Ibex Zepher Zip T-Neck

So, it's about time I write a bit more about Ibex and one of my absolute favorite baselayers, the Zepher Zip T-Neck.

I'll start with the specs as they are listed by Ibex.

Tech Specs:

• 18.5 micron New Zealand Merino wool
• Semi-fit
• 230 g/m2 midweight interlock
• Soft next to skin
• Superior temperature regulation
• 11'' zippereed neck
• Raglan sleeves
• Flatlock seams
• Machine washable
• Made in the USA

What this all boils down to, is a very versatile garment. I've worn this as a baselayer in 5 degree weather underneath several other layers, or on it's own in temperatures up around 70 degrees.
It's arguably one of the most comfortable shirts I own.
The wool interlock fabric has a bit of natural stretch so it moves extremely well with you, and doesn't ride up much at all even when making long reaches while rock climbing. The cut is long in the body and sleeves and the t-neck provides good coverage on your neck without getting in the way.
Because it's a very fine merino yarn that Ibex uses, it's also absolutely free of any annoying itchiness.
Soft, warm, stretchy. I'm not sure it gets much better than this!
Oh wait, it's also machine washable (although not machine dryable, toss it over the back of a chair for a few hours and you're good to go.) and it's made in the USA.

The sleeves are also nice and long with a comfortable cuff that stays up on your forearms when you push them up. They'll stretch a little if you wear it for a few days in a row, but once you wash it, it's back to being as good as new.
I've had this for about a year now and I've not seen any issues with pilling which is a huge plus. No little fussballs all over your shirt like I've seen on some other garments.

One other thing I really like about this, is that if you're using something like this in a military or law-enforcement capacity or even as rescue/fire, they're naturally fire-retardant and won't melt and stick to your skin.
Combined with the ability to wear it for literally days on end without smelling like week-old roadkill, this kind of baselayer is practically perfect for the extreme conditions that, especially military personnel, are exposed to.
For us more mundane folks, the fire-retardant ability means that when you're sitting next to the campfire, you won't end up with little holes melted all over your expensive baselayers when the wind kicks up a spray of sparks from the fire!

If there's anything I could put a finger on as a remotely legitimate complaint it would be the color selection. I'd really like Ibex to come out with some more subdued earthtones. Dark grey, Olive Drab, Coyote tan, etc would all be very much appreciated, especially by the troops that can really use a great shirt like this.
And perhaps, if you have significant beard growth, then the zipper might occasionally catch on a few hairs. It's not something I've personally had issues with, but I tend to shave on a regular basis!

Bottom line: I can't recommend these shirts enough! Ibex also makes these in a standard no-zip crewneck format and those are next on my list. As far as I'm concerned, these are a must have!