Season Five made waves at last year’s Outdoor Retailer with their unique shirts and shorts that are a sort of cross between rash guard and wet suit. Inspired by standup paddle boarding, the innovative fabric was a big hit for its waterproofiness and insulative properties. This year, Season Five is expanding their line to more dry-land pursuits with shells and shirts meant for any outdoor excursion.
The Season Five Animas S/S Tee features new Atmos LT fabric made from recycled polyester. It’s water repellent, odor resistant, moisture wicking and feels quite soft against the skin. I can see this being a big hit among the loyal Season Five paddling types who are looking for a lighter weight shirt for a hot day, as well as with runners, mountain bikers and participants in general aerobic activities.
Also new from Season Five is the Quandry and Windom Wind Shell (the former for men and the latter for women.) These shells made from ultra light weight nylon features elastic cuffs, waterproof treated fabric and super cool vents in the armpits that are laser cut in little circles. These almost-not-there wind shells pack down to practically nothing for easy transport in a pocket or small pack in case of unexpected rain.
Another new shell that will be tailor made for Utah athletes are the Crestone and Blanca 2.5L shells. These outer layer jackets are made from super light weight, stretchy 2.5-layer fabric for ultimate protection from the elements while still maintaining mobility. But what’s really innovative is the two small laser-cut slots on the sides that allow the waist straps of a pack to be buckled underneath the shell for increased pack fit and to decrease chafing. They also have a drop tail for tush coverage, tapered interior for a nice fit, elastic cuffs and fully cinched hood. It also packs down tiny so there would be no reason not to have it along wherever you go.
If there is any doubt as to the ultra performance of Season Five’s fabrics, their rep, Lizzie, poured water all over the Animas S/S Tee and it immediately beaded up and fell away without ever soaking through. Plus, Lizzy purposefully soaked a shirt by rubbing water in, then turned it inside out to show that the second layer remained dry. Color me impressed and rearing to get my hands on some Season Five product to test it out in Utah’s mountains on a rainy day!
For more, visit Season Five online.