Ibex Peak Sport Zip Merino Wool Shirt Review

Wool has come back into fashion lately–not only because it is sustainable, but because its natural characteristics lend itself to year-round temperature and moisture management. Believe it or not, wool used to be the standard for road cyclists and now summer warriors of all disciplines are discovering its outstanding qualities in a number of garments designed for use in the beat-down heat.

Ibex is one of the market-leaders in sustainable clothing with the majority of it being of the wooly variety. Up for review is the Ibex Wool Peak Sport Zip with its simplistic styling and zippered front. Here’s how it fared in action.

About the Ibex Peak Sport Zip

Constructed of 100% New Zealand Merino wool, the Peak Sport Zip is a semi-fitted jersey-style shirt sans rear pockets. Thus, it’s a little more mountain bike friendly when wearing a hydration pack. It’s straightforward, simple and sustainable. Here are a few more features:

• 18.5 Micron New Zealand Merino; 150 g/m²
• Semi-fit
• 10” front zip with locking zipper pull
• Contrast thread detailing
• Raglan Sleeves
• Machine washable
• Made in the USA
• Colors: Asphalt, Night (tested), Sport Blue, Triathlon Red
• MSRP: $85

Ibex Peak Sport Zip Review

The Peak Sport Zip is simple in its design and function. This is my first Ibex garment and I’m very impressed with it–though it does seem odd to be wearing wool in the summer.  That trepidation has been easily minimized as I’ve worn this shirt in the beat-down Utah sun.

While the midnight blue color isn’t recommended for Africa-hot days, the fabric maintains excellent moisture management qualities and stays comfortable next to the skin. Unlike some synthetics, it doesn’t adhere to your skin, instead it regulates temperature, air and moisture management without feeling constricted.

The quality of the Merino wool used is evident as this shirt offers all-day itch-free comfort and easy day-to-day fabric care.

Again, the design is simple and straightforward with only the single locking zipper front. If it were up to me, I’d opt for a non-locking zipper for a one-handed unzip on-the-fly… that’s really my only suggestion.

The size large offers more of a casual look, but for serious mountain biking, I’d opt for the medium. I’m 5’11” and 175 lbs, for reference.

Good Peak Sport Zip

• Highly comfortable next to the skin
• Moisture and temperature management are superb
• Sustainable Merino wool fabric

Bad Peak Sport Zip

• I’d prefer a non-locking zipper for one-handed opening

The Bottom Line: Ibex Wool Peak Sport Zip

Merino wool is fast becoming a popular choice for outdoor apparel. Without question, Ibex knows their stuff and the Peak Sport Zip is a versatile outdoor shirt that’s great for mountain biking, trail running or hiking.

Buy Now: Find Ibex at Backcountry.com