Fleece Jacket Reviewed: KÜHL Reactiv™ Full Zip Fleece (color: Burnt Orange) $169 MSRP
My specs: 5’9″ jacket size: Large (Chest 42″)
Intended Use: Hiking, Outdoor Activities, Snowboarding, Mountain Biking, Around Town
Recommended for:
Anyone looking for a stylish, lightweight versatile fleece jacket that can stand alone or be used for layering for most outdoor activities. This is the one fleece you’ll want to have to combat the changing weather no matter where you are.
Review
KÜHL continues to raise the bar with technical gear that performs as good as it looks, and the REACTIV Grid Full Zip might just be one of the best stand alone or midlayer fleeces I’ve tested in years. From the first wear, I could tell this performance fleece full zip was built for adaptability — it regulates temperature incredibly well whether you’re on a cool morning hike or pushing hard up a sunny trail. I’ve worn it on crisp fall hikes in Colorado, and during several days of trekking through Acadia National Park, and it handled the full range of temps with ease.
The Graphene-infused fabric really does what KÜHL claims — it disperses heat when you’re moving and traps warmth when colder temps set in. This Graphene activewear technology gives the fleece impressive balance and comfort across changing conditions. It’s lightweight, soft against the skin, and breathable enough to wear for hours without overheating. I especially appreciate that it held up to multiple days of hiking without needing a wash — the odor resistance and durability are spot-on.
Fit-wise, it runs true to size with an athletic but not restrictive cut that layers easily under a shell or over a base layer. I went with my normal size(Large), and it fits perfectly. The burnt orange color really stands out — it’s awesome in person to see— and it looks just as good around town as it does on the trail. The full zip design, subtle stretch, and thoughtful construction make this a versatile layer that moves with you no matter the activity.
Overall Impressions
The KÜHL Reactiv Grid Full Zip Fleece has quickly become one of my go-to layers for fall and winter. It’s an ideal to stand on it’s own for fall hikes or as a midlayer for snowboarding, winter hiking, or mountain biking, offering warmth that breathes and moves with you. Lightweight, adaptable, and stylish, it’s equally at home on the trail or around town — a must-have piece for anyone who values comfort, performance, and year-round versatility.
Pros
- Adaptive temperature regulation: Graphene technology balances warmth and breathability across changing conditions.
- Lightweight yet warm, great for layering or standalone wear.
- Soft, comfortable feel, you can wear it all day.
- Odor-resistant and durable
- True-to-size fit
- Stylish and versatile: Burnt orange color stands out; looks great on the trail or around town.
- Quick-drying and breathable
Cons
- A higher end price point, but worth it for the durability and versatility