I’ve been wanting a hooded insulating layer for some time, but had trouble dropping some cash on it. I like the BPL Merino Hoody, and saw the Patagonia R1 on sale recently, but I didn’t want to spend that much on the garment (especially with S&H).
After some research here on BPL, I came across the Ground Effect Robin Hood and the Melanzana MicroGrid Hoody. Both were of reasonable cost (with shipping), but I decided to go with the Melanzana fleece mainly because of the potential shrinkage factor of merino (I don’t do the laundry all the time), and that they’re a small, local shop in CO.
I wore this thing last night around the house and out around town (rainy 45F night), and it kept me warm and cozy. It is very soft on the skin. I’d say that In an active situation, it can keep you warm down into the 30s, and minimal risk of overheating while sitting around at 65F.
You may think “fleece is bulky”, but I packed it down to the size of a Nerf football last night. Regular 200-wt fleece packs to like a soccer ball or basketball.
Pros:
+ lightweight fleece
+ inexpensive (relatively)
+ elastic closure around face
+ kangaroo pouch pocket
+ 11oz
Cons:
– bulky elastic hood closure
– no zippered opening
– no thumbholes on sleeves
– not merino
I can see myself taking this as my warm layer from May to September. I chose to get it in the Mandarin / Cuppa Jo colors (I love orange clothing, especially for the “safety factor”, but I wanted to tone it down with some brown).
While wearing it, I think I look badass like Obi Wan.
However, my wife thinks I look more like Mario from SMB 3.
