Smartwool PhD SmartLoft Full Zip Jacket

www.smartwool.com
We admit we’re a sucker for wool insulation. If it can keep little baby sheep warm and cozy on frigid, blustery cold days in the outback, we know that in our semi-civilized situations, it will be the next-best-thing to central heating. But at first we were mystified with the PhD SmartLoft Full Zip. On the inside is a lining of merino wool. The jersey knit is ultra-fine and soft—so thin it could qualify as lingerie weight. And over it is an ultra-light nylon shell.  The merino is truly cotton-soft. And the shell is supple, quiet, and  as soft and light as a whisper. The shell has a DWR treatment, means water beads before it permeates the material. That doesn’t mean it is waterproof—but that you can wear it longer than you could a cotton hoody without getting soaked. Plus, there’s no doubt that you’ll stay warm.  The layer is deceptively simple—there’s a front zipper with a draft flap and chin guard. Stash your cell, wallet or gloves in the twin zip handwarmer pockets; inside are convenient stash pockets for sunglasses, plane ticket, or even flask. This jacket will keep your core warm on spring days, and keep your entire upper torso toasty if you layer it with an outer jacket—and we just love having options.
$220, TK oz., smartwool.com
Tested In:
Good for: 3-season activities, hiking, biking, backpacking, urban adventure, PTA meetings