[stag_intro]After being impressed by the Shell Layer (see the Aron Jacket review) that we recently reviewed – we decided to dig in a bit deeper and explore some of the other pieces that make up the layering system from Galvin Green. In particular, we took a look at the Cool Layer and the Ventil8 collection.[/stag_intro]

We put the Ventil8 collection to the test by taking a look at the Millard Polo and the Phil golf shorts. All of the Ventil8 pieces are heavily breathable, moisture-wicking, and all are easy to care for.

The Millard Polo

The Millard Polo is one of the most technically advanced golf polos I’ve seen. It’s pretty obvious that the Millard is designed with technical performance in mind. The shirt is 100% Polyester and seems to magically stay dry regardless of what you throw at it.

At one point I spent 7 hours between the range and a round of golf in the low country of South Carolina with the temperature hovering around 100 degrees and with the humidity so high that you could literally see the moisture in the air. The Millard performed like a champ.

The cut of the shirt is nice and there are small details that I really appreciate in the design. The cut of the sleeves are uniquely designed to remove the typical bulk found in most golf shirts – this is a huge plus when layering. The back and under-arm area of the shirts also have a thinner and more breathable fabric design to wick quickly in the areas where it’s most needed.

My only complaint about the Millard is the look. I’m just not a fan of the heavy geometric influence. While there’s likely some logic in the pattern, I’d personally like the look better if the colors were subtle differences instead of the heavy contrast.

The Phil Short

The Phil Short might just be the best kept secret in the golf apparel industry. I’m dead serious about that. There’s not a better golf short – period.

A few times over the past few years I’ve run across shorts that I’ve loved for golf – but I’ve never seen a pair that are half as impressive as these. Galvin Green has completely up-leveled the playing field on golf shorts.

The shorts are 100% polyester and made from a very stretchy material that feels similar to a strong compression blend. The waistband of the shorts provides a stretch and grip that gives the perfect combination of hold while also staying comfortable. The length and cut of the shorts is also flawless. This is what every golf short wishes it could be.

Do yourself a favor and buy a pair or two of these shorts – you’ll be glad you did.

The Cool Layer

According to the Multi-Layer Concept, the Ventil8 collection is recommended as a layer for Cold & Sunny, Warm & Sunny, and Warm & Rainy conditions. The Galvin Green Ventil8 lineup includes The Marshall, Mason, Maxwell, and Millard tops as well as the Nate and Ned pants and Phil shorts.

To learn more about Galvin Green and their Multi-Layer Concept, you can visit their website at http://galvingreen.com.