The REI Space Dye Zip-T is an affordable and versatile midweight synthetic base layer that will have you looking fine and feeling comfortable whether you're walking your dog or skiing off a summit.
Earning a five out of ten for warmth, this piece is really not meant for cold weather. Of all the tops tested, the REI Space Dye scored second lowest, next to the Under Armour Base 2.0 Crew - Women's. On a trip to Red Rock Canyon in Las Vegas, we did a head-to-head test with the Arc'teryx Rho LT and the REI Space Dye Zip on a windy multi-pitch climbing day. We found that every time a breeze came through, the tester wearing the REI Space Dye was shivering and in need of an extra layer, while the other tester was warm and content. Stand-alone top in cold weather? No thanks! When integrated it into a layering system, we found the fabric kept us warm enough with ample insulative layers, but our testers concluded that they would not wear this in the brunt of winter. Overall, it's a great friend for spring days, but leave it at home on frigid days and pull on a warmer layer like the Smartwool NTS 250 Crew instead.
The REI Space Dye is a perfectly breathable layer does well on most spring or fall aerobic missions. It's also the perfect addition to your fair weather hiking, backcountry skiing, or cool weather running arsenal. If you're looking for a layer with better temperature regulation, check out the merino Icebreaker Oasis - Women's.
We just loved how this layered! Throw a shirt under or over without a care. The smooth polyester blend face fabric is stretchy that won't bunch or twist. It doesn't ride up and earned one of the highest scores of all tops tested in this category. Layer on!
Love is the first word that comes to mind when discussing the comfort of the REI Space Dye top. It has a stretchy polyester fabric that hugs your curves and is long enough to keep from riding up while playing in the cold. Additionally, it has a zip neck collar and bomber thumb loops, which adds to its versatility. With all these comfy, cozy features, we found ourselves reaching for it nearly every day. If you're looking for something that feels even better on the skin, check out the Smartwool NTS, our Top Pick for Comfort.
Of our synthetics, this was the slowest to dry, but much faster than any of the merino wool contenders. We still think it would do a great job on the occasional river trip, but if water's really your thing, we'd recommend taking a gander at a faster drying synthetic like the Hot Chillys Micro-Elite Crew - Women's.
Losing points here, we were unimpressed with the durability of the Space Dye's face fabric and stitching. We didn't notice any shrinkage, but after three months of use there was ton of pilling, making this one of the least durable synthetics tested.
This is a great all-around layer that we found to be useful in a range of endeavors. Use it as a stand-alone piece while you are camping, hiking, or hanging out near a fall fire. Or choose it as a base layer for warmer days at the ski resort.
For a price of only $57.00, the Space Dye is at the lower end of the pricing scale. However we think the value is questionable with its lack of temperature regulation and durability. Instead, take a look at our high scoring Best Buy Award winner, the Patagonia Capilene 3 Crew for only $55.
A midweight synthetic zip-neck base layer, the REI Space Dye looks great on its own and can be integrated into everyday wear. For a price of $57.00 you can buy a better scoring synthetic, but if you are in the market for a long and versatile long underwear top with a zip-neck collar, this might be a good choice for you.
