Minus33 Sequoia Midweight Merino Wool 1/4 zip

For the past few months Mrs. Adventure has been testing out Minus33‘s Sequoia Midweight Merino Wool 1/4 zip and she is notably impressed. I am noticeably impressed too, and not simply because it means she’ll be borrowing less of my merino layers!

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 medium) = ~8.8 oz.
• UPF Rating: 50+
• Colors: Black, Red, Charcoal Grey, Cream and Radiant Violet
• Sizing: Available in Women’s Sizes: XS to XXXL
• MSRP: $75.99 USD

Testing

So far it’s been put to good use out hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, around the fire, and everywhere that winter takes her. It’s already on her list for upcoming ski trips and will certainly be added to summer outdoor adventures.

What do we think?

This top is the counterpart to Minus33’s men’s Isolation 1/4 zip that we reviewed earlier this year and boast all of the same benefits. From the super soft 18.5 micron merino wool, to the flat lock stitched seams, this midweight layer is everything you could want as part of your layering system.

The 230 gram interlock knit construction is comfortable against the skin and durable between layers. It’s in the mid range for merino warmth and is best for the shoulder seasons (autumn and spring) and ideal for winter as part of a layering system.

We always recommend going with a 1/4 zip for mid layers as they are that much more versatile for temperature control.

The lack of lycra or nylon manifests itself in it being a bit looser of a fit than merino blend items. That isn’t a bad thing from the performance perspective (it’s actually better to have a 100% merino item to get the full benefits of merino wool (wicking, thermal retaining properties, odor absorbing), just something to keep in mind if you’re expecting more of an athletic fit.

Being a midweight layer there’s room for other layers underneath. Worn with a lighter layer you’ll find it excellent for active winter sports, and it will fit in quite nicely with an outer layer.

Conclusion

All in all, the Sequoia Midweight 1/4 zip is a solid, higher performing midlayer, worth every penny it costs. Check out their entirely line of Women’s Merino layers at the Minus33 website.