Smartwool Active Run Kit Review
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Summer in Michigan is a strange season for runners. We get hot, humid days along the lakeshore, but also cooler mornings and occasional sudden temperature swings. I train on the Musketawa Trail, in Muskegon State Park, Hoffmaster State Park and around town, so I need gear that handles a wide range of conditions. This summer I got to test the Smartwool Active Run Kit, and I’ve put it through plenty of miles.
The kit includes the Men’s Active Ultralite Short Sleeve, the Men’s Active Lined 7″ Short, and the Run Low Ankle Socks. I’ve worn them for long runs, speed workouts, and recovery jogs.
Smartwool Active Ultralite Short Sleeve
I started with the shirt because hot weather running can make any shirt feel heavy and uncomfortable. The Active Ultralite Short Sleeve is made from a 53 percent Merino wool and 47 percent TENCEL Lyocell blend, and the fabric feels soft, light, and smooth right out of the package. The wool helps with odor control, while the TENCEL keeps it cool against the skin.
I sweat a lot. I can walk down my driveway to get the mail and start sweating, not because I am tired or physically exhausted, but because that is just how my body cools itself. This shirt moves sweat away very well. So well, in fact, that you can squeeze sweat out of the fabric. That also brought one issue: the shirt instantly soaks up any moisture and shows dark wet spots right away. It is undeniably noticeable, which bothered me a bit.
Still, I wore this shirt on multiple runs along the lakeshore where the humidity makes even an easy pace feel harder. It never felt clingy, and it dried quickly once I finished my run. On hotter days, I noticed how breathable it felt, especially on longer climbs at Muskegon State Park where airflow really matters.
The fit is athletic, meaning it sits close without feeling tight. I ordered my normal size, and it works well, though I could see someone sizing up if they want a looser fit.
Durability is something I will keep an eye on. The fabric feels lightweight and fine. I would not wear this as an everyday shirt, but for runs, it has been excellent.
Smartwool Active Lined 7″ Short
The Active Lined 7″ Short has become my main running short this summer. The outer shell is 86 percent recycled polyester and 14 percent elastane, which makes it light and stretchy. The liner is a blend of 53 percent Merino wool and 47 percent TENCEL Lyocell, so it stays comfortable even as I sweat.
I wore these shorts for tempo runs on the Musketawa Trail, intervals on the track at Reeths-Puffer, and easy runs through the dunes at Muskegon State Park. They always felt light and never heavy with sweat. The waistband fits securely, and the drawcord keeps them in place without digging in.
The liner worked fine for me, even on 10 to 20 mile runs. I know some people say it can cause chafing, but I did not have issues. I liked the small zip pocket in the back for a key or gel, but I felt like the pocket was a bit too low. When I put my keys in, they would sit halfway down my rear. I would prefer the pocket to be higher up so whatever I put in would sit closer to my waist.
The fit is on the loose side. They fit the way I like shorts to fit. Not too tight or loose.
Smartwool Run Low Ankle Socks
I’m picky about socks because a poor pair can ruin a run. Smartwool’s Run Targeted Cushion Low Ankle Socks worked better than I expected in humid Muskegon conditions. The low‑ankle cut stays just at or below the ankle bone, so they don’t slide or bunch. They include targeted padding at the ball and heel instead of a minimalist cushion design. That padding helped on longer runs and tempo workouts.
These socks feature Indestructawool technology in high‑wear zones so they hold up well over miles. The 4 Degree Elite Fit System hugs my feet and prevents shifting or blisters. Mesh zones keep airflow moving, and the Virtually Seamless toe reduces friction. They also include an Achilles tab that stops the sock from slipping into my shoe.
Even after several runs, the Merino wool blend (about 54 percent wool, 41 percent nylon, 2 percent recycled nylon, 3 percent elastane) kept my feet dry and free of odor. They still look good and feel secure after multiple washes.
Performance of the Smartwool Active Run Apparel
Running in Michigan gives me a mix of surfaces and weather. Some days I run along the lake in full sun; other days, I’m on shaded trails under tree cover. This kit worked in all of those conditions.
The shirt stayed cool and breathable on sunny days. The shorts handled humidity without sticking or feeling heavy. The socks kept my feet dry, even when the morning air felt thick. Together, the kit felt light and comfortable for all my summer training.
Smartwool Active Run Apparel Fit and Comfort
The Active Ultralite Short Sleeve has a slightly relaxed neck and runs a little large in my normal size. The Active Lined 7″ Shorts have a slim fit that moves with me without extra bulk. The Run Low Ankle Socks fit snug but not tight.
I like that Smartwool uses Merino wool across the kit because it helps keep odor under control. I’ve worn the shirt and shorts for back-to-back runs without them smelling bad.
Care and Durability
With lightweight Merino blends, care is important. I wash all three pieces in cold water and avoid fabric softener. I lie the shirt flat to dry, and I tumble the shorts and socks on low heat.
The shirt feels the most delicate, so I’ll save it for runs rather than wearing it casually. The shorts and socks seem more durable, but I’ll rotate them with other gear to make them last.
Final Thoughts
The Smartwool Active Run Kit impressed me this summer. The shirt kept me cool and odor free. The shorts handled miles on trail, road, and track. The socks kept my feet comfortable and dry. While the price is higher than entry-level gear, the performance makes it a worthwhile investment for serious runners. This kit offers lightweight gear that stays comfortable even as the miles add up in warm weather. If you run in hot or humid conditions and want clothing that manages temperature, dries quickly, and resists odor, this kit delivers. I plan to keep using it as summer fades into fall. For more info or to try them out for yourself, visit smartwool.com.
