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ExOfficio Air Strip Lite Long Sleeve Shirt

rated 4.5 of 5 stars
photo: ExOfficio Air Strip Lite Long Sleeve Shirt hiking shirt

Perhaps I'm being a bit nit-picky here because after all this is a very durable, lightweight shirt that still is able to maintain a heavy feel to it. It can offer warmth when combined with layers and yet can be very breathable and cool for use in the heat. It also offers great UV protection, and dries very fast but it fits very large and isn't quite as soft as I was hoping.

Pros

  • Breathable
  • Lightweight
  • Durable

Cons

  • Fits extremely large
  • Soft, but not super soft

OK, I bought this shirt sight unseen over the internet, and while overall it serves its function very well, I was a bit disappointed with how it fit. I'm not usually picky about my clothes, but I want them to fit right and I felt like I was swimming in this shirt even though I ordered a medium (my normal size). Overall - it's a fantastic shirt and I can't complain too much.

Fit & Comfort: Like I mentioned, it is a baggy shirt, but some people might like that. At least it doesn't constrict you in anyway, which would be worse. Very comfortable to wear.

Adjustability: I love that I can roll up the sleeves - one of the main reasons I bought it.  This is great because in the morning while it's still cold you can have it down to keep your arms warm, then after you hike for a bit you can roll them up.

Breathability: The shirts has several vents in it and manages to keep you pretty cool.

Moisture: Wicks away fantastically, one of the real strengths of the shirt.

Warmth: It does add a fair amount of warmth when combined with layers.  Also, does a great job of keeping you cool with the vents and moisture wicking.

Layering: This is where it being so large actually was a benefit.  I was able to wear a couple of shirts underneath without any constriction at all.

Abrasion: I've taken it through the woods several times and it still looks new.

Function: Several pockets and zippers.  I thought I'd use them a bit more, but it weighs down the shirt too much and makes it a bit uncomfortable.

Features: Sleeves role up and SPF 30 protection

Construction & Durability: Very well made, looks new after several uses and no signs of wear.

Conditions: I've had the shirt for about a year and have used it during Winter and Spring / Fall hikes.

If it wasn't so baggy this shirt would easily get 5 stars. As it is, I am deducting a star because of the way it fit me. If I had to do it over again, I think I would have tried to find a different style, but you might like a larger style shirt.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $60

This is the most durable yet lightweight hiking shirt on the market.

Pros

  • Durability
  • Lightweight
  • Quick drying
  • Ventilated

I've owned my shirt since 2003 and after numerous expeditions and even yard work, it still looks new. 

I wanted a shirt for lower desert terrain that would provide coverage from the sun and protection from thorns yet was well ventilated. I've tried other hiking shirts and so have friends but we've all been dissapointed by other brands.  I can't tell you how many thorns have ripped across the sleeves and not a mark was made.

This is a shirt you'll have with you for years. It's one item I never go hiking or backpacking without.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $80

It's hard to describe the feel of this shirt, I wouldn't consider it to be in the same category of your favorite jean shirt or flannel...but it works so well in that the shirt dries so quickly...and I sweat profusely!!!
The pockets are cavernous and the vents are perfect to keep airflow circulating all around your body.
I am giving it 5 stars because when compared to other shirts of the same type it seems superior to me and the few times I haven't taken it with me, I wished that I did.

Price Paid: $40

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Specs

Men's
Price MSRP: $80.00
Current Retail: $23.98-$750.00
Historic Range: $15.00-$750.00
Reviewers Paid: $40.00-$80.00
Women's
Price Historic Range: $16.58-$80.00
Product Details from ExOfficio »

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