5.11's Sigurd Shirts — King Of Performance Base Layers

At first glance the Sigurd Shirt from 5.11 appears like any other camo-inspired base layer available today. However, once I received my test sample and wore it while under diverse outdoor scenarios, my mindset about the Sigurd changed dramatically. This was not just a patterned novelty, but a high performance garment that was much more than meets the eye.

Sigurd Shirt Material & Design

Two shirts were sent to me from 5.11, one short sleeve and one long sleeve. As I move forward with my review, either style can be interchanged with my descriptions due to them sharing all features and properties, except of course, sleeve length. Rest assured, no matter your preference, all other specs will be the same. Upon unboxing both of the Sigurd shirts, I instantly felt the smoothness and coolness of the fabric. Not knowing ahead of time the fabric specifications, I erroneously had assumed it would have been cotton, but it was far from it. The actual fibers was just over seventy-five percent nylon with a bit under twenty-five percent Elastane material. This explained the texture and temperature of the fabric in-hand. I noticed what 5.11 calls a Rugby collar that jutted about two inches or so from the collar seam and it was evident that all stitches were reinforced for overall durability of the garment.

Advertisement — Continue Reading Below

Feeling the Fit

When it comes to fit and feel, obviously the only way to determine its value in these areas is by wearing it. I tried on both shirts (though I prefer long sleeve, when in-the-field) and they equally fit amazingly well. They were neither overly tight nor sagging around parts of my midsection. The coolness of the material was obvious immediately after putting them on. I toyed with adjusting the collar from fully up against my neck to folded downward against the shirt’s collar seam. The collar stayed in place with both positioning which I liked. There was no irritating fabric flopping downward or fluffing upward like some other garments found on the market today. It also must be noted that both shirts had a convenient four-by-six-inch loop patch platform on their sleeves, which was an unexpected but pleasant surprise.

Usefulness in the Field

Now that the shirt felt comfortable on me and was examined in detail, the question arises, what is this garment actually used for? 5.11’s description is that it offers multiple options for use, from a stand-alone shirt, to a base layer, or for an underlying layer beneath your plate carrier. My use of it in South Florida answered that question perfectly. It makes a great single layer shirt, especially in the hot and humid climate of Florida. I was also able to inadvertently test the garment’s enhanced moisture wicking and anti-odor properties. Just walking out the door in Florida, sweat starts to flow. Both shirts that I tested and wore outside exhibited immediate cooling properties. I felt much more comfortable in the Sigurd Shirt, than a cotton t-shirt or even a common polyester button-down. Obviously in cold climates, the shirts would be one layer of a layering system, where I suspect the moisture wicking properties would be equally effective.

Advertisement — Continue Reading Below

Thoughts On The Sigurd Shirt

If you only casually notice the Sigurd Shirt, then you won’t see the big picture. Only by feeling it, trying it on, and working with in the Great Outdoors can you truly understand all the subtle benefits that it has to offer. It’s multicam design only adds to its nature-centric aesthetic, while the craftsmanship ensures long-term use of the garment. I did receive the Sigurd Shirt for my review. However, it will become a regular-use as part of my outdoor clothing needs, and I highly suggest you add it to your own collection today.