Reasons to wear a shirt in the mountains - Clothing that does not draw a line between everyday life and the outdoors -
More and more people are choosing to wear "shirts" when climbing or hiking. In fact, I am one of them. Even now, I sometimes choose the traditional style of layering a wind shell over a base layer, and depending on the nature of the mountain trip, it is often the best choice.
Still, there must be a definite need behind the fact that outdoor brands have continued to expand their shirt lineups over the past few years.
The perfect balance between appearance and functionality. And above all, the versatility to be worn comfortably both in the city and in the mountains. The shirt is chosen as a piece of clothing that blends seamlessly between everyday life and the outdoors.
Features unique to shirts
Shirts are useful for mountain climbing and hiking not only because of their versatile appearance, but also because of the excellent structure and material properties of the garment. Here we will introduce some of the main functions that are unique to shirts.
1. Ventilation adjustment at the touch of a button
The shirt has buttons on the front, so you can easily open and close it to adjust the ventilation. Especially when climbing or hiking, you can efficiently control your body temperature by opening only the torso and neck. The flexibility of the shirt allows for fine adjustment compared to zippered clothing.
2. Collar protection
A shirt with a collar has the advantage that it can protect your neck from sunburn and cold winds by standing up the collar. It is more useful than you might think, as it can protect you from sunburn under the strong sunlight of spring and summer, and also acts as a cold ward off windy mountain ridges.
3. Adjusting the cuffs
Many outdoor shirts have buttons or snaps on the cuffs, which allow you to easily regulate your body temperature by unbuttoning the cuffs or moving the sleeves up or down depending on the temperature and the amount of activity.
4. Diversity of materials
Shirts are made from a variety of materials that are highly breathable and absorbent and quick-drying. Many synthetic materials, such as polyester and nylon, are also used, as are many high-performance materials.
5. Windproof
Even though it is thin, it is not easily permeable by wind, so you can feel safe even on ridges or windy mountaintops. In addition, it is lightweight and highly portable, so it is also suitable for putting one in your backpack as a wind shell.
Shirts as "functional clothing" that can be worn in everyday life
Many of you may have had the experience of buying a shirt for outdoor activities, only to suddenly find that it has become a piece of clothing you wear every day.
Shirts designed for mountain climbing and hiking are highly breathable, dry quickly even when you sweat, are wrinkle-resistant and lightweight, and yet have a simple and calm appearance, so you can wear them in the city without feeling out of place.
In the morning, you check the weather and temperature for the day and wonder what to wear when going out.
When I think, "I want something that's easy to move in, comfortable even when it gets a little hot, and looks good," an outdoor shirt is the one I reach for.
Unlike business or casual shirts, outdoor shirts dry quickly after washing and can be worn as is without ironing, making them very convenient.
In other words, it is truly convenient everyday wear that you will want to wear every day.
What you thought was "mountain wear" actually proves its value in everyday life . One of the attractions of choosing a shirt is the possibility of making such a discovery.
Recommended shirts that you'll actually want to wear
ROCK STEPPERS carries a selection of shirts that bridge the gap between everyday life and the outdoors.

A lightweight shirt made of 100% recycled nylon. The fabric is stretchy and polyurethane-free. It is comfortable against the skin and perfect for hiking in spring and summer.

A classic look with excellent breathability and stretchability, this striped shirt is perfect for hiking.

This classic long-sleeved shirt is made from lightweight, quick-drying polyester material.

A hooded shirt that will protect you from the sun and wind. Not only for outdoor use, A highly versatile shirt for everyday use.

Milestone's original shirt is made of highly breathable and stretchy material, making it suitable for hiking and biking. The concealed button-down placket and fly make it easy to wear on a daily basis.

A shirt with a detachable hood. Lightweight and quick-drying, this multi-functional shirt also comes with a lens cleaner gimmick, roomy pockets, and a snap-down collar.

A long sleeve crew neck jacket made of lightweight and soft material. It has no collar, so it can be layered more smoothly. The slightly longer length makes it easy to wear for both men and women.

A lightweight short-sleeved shirt with a loose fit that allows plenty of air to flow through. Perfect activewear for hotter weather.
summary
For me, a shirt is not just clothing, but a tool that supports my activities. It makes layering easier, reduces stress while on the move, and I can wear it in the city without feeling out of place. Of course, a shirt is not best for every mountain climb. For long-term traverses or fastpacking where weight reduction is important, other clothing may be optimal. Still, there are more and more shirts that are so functional that you think, "I'll wear a shirt this time."
It's an outfit that blends naturally into both everyday life and the outdoors without drawing a line between them. A shirt with this kind of feel is sure to continue to be a strong ally in the future.