#3 on this list
Outdoor Flume Crewneck
Burgeon
The Burgeon Outdoor Flume Crewneck is aimed at hikers who prefer sustainable, plant-based fabrics over purely petroleum-based synthetics. Engineered and manufactured with a focus on domestic production, this crewneck suits hikers who prioritize thermal regulation, breathability, and natural next-to-skin comfort on temperate day hikes and multi-day treks. The shirt is built from a blend of 91% TENCEL™ lyocell and 9% Lycra. Derived from wood pulp, TENCEL has natural thermoregulating properties that feel cool against warm skin while wicking moisture away effectively. Combined with Lycra, the shirt provides generous four-way stretch that eliminates binding across the back and shoulders. Furthermore, the natural fiber matrix resists odor retention significantly better than standard polyester, making it a viable option for consecutive trail days without aggressive laundering. The primary trade-off with high-TENCEL garments is durability under heavy abrasion. While softer and more odor-resistant than standard synthetics, lyocell fibers are more vulnerable to abrasion from coarse pack straps and off-trail bushwhacking. It also dries slightly slower than pure, lightweight polyester when completely drenched, making it best suited for moderate humidity and well-maintained trails. **Highlights** - Fabric composition of 91% TENCEL lyocell and 9% Lycra - Inherently odor-resistant fiber structure keeps trail stink in check - Noticeably cool and supple next-to-skin texture - Built-in stretch allows full range of motion without pulling seams - Ethically produced with a focus on lower-impact raw materials **Watch-outs** - Less resistant to heavy pack-strap abrasion than heavy-duty nylon weaves - Takes longer to dry out than pure ultralight polyester shirts - Premium price point places it well above standard technical base layers
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#4 on this list
Bush Shirt
Orvis
The Orvis Bush Shirt caters to traditionalists, bushcrafters, and field hikers who need a rugged, protective layer rather than an ultralight athletic top. Designed around the functional lineage of classic expedition gear, it excels in dense brush, arid woodlands, and rugged terrain where sharp vegetation and insects would tear lighter garments to shreds. Crafted from a tightly woven, durable cotton-based or blended utility fabric, this shirt focuses heavily on puncture resistance, wind deflection, and long-term durability. It features reinforced stitching, pleated chest pockets for utilitarian storage, and roll-up sleeve tabs that secure the fabric when working or traversing warmer valley floors. The collar provides reliable neck shielding from both midday sun and pack-strap chafe, while the sturdy weave prevents biting insects from penetrating through to the skin. Because it is designed around structural protection, the Orvis Bush Shirt sacrifices athletic performance metrics. It is considerably heavier and bulkier than modern trail running shirts or synthetic sun hoodies. If saturated by rain or deep sweat, the natural fibers take substantially longer to dry, making it a poor candidate for fast-and-light mountain travel in wet climates. **Highlights** - Dense, heavy-duty woven fabric resists abrasions, snags, and thorns - Natural insect-deflecting barrier due to the tight weave - Dual front pleated utility pockets with button flaps for gear storage - Buttoned roll-up sleeve tabs ensure cuffs stay anchored when rolled - Classic structured collar prevents neck chafing under heavy pack loads **Watch-outs** - Substantially heavier and bulkier than modern trail synthetics - Slow drying time once thoroughly saturated with water or heavy sweat - Lacks the built-in stretch required for technical scrambles
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Outdoor Flume Crewneck | Bush Shirt |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Blend | 91% TENCEL lyocell, 9% Lycra | — |
| Fabric Type | Four-way stretch jersey knit | — |
| Retail Price | Approximately $100 | — |
| Origin | Manufactured in Gorham, New Hampshire | — |
| Odor Control | Inherent fiber-based resistance | — |
| Intended Fit | Athletic cut with generous stretch | — |
| Primary Material | — | Tightly woven heavyweight cotton utility cloth |
| Closure Style | — | Full button front with reinforced placket |
| Pockets | — | Dual pleated chest pockets with button flaps |
| Sleeve Retention | — | Roll-up button tabs at upper arms |
| Pest Defense | — | Dense mechanical weave blocks biting insects |
| Intended Terrain | — | Arid woodlands, brushy trails, and field work |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Outdoor Flume Crewneck
- Exceptionally soft, cool-to-touch skin feel that avoids synthetic clamminess
- Inherent fiber-level odor resistance allows multiple days between washes
- Generous four-way stretch eliminates seam pull across the shoulders
- Ethically manufactured in the USA using sustainably sourced TENCEL
- Dries noticeably slower than ultralight polyester when fully saturated
- Prone to surface pilling under coarse, heavy backpack straps
- Premium price point places it well above standard technical shirts
Bush Shirt
- Dense, tightly woven utility fabric resists thorny scrub and abrasions
- Mechanical weave provides an effective physical barrier against biting insects
- Dual pleated chest pockets keep small field equipment secure
- Structured collar shields the neck from heavy pack strap friction
- Dries extremely slowly once saturated by heavy rain or sweat
- Substantially heavier and bulkier than modern technical synthetics
- Lacks mechanical stretch for dynamic climbing or scrambling
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.