Kari Traa Rose Half Zip Review

The Kari Traa is a cute and stylish 100% Merino wool base layer. While it is relatively warm with a few unique features, the wool feels scratchy against the skin and sadly doesn't thermoregulate like other Merino wool options. As a result, its a great option for cold weather, but not our favorite as a wear-alone piece during the warmer months.

Performance Comparison

A look at this 100% Merino Wool base layer.

Photo: Amber King

Warmth

A perfect option for cold days and nippy mornings, the Rose Half Zip features 240-g of 100% Merino wool. The fabric is loaded with fine fibers that trap and lock in warmth for the coldest days of winter. The tight-knit face fabric provides a little bit of wind resistance, while the stretchy underarm fabric allows for easy venting. This base layer functions as a stand-alone piece in temperatures ranging from 30 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

A look at the breathable underarms where thinner panels of merino wool are utilized.

Photo: Amber King

Given the tightly woven face fabrics that offer superb durability, the piece actually holds moisture, causing you to cool quickly after exertion. In fact, it almost performs like a synthetic in that regard. As a result, it doesn't offer a whole lot of warmth after activity. Overall, the Rose provides decent warmth for stand-alone use or when milling around town. It's not an excellent option for aerobic purposes.

Breathability

This contender provides reasonable breathability. Unlike other Merino wool contenders, the face fabric is woven super tight decreasing the breathability of the face fabric. It's also not able to wick moisture as well as other contenders either. The unique, stretchy underarm panels and zip-up collar provides ample venting opportunities that other shirts did not have. We also like that the zip offers venting options. As a result, this top isn't our favorite for aerobic days, and we prefer it for walks or running errands around town.

The zip neck provides great ventilation while the underarm fabric provides a place for the escape of heat as well. The face fabric is tightly knit and sadly doesn't breath very well.

Photo: Amber King

Comfort & Fit

While Merino wool is typically cozy and comfortable to the touch, we are disappointed with the feel and fit of the Rose Half Zip. While the fabric is soft to the touch, it's itchier then Merino wool contenders…especially when wet. Every other Merino wool base layer did not itch or provide discomfort.

The Rose H/Z is constructed of 100% Merino wool fibers isn't super stretchy, and sadly the fabrics aren't the softest out there. However, it still provides functional comfort for wear outdoors.

Photo: Amber King

The fit is another story. The piece is not true to fit and has constrictions around the shoulders and chest. The arms were short, as is the torso. Part of the reason why fit isn't so great is that the fabric doesn't stretch as readily as other contenders. Our advice is to size up if you plan on buying this product.

Layering Ability

This top is perfect to layer underneath your favorite puffy or shell. The face fabric isn't very slippery and can grab layers that are being put over the top, however, it layers better than most Merino wool layers. Since the fit is so tight, the arms and torso don't bunch up. A smaller or tighter shirt can easily be layered underneath this top.

Forging the creek on the way up to a neat little hot spring in Washington. This top is great for wear on its own or underneath a layer.

Photo: Jordan Erlenbach

Durability

This top is stand-out for its durability. Given the tightly woven face fabric, it is incredibly durable that can be worn anywhere! It doesn't snag or grab easily and can take abrasion. Through our testing period, we noted no stitching fly-aways or holes after three months of intensive use. The fabric is not nearly as fragile as other Merino wool options, ensuring its use for the years to come.

A look at the tightly knit face fabric that proved to be one of the most durable merino wool base layers tested.

Photo: Amber King

Value

This is not a high-value option. Its overall performance is not top-tier, and the price is pretty high. You can purchase a higher value product with better features. However, if a durable merino wool layer is what you seek, it might be worth throwing down the coin.

Conclusion

This 100% Merino wool contender is super durable and offers exceptional warmth. The fabrics aren't as comfortable as most merino wool contenders but it layers nicely and features a cute design that some women love. It's perfect for those seeking an incredibly durable merino wool option, though it is expensive.

Take this layer skiing, hiking, or camping!

Photo: Jordan Erlenbach