By Jon Jonckers
This NRS paddler’s hoodie is what happens when a sun shirt heads off to the University of Idaho, studies hydrology and comes back with a PhD in river life. First touch: it’s airy. The Silkweight fabric feels cool against the skin, engineered with UPF protection for long days on oars or the end of a paddle. The “Hybrid” part earns its name. Durable woven poly-spandex panels in the shoulders, back and chest add abrasion resistance without limiting movement or breathability.
Strategic seam placements avoid high friction zones, which enhances athletic performance, even if you’re just wearing it with waders. This hoodie wicks sweat efficiently, dries fast and resists that damp, clingy sag that some technical shirts develop after a dunk to cool off. It features two zippered, mesh-lined chest pockets for stashing a snack, keys or other small essentials. It layers smoothly under a life jacket and still looks sharp enough for a post-river brewery stop without screaming “technical apparel.” This hoodie straddles the eddy line between featherlight comfort and legitimate performance armor. MSRP: $109.95. Nrs.com
