Choose a full zip if you want a close-fitting layer you can wear open, half open or zipped to the collar, and a quarter zip if you'd like a relaxed layer that goes on over your head. Our zip-up long sleeves come in three styles, two full zips called Core and Macy and one quarter zip called Pace, and a handful of details in their product descriptions tell them apart.
Here is what each one offers, so you can choose the layer that suits the way you move and dress.
What's the difference between a full zip and a quarter zip?
A full zip runs the length of the front, so it opens completely. You can wear it zipped to the collar, partly open over a bra or open over your set, and take it off without pulling anything over your hair.
A quarter zip opens only at the neck. It goes on and comes off over your head, so it suits a layer you plan to keep on for a while, and the short zip lets you open the neckline a little.
That one choice narrows things down quickly:
- Core Long Sleeve Zip Up. A full-zip front, with a fit its description calls sculpted.
- Macy Long Sleeve Zip Up. A zip front and a high neckline. In its photographs, the zip runs the full length of the front.
- Pace Quarter Zip. A quarter-zip neckline and a relaxed silhouette.
Core or Macy: which full zip should you choose?
Both have long sleeves with thumb-holes, and both sit close to the body in their photographs. The differences are in the fabric, the pockets, the sizes and the colours:
- Fabric. Core is made from our double-brushed CORE fabric, described as soft and matte, in a blend of 75% nylon and 25% spandex. Macy is described as smooth and lightweight, in a blend of 80% recycled polyester and 20% spandex.
- Pockets. Macy has hidden zip pockets, which show as two short zips at the sides of the waist. The Core description doesn't list pockets.
- Sizes. Core is listed in sizes XS to XL. Macy is listed from 2XS to 2XL.
- Colours. Core is listed in Black, Dove Grey, Espresso and Wineberry. Macy is listed in Black, Sage Grey and Sapphire.
If you like to keep a key or a card on you, Macy's pockets may decide it. If you'd rather a soft, brushed finish, or one of Core's colours sits better with your wardrobe, start with Core.
When is the Pace Quarter Zip the better choice?
Choose Pace if you prefer a looser outline. Its description lists a relaxed silhouette, a quarter-zip neckline, elasticated cuffs and an adjustable drawcord hem with metal cord locks. The fabric is described as lightweight, in a blend of 75% polyamide and 25% elastane.
The drawcord lets you change how the hem sits over your leggings or shorts. In the product photographs, Pace is worn with the hem drawn in above the waistband, and the sleeves gather at the wrist rather than reaching over the hand.
Pace is listed in Black, Eucalyptus, Lilac and Vanilla, in sizes S to XL.
How do you choose your size?
Choose the style first, then the size, because the fit references differ. The Core and Macy listings note a 172cm model who is typically a size S wearing a size XS in these styles. The Pace listings note a 170cm model who is typically a size S wearing a size S.
So read the reference on the exact page rather than assuming one size across all three. Our size guide and our notes on finding your Ancarta fit can help with that step. If you have a question about a particular piece, email support@ancarta.co with the product link.
Which layer suits you?
- You want to open and close it as you go: a full zip, Core or Macy.
- You want pockets: Macy.
- You want a soft, brushed finish: Core.
- You want a relaxed layer with an adjustable hem: Pace.
Compare the Core, Macy and Pace pages side by side. For ideas on wearing a layer over your set as the day changes, read Layering your set when the weather changes.
Every woman who loves to move is welcome to apply to be an Ancarta Brand Rep. Read how the programme works and the terms, then apply now.