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California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt Review

What I love most about California Cowboy’s shirts is their functionality. We’ve recently covered their Western High Sierra Shirt (perfect for Fall and Winter activities) and their High Water Shirt (perfect for after playing in the pool or at the beach).

And as much as I love their High Water Shirt, because of the Terry Cloth lining, I don’t wear it unless I am going to the pool or beach. What about a shirt for boating? Or for hanging out at your local brew garden with friends? Or to wear on work calls so your boss says, “Huh, you’re looking festive today.”

California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt
California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt

Thankfully, California Cowboy has their Tropic High Water Shirt. They sent me one to test.

The Tropic High Water shirt is their take on a classic Camp shirt. They removed the Terry Cloth and used a new stretch fabric for a very light, loose, and comfortable fit.

And it still has the same features that make the Western High Sierra Shirt and their lined High Water Shirt so great:

  • Tech Dry Pocket for safe phone storage
  • Bottle Pocket for safe beer storage
  • Bottle Opener Pocket
  • Sunglass Loop
  • Camp Collar with loop
  • And it comes with a slick bottle opener and koozie

Last week I spent at the lake and this shirt was the perfect boating shirt. It was very comfortable in the 90-degree weather and I definitely made good use of the tech dry pocket for my iPhone and the extra beer storage.

California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt
California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt

I also have to acknowledge the fantastic designs on these shirts. The one I tested had this desert motel design; complete with howling coyotes, rattlesnakes, and cacti. Their designs are definitely a vibe.

If you’re looking for a functional shirt for summer, look no further than the Tropic High Water Shirt.

California Cowboy PCH Jogger Review

When I was at Outdoor Retailer, one of the standouts that was featured was an upcoming pant from California Cowboy. I was immediately impressed and I couldn’t wait to try them out. Luckily, California Cowboy was happy to oblige and sent a pair over.

California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

The PCH in the PCH Jogger stands for the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s an ode to the road tripper.

The PCH Jogger is a lightweight, stretch twill jogger. They have elastic ankle cuffs and an elastic waist.

California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

Then crotch is gusseted for extra comfort and stretch and the design also has an articulate knee so as you stretch and move the pant doesn’t shift on you.

It also has pockets for days.

  • Bellowed Bottle Pocket with Snap Closure
  • Breathable Mesh Tech Pocket
  • Welt Catch All Pocket
  • Front Slash Pockets
  • Combo Pen + Bottle Opener Pocket
California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

When I tested the PCH Jogger, I was road tripping across the Midwest and these pants were the perfect companion for 10 hour days in the car. They were light and comfy. The fabric itself is really soft.

Given that it was 90-degrees or more and the sun was beating on me while I was driving, I also found these pants to be very breathable. I never felt myself get uncomfortable or hot.

Once I got to the lake, I found the pockets to be especially functional. The catch-all pocket in the back was great for throwing in loose things: snail shells and special rocks from the kids, fishing supplies, and even my SONOS Roam (letting the top pop out of the pocket).

California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

Additionally, I love the safety that the tech pocket provided. I was able to zip it closed and keep my valuables safe, which was much needed as I was chasing kids on the dock making sure that they (or I) didn’t fall into the lake.

I love these pants. I can’t wait for more adventures this Summer and Fall in them.

With the PCH Jogger, I tested a 34″ waist. With the elastic, I found that it fit true to size.

Showers Pass Pushes Forward Sustainability Goals With Launch of “Ecolyte Elite” Jacket

Portland, OR – Showers Pass today introduces its EcoLyte Elite Jacket: the most eco-friendly jacket to date by the 25-year cycling outerwear veteran. The high-performance jacket features 100% recycled polyester face and lining fabrics, along with 100% recycled vent and pocket zippers. The polypropylene waterproof-breathable membrane uses low-temperature production and solvent-free lamination, further reducing the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.

EcoLyte Elite Jacket
EcoLyte Elite Jacket

“We set out to create an eco-friendly cycling jacket unlike any other in the marketplace, and I’m extremely proud of how the team came together and did just that,” says Jeremy Rider, PR Director of Showers Pass. “It’s turned out to be a surprisingly versatile piece, standing up to the abuse of multi-day adventures, but extremely lightweight; and legitimately pushing the boundaries of sustainability.”

EcoLyte Elite Jacket
EcoLyte Elite Jacket

The EcoLyte Elite isn’t just good for the planet. It is a premium piece of kit featuring Showers Pass’ tried-and-true cycling fit, a full-zip front, chest pocket, large core vents for temperature regulation, and a removable/adjustable brimmed hood that is helmet compatible. Reflective accents improve low-light visibility, and a back pocket holds essentials or stows the 13.7oz jacket when not in use. 

Product:

  • Showers Pass EcoLyte Elite Jacket
    • MSRP: $299 – Men’s Colors: Harvest & Glacier

Men’s sizes; Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large

  • MSRP: $299 – Women’s Colors: Harvest & Glacier

Women’s sizes; X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large

Available July 12th at  http://www.showerspass.com 

EcoLyte Elite Jacket
EcoLyte Elite Jacket

About Showers Pass 

Showers Pass was born in 1997, from the desire to develop clothing and gear that would get people out and into the outdoors no matter the weather. The brand’s reputation is built on the use of high-performance materials in combination with innovative functional design. Originally specializing in waterproof-breathable outerwear, Showers Pass now offers industry-leading Merino baselayers, active apparel, waterproof gloves, and waterproof socks. The Portland, Oregon based company is made up of a team of outdoor enthusiasts who run, bike, ski, hike, climb and play in the outdoors.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt Review

The Showers Pass Apex Merino Wool Tech is an extremely comfortable performance t-shirt. They sent us one to test and it’s been the perfect companion on many rides and hikes.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt
Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt

The Apex Merino Tech is made with 87% Merino Wool and 13% Nylon blend.

Merino Wool is a powerhouse of a fabric. It provides antimicrobial protection from odors and natural breathability. This makes the Apex Merino Tech the perfect shirt for long activities. When testing Merino Wool products, I always like to see how long I can go between washes before the stink sets in. I did a nice sweaty five-mile run, two 15 mile bike rides, and a four hour hike before I felt that I needed to put it in the wash. Given this performance, I am planning to take this on an overnight backpacking trip.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt

The Apex Merino Tech is also designed to reduce chafing. The sleeves and side panels have flatlocked stitching to reduce chafing. During testing with backpacks or hydration packs, I found that the shirt moved less than other performance fabrics, reducing the movement that my packs typically did.

I also appreciate that Showers Pass shirts have a longer back to keep the shirt from riding up. This is a great feature while cycling, reducing back exposure as you’re bent over the handlebars.

Unpacking the shipping box, I was immediately impressed by how light and soft this shirt was. You can tell how much thought and care Showers Pass put into this shirt.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt
Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt

The fit is on the slimmer side, but is perfect for the types of activities I’ve taken it on.

It was also comfortable when paired with their Cloudburst Jacket.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a performance t-shirt this summer, Merino Wool and this shirt from Shower Pass is a must buy.

I am 5’11” and 185 pounds and wear a size large.

You can purchase the Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt on their website for $75. Well worth it and it will last for several seasons.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt Review

If you could have the perfect after-pool or post-beach shirt, what would it look like?

Would it have a sunglass holder?

Would it be lined with the softest towel-like material?

Would it have a dry pocket that you could slide your iPhone in so that you could take it to the pool or beach without worrying about keeping it dry?

Would it have a pocket to stash an extra beer or seltzer?

Would it come with a bottle opener and coozie?

Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?

But California Cowboy lives on making your beachwear / poolwear dreams a reality.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

This summer they’ve released their High Water Shirt, which is the amalgamation of all these possibilities.

Over the last month I’ve been hanging out in Costa Rica. Pura Vida, all the way.

A lot of time at the beach and pool and this shirt has become a stable in my daily attire.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

It is lined with terry cloth, so I can hop out of the pool, put it on and be dry and comfortable.

I have three kids, so I’m always chasing after them. Sunglasses stashed on the head or easy to lose, so having a sunglass holder built into the shirt is amazing.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

Likewise, being able to carry an extra beverage or two is very important. The High Water Shirt has that covered with their beverage pocket.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

It’s easy to keep a cold one safe while you’re sipping on another one. Or, if you’re chasing after kids, stash your beverage into your pocket for safe keeping.

If you’re at the beach, it’s also a great pocket for stashing seashells.

Finally, there is the dry pocket. It can easily hold a iPhone Pro Max, wallet, and keys.

Needless to say, the product design on this is fantastic.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

I love this product and it is going with me to the pool and beach every time I go.

You can purchase the High Water Shirt on their website. I am 5’11”, 185 pounds, and wear a size Large.

KÜHL’s AIRSPEED™ Men’s Shirt Review

KÜHL sent our team the AIRSPEED shirt to review and I was immediately impressed.

Pirate Blue
KÜHL’s AIRSPEED™ Men’s Shirt

Colorado summers where I live are warm and dry with temperatures fluctuating from early morning to evening. Higher in the mountains, you get a wider range and lower low points in the morning and evening.

I found this shirt to be the perfect outdoor companion for those types of days.

For our test, I took this on an overnight camping and hiking trip.

The AIRSPEED is a long-sleeve shirt, which provides ample, UPF 30+, coverage. It was warm enough for cool mornings hiking through the woods. As the day heated up, the cuffs roll up easily to attach to a button located mid-bicep.

It is constructed using three different fabric types:

  • Fabric 1: 72% Nylon, 28% Polyester | 88 GSM
  • Fabric 2: 85% Polyester, 15% Cotton | 160 GSM
  • Fabric 3: (Mesh): 85% Polyester, 15% Cotton | 160 GSM

This combination of fabrics makes the AIRSPEED a breathable, high-performance shirt. The knit panels provide ventilation and stretch for easy movement. The sleeves are designed with five panels for freedom of motion; making it easy to set up the tent or cast a fishing line.

Pirate Blue
KÜHL’s AIRSPEED™ Men’s Shirt

Throughout the testing period, I found this shirt to be extremely comfortable. While hiking with a backpack on, my back did get sticky. It’s worth noting that the fabric isn’t “moisture wicking,” but as KÜHL describes it: “moisture managing.”

But after my hike, as I rested at the camp site, the shirt dried out quickly.

Additional features on this shirt include:

  • Zipper security pocket where I was easily able to stash my driver’s license and credit card
  • Hidden, button-down collar
  • Two button-down chest pockets for additional storage
  • Sunglass cleaner inside bottom left placket
Pirate Blue
KÜHL’s AIRSPEED™ Men’s Shirt

This is an extremely functional and durable shirt. Perfect companion for the outdoors. And it pairs really well with our recently reviewed KÜHL RENEGADE pant.

I am 5’11” and 185 pounds and wear a size large. Found that it fit true to size.

You can purchase this on their website or at your favorite outdoor store.

KÜHL’s RENEGADE Men’s Pant Review

KÜHL’s PR team sent me a pair of their RENEGADE Men’s Pant to test out. The KÜHL’s RENEGADE Men’s Pant delivered just in time for a trip I made down to San Antonio.

Koal
KÜHL’s RENEGADE Men’s Pant

While it is a great pair of pants for hiking and camping, it also became my favorite pants for travel.

It’s exclusive DURALUX fabric is a blend of 95% Nylon and 5% Spandex. It makes for a light, breathable pant. But these pants are tough! On a hike I lost my footing and slid on my butt over some loose gravel. “Oh no!” I thought, turning around to see if there was a hole or tear on my backside, but there wasn’t. Not even a slight abrasion! I could point to several other brands’ pants in my closet that have abrasions or tears from similar falls.

Movement is great in these, as well. KÜHL’s RENEGADE were designed with articulated knees and a gusseted crotch. Climbing and scrambling over rocks was easy in these. I didn’t feel that there was a time where the fabric was too tight in these over-articulated movements.

Koal
KÜHL’s RENEGADE Men’s Pant

What made these great for traveling was all the pockets; eight in total! There’s a side pocket that is big enough for a cell phone to slip in. There are two zippered pockets on the sides that were great to hold my wallet and AirPod headphones.

It’s also worth noting that these pants offer sun protection (UPF 50+) which is perfect for longer days out in nature.

I’m also a big fan of the style of these pants. They are comfortable, but they look good. When I met other team members in San Antonio they commented that I look like someone from Colorado, so mission accomplished!

These pants are available in a handful of different earth tones.

I’m 5’11” and wear a 34×32 and found them true to size.

They are available for purchase on their website, but can also be found in your favorite outdoor retailer.

Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie Review

We’ve covered Ibex in the past, including why Merino Wool rocks when it comes to outdoor adventuring.

Ibex recently sent us their Wool Aire Hoodie to review. And it came at the perfect time, just as a cold snap was descending on the Front Range.

Men's Wool Aire Hoodie
Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie

I was surprised opening the package. I knew they were sending me a jacket, but what was this mysterious package and why was it so light? Certainly this wasn’t the jacket! But it was.

The Wool Aire Hoodie is surprisingly light. A women’s medium is only 10 ounces. Mine, a men’s large, weighed in at 12.7 ounces. When wearing it, it is so lightweight that I often forget that I’m wearing a jacket. If feels similar to a windbreaker, but offers a lot more protection from the cold.

Men's Wool Aire Hoodie
Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie

For testing, I wore it for cold morning walks with the dog and on a few hikes. Even on brutally windy red flag days, the Wool Aire Hoodie helped keep my body temperature just right (part of the magic of Merino Wool) and was breathable and moisture-wicking.

During a long hike, I especially appreciated the temperature control of Merino Wool. I was comfortable throughout without experience any sweaty discomfort or chilliness. When it got too warm for the jacket, it was also compact enough to tuck into my pack without taking up much space.

It also fits well. I’m 5’11” and 180 pounds. A large fit true to size and the athletic fit was perfect for my lean and somewhat muscular frame. While it offers great insulation, the jacket doesn’t look like a puffy jacket. It looks really good and sharp!

Men's Wool Aire Hoodie
Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie

It features two hand pockets and a stash pocket on the left breast.

The scuba style hood was great, as well. Not a ton of excess fabric, but it moved well with my head as I leaned from side to side or bent down.

Since we’re publishing this close to Earth Day, it’s worth noting that the Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie is sustainable, as well.

The Wool Aire Hoodie is made from polyester, Merino Wool, and virgin nylon. All Ibex Merino Wool is sustainably sourced and the virgin nylon is made with Bluesign certified nylon, meaning that it using as few chemical inputs as possible. And with it’s wind- and water-resistance, it was made free of poly- and perfluorinated chemicals.

Men's Wool Aire Hoodie
Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie

If you’re in the market for a new jacket, I highly recommend the Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie. It’s the perfect lightweight performance jacket for the backcountry, but stylish enough for listening to live music at the beer garden. It looks great and performs well. It’s overall quality is insanely good and I can imagine it lasting for years.

Sleep Well In DKOTA Grizzly Cade Pants

I am really excited to share with you that I have found the perfect everyday sleepwear pants from DKOTA Grizzly: the Cade Pants.

DKOTA Grizzly Cade Pants
DKOTA Grizzly Cade Pants

They are made with a blend of Cotton, Polyester, and Baby French Terry. The Cade Pants have an elastic waistband with a drawcord, making them really flexible. There are four total pockets, including a hidden zippered pocket and back patch pocket.

Out of all my lounge pants, these are the most comfortable. They have become my go-to sleepwear and weekend lounge pants. The Cade Pants are perfect for sleeping in, but also rolling out of bed to take the dog for a walk.

During a winter camping trip, I also found that these were warm and comfortable enough in my sleeping bag. I didn’t feel overheated or cold.

The Cade Pants can be found at many of DKOTA Grizzly’s retail partners. If you visit their Find Retailer page, you can locate a retailer near you. There are multiple colors available and they retail for $68.

I normally wear 34×32 pants and I wear a large.

DKOTA Grizzly’s New Boone Shirt Review

During Outdoor Retailer, I had the chance to visit with the St. Louis based clothing manufacturer, DKOTA Grizzly.

Over the past several years, I’ve been visiting their booths and seeing their products at our local Scheel’s and have always been impressed with their attention to detail when it came to creating functional and stylish clothing.

DKOTA Grizzly specializes in men’s rugged-casual clothing.

Their team walked me through their Spring ’22 line and I could immediately see how their product design had evolved from heavier fabrics to performance fabrics, making DKOTA Grizzly a “crossover brand” that can allow wearers to transition from the gym to work.

A majority of their new products, including the Boone shirt, that we’ll dive into more detail on, were created with active stretch a movement fabrics; making it the perfect spring or summer companion.

DKOTA Grizzly Boone Long-Sleeve Shirt
DKOTA Grizzly Boone Long-Sleeve Shirt

DKOTA Grizzly sent us their new Boone shirt to test out.

This shirt is made from a Nylon / Spandex blend. It is light and breathable. During testing, I wore it on a hike during a fairly warm spring day and found it to be very comfortable. The fabric itself was very cool, which I think would be a great pairing in summer when it is a bit warmer. Or, at the least, pairing it with a jacket on cooler days.

The Boone also has two hidden zippered chest pockets. Now, when it comes to button-up shirts, I don’t really ever use my chest pockets. But I liked the style of the zippers. Typically when buttons or snaps, it was always a pain to undo the button. The zippers made it a heckuvalot easier to access.

DKOTA Grizzly also designed this shirt so that there’s a sunglass wipe on the lower hem and a loop inside to hang your sunglasses from.

It’s little things like this that made their product design standout and I found myself constantly surprised.

I’m a big fan of this shirt.

It’s still warming up in Colorado, but as Spring starts to settle in, this shirt will join me on many adventures. Whether I am fishing, paddle boarding, or boating.

The Boone can be found at many of DKOTA Grizzly’s retail partners. If you visit their Find Retailer page, you can locate a retailer near you.

DKOTA Grizzly New Boone Shirt

They also created another shirt called the Barkley, which is a short-sleeved variation for what we tested.

To learn more about their manufacturing practices, you can visit their website: dakotagrizzly.com.