We got to check out the FZ Warmflow Hoodie at Helly Hansen's launch of the product in Beaver Creek, and once having worn it, it became a staple piece of kit for the rest of the season.
Helly Hansen's 'Warm' fabric is a two-layer construction that combines a Lifa Stay Dry Technology interior with a 100 percent merino wool exterior, with the garment's interior open weave funnelling moisture away from your skin into the merino outer layer.
This mix of fabrics provides the ideal combination of merino wool warmth with an itch-free fabric against the skin, and it is also 'allergy neutral' if you have sensitive skin.
We actually used the FZ Hoodie as both a base layer, next to the skin, and as a mid-layer, with the hood coming in useful on unexpectedly cold mornings at Beaver Creek when you could pull it up to wear under your helmet or beanie for that extra bit of warmth.
It was just loose enough to wear on top of a thin base layer, but not too loose when worn on its own, and the slightly retro-70s colourways received plenty of positive comments.
So, while Helly Hansen market the FZ Hoodie as a base layer, don't be fooled into thinking you can't wear it as a mid-layer too, which makes it even better value.