Gear review: Fabulous summer fabrics

News News | Jul 30, 2023

Summer is all about comfort and cute styles, and, while some people don’t put a lot of thought into the fabric they’re wearing against bare skin, these merino, hemp, organic and UV-blocking fabrics come in fun, functional styles. And, since summer is closing out, many of these items are on close out, too (sale price listed).

Icebreaker Merino Hike Short Sleeve Top

Summer and wool aren’t the most intuitive pair, but when it comes to merino wool, Icebreaker knows how to keep you cool. Soft, renewable and 100% natural merino fibers are free from petrochemical-based synthetics and plastic microfibers, creating a luxurious feel that’s breathable and odor-resistant. This collared shirt translates as easily to the golf course as it does to the hiking trail and beyond. The body’s fabric is light and flowy, while the shoulders, arms and back yoke include a durable, high-abrasion-resistant blend of merino and cotton, which is perfect for backpacking. I wear my go berry when I want to look a little less casual, while still maintaining comfort. The shirt also comes in gritstone heather for a more subdued look, though I prefer the jewel color for summer. $104, icebreaker.com

Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve T-Shirt Moon Phase

August has two full moons this year — a sturgeon moon on Aug. 1 and a blue moon Aug. 30, so this moon phase shirt is the perfect tee to don throughout the month. Summer days are all about lightweight, comfortable clothing, and this T-shirt provides that in spades. I love my go berry colored tee, which is just form fitting enough to flatter the body without clinging tightly (important around the belly during, eh, certain times of the moon phase). Soft, 100% merino fibers help regulate body temperature and naturally resist odor. This is my go-to tee for brightening up my day, and night. Available in go berry, midnight navy and vibrant earth. $55.25, icebreaker.com

Icebreaker Merino Hike 8″ Shorts

This durable blend of merino wool and organically-grown cotton is comfortable — so much so that it includes two well-spaced waist snaps, just in case you need a little extra room within your sizing chart. The shorts are great for hiking or walking around, as they’re longer, offering sun protection, yet breathable. They strike a perfect balance between casual and a bit more dressy in tan or go berry colors. However, I felt uncomfortable sitting around in them, because the front, including the hand pockets, bulge out under the waistline, making me feel and look like I’m carrying extra weight. $117, icebreaker.com

Eddie Bauer Men’s Solarfoll Long-Sleeve UPF 2.0 Crew

Sometimes I feel like that old man who switched bodies with Meg Ryan in the 1992 “Prelude to a Kiss.” I’m always trying to get my husband to protect his skin, much to his chagrin. So, I thought I’d try this UPF 2.0 crew. I wish it fit me, but it turns out, he actually likes it — despite generally avoiding long sleeves anytime of the year because he runs hot. He said the quick-drying shirt allows him to stay cool while negotiating rapids down the river or fishing. I still can’t convince him to use the extended cuff hem over his hands — a feature I look for in my winter base layers and my summer paddleboarding shirts. In my mind, the cuffs are an added bonus, as is the natural odor control. Note: These shirts run large; he takes a medium and never fits into a small, except in this shirt, so order accordingly. It comes in seven colors; I love the mint green (celadon), but there are two blue shades, as well as white and more neutrals. $60, eddiebauer.com

Eddie Bauer Tidal High-Rise Shorts

Sometimes, a good pair of shorts are hard to find, but these UPF 50+, lightweight shorts are comfortable and versatile. Made of nylon, their moisture-shedding finish is great for hiking, biking or paddleboarding, and they dry quickly after jumping in the water to cool down. Most important is the fit; with an adjustable drawcord waist and what I’d call more of a medium, as opposed to really short or long, length, my black shorts pair with anything. They’re also lightweight to pack on trips, which I appreciate. And, they come in five solid colors, from bright to neutral, as well as four super-fun patterns. $24.99, eddiebauer.com

Classic All-Season Merino Plant-Based Dye Base Layer Long Sleeve

Fun, fashion, comfort and function all come to mind when describing this blend of merino wool and recycled nylon, the latter of which increases durability, while the merino wool provides softness next to the skin. Even though the slim fit is intended to follow the contours of the body, like the moon phase shirt, it doesn’t cling or hug, which I appreciate. If tie dye can be considered sophisticated, this is it. These shirts, which come in light indigo, black and a pinkish light copper tie dye or solid yellow or purple, are dyed using an environmentally conscious plant-based process. From hiking to paddleboarding to lounging around the house, this cool, breathable shirt is my new go-to when it comes to long sleeves — and I look forward to wearing it as a base layer in the fall and winter. $54, smartwool.com

Jungmaven Yin Yang Ojai Tee

This easy, relaxed fit crewneck has a cap sleeve that’s fashionably just the right length — not too short and definitely not long. What I love about Jungmaven is that they cut and sew all their clothing in the U.S., specifically in Los Angeles. The sustainable fabric is made of 30% hemp and 70% organic cotton, which also means its cozy-wearing. This is one of those T-shirts you can wear all day, every day because it’s so comfortable. I teach a movement meditation class, and without thinking about my plan that night, I threw the shirt on, and actually found myself inspired by the yin-yang symbol as a teaching tool, which made me laugh, but also reminded me of the power of clothing, whether that happens to be its UV-protective factors, its ability to make you feel even more comfortable in your own skin or its messaging. Comes in black or white background. $52, jungmaven.com

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