Mountain Hardwear Power Stretch Zip T : For Men and Women

A jumbo pair of Mountain Hardwear s logos sewn into both sides of the collar of my Power Stretch Zip T was the first indication that there's something a little different about this long-sleeved baselayer.

Two logos = two sides. The Power Stretch Zip T has a shiny, smooth, slippery-face and a fleecy, soft inside.

I was a little confused by the top at first. The fleece side really seems to work better when worn shiny side in, as it wicks better, which is weird because there's a big flappy tag on the outside if worn this way. In any case, the real magic is how cleverly Mountain Hardwear created this fleece with multiple benefits to whomever wears it.

Although the Power Stretch Zip T was supposedly designed as a heavy baselayer for high alpine adventures, I've worn it during just about every active pursuit I could muster and have emerged smiling every time.

It's cut long enough to not ride up when I'm in an aero tuck on my bike; it stretches gracefully when I wear it climbing; and it breathes well -- I credit both material and a generous zipper for this feature -- for spirited hiking. It also blocks wind better than standard fleeces I own, and the super-slim fit layers easily under a shell. Still, it's a warm piece -- hit the red zone in a mild climate and overheating will ensue.

The one thing this fleece doesn't posses is pretensions of being worn to the local watering hole as a fashion statement (unless that statement is "I plan to traverse your counter and turn your seating area into a steeplechase course"); it's too tight-fitting and let's-get-down-to-business for casual wear.

Available in men's (SM-XXL) and women's sizes (XS-XL), four different colors.

Bottom LIne: Do anything, go anywhere always-in-use top.--E.M. (May '09)

Price: $85

BUY ONLINE : Moosejaw.com ,

Manufacturer's Site: www.mountainhardwear.com

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