I was recently sent the Kirby Windshirt from STIO to review for ActionHub, and was immediately intrigued by not only its style, but texture as well. This plaid shirt features bright colors and a look that could easily be paired with a tank and jeans for daily wear—but also functioned extremely well on hiking trails. It’s not what came to mind when I pictured a snap-up hiking shirt, but once I got over the initial confusion, I realized how great of a product it really was.

I wore the shirt on several shorter hikes, as well as on a weekend backpacking trip, but found myself reaching for it in my closet for everyday wear most frequently. I must admit that while hiking, I looked a bit overdressed. Although the shirt is definitely made for the outdoors, a few friends I was with expressed opinions about how it looked too nice to wear outside. To note, I reviewed the shirt in Magenta Purple Check, but it’s also available in Grisaille Check and Orange Peel Check.

The product’s description is transparent about the fact that its style looks a bit dressy for use on a trail. “Don’t let this charming snap shirt fool you—it’s a diligent friend when it comes to blocking the wind and sun. A colorful summer plaid, roll tab sleeves, and pearl snaps enhance its effortless style, while the light, wicking nylon protects you from the elements,” it reads.

The shirt is made of 100 percent nylon, features UPF 20+ protection, as well as moisture-wicking technology. When first trying on the shirt, I noticed that it seemed to run a bit small. I typically wear a medium, but always opt for a large on review products, as I don’t have the chance to try them on beforehand and would rather have them be too big than too small. With this shirt, I found that even a large was a bit tight. I know it’s a fitted shirt, but I felt a bit constrained, especially in the shoulders, This led to me wearing it mainly with a sports tank underneath, with the snaps left open. Before purchasing, I’d check out the Size and Fit Guide on the product page and probably order a size up.

Performance is really where STIO’s Kirby Windshirt succeeds. I noticed this feature right away after feeling the fabric, but didn’t quite grasp how well it worked until I got on the trail. During my backpacking trip, I was hiking through a particular swampy environment, so anything that could help repel the bugs was greatly appreciated. This shirt worked wonders. Because temperatures were around 75 degrees and I easily built up a sweat from hiking, I noticed how lightweight the fabric felt on my skin, where most other long-sleeved shirts would have had to be removed because of high heat after a few miles.

The shirt was cool against my skin, provided protection against mosquitoes, and sweat didn’t accumulate. It truly is wonderful when it comes to wicking away moisture. Also, the shirt didn’t hold any smell, even after wearing it for three straight days of hiking (without a real shower). Yes, the price of $115 is extremely high for just a hiking shirt, but you’re going to wear it the entire trip. Also, it’s currently on sale for $86.25, making it a good time to buy. If you consider that on future trips you’ll only have to pack one long-sleeved hiking shirt, the price makes more sense. Also, as stated earlier on, it has a look that can transition well into everyday wear with jeans.

Because of the sun protection, it also became my go-to cover up during days spent on the water this summer. After many washes over the past few months, the shirt still looks brand new (and I’m not one to abide by proper washing instructions, nor do I own an iron). Yes, the price is high, but you’ll only ever need to buy one of these shirts—unless you feel the need to incorporate more colors and patterns into your wardrobe—and you’ll be happy you bought it once you’re on a hiking trail. Your friends might say it looks too fancy, but hey, they’re getting eaten alive by bugs and you’re not.

To check out more apparel from STIO, visit the website.

Images courtesy of STIO