Gear Review: REI Merino Wool Hoodie

This stretchy, zip-up hoodie rarely saw the closet during two months of cool New England days and nights. The fine-gauge merino feels like my coziest pajamas—and proved perfect for wearing over a T-shirt in temps down to about 45°F, whether I was hiking a breezy ridgetop in the Blue Hills or stoking the fire in camp. The hood fits smoothly under a helmet and the wool retains its shape and doesn’t get stinky, even after weeks of near-constant use.

It comes in men’s (pictured) and women’s versions; the latter has a flattering cut and subtle gathering in the chest, making it cute enough to wear anywhere. rei.com

> $90

> 11.7 oz. (w’s M)

> m’s S-XXL; w’s XS-XL