An old favorite, updated AND on sale: the REI Power Stretch Half Zip pullover is made from one of our absolute favorite materials, Polartec Power Stretch. This material wicks great, insulates great and provides just the right amount of wind and water resistance to use stand-alone, or pair with serious shells for expedition wear.
The Half Zip format is simply a must-have; it vents well yet zips up around the neck when the going gets cold and/or the action stops. REI has changed their Half Zip a few times in past years, not always for the better. The last iteration moved the pocket to the sleeve, always an awkward place to stash stuff. If they're smart, they'll leave perfect alone this time. The pocket is back on the chest, and they've kept the slightly longish sleeves with thumb holes, another favorite feature. New to the piece is a handy loop on the inside neckline for hanging it up.
The hem drops a little long in back, nice whether you're a tucker or not. The fit overall is close but not constricting, thanks to the four way stretch and appropriate for a base layer where you want as much material in contact with your skin as possible to get maximum wicking function. The Half Zip makes a great stand alone cold weather aerobic piece and layers great thanks to its trim fit and smooth finish. Reflective strips around the zipper and a reflective logo on the right rear shoulder round it out. Verstatile, cool colors and on sale too; two thumbholes up!