture away from the skin, preventing that clammy feeling. The zippered alpine hand pockets are also useful for stashing small essentials.

While the slim fit enhances layering, it may feel restrictive to some users, particularly those with broader shoulders. The odor resistance of merino wool is a significant advantage. It far outperforms synthetic fleeces on multi-day trips. This hoodie exceeds my expectations for warmth and odor control.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie is top-notch. The seams are well-constructed, and the Realfleece fabric feels durable and soft against the skin. The articulated sleeves allow for a full range of motion.

The hoodie is user-friendly and requires no special knowledge or skills to operate. The slim fit is designed for layering, but some may find it less comfortable for casual wear. It has a drop tail hem, which provides excellent coverage and prevents the hoodie from riding up during activities.

Durability & Maintenance

The Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie appears to be built to last, though the Realfleece fabric is prone to pilling with heavy use. Proper care, including gentle washing and air drying, is essential for maximizing its lifespan. Merino wool is naturally resistant to bacteria and odors.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional washing with a wool-specific detergent. Repairing minor snags or tears in the merino wool is relatively easy with basic sewing skills.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, as it’s a fairly straightforward garment.

The slim fit and neutral design make it compatible with a wide range of base layers and outer shells from various brands. No options exist to add pads or modify the existing construction.

Pros and Cons of Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie

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Who Should Buy Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie?

The Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie is perfect for female hikers, skiers, alpine climbers, and anyone who needs a warm and breathable mid-layer for cold-weather activities. It’s also well-suited for travelers seeking a versatile garment that can be worn for multiple days without developing odors.

Those who prefer a looser fit or prioritize maximum durability over comfort and odor resistance might want to skip this product. Someone who prioritizes lightweight packability might find better options, too.

A merino-specific detergent is a must-have to keep the Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie in top condition.

Conclusion on Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie

The Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie is a well-designed and high-performing mid-layer that delivers on its promises of warmth, breathability, and odor resistance.

At $290.00, the price is definitely an investment. Given the superior performance and long-term durability, it is ultimately justified for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

I would absolutely recommend it to anyone seeking a top-quality merino wool fleece for demanding cold-weather activities. Invest in your comfort and performance. Go get your own Icebreaker Women Merino 560 Realfleece Elemental LS Zip Hoodie and conquer the cold in style!