Five Affordable Performance Shirts For This Summer

Summer is showing in many places throughout the US, especially here in the south. With warm temperatures on the way, that means more opportunities to get outside, enjoy nature and catch some rays.

When hiking, biking, kayaking, or whatever it is you like to do in the summer heat, it is important to wear clothing that will keep you cool, wick moisture, and provide protection from the Sun's harmful UV-rays.

If it is time for some new performance shirts, here are ten that will keep you comfortable and protected outdoors (and won't completely break the bank) this summer.

#1: The North Face Velocitee ($19.95)

The Velocitee by The North Face is my top pick because it is lightweight, wicks moisture, provides UV protection of UPF-15, extremely comfortable, and will not break the bank.

VaporWick™ technology wicks moisture away from the skin and transports it to the fabric's outer surface, for quick evaporation.

At only $19.95 online, this shirt is a steal and is a must have for outdoor adventures who want quality along with affordability.


#2: Marmot Windridge ($29.01)

There is very little difference between the Velocitee and the Windridge. Both are made of 100% polyester, wick moisture very well, and are comfortable.

The only differences between the two are the prices and UV protection ratings.

The Marmot Windridge is rated at a UV protection of UPF-50 and is $29.01 at Massey's Outfitters, in comparison to a UPF-15 rating for the Velocitee and is $19.95 at Backcountry.

#3: Patagonia Capilene 1 Stretch ($23.20)

The polyester/spandex make-up of the Capilene 1 wicks moisture and keeps you cool, but no where near as well as the Velocitee and Windridge do, though I do prefer this shirt on trail-runs.

The Capilene 1 is a little thicker than #1 and #2 and seems to hold odor more as a result, but all shirts will hold some odor regardless. Its thickness does provide UPF-50 protection from UV-rays.

This is a great buy and I guarantee you will love it.



#4: Columbia Mountain Tech III ($22.46)

The Mountain Tech III is perfect for hiking, backpacking, or just being outside. It is soft, cool, and wicks moisture along with odor.

This shirt uses Omni-Wick™ technology that wicks moisture well and provides UPF-15 protection from the sun.

Another great buy for the avid outdoorsman as well as for the weekend adventurer.



#5: Nike Vapor Touch ($28.00)

The Nike Vapor Touch is great for the casual runner. It is lightweight, wicks moisture, keeps you cool, and you probably won't get run over while wearing this shirt. Not to mention that the material feels amazing.

This bright-T uses Nike Dri-FIT® to keep you cool and dry, but it does not provide UV protection.










Five great shirts, five reasonable prices, and five reasons to get outside and stay active this summer.

Do you have one of these shirts and want to share your own review on it? Comment below and tell us what you think!