Technicals Quarter Zip

A Hands-On Review of the Ultimate Cold Weather Layering Piece

As the temperatures start to drop, it’s time to start layering up. And one of the best pieces to add to your fall and winter wardrobe is the Technicals Quarter Zip. This versatile top can be worn on its own on milder days or layered under jackets and coats when it gets really cold. After testing out the Technicals Quarter Zip, I’m convinced it’s a must-have for staying cozy and active once the weather turns chilly.

What is the Technicals Quarter Zip?

The Technicals Quarter Zip is a lightweight, moisture-wicking pullover made by outdoor brand Technicals. It features a quarter length zipper at the front neckline, thumbholes at the cuffs, and flatlock stitching for reduced chafing. The top is designed to be worn as a baselayer for high-output activities or a midlayer for everyday wear.

Made from Technicals’ proprietary Elastane fabric, the Technicals Quarter Zip has just the right amount of stretch to move with you during active pursuits. The material is also treated with Advanced Moisture Transfer technology to pull sweat away from your skin and keep you dry. Despite the performance features, the quarter zip has a flattering silhouette that works well for casual wear.

Where to Buy the Technicals Quarter Zip

The Technicals Quarter Zip is sold through the Technicals website as well as popular outdoor retailers like REI and Backcountry. It retails for $79.99 but can often be found on sale.

Technicals has an extensive network of brick-and-mortar stores where you can try on the quarter zip in person before buying. Use the store locator to find a location near you. Some of the major retailers that carry Technicals products include:

• REI
• Backcountry
• Moosejaw
• Eastern Mountain Sports
• Nordstrom

You can also find a good selection of Technicals tops at specialty outdoor shops and sporting goods stores. Trying on the quarter zip in person lets you check the fit and feel the fabric before purchasing.

Quarter Zip Materials and Features

One of the key features of the Technicals Quarter Zip is the lightweight Elastane fabric. It contains plenty of stretch for full range of motion but still maintains shape over time. The material has a smooth face for reduced friction against other layers.

Moisture-wicking properties come from Advanced Moisture Transfer technology. This treatment pulls sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable during workouts. The fabric is also quick-drying so you won’t stay wet after your exercise session.

The quarter zip weighs just 7.1 oz and packs down small, making it easy to throw in your gym bag or take on the go. It’s an ideal weight for layering under jackets and coats when the weather gets cold. The slim, streamlined silhouette also means no bulky bunching under outerwear.

Other details include flatlock stitching to prevent chafing, raglan sleeves for ease of movement, and thumbholes at the cuffs for additional coverage. The back of the neck features a drop-tail hem that protects against cold drafts.

Layering with the Quarter Zip

One of the key benefits of the Technicals Quarter Zip is its versatility for layering. On milder fall days, it can be worn on its own with jeans or joggers for a sporty casual look. When the temperatures really drop, layer it under insulated or water-resistant outerwear for outdoor activities.

For cold weather runs, try layering the quarter zip under a lightweight windbreaker. The moisture-wicking properties will keep you dry even as you heat up, while the windbreaker blocks cold air. For apres-ski or around-town wear, layer the top under a down puffer to lock in heat.

The slim fit of the Technicals Quarter Zip makes it ideal for layering under slim-fitting outerwear. There’s no excess bulk to restrict your movement or distort the lines of your jackets and coats. The smooth face of the fabric also slides easily under outer layers.

Activewear Performance

With moisture-wicking fabric and plenty of stretch, the Technicals Quarter Zip makes an excellent choice for activewear. It’s lightweight enough for warm weather workouts but provides warmth when temperatures drop.

The smooth fabric and flatlock seams help minimize skin chafing that you may experience with some baselayers. Freedom of movement comes from the 4-way stretch fabric and raglan sleeve construction. Thumbholes keep the sleeves in place during fitness activities.

Runners, hikers, and skiers all appreciate the breathable comfort of the quarter zip. The front zipper allows you to control airflow and dump heat as your activity level increases. Moisture transfer technology keeps you feeling dry even during high exertion.

Everyday Wear Appeal

While designed with performance in mind, the Technicals Quarter Zip also has casual styling that makes it perfect for everyday wear. The fabric has a smooth face and soft hand that looks and feels great against the skin.

The tailored silhouette flatters the body without being overly tight or revealing. Stripped of logos and loud prints, it has a streamlined look perfect for streetwear.

For men, the quarter zip pairs well with jeans, khakis, or joggers. Women can wear it with leggings, skinny jeans, or shorts on temperate days. The neutral color options work with any casual wardrobe.

Cold Weather Warmth

Once the mercury starts to drop, the Technicals Quarter Zip brings valuable warmth as a midlayer. The polyester fabric provides insulation against the cold when worn under a jacket or coat.

Some people even wear it as their primary outer layer on days when temperatures are in the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit. The quarter zip front allows you to dump heat if you start to feel overheated during activity.

Technicals rates the quarter zip as appropriate for temperatures ranging from 35-60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some customers report wearing it comfortably into the 20s with proper layering.

For the coldest weather, look to Technicals’ insulated pieces instead of the quarter zip. But for much of the fall, winter, and spring it offers the right balance of breathability, insulation, and weather protection.

Fit, Sizing, and Color Options

The Technicals Quarter Zip comes in a full range of sizes for both men and women. Men’s sizes range from XS to XXL, while women’s sizes go from XXS to XL.

According to reviews, the top runs true to size but has enough stretch to accommodate light midlayers underneath. Taller customers report the length provides full coverage even for their longer torsos.

Over 20 different color options are available each season. The quarter zip comes in both neutral and bold shades like red, cobalt blue, and evergreen. There are also seasonal palette colors that change with each collection.

For men, popular options include black, gray, navy and earth tones. Women also have choices like blush, ivory, and berry in addition to classic colorways. There are a few printed patterns offered each year too.

Customer Reviews

After combing buyer reviews from various retailers, it’s clear the Technicals Quarter Zip is a hit with customers. The most common compliment is how lightweight yet warm it feels.

Many reviewers say they wear the quarter zip for everything from fall hikes to winter dog walks. They appreciate the ability to layer the top under coats and jackets as the weather cools down.

Negative feedback is hard to find, but some customers with sensitive skin note the flatlock seams caused minor chafing. A few taller buyers say the top runs a bit short in the torso for their body type.

Overall though, the outstanding performance features and casual styling make the Technicals Quarter Zip a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and everyday wearers alike. It earns an average 4.5 out of 5 star rating across major retailers.

Care and Maintenance

To get the longest life from your Technicals Quarter Zip, follow these care instructions:

• Machine wash cold and tumble dry low
• Use mild detergent and no fabric softener
• Avoid high heat when washing and drying
• Wash with similar synthetic fabrics
• Use a mesh bag for the washing machine to protect the zipper
• Avoid excessive pilling by washing after each use
• Check zipper periodically for damage or clogging

With proper care, the Technicals Quarter Zip should deliver seasons of performance. Be sure to inspect your top periodically for loose threads, excessive pilling, or holes forming in the fabric.

Key Features and Benefits

To recap, here are some of the standout features and benefits of the Technicals Quarter Zip:

• Lightweight 4-way stretch fabric with moisture transfer technology
• Slim layered fit designed for next-to-skin wear
• Zippered neckline for adjustable ventilation
• Thumbholes to keep sleeves in place
• Flatlock seams prevent skin irritation
• Packable and quick drying – ideal for travel or exercise
• Casual styling works for everyday wear
• Provides warmth as a midlayer in cold weather
• Allows easy layering under outerwear
• Available in a wide range of colors to match any wardrobe

The Bottom Line

For staying cozy through changing seasons while still being active outdoors, it’s hard to beat the Technicals Quarter Zip. This versatile performance top works well for both athletic pursuits and casual everyday wear.

The combination of lightweight warmth, moisture-wicking fabric, and ergonomic construction makes it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a single top that can carry you through fall, winter, and spring, give the Technicals Quarter Zip serious consideration. It offers outstanding comfort, performance, and style at an affordable price point.