REI Co-op  Midweight Base Layer Half-Zip Top - Women's

I'm very picky when it comes to base layers because not only do I require them to aide in keeping me warm, I demand that they are comfortable and can also be used as a pull-over in a pinch. Whether backpacking or running kids to practice, I don't want to carry a lot and need each item I do carry to have multiple uses. I also want clothing items to be easy to wash and dry. So, why do I love the REI Co-op Women's Midweight Base Layer half-zip so much? It checked all my boxes and here's how... Over two weeks, I was able to use this base layer to sleep in while camping; as a pull-over (sweatshirt) during the day while taking kids to school, practice, and while running errands; and I also wore it on a boat trip as an extra layer under my jacket. Not only did it work to keep me warm when needed, it was super comfortable in every situation. This half-zip wore well multiple days in a row without bunching or pilling, washed well, dried well both in a dryer and hung up to air dry, and never had seams that rubbed my skin weird. As a larger woman, sometimes a seam will leave a red mark or a raw spot - not this base layer. The seams are sewn flat and the armpit area has a diamond like pattern so the seams do not meet together in one spot. I love this feature because it eliminates irritation. I wore this base layer against my skin, over a tee-shirt, and over a tank-top. It also did not ride up on me while wearing it throughout the day or while using my arms overhead. The fit of this base layer was as expected. I did not feel it ran small or large and would order my normal size again. Another comfort feature that I can stand behind is the material in which this base layer is made. Unlike other base layers that I've worn over the years, it was not clingy or itchy when I was really warm and ready to take off a layer. The material is very soft, yet durable. It doesn't look or feel like it will fall apart. Features that this base layer also has that were nice but not a make-it-or-break-it for me were the thumb holes (I'm sure I'll love these this winter), and the 1/4 zip. I love 1/4 zips and tend to purchase them over other types of base layers, but had this been a full-zip, or no-zip, I believe I would have loved this midweight base layer just as much. I would recommend the REI Co-op Women's Midweight Base Layer Half-Zip to anyone looking for a very comfortable, easy-to-care-for mid-weight layer for their wardrobe or to add to their outdoor gear list.

**The person in the photos is my friend who wears an XS and is about 5’6” and 115 lb. She is wearing a size L, which is what I normally wear. The chest is way too small on me, so I’ve opted not to post a photo of myself.** First off, I have been an REI member for nearly 20 years and love their products. This was the first REI brand item that I felt was not up to par. I was excited to receive this half-zip top and wanted to love it, but ended up disappointed. Most of my disappointment stems from the sizing. This top is unfortunately not meant for anyone with a real chest, despite showing curvy models wearing it. Even as a base layer, the tightness is uncomfortable for me in the chest. It’s actually pretty loose in the belly, defeating the base layer warmth. It seems to be a weird cut. I don’t know that going up a size would be helpful, but I didn’t have that option. I received a L, which is usually what I wear, but my friend who is a XS tried it on and it is only slightly big. The top is also long in the back and hits at a weird spot. I have several of these type of base layers from other brands and they all fit fine, all large or even some medium. I’d just go with a long underwear top instead of this product…they’re basically the same. Pros: I do like the thumb loops on the sleeves and it seems to be fairly warm. The fabric is soft. The yellow color is bright and cheerful. Cons: sizing is very small and cut is awkward. Not for anyone with a bigger chest (or any chest).