Shirt for summer and for sport
Short answer: A shirt for summer and sport should be light, sit loosely enough to move in and be easy to wash often. Fit and the weight of the fabric matter more than the name of the fibre. Here is what to look for if the same shirt is to be worn both in the heat and for training.
What a shirt should do in summer
In summer a shirt should above all be light and give the body air. A thin fabric and a loose fit feel cooler than a thick and tight one, and the same goes for a round neck without a collar. Choose a colour that does not heat up too much in the sun, and avoid fabric that clings to the skin.
What it should do for sport
For sport you must be able to move freely, so a fit that does not pull at the shoulders and arms is important. The seams should not chafe when you run or lift, and the fabric must stand up to frequent washing. See bamboo T-shirts for men to compare cuts and fabrics for active days.
Weight and fabric
The weight of the fabric decides much of the feel, both in the heat and during activity. A light fabric lets air through, while a heavier one can feel full and warm. Hold the shirt up to the light and see how dense or open the knit is, and try it on if you can before you decide.
Fit and length
A shirt for sport should be long enough to cover the back when you bend, but not so long that it hangs in the way. The sleeves should sit without flapping, and the neck must not gape when you move. Try it with your arms raised and see if it moves with you.
Smell and freshness
When you sweat, it is best to wash the shirt after each wear so it does not lie damp in a basket. Hang it up to dry straight away if you cannot wash it at once. Clothes that are not fully dry when put away easily start to smell.
Washing and care
Follow the care label, wash at a low temperature and use a mild detergent. Skip softener and preferably air dry the shirt so the shape holds. Turn it inside out so the surface is protected, and do not wash it with clothes with zips and hook-and-loop fasteners.
Several shirts to alternate between
If you train several times a week and wear the shirt in daily life, it is practical to have several. Then one can dry while another is worn, and the wear is spread. The brand Bamboo Basics is one place to look if you want to compare several simple cuts.
What lies underneath
On active days underwear matters too, because a seamless fit can be nice to avoid chafing. See bamboo underpants for men to find something that suits your shirt and your activity.
Frequently asked questions
Can the same shirt be used for both summer and sport?
Yes, if it is light, sits loosely enough and can be washed often. For intense training you may prefer a shirt made specially for it.
How often should a shirt be washed after sport?
After each wear if you sweat. Hang it up to dry straight away if you cannot wash it at once so it does not lie damp.
What should I look for in a summer shirt?
A light fabric, a loose fit and a round neck. Light colours heat up less in the sun but show sweat and stains more easily.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
