Shoulder-season weather requires a variety of layering options for morning trail running. But, those same layers also need to be versatile because the weather can change at a moment’s notice. The new GOREWEAR Contest 2.0 Long Sleeve Tee is built to be breathable and protective and on the trail.
GOREWEAR Contest 2.0 Long Sleeve Tee Features:
- Ultralight and breathable polyester fabric (56% recycled)
- Bonded, wide collar
- Laser-cut ventilation holes
- Drop tail for added coverage
- Reflective details
- MSRP: $90
Lightweight long-sleeve running shirt
GOREWEAR’s product lineup consists of purpose-built styles for cycling and running. As you can imagine, their use of Gore-Tex fabrics is common throughout, but not everything features their fabrics. The new Contest 2.0 Long Sleeve Tee is a great example — using a mixture of recycled and first-use polyester knit fabrics. The fabric features a micro-grid pattern that clearly sets the tone with the piece.
Tops on the list is breathability and GOREWEAR has outfitted the Contest 2.0 Long Sleeve with additional, laser-cut vent ports along the shoulder fronts and rear center panel. Those ports are present, but it’s hard for me to say if they really do much — considering how naturally-breathable the knit fabric is. As an added bonus, those vent ports are also reflective in low light.
While on longer runs, the Contest 2.0 does live up to the hype by expelling moisture in a jiffy and remaining cool on warmer mornings while adding a touch of warmth on chilly starts. I haven’t experienced any chafing and really appreciate the next-to-skin comfort in all conditions.
I have worn the Contest 2.0 Long Sleeve alone, under a vest and under a jacket, like the new GOREWEAR Concurve Jacket. During inclement weather, the lightweight material does add just enough warmth alone under a shell.
The sizing is a little off from previous GOREWEAR running pieces (the large R7 Hooded Jacket fits perfectly, for example). The size large here feels oversized to me and I should have gone with a medium. With the drop tail hem, it does tend to sit below my bum and slightly tugs the shirt rearward. Overall, it drapes loser everywhere than is ideal for a running shirt.
As mentioned, when layered, I’ve used the Contest 2.0 down into the 20’s and when worn alone up into the 60’s. The black color obviously limits the upper temperature comfort, but the sleeves are easily pushed up and the fabric does certainly breathe well.
Fit: I’m 5’11” and 173 lbs, wearing the size large. As you can see, the fit is generous on me and I would likely prefer a medium.
Buy Now: Visit GOREWEAR.com
The Bottom Line
The micro-grid fabric GOREWEAR uses with the Contest 2.0 Long Sleeve is outstanding. I love how comfortable it is next-to-skin and how well it both breathes and adds a touch of warmth alone or when layered. The cut is great, but is more oversized than the "slim fit" they purport.
The Good:
- Really comfortable fabric
- Adds a touch of warmth alone or layered
- Remains relatively stink-free for multiple uses
- Dries in a jiffy
The Bad:
- Definitely not slim fit -- size down
- Cap sleeves are a little boxy (could be due to size)
- Breathability
- Comfort
- Fit
- Style
