Merino and a touch of alpaca give the Smartwool Men's Summit 1/4 Zip Sweater its plush, heavyweight hand, the kind of sweater you reach for on the coldest mornings. A stand collar and quarter zip let you dial in the neck. It feels substantial and luxe without any scratch.

Why we like it:

The blend is what sets it apart, folding a small amount of alpaca into the merino for extra loft and softness you notice the moment you pull it over your head.

Features and Functions:

The main body knits together 65 percent merino wool, 30 percent recycled nylon, and 5 percent alpaca into a genuinely heavyweight fabric, while the cuffs and hem shift to a slightly different merino, recycled nylon, and alpaca blend with a hint of elastane for shape retention. Rib knit trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem keeps everything snug, and the quarter-zip front opens up when you warm up. It reads as a performance sweater but carries the polish to wear off the hill.

Fit and Sizing:

Cut to a regular fit, it gives you room to move and layers over a base layer without strain. True to size for most.

Bottom Line:

This is the heavyweight sweater for deep-winter days and casual apres wear alike, ideal for anyone who wants merino warmth with a refined finish. Layer it over a base on the coldest days.