Field test and review
I’ve recently field-tested the Zorali Men’s 1/4 Zip Fleece during a recent hiking trip to Tasmania, and it’s quickly become one of my favourite pieces for around camp. Inspired by a classic 1980s campsite design, this fleece offers a retro look with modern, eco-friendly materials and features. With its relaxed fit, high collar, and convenient pockets, it’s a piece of gear that offers both comfort and style for outdoor adventures, though there are a few considerations when it comes to weight and packing.
What is the Zorali Men’s 1/4 Zip Fleece?
The Zorali Men’s 1/4 Zip Fleece is a versatile, mid-weight fleece that balances warmth and functionality. The design is simple yet effective—featuring a quarter-zip front, a high collar, and dual side zip pockets. What sets this fleece apart is its construction, which uses a combination of 290GSM Recycled Polyester Fleece for warmth and 100% Recycled Nylon for durability. It’s a sustainable choice, as it helps reduce waste by repurposing discarded plastics into a soft and reliable fabric. While it’s definitely a classic for casual camping trips, it might not be the best option for overnight or multi-day hikes where every gram and inch of pack space counts.
Features and Design
The fleece is designed for warmth and comfort, making it an ideal outer layer when you’re chilling around camp or relaxing during colder evenings. Key features include:
- 290GSM Recycled Polyester Fleece: This fabric provides excellent insulation while remaining breathable, making it great for those cool mornings or evenings at camp.
- 100% Recycled Nylon Contrast: The nylon trim adds durability and a soft feel, and the fleece overall is built to last.
- High Collar with Soft Fabric: The high collar is a standout feature—it keeps your neck warm without any irritating zippers scratching against your skin, thanks to a soft backing behind the neck zip.
- Side Zipper Pockets: The zippered pockets keep your essentials, such as keys or snacks, secure and warm, which is always a bonus when the weather turns chilly.
- Bungee Around the Waist: The bungee around the waist ensures a snug fit, helping the fleece stay in place while adding extra warmth around the body.
- Windblock Chest Paneling: The windblock chest panel offers added protection against the elements, providing a barrier against blustery conditions when you’re outside.
Performance and Comfort
During my time in Tasmania, where the weather can shift quickly, this fleece kept me warm in the colder evenings. I love the feel of the fabric, which strikes a balance between plush and functional. The high collar was especially appreciated when the wind picked up; it provided additional warmth without feeling too bulky. The relaxed fit of the fleece makes it ideal for layering over a t-shirt or under a jacket, though the slightly looser fit also means it’s not as well-suited for hiking, where a more fitted garment might be preferable.
The fleece’s fabric did its job well when temperatures dropped to a crisp 5°C, providing plenty of warmth without making me overheat during activities like setting up camp or cooking dinner. However, this is not the lightest fleece out there—if you’re looking for something compact for an overnight adventure, this one might not be the ideal fit due to its bulkier design.
Considerations
While the fleece offers plenty of warmth and comfort, it’s important to note that it’s on the bulkier side, especially if you’re trying to save space or weight in your pack. If you’re heading out for an extended hike or need something compact, you may want to consider a more packable mid-layer. The fleece is great for car-camping or base camping, where space isn’t as much of a premium.
The chest pocket is another point to consider. It’s not large enough to fit my iPhone 15 Pro, so I usually stash my phone in the larger side pockets. This doesn’t bother me much when I’m around camp, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re hoping to store your phone in the chest pocket.
Durability and Sustainability
Zorali’s commitment to sustainability shines through with this fleece. The use of recycled materials not only reduces waste but also adds a sense of purpose to your outdoor gear purchases. The fleece feels soft against the skin, and its construction suggests it will hold up well over time. Additionally, Zorali offers lifetime repairs for any gear that gets damaged, which is a welcome feature for those of us who prefer to invest in high-quality gear that will last for years.
Fit and Sizing
The fit is relaxed, which makes it comfortable for lounging around the campsite or as part of a layering system. If you’re planning on wearing this as a mid-layer for active pursuits, you might want to size down, as it’s designed with a looser fit to accommodate layers underneath. This fleece is great for when you’re not too concerned about the precise fit, but for those of us who like a closer-fitting garment for hiking, the extra space might be a bit unnecessary.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Zorali Men’s 1/4 Zip Fleece is a great campsite classic that has found a place in my gear lineup. Its warmth, comfort, and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for car camping, just hanging out around camp, or everyday wear at home. While it’s a bit bulky for multi-day trips, if you’re after a durable, sustainable fleece that looks good and keeps you warm, this is definitely a piece to consider.
Where to Buy
The Men’s 1/4 Zip Fleece is available directly from Zorali’s website. With their commitment to sustainability and lifetime repairs, it’s a purchase you can feel good about. Check out the range of earthy, natural colours and grab one for your next adventure—whether it’s around camp, or just for everyday wear.
