Blog

UOG Review - Rab Forge LS Tee

Jul 22, 2019

The Rab Forge is a fairly ordinary looking tee with the long sleeved, crew neck version makes it look like a simple, casual top. However, I’m a big fan of the synthetic/merino blends for baselayers so I was eager to test this out. I’d not worn this tee before putting it on for the 53rd OMM in Largs, Scotland, so I knew it was going to get a baptism of fire across two hard days in the Scottish hills.

I personally prefer the crew neck design compared to a zip as I never find the zip that comfortable for the ventilation it’s supposed to provide, especially for running or hiking where I’m working hard and using a pack. This version of the Forge was ideal for me as it is super comfortable, has a simple design, is close fitting and the flatlock seams work perfectly with a pack.

During the OMM, where this top got thoroughly tested, I wore it under a Polartec Alpha top and windproof jacket for the entire event and I was surprisingly comfortable throughout. Despite being cold when we stopped a few times, the Forge tee handled the windy, wet conditions really well. It kept enough heat when wet, wicked sweat away pretty well and dried quickly. The polyester/merino wool blend is ideal for combining the best of both materials and unlike some items that claim to be merino blends and only have around 10% wool, the Forge uses a 53% polyester (32% recycled), 47% merino blend to maximise performance.

The most impressive aspect of this top was how fast it dried once we’d finished the first day. The weather was really windy and cold showers came across regularly once we’d set up camp so rather than get changed when we finished, I simply threw my insulated jacket over the top of my race gear to stay warm. In a relatively short space of time, I realised that the top was dry and back to being comfortable. Obviously, after a long day in the hills completing the first day of the OMM, I was never going to feel as clean and comfortable as I’d like but I was surprised by just how comfortable I did feel in this top for the duration of the event. Despite sleeping in it, then completing the second day in it too, it was still really comfortable and performed just as well as it did when I first put it on. After a good wash it’s as good as new and I’ve worn it a number of times for walking and running with the same results.

The Forge is an impressive baselayer that I have started using more often after its performance in the OMM. For such a basic looking top, the materials used in it take the all-round performance to a different level. The warmth it provides is balanced well with its ability to dry quickly and the influence of the merino means that it is good for extended use, unlike synthetics that don’t last more than a day. I will certainly be relying on this top on a number of winter adventures this coming season.