The ubiquitous zip-t (I bet you think I don't know what ubiquitous means) is a perennial favorite among those who seek outdoor adventures. Generally, they are comfortable, versatile, and can act as both a base layer, insulation layer, and an outer layer, as needed.

Lots of companies make zip-t's, and many of them are very similar, almost becoming a commodity product. Outdoor Research, like it does with virtually every product it makes, has designed a zip-t that is not like everyone else's. Here's what makes the Secant Zip-T world class:

• The Secant uses Malden Mill's PowerStretch 50 weight fabric, which Outdoor Research refers to as its P50 fabric.
  
  I really like the P50 fabric, because of its softness and comfort. It is also nice and stretchy and offers some wind, moisture, and snow resistance. It also has light insulating capability, along with the ability to wick moisture away from your skin. It is also treated with an anti-microbial finish to minimize bad odors.
  
   
• The zipper is very deep, running to below your sternum. This allows you to easily adjust the zipper to match your current comfort and activity level.
  
   
• Unlike most zip-t's, the Secant has a small, but deep front shirt pocket. I find this great, as I am always looking for a pocket to stuff something into it.
  
   
• The Secant has a short collar to provide added warmth, but without getting in the way or binding your neck as you move about. The collar can be folded down when its warmer, or folded up and zipped up for cooler temps.
  
   
• The side panels are gusseted, allowing easier arm movement, without causing the shirt tail to come out of your pants. I found the tail long enough to stay inside my pants during virtually any activity.
  
   
• The weight is about 8-9 ounces, depending on size. The Zip-T is also very compressible, and won't take up much space in your pack.

The Secant Zip-T is ideal for hiking, backpacking, cycling, climbing, trekking, adventure travel, and wearing around the house.

Using the Outdoor Research Secant Zip-T in the Real World

The first thing I want to mention is that the Secant has a technical fit, which means that it is designed for a relatively tight fit. If you prefer a looser fit, you may want to get a size larger that you would normally get, for extra room.

I have found that when I am active outdoors, the Secant has a comfort range of about 50-70 degrees by itself. Any warmer than this, and the Zip-T gets a little too warm for me.

At cooler temps down to about 35 to 40 degree, or windier conditions, the Secant makes a great base layer, and when combined with a wind shirt, is very comfortable.

Below 30 degrees, the I often wear the Secant as a base layer, along with a soft shell, fleece, or down jacket as my outer layer. And in really cold temps, I might also put on a lightweight base layer under the Secant, and use the Secant as a lightweight insulating layer.

The Secant wears well, and looks relatively good and smells relatively good, when out on the trail for days at a time without washing. And when you get back, the Secant is easy to wash and care for.

Recommendation

If you need versatile base layer/shirt for our outdoor adventures, then you will want to consider the Secant Zip-T from Outdoor Research.

Product Notes

The Secant Zip-T is available in five sizes and is designed for both men and women. It is available in four colors: black, lapis (dark blue), shale, and sand/shale. The MSRP is $80.00.