Lightweight, breathable and quick-drying, the Trail Tee is a nice cool t-shirt for summer running, which works equally well for hillwalking and climbing too. Weighing so little, and packing down so small, it's also ideal for backpacking if you're away long enough to need a couple of t-shirts, and looking to keep pack weight at a minimum.
Fit
The Trail Tee is available in both men's and women's fit. Though the cut is described as tailored, we've found it can come out quite roomy for the stated size, at least if Dan's men's size L is anything to go by. Unsurprisingly, freedom of movement is great, and thanks to both the cut of the arms and the longer hem length the Trail Tee works well for climbing, staying neatly tucked beneath a harness in a way that few other running tops in our cupboards do. With no seam over the top of the shoulder, it's also comfy to wear all day under a pack or running vest.
© Dan Bailey
Pros: Lightweight, comfy, quick-drying
Cons: Gets a bit whiffy after hard use
Weight
At only 107g men's size L (83g wms 10) this is a very light t-shirt, which is equally nice when worn on a hot day, or if you're carrying it in an overnight pack.
Fabric
Two different fabrics are used: both feel very airy and quick-drying, with the thinner fabric on the back offering slightly more breathability and wicking performance, and the more densely-woven material in front giving just a tad more protection from the breeze. This combination works well, whether you're running with or without a pack/vest.
The fabric is nice and stretchy to aid free movement, retains its shape well, and has so far resisted shrinking in the wash. While it's got an odour control treatment, these things can only do so much, and after a hot run or a couple of days of sweaty backpacking far from a shower your friends will probably smell you coming. Like all synthetic t-shirts, the Trail Tee struggles to compete with merino for whiff resistance, though beats it for lightness and drying time. Its distinctive print looks good, and there's a decent range of colours.
© Dan Bailey
Summary
You can spend a lot less on a synthetic t-shirt, but we think the Trail Tee's quality fabric, well-made feel, and free-moving cut justify the price. This is a top you can wear for almost any outdoor activity, not just running. Overall we're pleased with it.
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