I have been testing the Pearl Izumi women’s Fly Thermal Running Top.
Pearl Izumi states: “Perfectly soft, this top will feel like it disappears on the body. The centre front zip is designed to help regulate temperature on longer winter outings. A staple for any runner.”
Features:
- Thermal Fleece fabric, strategically panelled to deliver superior breathability, moisture transfer and warmth
- 10-inch centre front zipper for fast core ventilation
- Reflective logos for low-light visibility
- Internal fist mitts to seal in warmth
- Weather Forecast: Cold and dry
- Temperature Rating: +/- 10 degrees
- Semi-form fit
- Fabrics: 100% polyester
- Sizes: XS to XL.
- Was £59.99. Now £29.99 or £36.99 depending on the colour you buy.
See Pearl Izumi
On test: Pearl Izumi Fly Thermal Running Top
I really like the Pearl Izumi women’s Elite LTD cycle bib shorts that I tested for Scotland Outdoors. They include lots of great technical details.
On the other hand, the running top is fairly basic in terms of design. It does have thumb loops (sadly the sleeves are too short for my Mr Tickle long arms so they cut off the circulation in my thumbs).
There’s also a zip at the neck so you can adjust the venting and a zip guard to prevent under chin chafing.
But apart from that, it’s a straightforward fleece-backed top that is good to wear on cold days (we get a lot of these in Scotland).
I don’t mind basic items and the semi-form fit is nice (that means looser style). The colours are quite funky, as well.
What I am not so keen on is the over-stating of technical features.
The brand states: “Thermal Fleece fabric, strategically panelled to deliver superior breathability, moisture transfer and warmth.”
I think the fabric might be slightly thinner under the arms and at the back where we tend to sweat more when running but I can’t be sure.
I think my biggest complaint about his top is that it is trying to offer more than it really does. At £29.99 it’s a good price for a warm running top with a several nice features. But I think it’s a bit much to over-egg the technical side of things.
I like wearing the top and it feels good on a chilly day. I would not pay the full price for it though.
See Pearl Izumi