Under Armour roundup & review

Heat Gear:

Styles: (Sleeveless, T-Shirt, Long Sleeve, Turf (reinforced forearm construction)

The first thing I noticed when I put it on was how much compression was actually applied to my body through the shirt. It's not a tight, restrictive feeling; it's just a solid compression in specific body areas. Wearing it I feel freer in range of movement than any other shirt I've worn. The strength of compression is stronger in my abs, arms, shoulders and mid-upper chest. It feels almost like you have a spotter walking around with you, making sure you're supported properly.

I tested the shirt hiking, kayaking, running and lifting weights. I must say, I have to recommend it over cotton hands down. It never shifted positions; it never bound up or felt tight. It stayed exactly how I first put it on from start to finish. While hiking and running I was able to feel the air cool me as if I was naked. The moisture was quickly pulled from my body and stayed consistently drier (and exceptionally lighter) than my cotton t-shirts, regardless of how hard my output was.

Kayaking and lifting weights was a slightly different experience. When I was kayaking I was wet pretty the majority of the time. However, what I did notice was that my range of motion was not constricted and I didn't feel slowed down, nor was I getting a rash where I normally would from wearing wet cotton for several hours. It also stayed very light throughout the entire day and dried very fast when not being consistently splashed. Lifting weights was a similar experience. I also noted that I felt more "together" in that the fabric seemed to support my movements and give my muscles support and lift. Overall I was very impressed with the performance.

Recommended for: Base layer, hiking (extreme), running/sprinting, athletic sports, bouldering / rock climbing (turf gear due to forearm protection)

Loose Gear:

Styles: (Sleeveless, T-Shirt, Long Sleeve)

Loose Gear is similar in function and design to Heat Gear, the main difference being that it comes designed with no compression. This is excellent for people who are not fit enough to wear the compression gear as their only layer of clothing due to its form fitting nature. I've had a few chances to use the loose gear in many of the same situations as the standard Heat Gear, and in each circumstance the same couple of thoughts came to mind.

Using Loose Gear in the gym, on the track, or hiking is definitely better than cotton could ever be. The performance was not as great as the Heat Gear and it also seemed to hold slightly more water. It was also heavier (both wet and dry) than the Heat Gear product. While not quite at the level of Heat Gear the performance of Loose Gear is still far above that of standard cotton t-shirts. My perception of the performance difference between Loose Gear and Heat Gear would probably be 30%. It's still good, just not great. I was spoiled by the performance of Heat Gear early on.

Recommended for: Daily wear, hiking (moderate), jogging (moderate)

Cold Gear:

Styles: (Crew, Mock Turtleneck, Action Legging)

Cold Gear takes the best of what's found in Heat Gear and adds the ability to trap in warm dry air. I purchased the Mock Turtleneck and used it throughout the Pacific Northwest winter in a variety of capacities. To say I was thoroughly impressed is an understatement. It slips on very easily, looks sharp under almost any windbreaker or coat, and locks in heat like you wouldn't believe. On even the coldest nights--while trudging through snow--only Cold Gear and a windbreaker were all that was needed to stay warm.

I was able to put Cold Gear through some rapid temperature changes in my work as an EMT/Fire Fighter. Wearing it under my uniform I took it from a 70 degree fire station to the 30 degree outdoors and back to an 80 degree aid car after working hard to haul patients back and forth. Cold Gear stood the test every step of the way. Indoor temperatures are handled perfectly; the breathable fabric held up great. Outdoors, after a second of adjustment, I was again very comfortable. My only complaint was that due to the breathability of the fabric when the wind picks up the temperature of the clothing drops a few degrees. A cheap windbreaker would prevent this. The temperature drop I did experience was not enough for me to worry about moving to a warmer environment, which is pretty spectacular for 30 degree weather with no coat!

The side of Cold Gear I haven't talked about is its moisture wicking. I sweat a lot, especially in temperature fluctuations from cold to hot. I was consistently dry, and thus more confident while performing my duties. Was I hot at times? Sure, but unlike when I wear my normal cotton t-shirt, I was not dripping with sweat--only to have it freeze into a sheet of ice when I get back out into the cold. I have to recommend this piece as either a standalone with just a windbreaker for normal winter temps, or as a base layer for more dangerous temperature extremes.

Recommended for: Snow camping, skiing, mountain climbing, cold weather work, base layer

Underwear:

Styles: (Various)

Underwear also comes in two styles, though the Loose Gear equivalent is called "Relaxed". Underwear wicks away moisture to cool and dry the wearer. I've been using it on and off for a couple months now, and I must say I really like it. It does take some getting used to, as the fabric is more "slick" than any boxer you've worn before. For me, this meant having pants ride a little lower and slide around on my seat until I got the hang of them. It sounds funny, but it's true. I really like these for doing a serious cardio workout where you know you're going to be shedding water like crazy. Having damp boxers chafing on you isn't any fun, and with these on I didn't experience that. One downside I did notice is that during a full sprint they do tend to ride up a little. It's nowhere near what boxers can do to you, however.

The socks are a must-have item for any adventurer or trekker. I use the Heat Gear Lo-Cuts, and these things vent moisture like nothing else I've used. They also have a reinforced and padded footbed which you feel the second you slip these things on. They cost quite a bit more than regular socks ($12) but having a few sets on hand will repay you with much more comfort than regular socks could bring. Even casual hikers know the pain of walking down the trail with blisters all over their feet from cotton socks--this is what inspired me to buy these in the first place. I'm happy to report that hiking, bouldering, and running were all completed on consecutive days with no foot discomfort at all. With cotton socks doing any of those events used to require me to perform minor foot surgery. If you try nothing else, try the socks.

Recommended for: All day wear, hiking, running, climbing, sports

You can also check out Under Armour products at Amazon.com and the official Under Armour site to learn more.