I used to help guide trips with a student group at my school, usually on weekends. I've had a number of longer excursions, but never for more than a week. I'm the type of hiker who brought just about everything with me. I do a lot of car camping these days, taking hikes from base camp (my car).

INITIAL REPORT

PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS

IR date April 27, 2008
Manufacturer: Ibex
Year of Manufacture: 2007
Manufacturer's Website: http://www.ibexwear.com
MSRP: US$65.00
Listed Weight: 6.9 oz (196 g)
Measured Weight: 7.1 oz (201 g)
Item received Jan 21, 2008

INITIAL IMPRESSIONS

Ibex's website presents a very clean interface. The most prominent button on their homepage links to a page that touts the superiority of the material over plastic based textiles in terms of feel and environmental attributes. Two clicks and I was at the product in question. The peer reviews helped me develop at positive attitude toward the product. The pictures provide a 360 degree view of the Zip-T as well as how it would fit. I did not expect an article of clothing that would be as conformal. The length of the Zip-T seemed more than adequate for a large range of motion, including overhead activities, without being too short and exposing skin. Aside from the pictures, they provide more information on the product, including a sizing chart, product source, and technical specifications.

ITEM DESCRIPTION

The website's 3 views of the Zip-T gave an accurate rendition of the product. It also provided much of the manufacturing details presented during my initial inspection.

The 18.5 micron wool is indeed as soft as advertised. Previous experience with wool products made me shy away from them. The thinness of the material raises the concern of durability. The small teeth of the zipper actuates very smoothly, though one handed unzipping was a little difficult.

The stitching is excellent; there were no loose strings upon arrival. The stitching places the bulk on the outside with a smooth finish on the inside.

No tag is on the collar. Rather, the care instructions are printed on the inside of the clothing. This removes the annoyance of a scratchy tag. It tells the buyer the undergarment was made in Fiji and made of 100% New Zealand wool. It must be machine washed on gentle cold, with like colors.

TRYING IT OUT

The length of the sleeves are sufficient to cover my wrists, and the weave provides a snug yet comfortable fit around my lower arm. The shirt length noticeably longer than the average shirt. The shirt is comfortable against the skin. It is not skin tight, though it may be more of a function of me than the shirt (perhaps I should have gotten a smaller size). The length of the collar is good for me, covering much of my neck when zipped without strangulation or impediment of movement.

TESTING STRATEGY

The shirt will be tested in a variety of sports in addition to hiking, including jogging, skiing, and biking. I want to address the concern of durability and its ability to keep me dry during physical exertion. Being so thin, I want to minimize the number of washing cycles, which raises the question of how long can it be used before it smells too much.

SUMMARY

The Woolies Zip-T is a comfortable, somewhat formfitting baselayer with longer than typical sleeves and length. I look forward to putting it through the paces.

This concludes my Initial Report. The Field Report will be amended to this report in approximately two months from the date of this report . Please check back then for further information.

Owner Review by Samson Phan

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