I’m a lucky guy. No…really. I get to try out all kinds of amazing gear. On or off the bike–I get to sample some amazing products, put them through the test, and write about them here. Last month the fine people at Showers Pass released two impressive new pieces to add to their merino base layer lineup. The Base Camp Merino Hoodie, and the Apex MerinoTech Long Sleeve T.
Base Camp Merino Hoodie by Showers Pass $135
Out of the box, I was struck by how incredibly soft the material is. Think kitten soft. Baby duck soft. I mean…very soft. The all-season 230 gsm merino fabric glides on and fits like a warm hug. Available in two colors and sizes S-XXL, the Base Camp Hoodie is going to be one of those wear-anywhere-anytime pieces comfortably layered for colder days with your favorite shell or as a stand-alone piece during the shoulder seasons. Due to its smart style and functionality, the Base Camp Hoodie is going to be a favorite for chilling around basecamp or at your favorite watering hole after the ride.
The Base Camp Hoodie moves with you on the bike–loose enough to allow freedom of movement yet maintains its shape when you’re railing a corner. Constructed with 95% merino wool and a 5% polyamide blend, this hoodie is washable and like most merino wool items, naturally resists odors and has amazing moisture-wicking qualities.
Details:
- All-season 230 gsm midweight fabric
- Convenient zippered Kangaroo pocket
- UPF 40 sun protection
- Merino wool naturally resists odor, wicks moisture
- Titanium gray accent stitching
- Reflective label at hem.
Apex Merino Tech Long Sleeve $89
Next up we have the Apex Merino Tech Long Sleeve. I had the opportunity to test out the short sleeve version of the Apex Tech-T last summer. I was stoked to see a long sleeve version rollout this winter.
Redesigned from the same great cut as its short-sleeved cousin, the long sleeve Apex wicks moisture during heavy pedal sessions without trapping the regular odors you’d expect from a typical poly-blend jersey. Your friends will have no idea that you just crushed 20-miles of single-track while you’re quenching your thirst at the taproom.
Available in three cool colors, the Apex is constructed with 18.5-micron merino spun around a nylon core. The result is a lightweight, yet ultra-durable, flexible fabric providing amazing comfort and warmth as a layered piece. This season I’ve worn this shirt during deep winter fat-bike sessions layered with my favorite wool jersey and a jacket. The Apex Tech-T has performed time after time.
Technical Features:
- Merino Wool blend fabric provides antimicrobial protection from odors, natural breathability, and stretch for comfort during high-intensity activities
- Raglan sleeves are flatlock stitched for durability and comfort
- Flatlock stitching on side panels with no traditional side seams reduce chafe points
- Fabric offers natural antimicrobial protection from odors with core-spun 87% Merino Wool 13% Nylon blend
- Relaxed fit with a longer back length for on the bike coverage
- Reflective label
- Quick-drying
- UPF 40 protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays
- 150 gsm summer weight fabric
Technical features aside, the Apex Merino Tech T LS is great for daily wear.
It comes as no surprise given Showers Pass’s history of success that these two pieces are well made, super comfortable, and worthy of your hard-earned money. Paired together, or solo– the Base Camp Merino Hoodie and the Apex Merino Tech Long Sleeve provide the perfect one-two punch to keep you warm on cool days, well-styled, and comfortable whether you’re ripping laps at your local trail, or simply hanging out after the ride.
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