Kuhl Reactiv Grid Full Zip Hoody in Men’s and Women’s
Finding that perfect hoody is always a challenge. There are so many options out there and the technical fabrics keep getting better so it is hard to find what fits your hiking needs. The Kuhl Reactiv Grid Full Zip Hoody tries to be that perfect hoody. With new fabrics, stretch technology and Kuhl’s years of design it is definitely in the running as one of the best. We got a chance to test out the Reactiv in both Men’s and Women’s to see how it held up. Here is our review.
As a disclaimer we would like to mention that we were given these products so that we could write this review. All opinions on this page are our own and based on our own experiences with this product. We are not compensated for the opinions on this review. Your experience with the product may be different. This site uses affiliate marketing links. If you click a button or link and make a purchase we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Introducing Rachel
Helping me review the Kuhl Reactiv Grid FZ Hoody today is my friend Rachel. Rachel is mother and lives in sunny southern California and lives a very active life including running, hiking and spending time outdoors. Basically, Rachel uses the Reactiv in all the ways that I don’t so we can get honest thoughts on how this works in multiple situations.
Rachel is equal parts clinical minded, chaos coordinator, and sunshine enthusiast. She is busy pursuing a PhD in clinical neuropsychology while chasing around two young kids. Rachel maintains her sanity, in part, through adventuring outdoors with hiking, running, and most recently rock climbing. She requires easy and wearable gear that can hold up on the mountain and in the drop off line at school. Expect honest thoughts from someone who doesn’t just wear gear for the aesthetic, but for the miles, moments, and everything in between.
From Kuhl
Before I get into my review of the Kuhl Reactiv Grid FZ Hoody, I wanted to let you know what Kuhl has to say about their hoody. From their website, they say, “Less weight, greater breathability, and superior temperature regulation! The REACTIV™ Grid Full Zip Hoody uses high-tech, graphene-infused fabric that expertly retains or expels heat as your body demands.”
Here is a bit more on the specs before the review.
Specs
Price*
$185 for both Men’s and Women’s
Sizes*
Men’s: Small – XXXL
Women’s XS-XL
Colors*
Men’s: Midnight, Carbon, Burnt Orange
Women’s: Mineral Blue, Carbon
Features and Technology
- Premium graphene-infused fleece fabric from Italy
- Graphene has superior heat dispersion technology that expels heat in warm weather and preserves body heat in the cold
- Odor resistance that never washes out means less washing and more wearing
- Midweight | 200 GSM
- Grid pattern on fabric interior promotes air circulation
- Breathable
- Moisture wicking
- Soft and comfortable brushed interior
Fabrics
Polyester
All information from Kuhl.com and subject to change. Check the website for full details and options.
What we liked about the Kuhl Reactiv Grid FZ Hoody
Fit
Men’s
I really liked the fit of the Reactiv. As a bigger guy it is hard to find clothes that fit in all of the right places this Hoody accomplishes that. It has extremely flexible fibers that allow it to move with me as I hike. At the same time, it has a tighter fit to my skin that keeps loose bits of fabric from catching on any of the branches or thorns around. I carry a lot of my weight in my belly and the Reactiv is long enough to provide full cover with none of that uncomfortable breeze on the underbelly.
Because it stays so tight to my skin without feeling snug, it is perfect as an insulating layer as well. It doesn’t bunch up or restrict movement. I found that the Reactiv fits well under top layer coats as well without feeling like the fabrics are competing.
Most of all, it is the freedom of movement that makes me enjoy this hoody so much. I don’t ever feel constricted, in the shoulders, arms or waist. The paneled underarm gussets allow for full range on my arms as well. All and all it is a great fit for active hiking in the outdoors.
Women’s
As a woman, fit is so important when staying active or picking a kiddo up from school. Fit is where this hoody really shines. I found the Kuhl Reactiv Grid FZ Hoody contours really nicely without any extra bunching. I’ve had issues with other fleeces looking boxy, especially with more rigid fabrics, but this one maintains a beautiful streamline shape. I also want to call out the soft interior. Even with it’s impressive technology and snug fit, the fabric itself is soft and malleable. There are no rough edges or itchy pulls which means the fit is incredibly comfortable.
There’s also enough structure to layer over a tank or tee without feeling bulky, but not so snug that you feel limited in movement. It’s that ideal middle ground between performance and everyday wear. Because this hoody is fitted, if you’re in between sizes and may want to size up.
The fabric has an impressive amount of stretch that moves with you without limiting you. I wore this piece on a hike and then straight into mom mode. I had full reach potential to scoop up a full speed running hug. It’s one of those staple items that flexes with whatever the day throws at you.
Warmth and Breathability
Men’s
One of the most important pieces of technology included with the Reactiv is the use of Graphene. Graphene is the lightest and most conductive material out there right now and it really shows up with the thermal regulation of this hoody. While maintaining a light weight, I have found this to be the perfect three season hoody. In the spring and fall, I have been using it as a top layer. During the winter, I use it as an insulating layer under my jacket and it works perfectly.
Hiking in Colorado gives a lot of extremes with temperature, even on the same day. In fall and spring it can easily be in the 40’s in the morning and up to 75 in the afternoon. I have found that keeping the Reactiv on as a top layer works perfect. For the first few hours, I wear it zipped up to keep me really warm. As the day warms I usually undo the zipper a bit and am fine until the temps get over 70 when I will take it off. This Hoody is extremely breathable and I have never found myself overheating while still staying plenty warm on those mornings. It is also great to have in my pack in the mountains all summer long for when the air turns a little chilly at altitude.
Women’s
Living in Southern California, temperature-regulating fabric is clutch. Early morning hikes can start off chilly, and by the time you’re heading down the mountain, the sun is full force. The Reactiv hoody uses graphene infused Italian fleece with a grid design that promotes airflow and moisture-wicking, keeping me comfortable and well-regulated during those brisk early hours without overheating.
Real talk: This mama loves the odor resistance and can confirm it really holds up – even after a full active day. This means that I can get away with wearing it more than once without having to add to the overflowing pile of laundry right away. When I did finally wash it, even though the fabric is a lightweight fleece, it held up in the washing machine, coming out without pills in the fabric or losing it’s polished appearance.
Weight
Men’s
I found the Reactiv Grid to be one of the more versatile hoody’s for my bag. In the spring and fall it is the perfect weight as a top layer for the early mornings when it is still chilly on the trail. During the winter, I wore this as my insulating layer to keep me nice and warm. The jacket isn’t ultralight by any means but it is lighter weight. The flexibility and durability of the Graphene makes me feel really comfortable rolling it up and throwing it in my pack so it is always with me.
Women’s
I found the Kuhl Reacticv Grid Fleece Hoody to be one of the more versatile pieces in my rotation. The lightweight feel is perfect for sunny SoCal weather – just enough for those cooler mornings without feeling heavy once the day warms up. I also appreciate the lightweight fabric for the summer days to throw it around my waist without being uncomfortable or heavy. On the rare winter days we actually get, I’ve been able to layer it under a jacket for added warmth, and it works really well without adding bulk.
What I also love about the lighter weight is how easy it is to live in. I can throw it on for a hike, tie it around my waist, or toss it in my bag without thinking twice. It packs easily, doesn’t take up space or add weight, and still holds its shape when you pull it back out- no sagging or stretching.
Style
Men’s
While I am a more function over style person, I do have to admit the Kuhl Reactiv Grid Full Zip Hoody looks really cool. There are offset panels of highlight color around the flanks and arms. Throughout the whole piece is a thin checkered pattern that works perfectly against the flex of the stretchy material. I really like the Green color with black highlights I was sent to test. However, at the time of this writing, that color may not be available at the time of this writing.
Women’s
Unlike Greg, I need the style to work just as hard as the function and this hoody delivers. But, here’s the reality, I like to look like I put in effort but I have zero time to actually do it. The KÜHL Reactiv Grid Fleece Hoody pulls it off.
The fabric has this subtle grid texture that gives it dimension without screaming “technical gear,” and the overall silhouette is clean and streamlined in a way that actually feels elevated. The contouring panels give the illusion of a cinched waist without actually needing a cinched in waist. No loud logos, no bulky fleece – just a sleek modern piece that balances outdoorsy and polished.
What I didn’t Like
Greg – There is so much to like about this hoody but they will take my blogger card away if I don’t find something that I didn’t like. The only thing that I could really come up with is their availability. They are not available in all sizes and colors on the website. I think Kuhl is selling too many of them and they can’t keep them in stock! For instance, the color that I tested was not available at the time of this review.
Rachel – No piece is perfect, and while I reach for the KÜHL Reactiv Grid Fleece Hoody alot, there is a couple things worth noting.
First, it’s not a super cozy, plush fleece – this leans more technical than soft-and-snuggly. If you’re looking for that thick, lounge-around feel, this isn’t it. It’s built for performance, which I appreciate, but it’s a different vibe. And while the lightweight design is perfect for SoCal, it does mean it’s not your go-to for colder climates unless you’re layering. On its own, it won’t give that heavy warmth some people might expect.
These are just tradeoffs depending on what you are searching for.
Video Review of the Kuhl Reactiv Grid FZ Hoody
Before my final thoughts here is a quick video review of the Reactiv Grid FZ Hoody. If you enjoy the review make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel to be the first to see my new content.
Wrap Up of the Kuhl Reactiv Grid Full Zip Hoody
We were really impressed with the Kuhl Reactiv Grid Full Zip Hoody. It is a really nice 3 season piece that does well as part of a layering system in winter. But it is also really effective as a top layer for those cool spring and fall mornings. It is also lightweight and great to have with you for summer hikes in the mountains.
While this isn’t a soft and fluffy style of fleece, it is a nice technical piece. The Reactiv Grid allows for ease of movement. The moisture wicking and odor resistance makes it perfect for repeat uses in different temperatures.
Plus, according to Rachel, it is a very stylish piece that allows you to look like you put the time in without having the time! While the lack of color options does limit the style a little bit currently.
Overall, we were both very happy with the Kuhl Reactiv Grid Full Zip Hoody and have each made this a go-to piece of our hiking gear.
More from the Fatman
For a list of other products that I have reviewed you can check my Product Review page here. If you have any products you would like me to review or any comments you can email me at fatmanlittletrails@gmail.com or you can follow me on any of the below social media platforms. Happy Hiking!