ODLO Evolution Light base layer review
We tested an ODLO Evolution Light T-shirt and boxer shorts for fit, breathability, moisture management and comfort during exercise.
Evolution Light is part of ODLO’s wider Evolution range, which also includes Cool, Warm and X-Warm garments for conditions from summer heat to deep winter. We were offered the chance to test a T-shirt and boxer shorts from the Light series and gladly accepted.
Launched in 2008, the Evolution range had grown to include many different garments by the time of this April 2011 review. The T-shirt and boxers we tested were the same models recently offered in an I Love Outdoor competition.
Opening the box gives two immediate impressions: considerable care has gone into the stitching and fabric construction, and the garments look surprisingly small. Their excellent stretch soon resolves the second concern. Both pieces are very comfortable when worn, and the T-shirt hugs the body in a way that supports effective moisture transport and breathability.
The visible zones along the sides of the abdomen and on the shoulders further improve breathability and are integrated without seams. These garments can be used year-round, but in colder months you need to be active to stay warm. We wore both pieces indoors on a few quieter occasions and felt cold, even with an insulating midlayer over the T-shirt. You could almost feel it breathing.
Running, skiing or taking part in another activity produces a very different experience. That is when the garments’ technical features come into their own. Evolution Light works well, and we felt it helped us maintain a higher level of effort for longer. The fit is excellent and allows plenty of movement. The only issue was that the T-shirt’s hem occasionally rolled up at the waist when worn under a midlayer.
The boxer shorts match the T-shirt’s standard, with functional zones, a close fit and excellent comfort. Although both are made from synthetic materials, they remained reasonably free of odor during use, something that can be a problem with similar fabrics.
These high-performance garments had a recommended price of SEK 699 when sold as a set. ODLO was represented in Sweden by International Sportswear Company, whom we thank for providing the opportunity to carry out this test.
Our next ODLO review was set to take a closer look at the Evolution Warm half-zip.
