Ah, layering. Such a great technique, and one that I like doing best when I have great layers all the way through.
When I was offered the chance to review a Terramar Smart Silk V-neck top I took it (they sent it to me free of charge). The top looked slim and the fabric (a blend of Polyester, Nylon, Silk and Spandex and Silk) sounded promising. I also liked the design.
Some advertised features are:
–Permanent Performance-built in and won’t wash or wear out
–FreshGuard® inhibits the growth of bacterial odor
–Wicking and fast drying for superior moisture management
–Natural luxurious and soft
–All climate performance
–Easy care
–Drirelease®
–UPF rating 25+
I’ve been wearing this top on various activities for a few months now. I’ve worn it skiing on days with 23 degree Farenheit highs, and during a 9 day trip in Joshua Tree National Park. I’ve worn it both as a baselayer and as a top layer.
Here’s how I evaluate each feature:
–Permanent Performance-built in and won’t wash or wear out
So far, as advertised.
–FreshGuard® inhibits the growth of bacterial odor
Even after mutiple days of wear in Joshua Tree the shirt does not have that multi-day stink I associate with my first synthetic baselayer shirts.
–Wicking and fast drying for superior moisture management
I didn’t really get to put this to a full test since I haven’t worn it in hot weather, but I will say that I did not feel sweaty under all the layers when skiing on a high of 65 degrees Farenheit day with too many layers on.
–Natural luxurious and soft
I do see this as luxurious (I think the design details lends itself to that impression). I wouldn’t say it’s particularly soft, but it’s certainly not rough or scratchy. I’d say me not noticing the texture very much is a plus.
–All climate performance
Again, not tested in hot weather but it did seem to perform well in the ranges I wore it.
–Easy care
Check this one off, machine wash is good.
–Drirelease®
The wicking seems to work.
–UPF rating 25+
I wore this in Joshua Tree and did not get burned (nor did I tan through the shirt).
Extra Notes
I liked the thinness of the shirt, it layered quite well and yet kept me warm enough when needed.
I really like the design detail, it was flattering and different, and the pattern seemed to help regulate temperature.
The sleeves were a little long on me (I had a Medium, I sometime wear Small in outdoor clothing) the rest of it fit perfect.
Conclusion
This is a solid baselayer and can function as a top layer, I brought it on my current trip (which I’m on right now) to Indian Creek… a trip where I was reducing the amount of stuff I was bringing so that I could fly without checking a bag so that tells you how much I like the shirt.