Tech is a touchy subject. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of it, but I understand (and regularly take advantage of) the utility it provides, especially in our hot, humid Southern climate.
It’s fair to say that technical apparel has come a long way over the last five to seven years, driven largely by two factors: COVID and the growing demand for performance clothing that doesn’t actually look like performance clothing. Thankfully, most of the reputable brands I work with have moved away from the shiny fabrics, oversized logos, and overly athletic aesthetic that defined earlier generations of tech gear. The bar has been raised.
These days, when I buy technical apparel, I’m looking for three things: First, it can’t look like tech gear. Second, it has to be genuinely functional. And third, it needs to fit my personal style: good fit, solid construction, thoughtful details, and little to no visible branding.
I recently went through my closet and pulled together a list of the technical pieces that have earned a premier spot in the rotation. Here’s what made the cut:
From top left:
1. Poncho Long Sleeve ‘Nervous Water’ Shirt: It’s easy for me to say that Poncho is my go-to for fishing/outdoor shirts. I wear their tech shirts in the Spring and Summer, and their flannels in the Fall and Winter. They fit well, there aren’t a lot of ‘frills’, and the solids and plaids are all just what the doctor ordered.
2. Duck Camp Short Sleeve Lightweight Fishing Shirt: I have to give credit to Duck Camp here – their lightweight fishing shirts are as good as they come. The big front pockets are as cool as they are for providing utility. Worth the investment.
3. Holderness & Bourne MacDonald Shirt: I’ve tried quite a few, and H&B’s MacDonald is what I reach for. The pique fabric gives it a non-tech look, but I can sweat freely and feel comfortable. Good colors too…
4. Turtleson 423 Performance Polo: Turtleson should get more credit. Their construction is second to none. I’ve washed mine over and over, and they hold up better than any other. Great stuff.
5. Duck Camp BRR Rockport Hoodie: Remember when everyone was selling that bamboo stuff? Awful. Duck Camp was one of the first to switch to BRR fabric, which is fantastic. I have quite a few of their hoodies and crew necks, and only wish that I had more.
6. Aftco Original Fishing Shorts: This isn’t a throw-away pick. Honestly, these are great for fishing – as I like a 5″ inseam. I had the Simms version, but they discontinued them a few years back. Now I’m all in on these (and the price is right).
7. B.Draddy Zac Shorts: I have quite a few golf shorts. I still wear my Lululemons quite a bit, but these Zacs from B.Draddy are so good. Super comfortable, and they clean up very well. I did get mine shortened a bit (they come with a 9″ inseam), and it only made them better. Worth every penny (and don’t forget that RCS20 gets you 20% off all B.Draddy gear).
8. Tom Beckbe Crenshaw Performance Shorts: New addition to my roster, but making an immediate impact. These have become my ‘middle 80%’ shorts – I can do almost everything in them: golf, fish, chase kids, swim, and/or look amazing.
9. Marshwear Escape Pants: I’ve been wearing these for quite some time as well. The pants are designed incredibly well, and fit like they were tailored for me. The fabric is soft, and cleans up well (a little Powerwash spray and we are good to g0).
10. Holderness & Bourne McDaniel 5-Pocket Pants: I have transitioned to these since Marshwear quit making their Long Haul pants (RIP). They work just as you’d expect from H&B.
11. Greyson Guide Sport SS Shirt: I have quite a few SPF shirts (most of them I get at the Beach Club down at Sea Island), but these Greyson short-sleeve shirts are fantastic. I have a couple and am always looking for more.
12. B.Draddy Everyday Vest: The best tech vest on the market. Trust me.
13. The Sporting Gent Reel Shorts: I only have one pair of these and wear them all the time – a fantastic alternative to Baggies or Guide Shorts. I need a couple more pairs…
What tech do you like?
Tasc
Can’t leave off the Peter Millar performance mesh polos and Orvis dri release shirts. Light performance fabrics but wear (and look) like cotton.
I own a lot of tech stuff living in Florida, as it’s a go-to throughout the year.. Orvis Tech Chambray, Patagonia Capilene Cool, Kuhl Rock Renegade Pants/Shorts
I think the thing you’re overlooking is that the margins have to be higher on these items than 100% cotton clothes. Brands can disguise it as “innovative” or “meeting demand” but I think they’re also looking at the fact that they can charge as much (or more!) for cheaper fabrics and get away with it. Miss me on “tech” anything.
Bingo.
Even Ralph Lauren has fallen into the stretch/tech fad and no longer offer their classic chinos in 100% cotton, while the price continues to climb.
Admittedly, I do enjoy a good MIllar or H&B poly shirt on the golf course and on the hottest of summer days, but my wardrobe pendulum has shifted back to 100% (or mostly) cotton shirts and pants.
I think there is still a place for tech, but we’ll see more natural fibers over the next couple of seasons.
I don’t know if I really think the 1% stretch stuff is going away. I love my super old broken-in 100% cotton PRL shorts, but I feel like the 99/1 will probably stick around compared to the complete poly stuff. I’d prefer the 100% cotton stuff too, but if I’m wearing clothes that are 98 or 99%, I’m probably content.