 |
 |
 |
||
|
||||
Patagonia Runshade Shirt for Men and Women: All-Around Comfort
 |
Because I'm tall I often end up wearing men's tees for exercise. Because I'm an eco gal, I usually prefer merino wool to technical fabrics. Because I'm open minded, I thought I'd give Patagonia's Runshade shirt a spin around the black and see what UPF 30 rated spun poly could do for me. (Top pictured is men's version).
Okay, I liked it. I didn't want to, but I did. I've been wearing the top for daily power walks (we really move for a solid hour) in temps ranging from 65-85, and I have to admit that the Runshade does wick. I often exercise wearing a day pack so that I can do my grocery shopping at the end of my workout, and I was impressed with both the wicking and quick drying properties.
Another thing I like about this top - it has flat-locked and offset seams. That means when I'm chugging around the 'hood with my neighbor, I'm not distracted by chafing so I can fully participate in our "solve the world" or philosophical conversations (I have an excellent workout partner).
It's nice to have the UPF 30 protection built into the weave (versus chemically applied). Patagonia has tested the material, and it has passed Australian/New Zealand standards. If you've never been down under - the burn time there is eight minutes.
Stylish wise, I like the two-tone contrasting color panels on both the men's and women's versions. The women's top has some cute gathers at one of the offset shoulders seams that I initially thought made me look foofy. My workout partner, who's the most fashion savvy person in the neighborhood, insists it's a very flattering top on me. What can I do but agree?
Finally, I really appreciate the longer cut through the torso. I love it when fitness and outdoor gear companies realize that cropped little tops are only fun for very short people. Those in between can use the extra coverage as workout shorts go low-rise.
Available in four colors, sizes XS-L. Men's available in five colors, sizes S-XL.
Bottom LIne: This shirt really won me over. It's one of very few technical tees I've saved and use regularly.--E.D. (July 09)
Price: $40, on sale at and at . .
Manufacturer's Site: www.patagonia.com
 |
 |
When hiking or camping, always carry the "10 Essentials": Extra clothing, extra food and water, lighter or water-proof matches and fire starter, map in waterproof envelope, compass, pocket knife, sunscreen and sunglasses, flashlight or headlamp, first aid kit, emergency shelter. Source: Seattle Mountain Rescue and Seattle Mountaineers. |
|
 |
 |
||||