Women's Crescent Fleece Half Zip

About this find

The Women's Crescent Fleece Half Zip from Outdoor Research is made from recycled polyester and merino wool. The blend wicks sweat and resists odor naturally, and the fabric stretches so it moves with you as you climb. Plush microfleece on the inside holds in heat without adding bulk, which keeps this layer slim enough to wear on its own or under a shell on cold glacier approaches.

The half-length zip is the feature that makes this top work on stop-and-start mountain days. When you heat up on a steep section, you can open it fast and dump extra warmth. When you slow down, you can zip it back up and keep the chill out. It also slips on quickly once the sun sets at camp. Stretch-bound cuffs stay put while you scramble, so your sleeves are not bunching up when your hands are busy.

UPF 50+ sun protection comes built in, which is handy when the sky breaks open above the trail. The top is made to deliver warmth when you need it and breathability when you are moving fast, so one layer can cover a lot of changing conditions.

Merino wool may naturally pill over time as fibers rub together, and this does not affect quality or durability. Air out the top between wears to cut down on pilling. Wash it gently as directed and skip the fabric softener. Any pills can be removed by hand, with a fabric comb, or with a small de-piller.