Smartwool for the Summer: Active Ultralite Short Sleeve & Run Low Ankle Socks

Smartwool is a reliable brand that’s been in business for over 30 years, and I’ve been wearing their products since discovering my first long sleeved top in a running store in 2006. What makes Smartwool great is that their merino wool blend is soft, moisture-wicking, and odor resistant.

In the winter months, I pretty much live in Smartwool products. Their socks are a staple item, and I wear Smartwool underwear for long runs because I know I’ll be out there for a long time. However, I think many people forget that Smartwool also does a great job with clothes that will keep you cool when you get hot.

Recently, Smartwool sent Run Oregon the Women’s Active Ultralite Short Sleeve as well as a pair of the Women’s Run Low Ankle Socks, and as usual, I was not at all disappointed.

Looks & Fit

I received the Active Ultralite Short Sleeve in a teal color called Dusty Rose, but it’s available in 8 other colors as well. This shirt is considered a “regular fit,” which means you can move well in it without additional bulk. I opted for a size small, and I tend to hover between a small and medium in workout tops depending on the fit and style. Though I’m only 5’-4,” I have a long torso, and this shirt covers everything and doesn’t ride up when I move. The sleeves are a raglan style, and there are small subtle reflective Smartwool logos near the bottom hem on both the front and back.

The socks came to me in a basic white and grey in a size medium which fit a size 7 to 9.5 shoe.

Function & Construction

The very first thing I noticed when I pulled the Active Ultralite shirt out of the bag was that it was incredibly soft. It didn’t feel like cotton, but it didn’t feel like tech material either. It’s silky and smooth, definitely of a high quality.

Active Ultralite products, as the title would imply, are Smartwool’s lightest performance apparel. These clothes are meant to keep you nice and cool as your temperatures rise and they won’t weigh you down like some fabrics do.

This shirt is made with a TENCEL Lyocell Blend as well as that magical merino wool. It’s breathable, odor resistant, and due to the awesome moisture control properties, it will dry quickly too. If you’re like me and you get chilly in your damp, sweaty clothes if you’re unable to change right away, having this quick-dry material is a Godsend.

The socks are like all the Smartwool socks I’ve ever received, which means high quality materials that breathe well when your feet get hot. A 4 Degree™ elite fit system means they fit like a glove, and they are made specifically for a woman. Best of all, the Indestructawool™ technology means they will last a long time. The Low Ankle socks are the perfect length for the summer months coming.

Overall

The shirt and socks would be excellent picks for an intense workout on a warm day. If you tend to run a bit hot, the shirt is something you could grab for a hike, a run, or even just for everyday use. Great at temperature control and odor resistance, Smartwool will do all the work behind the scenes so you don’t have to worry about overheating. The products feel amazing on your skin, with the shirt’s buttery soft fabric and the smooth design of the socks.

These days, there are many brands to choose from, but Smartwool is the one I’ve always trusted because, like a reliable friend, they have never let me down.