The folks at Ex Officio have got travel wear down pat. When I mentioned my impending trip to Central America, I was told the Air Strip Shirt deserved a spot in my traveler's duffel. Turns out they were right, since it did a terrific job of keeping mosquitoes and equatorial sun off my arms and torso, all without causing me to overheat. Credit for that goes to the shirt's featherweight, nylon-polyester blend called Drylite.
Everything about the Air Strip points to climate control and functionality. First off, the fabric is treated with a Rayosan finish, which informed sources say will absorb harmful UV rays like no other. On top of this is what Ex Officio calls its Export fabric finish, which enhances wicking capabilities. A unique sun squelcher is the adjustable Three Position folding collar that can be unrolled to three height positions to protect your neck, jaw, or hairline from sun exposure as desired.
Then there are the mesh panel vents along the upper back and torso that aid circulation in areas where icky humid body heat would normally become trapped. Roll-up tabs keep shirt sleeves suspended, and the pleated bellow pockets handle big loads. Another sweet design feature is the seamless shoulder construction that reduces irritation when carrying backpacks or shoulder bags. For gadget geeks, a Velcro utility tab can hold anything from sunglasses, to a camera strap, to various fishing paraphernalia. Available in men's and women's sizes.
Price: $76
High mark: Besides a trove of features, there are snazzy colors like garnet, maize, aqua, sage, and cigar.
Low mark: The busy shirt may be overstated for those who prefer simplicity.
For more information: Call Ex Officio at (800) 644-7303 or visit www.exofficio.com.
Article © Ted Alan Stedman, 2000. Photo © Ex Officio, 2000.
from Away.com
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