Velocity Systems Boss Rugby Shirt Review

I don't know about you, but the summer heat is already starting to get to me. Shooting season is in full swing, which means sweltering-hot days out on the range. I've been on a quest to find a shirt that's appropriate to wear to the office and the range, as those two tend to blend together. Hot, sweaty cotton T-shirts are not what I want to sit in all day, nor are they appropriate in most office settings. On the other hand, a tight synthetic base layer under a performance polo shirt is not that much better. They wick moisture from your skin and don't retain perspiration like cotton, but they don't breathe as well and tend to take on an odor over time.

On a recent trip, a buddy said he swears by Velocity Systems Boss Rugby Shirts and tends to live in them during the summer. He said they were exactly what he was looking for and recommended that I give one a try. He testified that the shirts are formal enough for business casual days while also being performers on the range, especially on those hot ones.

The Boss Rugby ($70) is a lightweight, highly-breathable, short-sleeve shirt featuring a modern rugby-style collar. It looks smart and would serve nicely as a polo-shirt replacement for relaxed days at the office or as a training uniform for a police department. It works great as a hot-weather range shirt or a base layer in cooler conditions due to the material's wicking ability, and it's quick to dry. It features an athletic cut and two color-matched, low-profile biceps pockets on either sleeve that lie flat and blend well with the material while not screaming "tactical."

The material the shirt is constructed of is a pointelle knit, which has proven to be durable, yet air-permeable and comfortable, thanks to some mechanical stretch. Mine hasn't pilled after numerous washings. Velocity Systems added a soil-resistant treatment as well as Odorex antimicrobial treatment, which keeps the shirt smelling fresh.

I found that the collar does an admirable job of preventing a rifle sling from abrading my neck, and the material is incredibly breathable, allowing those summer breezes to pass through to help keep me comfortable.

I've found my new summer top. The Boss Rugby is available in sizes Small through 3XL and six colors: black, wolf grey, earth tan, coyote brown, ranger green and red. For more information, contact Velocity Systems, 703-707-6280, www.velsyst.com.