Zorali Air-Grid™ Fleece Review

Field test and review

Back in 2020, I had the opportunity to field-test and review Zorali gear when this Australian brand first launched. Even then, Zorali stood out for its commitment to sustainability and its vision of fostering a responsible outdoor lifestyle. Their approach is refreshingly transparent: sourcing materials responsibly, using natural fibres such as hemp and organic cotton, and incorporating recycled fabrics into their designs. Zorali’s sustainability credentials don’t end there. As a carbon-neutral company, they donate 1% of their revenue to environmental preservation and restoration and plant ten trees for every product sold. To date, this initiative has resulted in the planting of over 776,000 trees—an impressive contribution to the planet we all cherish.

In my earlier review, I tested the Recycled Venture Pants, a product that exemplified Zorali’s ethos of combining functionality with sustainability, although there was a bit of room for improvement in terms of functionality.

Fast forward to 2022, I was fortunate to receive another standout product from Zorali’s range: the Air-Grid™ Fleece. This mid-layer top has been crafted to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts who demand gear that balances warmth, breathability, and packability. Here’s my detailed review of how the Air-Grid Fleece performed on the trail.

What is the Zorali Air-Grid Fleece?

The Air-Grid Fleece is a mid-layer long-sleeve top designed for adventures across all seasons. Engineered with technical micro-grid fleece made from 100% recycled plastic waste, this innovative fabric traps heat close to the body while wicking away moisture and efficiently releasing it into the air. The fleece is incredibly lightweight at just 339g for a medium size (men’s), yet it provides the warmth of a much bulkier midweight layer.

Zorali developed this fleece to solve a common problem: creating a garment that provides sufficient warmth for winter hiking but also breathes well in warmer conditions or during high-intensity activities. After years of development and testing, the Air-Grid fabric delivers on its promise. It’s packable, functional, and versatile—perfect for hikers, campers, and travellers alike.

Features and Design

The Air-Grid Fleece comes packed with thoughtful features:

• 100% Recycled Microgrid Fleece: Made from recycled plastic waste, this fabric not only minimises environmental impact but also delivers exceptional performance by trapping warmth, wicking moisture, and compressing efficiently for packing.

• Thumbholes at the cuffs: Ideal for keeping hands warm or securing sleeves during layering.
• Hood cord adjustment: Helps to trap heat and block out cold winds.
• Micro-grid technology: Provides exceptional warmth without the bulk or weight of traditional fleece.

These details elevate the fleece from a basic mid-layer to a highly functional piece of outdoor gear. The fabric’s grid pattern enhances breathability while compressing efficiently for easy packing. Its design strikes a balance between technical performance and casual style, making it just as suitable for the trail as it is for everyday wear.

Performance on the Trail

I’ve tested the Air-Grid Fleece on both day and multi-day adventures, experiencing a range of conditions from sub-zero alpine temperatures to mild, rainy weather. Here’s how it performed:

Warmth and Comfort

Layered appropriately, the Air-Grid Fleece kept me warm during -3°C conditions in the Tasmanian Alps. Its ability to trap heat close to the body while remaining lightweight made it an essential layer in my pack. Despite its warmth, the fleece never felt bulky, and the snug fit worked seamlessly under an outer shell.

Breathability and Moisture Management

The micro-grid fleece excelled at wicking moisture during high-output activities. On a steep ascent in damp conditions, it effectively managed sweat and prevented me from overheating. This balance of warmth and breathability makes it an excellent choice for multi-season use, particularly during shoulder seasons when conditions can vary dramatically.

Versatility

One of the standout features of the Air-Grid Fleece is its adaptability. It’s not just a piece of hiking gear; it’s equally at home around camp, during travel, or as a casual everyday layer. The stylish yet understated design allows it to transition seamlessly from the trail to more relaxed settings.

Durability and Warranty

Zorali’s commitment to quality extends to their lifetime warranty, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship for the reasonable lifetime of the product. This reassurance adds significant value, especially for gear designed to endure rugged outdoor conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Zorali Air-Grid Fleece is a highly functional, thoughtfully designed mid-layer that excels in a variety of conditions. Its lightweight warmth, breathability, and packability make it a standout piece for four-season adventuring. Whether you’re tackling sub-zero temperatures in the mountains or enjoying a brisk hike in milder weather, this fleece delivers.

Zorali’s dedication to sustainability is the cherry on top, ensuring that your purchase supports a brand committed to protecting the environment. If you’re in the market for a versatile, eco-friendly mid-layer, the Air-Grid Fleece is well worth considering.

Where to Buy

The Air-Grid Fleece is available directly from Zorali’s website. Head over to Zorali to learn more or to grab one for yourself. With Zorali’s commitment to ethical sourcing and ten trees planted for every purchase, it’s a decision you can feel good about.