https://redoriginal.com
By Dale Mears
What to wear when on the bank or out on your SUP board? I am not someone who wants to be paddling in a wetsuit or drysuit if I can help it. In the winter maybe a set of dry trousers and layers, summer a single top, shorts and boots/bare feet. I’d been paddling in a range of outdoor tops and base layers but you always have to question warmth and speed of drying if you take a dip.
Red Original performance top layer
I have been using a Red Original performance top layer for a while now and have found this to be my ‘go to’ SUP wear. The design is simple, it’s a long sleeve top, with a zip neck approx 20cm down so you have to put on over the head and unzip if too warm. The top only comes in grey with red detailing to fit with the Red branding although as a non-Red paddler, the branding is not as overwhelming as some other products can be. The design is smart and does not look out of place if wearing off the water. In fact I have found myself wearing instead of a jumper when going on walks and other outdoor activities as well as on a trip to the pub.
The long sleeves feature thumb holes if you like to use them. The fit is good and not too baggy, yet the material is stretchy so does not feel restrictive on the water. The material is thin and feels like it won’t be warm but it’s very surprising, the top is very warm on windy cold days yet surprisingly cool when the sun is shining thanks to some clever moisture wicking fabric.
I’ve generally been wearing this with a base layer underneath, however, as the temperature have risen, I have been dropping the short sleeve base layer and wearing it on its own. In a similar way to a rash vest the top has flat lock seams will not irritate the skin. Best bit is it doesn’t smell like most thermals even after a few uses on the water, which has always been an issue with base layers and tops. I’ve taken a few little dips whilst wearing the top and found it to dry quickly, even washes between use it’s the first item dry on the line.
There is a small pocket on the chest which although I have not used it I’m sure it might come in handy for most. Personally I get a little annoyed having things in these pockets but recently also found a secret pocket stitched into the seam of the top, which I was unaware of. This is great if wanting to stack some secret beer money! I image there are some paddlers who may be reading this who own the top but have not found the pocket as I do not recall seeing it in the tags.
All in all a great top, comfortable and super versatile, this will suit all outdoor and non-outdoor situations.
Prices: UK £50.00; US $78.00; EU €59.00
