Starting with the ice storm in early January, this year’s winter has been less than ideal – at least for warm-weather seekers like me. While this is a bummer for some Run Oregon bloggers (myself included), it has allowed us to jump a little bit more into apparel items that have been designated to the backs of closets, dressers, and bins – cold-weather items. And Smartwool has some good ones.
Active Full Zip Jacket
Smartwool’s Active Full Zip Jacket offers a dynamic take on their Intraknit Merino Fleece Full Zip Hoodie, a staple that still resides in our closet. While the heavier Intraknit version leans more towards casual wear (at least for us), the Active iteration is bettered tailored for high-intensity winter activities.
Boasting technical excellence with TENCEL and Merino for moisture management, temperature regulation, and odor resistance, the Active jacket goes a step further. It features a four-way stretch and a wind-resistant front panel, ensuring it’s equipped to handle chilly temperatures while remaining breathable through its mesh ventilation knit.
Versatility is a key highlight; this jacket isn’t confined to running. With its slim profile, softness, and comfort, it’s suitable for various occasions. Noteworthy design elements near the elbows and on the back (especially visible in non-black options) add a stylish touch. The color range – black, pecan brown (resembling a deeper red), and a cool lead colorway (resembling light blue/green) – complements most wardrobes.
After months of use, I’ve found this top to be exceptional and wholeheartedly recommend it. This top is currently on sale for almost half off!
Active Fleece Tech Pant
Who doesn’t have a soft spot for sweatpants, right? Let’s face it; if there were no societal norms to adhere to, we’d likely opt for sweatpants around the clock – a sentiment many share, including myself.
However, for those of us who lead an active lifestyle, the conventional sweatpants fall short in meeting technical demands. While there’s a time and place for the ultimate cozy experience by the fireplace, having options that can seamlessly transition into more adventurous settings is invaluable.
Enter Smartwool’s Active Fleece Tech Pant – a versatile solution that marries style and functionality. Featuring a slimmer profile yet maintaining ample stretch for unrestricted movement, these pants strike a balance between comfort and performance.
The interior is luxuriously soft with a brushed Merino finish, while the exterior employs recycled synthetic material for a rugged build that stands up better to the elements compared to the lackluster protection offered by cotton. As an added bonus, reflective elements enhance visibility.
Upon unboxing, my initial expectation for these pants was positive, but that sentiment swiftly transformed into genuine affection. The Active Fleece Tech Pant embodies everything you could desire in a single garment, making it an ideal companion for those who seek both style and substance in their activewear.
The palette for these pants is a tasteful trio, offering a range of options to suit diverse preferences.
- Choose from the classic and versatile black for a timeless look that effortlessly pairs with any ensemble.
- Alternatively, the pewter blue (reviewed) introduces a touch of sophistication, adding a subtle yet distinctive hue to your wardrobe.
- For those seeking a more adventurous and deep tone, the eggplant option rounds out the selection, providing a rich and distinctive color choice.
Smartwool Winter Collection
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Thank you to Smartwool for providing us with sample items. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
