Outdoor Vitals Altitude Long Sleeve Top: A Comprehensive Review
In the realm of outdoor apparel, the quest for the perfect balance between performance, comfort, and durability is one of the main aims of OV . The Outdoor Vitals Altitude Long Sleeve Top positions itself as a good contender. Designed with ultralight adventures in mind, this top promises to deliver on multiple fronts.
Fabric & Breathability
Constructed from a featherlight 80 GSM 100% polyester fabric, the Altitude Long Sleeve Top weighs in at a mere 4 ounces for a size large. This minimal weight is achieved without compromising on breathability. Users I searched online and collated have lauded its exceptional moisture-wicking capabilities, making it an excellent choice for high-intensity activities in warm conditions. One reviewer noted, “I wore it during scorching hot days and it felt great. I wasn’t hot at all in spite of the long sleeves.”
Comfort & Fit
The fabric’s soft texture ensures a comfortable feel against the skin, reducing potential chafing during extended wear. The fit is tailored yet allows for adequate mobility, catering to a range of outdoor pursuits from hiking to trail running. However, during testing I found that the sleeves are on the snug side and lack thumb loops, which could be a consideration for those who prefer a looser fit or additional hand coverage.
Durability
While the ultralight fabric offers superior breathability, it does raise questions about long-term durability, especially in rugged terrains. I loved it for hiking but found after washing it that it had accumulated a lot of ‘bobbles’ all over it.
This suggests that while the top performs admirably in standard hiking scenarios, caution is advised in more abrasive environments and potentially consider handwashing.
Sun Protection
Despite lacking an official UPF rating The altitude T had satisfactory sun protection during outdoor activities.
Odor Resistance
The 2024 iteration of the Altitude Long Sleeve Top incorporates FUZE™ Antimicrobial Treatment, aiming to enhance odor resistance. This feature is particularly beneficial for multi-day excursions where laundering opportunities are limited.
Conclusion
The Outdoor Vitals Altitude Long Sleeve Top is the first item of Outdoor Vitals that I think fails to completely hit the mark. If you can put up with the lack of thumb loops, no neck label so you cant easily tell which way round to put it on and the fabric vulnerability to abrasion then this may still be great as a base layer. At the moment its on sale so price may still lure you to a sale.
