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Gear Review: Alpaca Wool Half-Zip Base Layer by Arms of Andes

The Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip Base Layer blends softness, warmth, and sustainability in a lightweight, high-performance design. Made from 100% Royal Alpaca in Peru, this ethical and durable layer excels in cold-weather adventures and daily wear.

Gear Review: Alpaca Wool Half-Zip Base Layer by Arms of Andes
Made in Peru using solar-powered production and biodegradable materials, the Arms of Andes Half-Zip is proof that performance and sustainability can coexist perfectly.

When it comes to natural warmth and technical performance, few materials can compete with alpaca wool. The Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip Base Layer takes everything that’s great about merino- moisture-wicking, odor resistance, and thermoregulation -and elevates it with alpaca’s lightweight loft and silky comfort.

Person wearing the Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip Base Layer outdoors during a cold mountain hike, showcasing fit and layering versatility.
Staying warm and comfortable in the Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip! It's a perfect balance of natural warmth, breathability, and soft comfort for long days in the high desert or mountains.

This base layer is a favorite among minimalist adventurers and cold-weather explorers who value performance, sustainability, and ethical production. And after plenty of use in the backcountry, it’s easy to see why!

Shop Men’s at Arms of Andes
Shop Women’s at Arms of Andes
Shop on Amazon: Men’s | Women’s

Key Features & Specs

Feature Details
Material 100% Royal Alpaca Wool (Grade 100–200)
Weight 300gsm midweight insulation
Fit Athletic yet comfortable, with a straight cut
Design Half-zip pullover for venting and layering
Odor Resistance Exceptional: multiple days of wear
Moisture Management Naturally wicks sweat and dries well
Sustainability Biodegradable, renewable, and chemical-free
Made In Peru, at Arms of Andes’ own solar-powered facility

Each base layer is knit in Peru using 100% Royal Alpaca, the highest-quality grade of alpaca fiber. It’s produced with a true cradle-to-cradle philosophy, from sourcing to spinning to stitching, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

Performance in the Field

During alpine hikes and cold mornings in camp, this base layer excels. Alpaca fibers have a hollow core structure, which traps warm air like down yet remains impressively breathable. The result is true temperature regulation! Warmth without bulk, and comfort even when moving hard uphill.

Close-up of the Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip zipper and flat seam construction, emphasizing durable stitching and technical comfort design.
Thoughtful details like a smooth half-zip and flat seams make the Arms of Andes Base Layer as comfortable as it is functional.

It handles sweat far better than synthetic alternatives. Even after hours of wear, it doesn’t feel damp or sticky. And because alpaca fiber is naturally antimicrobial, it resists odor and stays fresh, making it ideal for multi-day treks or long travel days.

Whether used as a standalone midlayer in cool temps or as a true base layer beneath a shell, the Half-Zip performs great and will likely become a favorite.

Sustainability & Craftsmanship

Arms of Andes stands out for its deep commitment to sustainability. Every step of production happens in Peru, supporting local communities and drastically reducing the brand’s carbon footprint. The company’s solar-powered manufacturing process, natural dyes, and biodegradable materials make this one of the most eco-friendly technical garments available today.

Hiker wearing Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip under a shell jacket during cold-weather trekking, illustrating layering performance and warmth.
Layered under a shell or over another base layer during brisk alpine mornings, the Alpaca Wool Half-Zip regulates body temperature naturally and stays dry through the climb.

Alpaca itself is a low-impact fiber; the animals graze gently on native grasslands, require less water than sheep, and produce fiber without lanolin, meaning no harsh chemical washes are needed. It’s performance with purpose, and you can feel the integrity in the product.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Quite soft and itch-free Less stretch than merino blends
Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio Slightly longer dry time than other options
Naturally odor-resistant and breathable
Sustainably and ethically made in Peru
Temperature-regulating for multi-climate use

Field Notes

I’ve worn the Arms of Andes Half-Zip on frosty mornings in the San Juans and brisk evenings in the desert and it’s never disappointed. It’s a rare piece that feels equally at home under a down jacket in alpine conditions or worn solo on a cool autumn hike.

Close-up of the Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip Base Layer fabric and collar texture, showing smooth natural alpaca fibers and stitching details.
The fine Royal Alpaca wool fibers give the Arms of Andes Half-Zip an ultra-soft feel with zero itch. It's lightweight yet impressively warm.

The warmth it provides feels natural and steady, not overpowering. Even after repeated wear, there’s no odor, no pilling, and no loss of softness. This is one of those layers that becomes an instant favorite; the one you pack first, wear the most, and find hard to take off.

Packing It Out

The Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Half-Zip Base Layer is warm, breathable, and incredibly comfortable, with sustainable roots and thoughtful design. For hikers, climbers, travelers, and outdoor photographers looking for a reliable and ethical base layer that performs across climates, this is a great choice.

Shop Men’s at Arms of Andes
Shop Women’s at Arms of Andes
Shop on Amazon: Men’s | Women’s

This article is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.

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