Rambling Review – Duluth Trading Company Armachillo Gear
Why:
It’s wicked hot here in Arizona. From late spring to early fall, Phoenix temps skyrocket into the triple digets, and 110° and higher is not uncommon. During this time, I am pointing the truck northward to try and find some willing trout to take a fly. Even in the mountains, mid-day temperaturs reach the mid 90s and staying cool and hydrated is extremely important. I have had the opportunity to check out a new line of Armachillo clothing from Duluth Trading Company and was able to put their Armachillo cargo pants and Armachillo long-sleeve patterned shirt through the paces.
First impressions:
Made-in-the-Jade Technology – The Armachillo line is made with their “made-in-the-jade” technology which refers to the microscopic jade embedded into the fabric, creating a cooling effect on the skin.
Lightweight – I was very excited about the how lightweight the Armachillo fabric was. I’m always looking for gear that cuts down on weight when hiking and camping, and the Armachillo line is the ticket for a lightweight option.
Fit – Sizing was a bit different. Typically, I wear a large in shirts and 34 waist. I ended up needing a medium in the Armachillo patterned shirt, and even then, I still had a quite a bit of room. The 34 waist pants fit, but I’m not a huge fan of the elastic band on the waist. The pants are extremely comfortable, but I would like to see a version without the elastic waist.
Field Use:
After a couple months of hard hiking and fishing, I can safely say that the Duluth Trading Company Armachillo line stands up to the abuse of a small stream fly fisherman. I crawled and bushwhacked my way through some new country and found this clothing line is the real deal.
- Pants – The Armachillo Cargo Pants are made from quick-drying, rip-stop nylon. Add in a gusseted crotch and the fact that they are antimicrobial and have UPF 40 sun protection and you can crawl, crouch, and sneak your way along the creek in search of small wild trout. The cargo pockets are a bit unique as well with several different pockets instead of just one, and the cargo flap has the option of tucking inside as well for easier access.
- Shirt – The Armachillo Long-sleeve Pattern Shirt was very nice too. The long-sleeve shirt adds more protection by fighting off the morning chill and keeping you cool in the heat of the day. I really felt the cooling effects of the made-in-the-jade technology as well as the vented back as the sun rose throughout the day.
Pros:
Breathable clothing
Made-in-the-Jade Technology
Durable
Functional
Cons:
Elastic waistband on pants
Prognosis: If you find yourself in the sweltering heat of the Southwest, the Duluth Trading Company Armachillo clothing line is definitely worth a look.
* Disclaimer:
The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review. The Armachillo Cargo Pants and Long-sleeve Patterned Shirt were provided for the purpose of this review. My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.
Sign up to receive email updates from Arizona Wanderings
If you’ve seen the way I dress when I fish, I think you might agree that dressing me up like this is like putting lipstick on a pig. But, they are nice looking for you svelte, rugged guys.
The shirt is really nice for fishing. I like the way you reviewed the gear, with the pros and cons and everything. Thanks for telling us your opinion.
Thanks Peter. I aim to give an honest, well rounded review so others can get a solid picture of what gear is like. Thanks for the support.
Ben
Nice review. I am a big of Duluth Trading and have been wearing their Armachillo underwear and lightweight cargo pants. Going to try the Armachillo pants now.