I generally prefer the protection of long sleeves but was keen to try the BAM Novea Crew Neck out of interest in the renewable materials, and particularly the Naia acetate, which is mixed with BAM’s traditional bamboo fibres to improve wickability.
TGO Magazine verdict
it feels buttery soft next to the skin and looks really lovely. I’m also impressed with the innovative use of renewable and recycled materials, which bodes well for the future of outdoor fabrics- renewable/recycled materials
- Soft feel
- doesn’t wick as well as other products
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £32 Weight: £139g (size 12) Materials: 64% bamboo viscose, 32% Naia acetate (60% wood pulp, 40% recycled plastic waste), 7% elastane. Features: crew neck, short sleeves, flat locked seams Sizes: 8-16 Men’s version: yes https://bambooclothing.co.uk/ |
Bamboo is a relatively new fibre in itself and has been lauded as an eco-conscious choice because it is made from renewable materials and is vegan friendly (unlike merino). It’s also very absorbent, which makes it useful for moisture management in certain situations (think towels), but less useful for outdoor clothing in my experience because rather like cotton, it can hold the moisture next to the skin and feel clammy. This top also contains Naia acetate, which is made from wood pulp and recycled plastic, and is hydrophobic, helping to draw moisture away from the fabric and allowing it to be transported from the skin, counteracting some of the effects of the bamboo.
Does it work? Well sort of. The BAM Novea Crew Neck performs better than bamboo base layers that I’ve tried to date, but isn’t good enough for the kind of outrageously soggy weather I often find myself out in. I think on summery, dry days, it will be a lovely top to walk the hills in, but under layers it doesn’t quite cut it, nor is it able to handle the scary amounts of sweat I produce when running or in the gym. I’m looking forward to using it as the days lengthen and the sun comes out though, as it feels buttery soft next to the skin and looks really lovely. I’m also impressed with the innovative use of renewable and recycled materials, which bodes well for the future of technical outdoor fabrics.
