Berghaus Mens Micro Stretch Half Zip Fleece from Simply Hike

My initial review of this fleece from Simply Hike Camping Equipment and Outdoor Clothing 
can be found here

-  I've now used this garment for two weeks on low level walks and on the hills although, because of the cold, wet and windy weather that has predominated, it has not been possible to wear it on its own over a base layer

- I could comfortably wear a buff under the collar when it was fully zipped. However the collar did not stand up as well as I would have liked when not zipped up, but this is really a minor point.

- when used on its own over a wicking base layer, I see no reason to suppose that the AT Micro fleece won't perform just as well as any other fabric used to manufacture this style of top; when worn this way the mesh-lined chest pocket will prove useful.

- I would certainly use this top on backpacking trips from April to October and, in winter, with suitable outer layers; I'll be taking it with me on a two week backpacking trip in May

- unlike other garments I've had, the elasticated hem and cuffs are not too tight.

- it has washed well

I'll add comments and a further review of this product when it has had more use.

At £40.45 from Simply Hike, such a well made product with its excellent fit is something of a bargain. It can be found on this page.


Note: I have no contractual relationship with Simply Hike and this review is totally independent of that Company.

Berghaus Mens Micro Stretch Half Zip Fleece from Simply Hike

Simply Hike Camping Equipment and Outdoor Clothing have sent me this fleece to review. Arrangements were finalised on Thursday and the product delivered on Friday but, as yet, I haven't had a chance to wear it other than indoors. Once I've used it for a couple of weeks I'll add to my first impressions given below. 

This fleece is part of the Advanced Thermals (AT) range which is a "collection of fleece fabrics developed exclusively for Berghaus". The RRP is £50 and is selling at Simply Hike for £40.45, a saving of 19%. The fabric, AT-Micro has a luxurious, soft velour feel which is quite different from my other fleece tops. The stretch panels are made from AT-Stretch. The manufacturer's product description and details are given at the end of this post.

Initial Observations:

- the item is manufactured to a high quality standard all internal seams being flat locked.

- the cuffs, hem and top of the collar are elasticated and the quality of the sewing here is excellent

- the collar is quite high compared with my other zip tops. I like this.

- there is a baffle behind the front zip and it has a chin guard.

- there is a small zipped chest pocket

Berghaus Active Fit

I would agree with the Berghaus Active Fit description as "Not body conscious, Not baggy. Just streamlined for every kind of activity." The medium size fits me perfectly (36" chest) worn over a base layer and although that suits my needs, some might prefer a size up if they want to wear anything bulkier than this under it.

Weight

The quoted weight on Simply Hike's web site is 346g. 

Thermal Insulation

0.6 - 0.7 CLO

Use

Details are for a subsequent review but I expect this fleece to be used as a mid layer in pretty well any conditions in the UK. Even at this early stage I think I'll enjoy wearing this fleece in a variety of conditions.

Manufacturer's Product Details.

Berghaus Advanced Thermals Range

The advanced Thermals range is a collection of fleece fabrics developed exclusively for Berghaus to meet our exacting standards to ensure excellent thermal insulation properties, pilling resistance and great visual finishes.

AT-Micro

- breathable

- lofted fibres trap air, retaining body heat

AT-Micro is a lightweight packable micro fleece made from 100% polyester micro denier yarns, designed to offer a comfortable velour touch. The micro fleece has a non-pilling face to ensure its performance and looks are retained after repeated washing.

AT-Stretch

- 4 way stretch: 93% polyester, 7% elastane

- breathable

- wicks away moisture

- lofted fibres trap air, retaining body heat

AT-Stretch Fabrics have excellent stretch characteristics to ensure a long lasting, great fit that doesn't restrict movement. The raised inner structures are designed to trap air to maximise thermal insulation whilst ensuring that moisture is wicked away from the skin to keep you warm and dry.

Berghaus Active Fit

Not body conscious. Not baggy. Just a streamlined cut for any kind of activity.