Everybody has one—a go-to base layer that serves as a sort of security blanket for outdoor-loving adults. Since being introduced to SPF Addict’s Kristin Sport Top earlier this year, I haven’t departed for a single trip or adventure without it. The long-sleeve top is comfortable and made with quick-dry, anti-bacterial material—which means it’s up for the challenge of getting stuffed in and out of my backpack and getting me through multiple outdoor excursions throughout each trip. Based in California, SPF Addict is making fashionable and durable men’s and women’s clothing made with organic green fibers that provide an ultraviolet protection factor of 50+, even when soaking wet. Made primarily out of eucalyptus wood, the top’s TENCEL SUN® lyocell fiber environmentally-friendly material is also incredibly absorbent, making clothing created from it perfect for outfitting adventures of the water sport variety. And unlike some women’s outwear, the Kristin Sport Top was clearly designed to fit a woman’s features. The stretchy fabric also consists of spandex and hugs all of the right places, while allowing room to move in others without becoming overly loose-fitting, which is never fun when speed is a factor in your adventure. All manufactured in the U.S., SPF Addict’s clothing line offers a spectrum of casual every-day clothing and functional outerwear.
Pros: It’s lightweight, but substantial enough to use in warm and cooler weather. Wear it for an extra layer against the cool night air or a windy day, or simply to provide coverage from the sun when you’re out playing on a sunny day. Since it’s so versatile, it’s a great gear addition for someone like me whose adventures and travels often surpass the standard three-day weekend getaway. Instead of packing a variety of base layers, long-sleeve shirts, or sweatshirts, I’ve really only needed this one. Although it’s a basic print design—offering only a rainbow of solid print colors—it’s classic fashionable design means that it can easily camouflage itself as part of your streetwear wardrobe, too. When I’m finished playing outside, I can throw on a pair of jeans and sandals with the Kristin Top and meet friends for a rewarding craft beer or to gorge back all of the calories I burned during the day’s fun.
Cons: I’m petite, which sounds cute, but mostly means that I’m really short. The Kristin Sport Top’s design includes extra length in the torso area, which for me, means a fair amount of bunching around my waist. However, if you’re an averaged-sized person, the fit should work out just fine.
Where I Took It: Kayaking on Lake Michigan, early-morning hang gliding above Lookout Mountain in Georgia, fly fishing on the Hiawasse River outside of Chattanooga Tennessee, hiking to the Maroon Bells in Aspen, Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Winter Park, cycling in a rain storm in Texas Hill Country… the list goes on.
