BQ Tests: Ground Effect Solaris and Flare sunshirts

Ground Effect have been thriving for 30 years now, creating sensible, practical, and thoughtful clothing for riding in all weather conditions. After years protecting riders from wind, rain, and cold, Ground Effect have always protected riders from the sun too – the Rock Lobster long-sleeve jersey has been one of their most popular items for years. Recently, Ground Effect have expanded their range of clothing to protect us from the sun.

The Flare long sleeve top is notable for its simplicity – it’s a free-fitting, zipperless top with no pockets or fancy features except for a cowl-neck hood and a reflective rear logo – but it does its job with flair (see what I did there?).

You see, the hood, worn down, will protect your neck from the sun. Then you can wear it either over or under your helmet, depending on your preference. And while it’s true that with it worn over the helmet I did look a bit like a Teletubby, it really did protect my neck, ears, and face from UV rays, and (hidden bonus), riding the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail in peak swooping season, kept me protected from the odd beak and claw jab as well.

Ground Effect put a huge amount of thought into fabric selection. The Flare is made of UPF 50+ HyperActive™ fabric, which is cool to touch and features a layer of nano-charcoal polyester against your skin, which makes it incredibly fast drying and anti-microbial. The top floats freely and feels cool.

I was so impressed with the flare that I ordered a second one for both me and my partner, and I’ll be wearing it in the outdoors all summer – bonus – being a BQ member, I scored a free pair of summer merino Foot Soldiers socks with my order!

The Ground Effect Solaris is the men’s version of the Flare, and shares all the same features and materials. It proved to be just as popular as the Flare, and a second item was quickly purchased. Given the cut and feel of the material, both the Flare and Solaris have become popular additions to active wardrobes, just as useful for hiking in, as well as being outdoors in general – anytime some extra sun protection is needed.

Even on hot days, the Flare and Solaris work very well – but on the very humid days at low speed, they can feel a bit warm. Although we’re yet to find anything truly comfortable for those sticky, humid summer days.

Made in Aotearoa|New Zealand, the Flare weighs 180g.

$108 AUD/ $119 NZD
groundeffect.co.nz

Bicycle Queensland members receive a free pair of merino wool socks ($NZD35) with any purchase. Login to the BQ Portal for details.

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