Ibex Hooded Indie

Summary

Perhaps the single finest piece of outdoor gear I own.

I recently returned from an overnight snowshoeing trip in Colorado.  I got a very late start and was only on the trail for six hours.  As I'm out of shape from winter, I was dead tired when I finally reached my campsite.  I had been working hard the whole day.  I could feel the sweat pouring off of me, soaking me, particularly my back.  When I reached my campsite, I took off my pack and set up my tent in roughly five minutes total.  In just that short time, I had completely and totally dried out.  The hoodie was as dry as if I'd just put it on that morning.  Nothing I've ever owned dries this fast.

In all categories I can think of, the Ibex Hooded Indie performed near flawlessly.  The hood is form-fitting without being too tight.  I like to throw it on over a lightweight baseball hat for sun protection and warmth.  Just throw it off when you get too stuffy.

The arms are long, which I like.  The monkeygrip thumb holes work exceptionally well too, with or without trekking poles, with or without gloves.  The neck is just high enough when zipped up to keep me warm without choking me or getting in the way.

For me, the mark of a quality piece of outdoor gear is how little I notice it when I'm engaging in outdoor activities.  Unless I concentrate on it, I've never once noticed this shirt.

I could go on and on but you get the idea.  The only thing I can think of to improve this product would be to give it a brain and the ability to drive me around town and buy me food.

Summary

Warm, non-itchy, odor resistant, moisture managing-doesn't leave you dehydrated, and breathable.

I like the cut and the thumb hole design. I've used it now for about a year of casual and adventure related wear functioning different times as all layers. Though it's no comparison to a shell, it has performed admirably.

Simplicity at its best.