The Paddler Magazine issue 73 Late Summer 2023 | Page 16

PADDLER 16

REVIEWS

Zhik Womens Platinum Eco Spandex Long Sleeve top https :// www . zhik . com By Savanna Gude

I wore this top whilst paddling on a hot , sunny day . I loved the underarm ventilation system that ran down from the armpit to the hip on the side , so it Ï me cool as it was breathable . This is a plus when you are paddling hard ! The fit was close to my skin , so it was very snug . It kept me warm and didn ’ t allow heat to leave . I was pretty impressed at this system that worked well , keeping you warm when the temperature drops but not feeling too stuffy and hot when you start to paddle faster .

I had a dip in the water to cool off ; it was fast drying and a nice protective layer on the water as it protects you from UV rays . The fit was flattering and feminine ; the details on the top were minimal and not too in your face , stylish looking and flattering . I liked how it was a stretchy Lycra material , as when paddling , you don ’ t want to be restricted with your range of movement .

dryrobe ® Quick dry cap https :// dryrobe . com By Sarah Thornely of SUPJunkie

‘ If the cap fits ’, and this one from dryrobe ® certainly does , in signature black with contrasting detail in white . It should fit most sizes because of its red Velcro adjustable band at the back . The cap also comes in a sunny turquoise blue colour .

Just like the hat , the cap is lightweight and comfortable , water repellent too , and ideal for shading your eyes with the sturdy peak , and you ’ ll also get excellent protection from the sun with its UPF50 + rating . It ’ s fast-drying for those moments when you get caught in a shower . What more can you say about a cap ? Rest assured ; I will have to fight my husband for it – he thinks it will be perfect for golf ! Available in black and blue . RRP £ 25

As with most dryrobe ® products , the hat and cap are made from 100 % recycled nylon – they pride themselves on using recycled fabrics , organic cotton ,

Zhik Womens Platinum Eco Spandex Short Sleeve top

I also tested this during the recent scorching weather . I felt as if I was protected from the sun with the nice bonus of no sleeves that kept me cool , and I enjoyed the sun on my arms . I liked the neckline . It wasn ’ t digging in and restrictive ; instead , it was comfortable and helped me breathe and feel I could focus on my padding rather than how restrictive my clothing felt .

The top helped me whilst my movement was quite dynamic on my board as the fabric of the top seamlessly moved with me and didn ’ t feel restricted at all . This top had a fresh , athletic feel and made me feel confident in what I was wearing as the fit was flattering on my body and soft against my skin , good for myself , who has sensitive skin . This top will go nicely in the summertime with shorts for that ultimate summer look .

I was also pleased with how fast it dried , it didn ’ t leave me feeling cold , and kept my temperature regulated whilst out on the water .

CONCLUSION

I loved these two tops , which will be part of my paddling kit . Made from recycled Repreve ® nylon , the high gauge knit has an elongation of over 200 % yet always returns to its original shape while remaining soft and supple for the garment ’ s lifetime . What is Repreve ® Recycled Nylon ? Repreve ® is the world ’ s number-one brand of recycled performance fibre . The fibres are created from 100 % recycled materials , including post-consumer plastic bottles and pre-consumer waste . Long sleeve : £ 59.95 . Short £ 54.95

with eco-friendly finishing . They also work with wonderful charities , including Surfers Against Sewage , The Wave Project , 2 Minute Foundation , Surfers Not Street Children , Seaful and A Walk on Water .

Dryrobe ® should definitely be on your radar with their thoughtfully made apparel , and if sustainability is high on your agenda , then definitely check out all the other products on their website , where they offer free UK delivery and returns too .