Why we chose it: Highly innovative, light eco footprint
The result of a close collaboration with technical fabric brand Polartec, this striking midlayer from Haglöfs is one very clever bit of kit. It’s made with three different types of Polartec fabric, each one designed to serve a very specific purpose and the overall result is a garment that’s able to provide very efficient temperature regulation.
Haglöfs refer to the Mid Sync 2 as the central engine of their new Synchronized Performance Layering System, a collection of four layers designed to offer unrivalled technical performance when all combined together.
Who is the LIM Z|T Mid Sync 2 for?
It’s fair to say that the whole Synchronised Performance Layering System would be a pretty serious investment for anyone to make, but it is made up of some seriously impressive kit. It’s the kind of thing that’d be suited to explorers of the high alpine; those who need highly functional kit that brings protection without bulk or weight and that’s able to regulate the wearer’s temperature even when they’re going at demanding tempos.
Within the system you’d have a baselayer first, then this over the top, then the Mid Sync 1 and finally you’d have one of the L.I.M Z|T waterproof shells. According to Haglöfs, this will deliver 30% less humidity within the clothing system compared to conventional modern layering systems.
Unfortunately we haven’t tried out the whole system so can’t put that claim to the test. We have, however, tried the The LIM Z|T Mid Sync 2 by itself and from what we’ve seen, we’d say it would suit a number of different purposes. We can primarily see it as that warm layer worn just with a waterproof jacket on those autumn or spring adventures when light low bulk insulation is needed. We can also see it coming in handy during the winter, forming that principal layer of insulation underneath your down jacket on those really cold winter days and nights.
Eco Credentials
All three of the Polartec fabrics that are used here are made using recycled content, with 100% recycled polyester used for the Power Air, 100% used for Power Dry and 54% recycled polyester in the Alpha material. Each one also meets bluesign industry standards as well, confirming good sustainable and ethical methods of manufacture.
Haglöfs say that the whole LIM Z|T collection has been made with repairability in mind. Take for example the inclusion of poppers instead of zips, the latter of which tend to be easier to break and harder to fix. What’s more, all of the carbon emissions from the production of these garments is offset by Haglöfs as part of their climate commitment. Lots of stuff to commend Haglöfs (and Polartec) here for then.
Materials and Performance
The main fabric throughout this is Polartec Alpha. Originally invented for U.S special forces and the stop start conditions of combat, this material is designed for low bulk, on the go warmth, with its thousands of tiny, almost-hair like fibres knitted around a woven core, trapping heat but also allowing moisture vapour to escape. Being 100% synthetic, this material also has an extremely quick drying time.
