First Impressions of Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s
The Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s is a garment designed for the active woman who values performance and comfort during intense outdoor activities. Mountain Equipment has a reputation for crafting high-quality outdoor gear, and this zip T aims to deliver a lightweight, fast-drying solution for running in challenging conditions. This piece stands out with its focus on breathability, odor control, and versatility, making it potentially ideal for long mountain runs or as a base layer in cooler weather.
My search for a better layering system for early morning runs and fastpacking trips led me to the Nava Long Sleeve Zip T. I needed something that would wick sweat effectively, offer a bit of warmth without overheating, and most importantly, not stink after a few hours of hard effort. The promises of a lightweight, wicking fabric and HeiQ odor control technology were exactly what I was seeking.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the feel of the fabric. It’s incredibly light and soft against the skin, a characteristic that’s crucial for a base layer or standalone running top. The slim fit looked flattering without appearing restrictive, and the deep zip promised excellent ventilation.
Compared to other long-sleeved running shirts I own, like the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt and the Smartwool Merino 150 Long Sleeve, the Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s seemed to strike a better balance between wicking performance and odor control. While the Patagonia is excellent for hot weather breathability, it lacks long-term odor resistance. The Smartwool is comfortable and resists odor well, but it is too warm for intense activity above 60 degrees.
I was definitely excited to try this garment. Its lightweight feel and focus on performance features gave me high hopes for its performance during long, challenging runs. I was eager to see if it would live up to its promise of being both comfortable and functional in a variety of conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s was a 15-mile trail run in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The weather was typical for late spring – cool at the start (around 45°F) and warming up quickly to the low 60s with bright sunshine. I wore it as a standalone top.
The initial cool air was kept at bay and once I warmed up, the shirt wicked moisture effectively, keeping me surprisingly dry. The deep zip was a lifesaver when the sun came out, allowing me to dump heat quickly without stopping to remove a layer. No chafing and the slim fit hugged my form nicely.
No issues were encountered during this first run but, I was surprised at how well it performed straight away in slightly diverse temperatures.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple trail runs, a fastpacking trip, and some gym workouts, the Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s has proven to be a reliable and versatile piece of gear. It has become my go-to top for any activity where temperature regulation and moisture management are paramount.
The Nava Long Sleeve Zip T has held up incredibly well. There are no signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to abrasion from a running vest and backpack straps. The fabric has maintained its shape and wicking performance, and the seams remain intact.
Maintaining the shirt is easy. It washes well in cold water and dries quickly, either on a line or in the dryer. The HeiQ Fresh technology seems to be working as advertised, as the shirt resists odors even after multiple uses between washes.
Compared to my previous base layers, the Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s outperforms them in terms of overall comfort, breathability, and odor control. It has quickly become an essential part of my outdoor wardrobe.
Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s
Specifications
- Fabric/Material: Constructed from 87% Recycled Polyester and 13% Polyester, the shirt balances wicking performance with durability. This blend makes it quick-drying and resistant to shrinking or stretching.
- Weight: At just 4.6 oz, the Nava Long Sleeve Zip T is incredibly lightweight. This is crucial for activities where every ounce counts.
- Fit: The Slim fit provides a close-to-body feel that enhances wicking performance. It layers well under a jacket or vest.
- Zipper: The YKK deep centre front zip allows for excellent ventilation. This is a key feature for regulating body temperature during high-output activities.
- Odor Control: HeiQ Fresh odour neutralising technology keeps the shirt smelling fresh. This allows for multiple wears between washes.
- Seams: Flatlocked seams provide next-to-skin comfort. This eliminates chafing and irritation.
- Reflective Details: Reflective print detailing enhances visibility in low-light conditions. This is important for safety during early morning or evening runs.
These specifications contribute to the shirt’s overall performance by ensuring it is lightweight, breathable, comfortable, and functional. The recycled polyester content also aligns with environmentally conscious values.
Performance & Functionality
The Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s performs exceptionally well as a technical running top and base layer. Its primary function is to wick moisture away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
The shirt excels in hot and humid conditions, thanks to its highly breathable fabric and the deep front zip that allows for customizable ventilation. It also provides a moderate amount of warmth when worn as a base layer in cooler temperatures.
The main strength of the Nava Long Sleeve Zip T is its versatility. It’s equally comfortable on a long trail run as it is as a base layer under a ski jacket. A potential weakness might be its lack of wind resistance, as the lightweight fabric is designed for breathability rather than protection from the elements. It meets and exceeds my expectations as a multi-functional piece of activewear.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-made, and the stitching is clean and strong. The slim fit is flattering without being restrictive, and the shirt moves with the body comfortably.
There is virtually no learning curve with this shirt. It’s easy to put on, zip up, and forget about while you focus on your activity.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of materials and construction, the Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s should last for several seasons of regular use. The fabric is resistant to pilling and snagging, and the seams are reinforced for added durability.
The shirt is easy to maintain. Machine wash cold and tumble dry low, or hang to dry.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s does not come with any specific accessories but is designed to work seamlessly with other outdoor gear.
It is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including running vests, backpacks, and outer layers. The shirt can be easily paired with other Mountain Equipment products or items from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s
Pros
- Lightweight and Breathable: The Nava Long Sleeve Zip T is incredibly light and breathable, making it ideal for high-output activities.
- Excellent Moisture Wicking: The fabric effectively wicks sweat away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- Odor Control: HeiQ Fresh technology keeps the shirt smelling fresh, even after multiple uses.
- Versatile: The Nava Long Sleeve Zip T can be worn as a standalone top or as a base layer in a variety of conditions.
- Comfortable Fit: The slim fit is flattering without being restrictive, and the flatlocked seams prevent chafing.
Cons
- Limited Wind Resistance: The lightweight fabric offers little protection from wind.
- Price: At $36.32, it is more expensive than some basic long-sleeve shirts.
Who Should Buy Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s?
The Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s is perfect for trail runners, hikers, fastpackers, and anyone who engages in high-output activities in varying weather conditions. This garment is designed for athletes who need a versatile, lightweight, and breathable layer that wicks moisture effectively and resists odors.
This product is not ideal for individuals who prioritize maximum wind protection or warmth over breathability and moisture management. It might also not be the best choice for those on a very tight budget, as there are cheaper options available, though they may not offer the same level of performance.
A must-have accessory to wear with this is a good sports bra. Also, a lightweight windbreaker could enhance the versatility of this shirt.
Conclusion on Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s
The Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s is a fantastic piece of technical apparel that delivers on its promises of lightweight performance, breathability, and odor control. It has quickly become one of my go-to tops for a wide range of outdoor activities.
The price of $36.32 is justified by the shirt’s exceptional performance and versatility. Given its durable construction, I expect it to last for many seasons, making it a worthwhile investment.
I would highly recommend the Mountain Equipment Nava Long Sleeve Zip T – Women’s to anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile long-sleeved running shirt or base layer. Give it a try and experience the difference a well-designed piece of technical apparel can make!