The KÜHL NOVA™ 1/4 Zip combines serious technical credentials (95% merino!) with a genuinely flattering fit to create a base layer you actually want to wear — and sometimes not even necessarily as a base layer at all.
Product Description
KÜHL says: The stars aligned when we designed the NOVA™ 1/4 Zip. Featuring the natural temperature-regulating and odor-resistant qualities of merino wool, this crew is built for action. Flattering princess seams combine with our Dynamik stitching for streamlined comfort and layering performance.
The Review
Since this top came into my life at the start of the winter months, it’s never been far from my reach. It looks good, it feels good, and — for the most part — it smells good. Let’s break that down.
KÜHL talks about princess seams for a flattering fit and “Dynamik stitching” for stretch and comfort. I’ll be honest: I’m not entirely sure what that means in practice, but I can tell you this is a flattering top — so much so that I don’t always want to keep it hidden as a base layer.
I wear an XS, and it fits snugly without feeling tight or restrictive. The length is spot on too, sitting a couple of inches below my hips. That means no cold drafts creeping up my back and no constant tugging to keep it tucked in while moving. The thumb loops are a nice extra touch, helping keep everything in place and offering a bit of extra warmth for your hands when needed.
The half zip is ideal for temperature regulation — something I use often, because this top manages to keep even this ice queen warm. I went for the Carbon colour and absolutely love it: subtle, versatile, and easy to pair with pretty much everything.
With 95% merino wool and just 5% nylon, this top scores highly on the technical front. Merino really is hard to beat when it comes to performance apparel: it regulates temperature, manages moisture, and does a far better job of preventing odour than synthetic materials. The fabric remains soft against bare skin — no itchiness here.
As for the odour test? I’ve worn it for days on end while running, hiking, and during snow sports, and it holds up impressively well. Yes, if you really want to go there, I have managed to make it pong in the armpit region — but only after seriously putting it through its paces.
Because it’s merino, it does need a little care in the laundry department: cold washes and air drying are the way to go. I’ve treated mine well, and it still looks and feels almost new. It wicks sweat effectively and works just as well for low-intensity days as it does for high-exertion adventures.
The Verdict
Merino wool products always come with a premium price tag — and with good reason. When you need them to perform, they deliver.
If you’re looking for a base layer that works hard, feels great against the skin, and looks good enough to wear on its own, the KÜHL NOVA™ 1/4 Zip is a solid investment. It’s ideal for anyone who spends long days outdoors in cold conditions and wants one versatile layer they can rely on again and again — whether that’s on the trail, in the mountains, or just getting out the door on a frosty morning.