Marmot AirExchange Perforated Short-Sleeve Pattern Shirt and Arch Rock UPF 50 Shorts Review

Review by Will Trail

Initial Impressions

Marmot’s AirExchange Perforated Short-Sleeve Pattern Shirt and Arch Rock UPF 50 Shorts are designed for lightweight hiking adventures, prioritizing sun protection and comfort. Their appearance and functionality make them suitable for both the trail and more casual social settings.

Detailed Review

The Marmot Arch Rock UPF 50 shorts are constructed from a lightweight, abrasion-resistant nylon blend that offers a slight stretch, breathability, and quick-drying capabilities for optimal comfort during hikes. The nylon material features an environmentally conscious PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish that sheds water to keep you dry and provides an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50. The shorts include two front hand pockets and a zippered pocket on the front right side for added security. Two rear pockets offer additional storage if needed.

I found the sizing to lean towards a slimmer fit; if you are between sizes or prefer a more relaxed fit, you might consider sizing up. The built-in stretch still made the shorts comfortable and allowed for ease of movement during walking and climbing. They offer good breathability, and the material feels higher quality than that of standard nylon shorts.

The Marmot AirExchange Perforated Short-Sleeve Pattern Shirt is made from a polyester fabric with micro-perforations throughout to enhance breathability and quick drying. I found this fabric very comfortable, and even in direct sunlight, I never felt excessively warm. A front chest pocket provides a place to store a small snack or sunglasses. The collar is nicely shaped and doesn’t flop around in the wind.

I wore this shirt while hiking and to the office, and it performed well in both environments, as the shirt tail is long enough to tuck in for more formal occasions. My only minor issue with the shirt is that the shoulders could be roomier; my broad shoulders caused the sleeves to bunch up and bind when I raised my arms. Otherwise, the rest of the shirt fits well, without being too baggy or tight. I could easily see myself going for a mountain bike ride after work in this shirt, as it would provide good temperature regulation and sun protection.

Closing Thoughts

Overall, the Marmot Perforated Short-Sleeve Pattern Shirt and Arch Rock UPF 50 Shorts are made from high-quality materials that provide protection from the sun and light rain. They remain comfortable, resist heat buildup, and allow for unrestricted movement. Marmot has successfully designed clothing versatile enough for the office, hiking, or social gatherings.

Will Trail

Will grew up in Idaho (fifth generation!) where he enjoyed the outdoors, riding his bike, participated in multiple sports, and working on the family ranch from time to time.

During college at Montana Tech, he played football for a few years and worked as a wildland firefighter during the summers.  He met his future wife, Erin Trail, there and after graduating with a degree in Geophysical Engineering, they moved to Texas where he was involved with racing his Subaru WRX, camping and powerlifting.