From hiking trails to hanging out: high-tech, quick-drying clothes you can work out in, wash, then wear around town

Muscle & Fitness/Hers, May, 2004 by Brandy D. Colbert

If you've previously had any hang-ups about wearing technical clothes off the trails, these will change your mind. This page, from left: The wind-deflecting GoLite Ventus Jacket, $79, folds up into a self-stowing bag. Water repellent HIND Compass Shorts, $50. This Royal Robbins Performance Shirt, $30, has a jersey front and (surprise!) cool mesh back. For those who have trouble making decisions, the Royal Robbins Zip 'n' Go Pant, $70, goes from pants to shorts. Pearl Izumi Women's Whisper with microfleece collar, $65. Reebok's easy fit Ultra Long Sleeve Half Zip jacket, $35.

The beauty of these clothes is that they're not only highly functional--that is, moisture-wicking, light and comfortable--they're also easy to pack (roll them up, stuff 'em in a duffel and pull them out wrinkle free). Plus, they're so quick drying, you can even toss them in the sink, wash them and wear them out later that night. Opposite page: Two tops that don't even look like workout clothes, but actually perform perfectly on the mountain. Left: Quick-drying Contourwear Vest with back bike pocket, $70. Oakley sunglasses. Columbia watch. Right: Briko Lotus Tank, $39. Contourwear Anywear Pant, $166.

The thong craze shows no sign of slowing down. This athletic variation on the theme won't slow you down. Oakley O Sandal, $50, provides traction in wet and dry conditions. These Contourwear Anywear Pants, $166, have pockets within the ankle slits.

Opposite page: Tops that can be worn as layers or on their own. Left: Briko Alpha Long-Sleeve Shirt, in antibacterial nylon. Royal Robbins Go Everywhere Shorts, $40. Oakley sunglasses. Right: Rare is the workout top that comes with compartments. The GoLite Women's Mesa Top, $70, has two zippered side pockets for stashing keys or a gym card. Patagonia W's Vitali-Tee, $40. HIND Compass Shorts, $50. Champion sunglasses.

Yes, you can have it all--breathable clothes that look as good as they feel.

Travel-friendly tops and bottoms that really go the distance.

This page, from left: A sleeveless hoodie with thermal insulation. Briko Ivy Vest, $58. Columbia Cross Pass Knee Pant, $40. Jockey Sport Jacket, $36, with retro appeal. Oakley Slide Shorts, $52, with zippered pockets. Champion Fitted Rib Tank, $16. Swiss Army TX 24 bag, $599 with global tracking.

Go ahead, break a sweat. These clothes will wick it away in no time. Opposite page: Nike's form-fitting Club Tee, $34, and New Yoga Pants, $65, are both made from lightweight Dri-FIT, a synthetic that feels as comfy as cotton but performs a lot better.

Photography by Richard Hume