We’re starting to really like these longer-sleeved tees, and the RaceFace Ambush is an excellent example of the 3/4-length breed.
The over-the-elbow length adds a surprising amount of warmth for those cold-in-the-shade summer days, but without making you feel overdressed/overheated if the sun does come out. Having burned elbows on very hot days – really – some testers prefer the extra covering, too.
The Ambush is very comfortable thanks to great shaping, and the loose but tailored (rather than billowing) fit is spot-on if you follow the online sizing chart.
The Repreve fabric – actually recycled polyester – is soft against the skin, while the 42 percent of it that’s CoolDry polyester wicks sweat well. It can feel a tiny bit slippery if you’re really hot and sweaty, but you only really notice when taking it off or putting a pack back on.
The length is generous and the slightly dropped tail gives 100 percent protection from builder’s bum/back flashing, and there’s a little zipped pocket on one hip that fits change or keys. It’s backed with synthetic suede, which keeps it comfy and doubles as a glasses wipe – handy when the rest of you is covered in cack.
This article was originally published in What Mountain Bike magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.