It’s been cold this winter. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve appreciated the blue skies and relatively dry conditions, but I’ve needed to layer much differently than in most years past. Typically, there are large stretches of Oregon winter when a long sleeve shirt and a rain jacket will suffice. I mean, technically, that could still be coming up anyways. But, with no cloud coverage for some relatively significant periods of time, that has meant temperatures in the 20 and 30° range for much of the day.
Thus, I’ve needed to have my layering look a little different and in multiple layers. Thus, I am happy to report some new gear from Ortovox.
Rock’n’Wool Long Sleeve
I think most base layers, by design, are relatively simple looking. That makes sense, as there’s probably not much design that needs to go into a top that is just gonna be sitting under a variety of different layers of other clothes. I get it, but seriously how many black base layers can one person have? What stood out to me on this top was a fun and unique looking design. The style comes in five different colorways, but each look similar – with a core color, some complimentary colors on the sleeves, and – in 4 of the options (not our review pair) – a fun lined design.
Beyond aesthetics, the Rock’n’Wool Long Sleeve is made from 100% merino wool, which is known for its excellent moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties. The superfine 19-micron fibers make it ultra-soft and itch-free against the skin, providing comfort during extended wear. Itchy baselayers / long-sleeve options are a dealbreaker! The fabric provides a nice warmth, but not to the point of overheating.
As most baselayers are, its a more athletic fit. If you desire to wear this solely under other options (perhaps like their Punta Berrino Vest), this is probably fine. But if you fall in between sizes and want to use it as standalone, we’d probably recommend going up a size. In fact, as this is European sizing, I would strongly recommend going up a size regardless. I wear a L and the XL was an ideal fit.
Punta Berrino Vest
Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate vests much more than I once did. Initially, they weren’t a staple in my wardrobe, but as I discovered their practicality. The Punta Berrino Vest has quickly climbed to the top of my list.
This vest stands out for its wind and water resistance, making it a lightweight option when you need extra protection without the added bulk. Although it’s classified as a “ski vest,” its versatility goes well beyond the slopes. It handles runs effortlessly, offering all the layering you need, and I’ve even worn it as a casual vest. While it isn’t specifically designed for everyday wear, its sleek all-black silhouette gives it a classy look that can easily pass for casual style.
Inside, the vest is lined with merino wool, adding a layer of comfort and breathability that makes it a pleasure to wear in variable conditions. I also appreciate the full-height collar, though I understand that not everyone is a fan of a full zip-up to the neck. While this vest isn’t meant to provide maximum warmth, no vest really is; instead, it offers a highly functional, lightweight option that gives you just the right amount of extra protection against the unpredictable weather of the Pacific Northwest.
Much like the baselayer, I found that sizing up in the vest was essential—it provided an ideal fit that truly enhanced its overall performance.
Overall, the Punta Berrino Vest is a versatile piece that excels in both performance and style. Whether you’re tackling a ski run or navigating everyday life, it delivers practical protection without compromising on comfort or design.
