Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch Long Sleeve Shirt

On a recent trip to Mammoth Lakes, I had the opportunity to do some fly fishing in the pristine streams of the Eastern Sierras and to hike along the legendary John Muir Trail. At that altitude (8,000-9,000 ft), the sun's rays can be brutal, so I was very happy that I'd brought along my long-sleeved Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch L//s Shirt! (Available in men's and women's styles.)

This Silver Ridge Stretch shirt proved to be the ideal choice for my fly fishing ventures because it's made of a soft stretchy material that also contains sun protection up to 30 UPF. That meant I always had complete range of motion for casting and the long sleeves with the UV protection prevented against sunburn. Even though it was often 80-90 degrees during the day, I stayed comfortable because the fabric was so light in weight, had air vents, and did a good job of wicking away perspiration.

The hikes in Mammoth can be very challenging. Having appropriate gear is essential. My Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch L//s Shirt didn't help me hike any better or faster, or to huff and puff any less, but it did help me stay relatively cool. Sometimes when I'm outdoors I prefer long sleeves to protect my skin from sun, bugs, and stray branches. I liked that when I wanted to roll up the sleeves, I could use a button tap to convert the shirt into a short-sleeved version.

In addition to the functionality and comfort benefits of this shirt, it's also very nice looking! I really like the long, feminine, figure-flattering lines that allow me to look sharp whether I'm wearing it tucked in, or not. It's also an ideal travel shirt because it can be washed out each night and will dry quickly without wrinkles. It also has a zipper-enclosure security pocket for stashing a little money, ID, or a car key.

So far I've worn this shirt only during the summertime but do anticipate wearing it also as a base layer when the weather turns cooler. It should be ideal under my ski sweaters and other cold weather clothing. The Silver Ridge Stretch shirt is available in nine different colors. This shirt is also available in women's short-sleeved and men's long-sleeved style versions, too. Click on links below to shop. Some styles currently on sale.

Fabric : 100% polyester, 92% nylon/8% elastane pique

Sizes: XS-XL

Bottom Line: A nice travel and outdoor shirt that's good looking, feels nice against your skin, is easy to move in, and can be worn year-round.--C.E.W. (Aug 10)

BUY ONLINE : $50, click for women's $44.96 , men's on sale $34.96-49.95

Manufacturer's Site: www.columbia.com

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