Polarmax Micro H2 Zip Mock
Size Tested: Large
Fit: Athletic
MSRP: $49.95
Features
- Scent Prevent antimicrobial treatment
- Moisture-wicking, breathable and quick-drying fabric
- Stretch for better movement
- Lightweight rib knit
- Athletic fit
- Soft flat seams
- Contrast stitching
- 100% Acclimate Dry polyester
Reviewer Info: 6’2”, 160 lbs.
Days Tested: ~40
Locations Tested: Taos Ski Valley; Red Mountain Pass, Summit County, Winter Park, Crested Butte, CO; Snowbird, UT
The Polarmax Micro H2 Zip Mock is a new addition to the company’s 2014 line. Essentially two layers of mesh jersey fabric stitched together, the Micro H2 Zip Mock is a stretchy, breathable top that can be worn next-to-skin or as a very light layer.
Fit
The Micro H2 Zip Mock is very different than the Polarmax Comp 4 Tech fleece that I recently reviewed. It’s soft and comfortable, and the large H2 Quarter-Zip Mock fit me much better than the skin-tight Comp 4 crew.
While Polarmax claims that this top has an athletic fit, I’d say it’s more casual / athletic—it definitely has a looser fit than previous Polarmax layers I’ve used. Both the sleeve and torso lengths are long enough that they don’t ride up. Overall, I’d say the H2 Zip Mock fits much like the Patagonia Cap 4 crew.
Fabric
After about 40 days of testing, the H2 has become one of my favorite layers. It’s ideal in 50-60 degree temperatures by itself, it’s very breathable (although not quite as much as Cap 4), and it can block some wind. I often found myself pulling it on over a T-shirt during the spring and fall when temperatures were more variable.
The fabric is also softer than the Comp 4 Tech fleece, and while it’s not quite as stretchy, the fit is loose enough that it doesn’t restrict my movements.
It also performs well on the slopes. When I wore the H2 Zip Mock touring in the Telluride backcountry this past March, I found it wicked sweat very well.
Finally, the grey jersey fabric looks more like heather, and, in my opinion, it’s a stylish enough layer that it can do double-duty at the bar after you get off the hill.
Durability
I’ve only noticed minimal pilling of the face fabric, and so far, the fabric seems like it won’t tear easily.
Bottom Line
At $50, the H2 Zip Mock costs less than many similar base layers, making it a really great value. This is one of the best base layers I’ve ever worn—it fits well, the fabric is soft and comfortable, and it performs well on and off the slopes.
I personally prefer the fit of the H2 Zip Mock over that of the Polarmax Comp 4 fleece, and even though it’s not quite as breathable as Patagonia’s Cap 4 fabric, it blocks wind better and is less expensive.