Minus33 – Men’s Isolation midweight 1/4 Zip top

This winter we were introduced to Minus33, and we’re loving the quality, fit and comfort of their merino wool layers. I’ve been testing out the Isolation Men’s midweight 1/4 zip top.

Let’s take a look at the features and then talk about our experience with them:

Features

• Fabric: 100% 18.5 Micron Merino Wool
• Fabric Weight: 230 g/m2 Interlock knit construction
• Construction: Flat lock seams, chin guard
• Design: 1/4 zip, long sleeve
• Weight (Size Large) = ~12.8 oz. (363 grams)
• UPF Rating: 50+
• Colors: Mossy Oak, Sand, Navy, Black, Red, Charcoal Gret and Forest Green
• Sizing: Available in Men’s Sizes: XS to XXXL
• MSRP: $75.99 USD

Testing

A Canadian winter. So far we’ve used it from day-to-day, out hiking, snowshoeing, in snowball fights, sledding and around the fire.

What do we think?

Our family has always been fans of Merino Wool. Our son loves his Minus33 Kids Merino baselayers. We love our minus33 too. Here’s what I like about the Isolation 1/4 zip:

 

Fit

The Isolation 1/4 zip is a perfect size for me. It is a looser style which suites a 100% merino layer to be used in active scenarios. As a midweight you can put lighter layers underneath as well as put heavier layers on top for really cold weather.

You should note that these are 100% merino layers, so if you are used to merino blends you’ll note that these aren’t as fitted, although they do have a natural elasticity. Many other merino layers use a blend of merino and polyester, lycra or other elastic fabric to make more of an active fit. That has its benefits, but it sacrifices the performance of merino.

Comfort

Merino is known to be much softer than typical sheep’s wool and you notice that immediately with Minus33’s 18.5 micro merino. It’s smooth against the skin and combined with the flat lock seams virtually eliminates any discomfort.  Although we typically wear this with another layer underneath, it is comfortable when worn against the skin.

Performance

Yes, you’ve probably googled “benefits of merino wool” but let’s just summarize again:

• Breathable – The Natural fibres absorb lots of moisture, pull it away from your skin and then wick it away through evaporation.
• Stretchy – It has a natural elasticity
• Versatile – Merino is known to keep you cool when it’s warm and warm when it’s cool
• Comfortable – the finer fibres mean that it’s not itchy against the skin like that old wool sweater you had when you were a kid
• Odour resistant – Merino wool is naturally odour resistant, unlike our synthetic layers

Minus 33 opted for a 230 g/m fabric, which is on the higher end (120 g/m is a very light merino) and therefore much warmer. As such it’s great for fall, winter and spring. We found extra layers on top of this and a light baselayer unnecessary for winter activities like snowshoeing and a snowball fight left us quite warm!

 

Construction

We had never tried Minus33 before this winter and are very much impressed with these items. The choice of merino weight, the stitching and the fit are all excellently put together, to make an excellent layer. I haven’t found or developed any loose seams, or other manufacturing defects on any of our items.

Conclusion

Minus33’s Isolation 1/4 zip is another fantastic product in a line of great baselayers offered by Minus33. We are using them more and more for our winter activities. When you live up north in Canada, you need gear that performs and this brand gets our stamp of approval. $74.99 price tag is fair for what you’re getting, and you’ll probably find it on sale for even less. You should definitely check them out. You can find the Isolation 1/4 zip here on their site.

 

Full disclosure:

Minus33 sent us this baselayer to review in exchange for our honest opinions. All comments are our own and reflect what we’d recommend to family and friends.