[Review] The Hege F/Z Fleece by Kari Traa

It’s been a long time since I’ve had a mid-layer that performs as well as the Kari Traa Hege F/Z Fleece. It’s perfect for chilly desert mornings, spring mountain bike rides, chilly trail runs in the fall, or as a mid layer on the best pow day in the winter. This is the ultimate, versatile, mid layer that you will keep in your closet year-round.

The paneling that Kari Traa does on many of their layers is perhaps one of my favorite features. You can wear a layer that’s not going to make you extremely hot and uncomfortable but will keep you warm where you need it most. The underarm panels are more of a mesh-like material that will allow for ultimate breathability. I love the main fleece throughout the core of the top, as it is a grid pattern. It’s not only extremely soft, the grid patterning helps with breathability so you wont overheat.

The fit of the Hege is perfect for activity. I’m 5’10, 150 pounds and the medium fits me perfectly. While it is fairly tight (as it should be for what it is), I can easily layer a base layer underneath it. The close fit helps to keep me comfortable if I’m running or working out.

I normally would be bummed that my mid layer is without hand pockets although with this, it’s kind of nice. Especially for those days when I’m layering up over the Hege, the zippers are not irritating me throughout the day. Kari Traa is sure to have you covered though, because there is a small zip pocket on the lower back; a perfect place to store your keys and or credit card when you’re out on the trail.

The last few months have been my first time trying out some Kari Traa gear and I’m not only impressed but excited that I have finally found some base layers and mid layers made specifically for women. They are strategically built, flattering, and so so comfortable. I can’t wait to see what Kari Traa comes up with next, as I’m sure it’s only going to keep getting better.