base Layers
REGATTA Ecosphere T (£17)
The gear industry loves to throw us curve balls. Anti-microbial bamboo carbon feature in two tested products here, married to different fabrics in differing quantities, with quite different results.
MONTANE Bionic S/S T-shirt (£35)
Now we're talking: a lightweight, cool T-shirt with short raglan sleeves and flat-sewn seams, unencumbered by weighty zips. What’s not to like?
ODLO Cubic (£30)
Odlo submitted two tops for this feature and I opted for the better-fitting Cubic. It is however worth mentioning the Evolution Cool in passing as it’s phenomenally light at 92g (XL) and has woven-in body-mapped areas for venting, rather than various stitched-in fabrics.
SMARTWOOL Microweight T (£39.95)
Most folk are aware of the advantages of merino wool – particularly fine merino wool – over synthetics.
SPRAYWAY Rhapsody Tee (£40)
Sprayway’s Rhapsody is casually styled with a print pattern that makes it perfectly acceptable in the pub, après hike; consisting primarily of merino augmented with Cocona, however, it has fine performance qualities.
SPIRO Trial Training Top (£18)
The Trial Training Top is pretty heavy (despite the manufacturer’s “extremely lightweight” claim) and longsleeved, with a neck-covering collar.
TREK MATES Bamboo T-Shirt (£22)
In terms of weight, style and appearance, the Trekmates Bamboo T is virtually identical to the Smartwool Microweight T.
OUTDOOR RESEARCH Sequence Duo Tee (£38)
This loose and well-sized T-shirt was my favourite in terms of comfort and fit, despite its weight.
BERGHAUS Argentium Cool (£36)
Berghaus's stated weight for this garment is a mere 68g, around 100g lighter than its tested weight. Quite a disparity, but even at 165g an acceptably light baselayer garment and the Argentium fabric does feel wonderfully silky.
SNUGPAK Second Skin L/S Top (£19.95)
Renowned for its synthetic-fill sleeping bags, Snugpak has been broadening its range in recent times to encompass more apparel, accessories and shelters.
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