I picked up the Rover Merino Half Zip to replace a basic polyester layer, looking for something that could handle cold Pacific Northwest (Oregon) winter runs while still working as a clean, versatile piece for travel and everyday wear.
This absolutely delivered! 💙
The fit is spot on—I’m 5’11”, 160 lbs with a slim build, and it hits that perfect balance of athletic without feeling restrictive. On runs, it regulates temperature exceptionally well: warm when the air is cold, breathable when the effort ramps up. Off the run, it looks sharp enough to wear straight to coffee, travel days, or casual outings without screaming “technical gear.”
The merino really shines. I wore it straight out of the package for nearly two weeks before washing, and it still smelled fresh—something synthetic layers just can’t match. After the first wash there was a very slight shrink, but nothing noticeable or concerning. I air-dried it (next to the fireplace, for what it’s worth), and it maintained its shape beautifully.
If I had one wish, it would be a subtle smartwatch slot on the forearm of either arm. The thumb holes and integrated gloves are excellent, but on colder runs I usually only use one thumb hole so I can check my watch without pulling off a glove. A small design tweak like this would honestly take this—and other long-sleeve Janji pieces—to the next level.
Overall, this is an easy favorite in my winter rotation and made it more motivating to get out in the cold weather. Premium materials, thoughtful design, versatile styling, and true performance in real-world conditions. I’m extremely happy with the purchase and would confidently recommend it to anyone running, traveling, or living in cooler climates.