Sugoi Pace Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

Super comfortable warm weather hiking shirt. Breathes great, dries fast.

Years ago, when I got serious about hiking, I tried all of the latest and greatest synthetic hiking shirts. They really didn't cut it for me. They always felt hot and stuffy, and I never really felt comfortable. Then I discovered merino wool shirts, and became a big fan.

But having gotten into road cycling in the last few years, and having purchased a number of really comfortable jerseys, it seemed that synthetics had come a long way. I found this shirt on sale at the REI outlet, and gave it a try.

I've tried it on a couple of long warm day hikes recently... at Armstrong Redwoods and in Tahoe Sierra Meiss Country. It's got a very comfortable airy feel, with excellent breathability. Moisture management is really terrific... most perspiration evaporated off the shirt before it even got a chance to get wet.

The only exception was the back up against the pack, but after the pack was taken off, it dried very quickly. The Meiss Country hike was on an extremely windy day (with gusts up to 25 mph), but I never got cold or was tempted to put on a jacket, even when stopped for a rest or food.

No obvious stink factor, so far. But you'd have to ask my hiking partners about that one. There is a small zippered pocket on the side seam which could fit gel our card keys without it looking obvious. The flat seams are very comfortable, with no rubbing under pack straps. Though the fabric is light and airy, it feels substantial, and even with frequent gym workouts and dog walks, it shows no sign of wear.

Though I still love the feel of merino wool, this will be my go-to hiking shirt for warm-hot weather hikes.

p.s.  Despite what the Trailspace "product summary" says, this shirt is widely available online.