Icebreaker are a well-known manufacturer of Merino Wool garments from New Zealand. They have a reputation for good quality clothes that are designed for cold conditions. Although they specialise in thermal underwear, they also have a good selection of mid and outerwear garments for men and women.
The Skiing Department recently got hold of an Icebreaker base-layer and a mid-layer top to test and review.
This is our first report and we will be providing updates from different conditions throughout the coming months.
Base Layer Garment – Slalom Zip | Fabric: Body Fit 260
Photo: Icebreaker Slalom Zip top
The Slalom Zip is quite clearly designed for skiing and snowboarding as a base layer garment.
Initial impressions are that it looks good and although you might think that’s not important as an under layer, you will be thankful later on in the day when you’re in the overheated pub and you don’t look like a plonker.
The thing I like about this garment is that it can be worn as a casual item of clothing in cool weather conditions. The zip means that you can wear it over a t-shirt and the sporty strip down the sleeves doesn’t look over the top.
One of the great advantages of this type of Merino wool is the breath-ability, and somehow it seems to keep you warm when it’s cold, but cool when it’s warm.
Mid-Layer Garment – Drift | Fabric: 320 Sport
Photo: Icebreaker Drift top
A mid-layer garment is designed to be worn over the top of a base layer and underneath your outer wear or shell jacket, I bet you couldn’t have guessed that.
Icebreaker have a series of mid-layer garments made from Merino wool and this one consists of the 320 sport fabric, tailored for particularly cold conditions.
In a similar way to the Slalom Zip, the Drift is comfortable to wear even up to warmer temperatures. The styling is appropriate for outdoor sports although this garment in particular would be perfect for strolling around on a cool spring evening after a meal out on the town.
Some of the features include a rib collar, deep venting front zip, articulated raglan sleeves and an internal cuff to keep those wrists extra warm.
Layering is incredibly important when skiing or snowboarding and the flexibility gained when wearing multiple garments means that, as long as you have a backpack, you can shed or add as and when required. Natural fabrics like Merino wool can be mixed with artificial fibres like polyester, but the feel of the wool for me is an added bonus.
Icebreaker say that there garments are designed for durability and they certainly seem tough and well made. But, I’ve had some feedback in the past that they can wear out a little too quickly.
Time will tell, and we’ll be back with updates on these garments and more as we test them in various climate conditions throughout the year.
Icebreaker garments kindly provided for review by Nature shop:
Nature Shop is an on-line retailer selling premium “nature inspired” brands and products that are kind to your body and to the environment. Free overnight shipping & minimum of 20% off Icebreaker products.