For years my everyday winter ski touring mid layer has been my trusty Marmot Windshirt. Something that gives some warmth and protection from the wind when wearing without a outer shell.
After 4 years it’s got a bit worn out so time for a change, and the Rab Vapour rise Stretch Top got a new place in my wardrobe.
So what’s it like?:
Yesterday I wore it as a midlayer for Ski Touring. It was -10c and snowing lightly with no wind. I wore it over a merino wool baselayer.
When climbing I was moving constantly. I hate getting damp from sweating so was just wearing the Rab top over my baselayer. That kept me just warm enough as long as we kept moving. I only put my shell jacket on for the descents.
The top performed really well, I was impressed by how it stayed dry even with a bit of snow melting on it and my sweating during 2,000ft of climbing. It really does a good job of wicking the moisture away. This is helped by the more breathable powerstretch panels in the underarm areas.
I will wear this often under a outer shell in winter conditions so I like the fact it does not have a hood (Multiple hoods are a bit of an annoyance for me)
The soft microfleece inner would be perfectly OK next to the skin if your base layer gets too damp. The thumb loops are a nice touch for when it gets chilly.
It’s also smart looking, so you can wear it in the pub afterwards . Bonus.
So great first impressions.
Wearing the top XC Skiing.
