Urban Quest undershirts for men
Short answer: Urban Quest undershirts are thin base layers that lie flat under a shirt. They absorb sweat before it reaches the outer layer and so extend the time between washing the shirt.
The job of an undershirt
It should lie flat, add no bulk at the shoulder and absorb moisture before it reaches the shirt. That is why it is cut closer and thinner than an ordinary t-shirt, which is often too loose to lie smoothly under a slim shirt. See the styles in bamboo undershirts for men.
With or without sleeves
Without sleeves adds the least bulk in the armpit and under a fitted shirt, but it does not catch sweat there. Short sleeves protect the shirt best against sweat marks, because the sleeve takes the moisture first. Choose by what bothers you most. See the difference in undershirt without sleeves or with sleeves.
Colour under the shirt
Skin tone shows least under a white shirt, because it is close to your own skin. White shows more clearly than most expect, because the contrast between undershirt and skin is visible through the fabric. Under dark shirts, black is a safe choice. Read more in white or skin toned undershirt.
The neckline
If you wear your shirt with an open collar, the neckline of the undershirt should not show. A v neck sits lower than a crew neck and disappears under most open collars. If you always wear a tie and a closed collar, the neckline matters less.
How many you need
If you wear an undershirt every day and wash weekly, you need at least seven. A few extra keep you covered if laundry day slips. Choose the same style in two colours for light and dark shirts. See the full brand in Urban Quest.
Summer and winter
In summer the undershirt keeps the shirt dry, in winter it works as a warming base layer under knitwear and shirt. The same top does both jobs, because it is thin enough not to get too warm. Read more in bamboo undershirt as a base layer.
The fit
The undershirt should sit close without pulling across the chest. If it is too loose, it bunches under the shirt. If it is too short, it slides out of your trousers when you sit. Choose a length that tucks in well.
Washing
Undershirts are washed after each wear, because they absorb sweat all day. 40 degrees without fabric softener keeps the fabric absorbent. Avoid the tumble dryer, which wears the fabric. The full method is in the washing guide.
When to replace
When the fabric gets thin or the neckline starts to sag, it is time for new ones. A worn undershirt absorbs moisture less well and protects the shirt less. Because the styles repeat, you can buy exactly the same one.
Frequently asked questions
Which colour should I wear under a white shirt?
Skin tone shows least, because it is close to your own skin. White can be clearly visible through the shirt, and black shows through most light shirts.
Can the undershirt be worn in winter?
Yes, it works as a thin base layer under knitwear and shirt. It is thin enough not to get too warm indoors when you take off your jumper.
How many undershirts do I need?
If you wear one every day and wash once a week, you need at least seven. A few extra give you room if laundry day slips by a day or two.
See our range of bamboo undershirt for men.
