The Salomon Fast Wing Tee won our Top Pick for Mountain Running for its durable fabric, temperature regulation, and plethora of features. When running in mountains, a runner typically goes from lower elevations (where it's warmer) to higher elevations (where it's cooler). A good mountain running shirt has to be durable with a wide range of temperature regulation. Not only that, but it needs to keep you warm when the temps drop, and dry quickly if a sudden rainstorm comes out of no where. In these areas, the Fast Wing tee was unmatched. Not only that, but we loved its features. The two pockets in the back were a great snack or iPod stash while the 1/4 zip neck offered versatility for breathability. Not only that, but the silicon bumps prevent a running pack from bouncing around. A perfect option for any mountain run or long race.
Salomon Fast Wing Tee - Women's Review
Our Verdict
The Salomon Fast Wing Tee won our Top Pick for Mountain Running for its durable fabric, temperature regulation, and plethora of features. When running in mountains, a runner typically goes from lower elevations (where it's warmer) to higher elevations (where it's cooler). A good mountain running shirt has to be durable with a wide range of temperature regulation. Not only that, but it needs to keep you warm when the temps drop, and dry quickly if a sudden rainstorm comes out of no where. In these areas, the Fast Wing tee was unmatched. Not only that, but we loved its features. The two pockets in the back were a great snack or iPod stash while the 1/4 zip neck offered versatility for breathability. Not only that, but the silicon bumps prevent a running pack from bouncing around. A perfect option for any mountain run or long race.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Salomon Fast Wing Tee is a techy and durable running shirt that received our Top Pick for Mountain Running.
Performance Comparison
Comfort & Fit
Of all the tops tested, we weren't super sold on the comfort of this top. The seams were a little uncomfortable (they were deep in comparison to the thinness of the fabric) and the fabric felt a little scratchy. That said, on longer runs we didn't notice any chafing or discomfort, but it just didn't feel as nice to the touch. The fit also felt a little small, and may not be the best choice for ladies with wider shoulders. If this sounds like you, we recommend sizing up or trying the S Lab Exo Tank. If you want a more comfortable t-shirt, you should check out the Adidas Supernova Tee - Women's.
Breathability
We thought the additional mesh patterning on the back and armpits along with the zip-up collar were great breathability features. The active dry fabric weave is a little tighter (and less breathable), but more durable than other tops. Overall, it kept us a little warmer in cooler temperatures but was still okay for warm temperatures. This wide range of temperature regulation was one of the reasons it won a Top Pick for Mountain Running.
Drying Speed
This shirt offers good drying capability and we found it to be similar to most shirts we tested. Only our Editors' Choice winner - The North Face Better Than Naked Short Sleeve - dried more quickly. This shirt is the perfect choice for women who like to adventure into the mountains despite sporadic rain storms.
Versatility
Even though the Fast Wing features many perks, we don't think it's very versatile outside of running due to its techy style. The durable fabric makes it a better choice for trail running versus road running, and the zipper adds allows the runner some autonomy when it comes to breathability.
Features
Ahh! Features galore! There are two pockets in the back (on both the left and right side) that can fit a phone or a few couple of gels for longer runs. One thing we wished for were zippers on these pockets. There are silicon bumps welded to the fabric designed to keep a hydration pack from moving around and causing more abrasion. This is also the only shirt with a 1/4 zip that locks in place to - again - increase air flow. The fabric is also the most durable of all the shirts tested.
Style
If you're looking for a stylish running top, you've found it here! The Fast Wing has a very techy look that will have bystanders knowing what sport you're into. Even with its cute design, flattering lines, and great color options, however, this shirt won't fit in around town.
Best Applications
The Fast Wing tee has many applications, but its best is in trail running. The more durable and slightly less breathable fabric caters to moments when you are hiking uphill through heavy brush and need a shirt that won't snag. Even though you can still wear it on the roads (where most people tend to move faster), it's not as breathable, so a shirt like the North Face Better than Naked short sleeve is a better option.
Value
Even though $60 is a little steep for the price, we think this product is worth it. The highly durable fabric in combination with tons of features means this shirt will last and is worth the extra $10-20 in the long run.
Conclusion
The Salomon Fast Wing Tee has a plethora of features and durable fabric. We think it's best for trail running in the mountains in cool to warm conditions.