Champion Double Dry® Ultimate Quarter-Zip Men's Jacket
3.7
5
3
3
Excellent Winter Sports Top
This top quickly became my favorite for outdoor winter training. I originally ordered this top for running, but I also took it with me for skiing as a top layer under my ski jacket. The fabric is sturdy but stretchable, breathable for moisture control while providing good insulation. I run in 45F weather with this top and just a compression T-shirt underneath. The thumb hooks in the sleeves are a handy feature, they are not a replacement for gloves, as they won't keep your fingertips warm, but they add an extra layer to the back of your hand and seal off your wrist area from the wind and cold. If you decide not use the thumb holes, you barely notice them, and you can wear them like normal sleeves. The quarter zip collar is a nice feature, you can zip it all the way up to keep your neck warm, and it provides good variability for ventilation, depending on your temperature. The zip pocket on the upper arm is a nice feature to fit a MP3, key or cash, however my smartphone was a little heavy to be comfortably supported there.
For sizing, I am 5'11", 155 lbs - so slender build, but long arms (34"), and decent upper body. I originally ordered size L to get the sleeve length. This size fits well, with a little room in the upper body, can fit two T-shirt layers underneath. (I would not try to fit a long sleeve shirt under this top, because the arms are rather snug fit. The tail is quite long on this shirt. As such, good combo with tights. I re-ordered the size M and it also fits well, with a more snug fit - sleeves are still fine - a little shorter, a the tail is a little shorter which is a little better suited to my height.
So, with a "runner's body" I am quite happy with the fit of this top, but if you have a really large/well developed upper body, you'll want to size up.
January 16, 2012
Great product for running!
Well, this is typical for internet reviews: some people hate a product (the previous reviewer) and some people love it. Not sure why the previous reviewer would award 1 star to a product based solely on the fit of his selected size. It says in the overview: "Sleek ergonomic design provides body-contoured fit." I suggest trying a product on before purchase, or assume a bit of risk when you mail order.
As for the actual product, it's great, especially at the outlet price. The jacket is slim fitting as it should be. Take this into consideration when ordering. Personally, I do not like running in a baggy garment. If you prefer a baggy pullover jacket, or if you are a larger body type, this may not be for you. However, if you are looking for a slim fitting jacket that still allows full comfortable movement while running or jogging, this is a very good choice. I selected 'snug' for the fit as a caution to buyers. I believe the fit is appropriate. You should expect a contoured garment as described.
As for functionality:
- The long sleeves with the thumb holes are great. Easy to wear a light pair of gloves with your thumbs through the holes. The sleeves then cover the majority or your hands for added warmth.
- The zip pocket in the left arm is very handy. I will not buy a jacket without some sort of zip pocket for ID, etc.
- The zip mock neck is comfortable and gives you options depending on temperature.
- The jacket is cut longer in the back (tail) which comfortably covers the rear of running tights.
I'm sorry this jacket didn't work out for the previous reviewer. However, I'm not sure his/her review is fair considering only his/her fit. There are many garments I might try on which may not fit, but I won't give them a negative review on that alone.
In summary, this is a well designed and constructed jacket. It is slim fitting, but should not be overly tight for any slim to medium body type. The body-contoured fit has been very comfortable so far (running at about 40-45 F).
January 3, 2012
what a disappointment
This should be a great product--I was so excited I bought it in two colors, but ultimately decided that they were sufficiently uncomfortable that I (unhappily) paid the shipping to return them. Normally the large size shirts fit great, but the cut on this top is quite slim. While I can appreciate the need for some tightness to keep warmth in for cold-weather exercising, this top was uncomfortable as it cut into my armpits. If you have a slender build, this top can work, but otherwise it's best avoided.
December 27, 2011
