Article by Sam Winebaum
Harrier Tee ($90), Session Shorts ($75), Tracksmith Hat ($45)
In the article, I test Tracksmith's updated Harrier Tee now with 37.5 temperature and odor regulating tech on top of its already high performing Merino blend fabric, the updated Session Shorts now with 4 pockets and a new brief and the Tracksmith Hat.
All smiles for me with this classy high performance kit!
Harrier Tee ($90)
With the Harrier Tee Tracksmith joins the “Super Tee” race! Let me explain.
The Harrier is made of a very light Merino wool synthetic blend (48% Merino Wool / 39% 37.5® Nylon / 13% Nylon). Merino transports moisture away from the skin in vapor form with the natural fibers adapting to both warm and cold temperatures. It is also naturally odor resistant. But Merino does have its “limits” especially in high temperatures where even if thin it tends to run warmer than synthetics.
That’s where the now added 37.5® Technology comes in. Tiny volcanic mineral based particles are permanently embedded in the fibers of the Harrier are what makes the Harrier a super tee for me. This summer I ran and hiked most of my miles in synthetic Salomon tees with 37.5 and their cooling and odor resistance was truly incredible, even if their “sporty billboard” styling was not subtle enough for most everyday wear as the Harrier is for my tastes.
Now we have a beautifully styled tee from Tracksmith with both Merino and 37.5 that so far has proven as capable in this fall’s training heat (most runs mid 70’s 25C with moderate humidity ) as it has around town.
A bit more about 37.5® Technology from Tracksmith:
“The blend stays cool by keeping moisture at bay so your body can comfortably maintain an ideal temperature. Infused with mineral-based volcanic material, it speeds up evaporation to remove heat and moisture from the body before it even turns to liquid sweat. 37.5 plus of course natural Merino also helps tame odors.”
I would add that many, many millions of 37.5 particles are permanently embedded in the fabric essentially creating far more surface areas to speed evaporation. They also conduct heat. And it works here as it did in my Salomon.
Once some moisture is generated, there is a distinct cooling sensation even without a breeze which is often how other “cooling” approaches work. It is really noticeable.
The skin feel is silky smooth and never clingy when wet due to the somewhat relaxed fit and fabrics. Until dampened by sweat, even a little bit of sweat the feel and cooling is similar to any merino blend but then…In cooler temperatures, and I will for sure be wearing it as a base layer this fall and winter, the 37.5 and merino should remove moisture more rapidly to outer layers thus preventing chill.
I have worn the Harrier four days straight and it is still fresh as can be. Not surprised as the all synthetic Salomon went more than 4 days and stayed fresh due to the 37.5. With Merino also bacteria odor fighting also in the mix, I expect to really need to wash it like never or just about never!
The fit is relaxed and easy going. My medium fits perfectly, not to snug or baggy. I am 5’9” / 176cm with my approximate weight 160 lbs / 72kg. It is a joy to run in. I only wish for a lighter color for full on summer runs or as the ideal “undershirt” under.
Between the natural comfort and performance of Merino and the added benefit of 37.5 and tis more “casual” classy styling the Harrier is also an ideal travel, hike, and everyday Tee as well as of course daily training companion. It is a great gift idea for anyone, and not just runners.
The Harrier Tee is available at Tracksmith now: Men’s Women’s
Session Shorts ($75)
The Session Short is made of a high stretch jersey that is very light at 155gsm. It is sun protective to UPF 50+. It has a reasonable 5” inseam. I am not a fan of TS usual “short shorts” or overlong and baggy ones.
It has a stretch elastic waistband with a draw cord.
The waist band is extremely comfortable and is not overly compressive. The Harrier is updated with a smooth unnoticeable (their words and mine) Italian fabric brief.
We now have 4 pockets: a zip side pocket with room for keys and cards (but not a phone) and 3 rear drop in pockets. I wish the rear pockets were a single mesh compartment with the rear elastic waistband a bit more stout to hold a phone or soft flask.
The medium fits my 31”-32” waist perfectly.
The light fabric which with moves with the stride effortlessly, the smooth unnoticed brief, “decent” length, and the pockets make the Session a most versatile run short for road and trail runners. And you won’t look goofy post run!
The Session Short is available at Tracksmith now: Men’s Women’s
Tracksmith Hat ($45)
The hat surprised me. I have worn it daily all day from runs, to hikes in Switzerland to around town since I received it.
For sure it is classic baseball style with 6 panel construction, 100% cotton and with plenty of structure. Tracksmith partnered with Ciele on the hat and the attention to detail and fit sure shows.
What surprised me is that I usually wear a more run specific hat of lighter materials when I run or hike as I tend to run warm but here even in heat I was comfortable and always “styling”. Much as with the Harrier Tee, it is one very versatile piece that goes many more places than just runs and workouts.
The Tracksmith Hat is available at Tracksmith HERE
Sam is the Editor and Founder of Road Trail Run. He is in his 60’s with 2024 Sam’s 52th year of running roads and trails. He has a decades old 2:28 marathon PR. These days he runs halves in the just sub 1:40 range if he gets very, very lucky. Sam trains 30-40 miles per week mostly at moderate paces on the roads and trails of New Hampshire and Utah be it on the run, hiking or on nordic skis. He is 5’9” tall and weighs about 164 lbs, if he is not enjoying too many fine New England IPA’s
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