Product Review – Recreating Liz Robbins’ Outfit with Modern Royal Robbins Clothing
While scrolling Instagram, I accidentally became inspired by a vintage photo of a woman rock climbing in Yosemite. She had on a cream-colored turtleneck, loose brown shorts, absolutely no sunglasses, and a blissed-out smile while she looked up at the granite face above. Iconic. I felt compelled to recreate this style and have the euphoria that can only be found outdoors. The original inspiration photo is from the Royal Robbins Instagram and I’ve included it in the first gallery below.
The photo is of Liz Robbins, who was the first woman to climb the face of Half Dome in 1967, and eventually went on to start an outdoor clothing brand named for her husband, Royal Robbins. Talk about adventurous. While I am not even a novice rock climber, I was struck by this photo and reached out to the Royal Robbins brand to recreate her outfit using modern Royal Robbins clothing items. This was trickier than anticipated in the summer of 2022 as shorts were available but fewer turtlenecks. Ha! In the end, I decided to try the following items:
- Turtleneck 1: Kickback Organic Cotton Turtleneck
- Turtleneck 2: All Season Merino Turtleneck
- Shorts 1: Billy Goat II Shorts
- Shorts 2: Backcountry Pro Shorts
- Socks: Treetech Crew Pattern Sock
We will go on a journey from the backstory of the Royal Robbins brand to review these selected clothing items. I’ll discuss my favorite features, drawbacks, and best use of each item, plus how well it matches the Liz Robbins photo. Let’s see how I did.
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Liz Robbins Inspiration Photos:
(All are from the Royal Robbins Instagram)
Product Review – Recreating Liz Robbins’ Outfit with Modern Royal Robbins Clothing
Who is Liz Robbins?
“The beer bashes at frat houses after football games had left me uninspired, and the boys who looked pretty cool in class looked pretty stupid at night,” Liz wrote for the Alpinist in 2008 regarding her summer break from UC Berkeley (Go Bears!) in 1960. So when Royal Robbins invited Liz to go climbing when they initially met at Camp 4, a popular climbing campground in the Yosemite Valley, she was willing to try it. There is no way she could have known that this chance encounter would lead her to be the first woman to ascend the face of Half Dome seven years later.
Liz Robbins was (and likely still is) a rock climber, pioneer of clean climbing, co-founder of the Royal Robbins brand, and wife to Royal Robbins. It’s tough to untangle her accomplishments with that of her husband, who was part of the first crew to ascend the face of Half Dome, the first ascents of the Salathé Wall and a solo ascent of the Muir Wall of El Capitan, and the first ascent of American Direct on the Dru. But together, they tested an unclimbed route on the Manure Pile Buttress using only nutcrackers (a removable piece of climbing protection, instead of hammering pitons or drilling bolts into the rock). The 2008 Alpinist article details Liz’s first-person perspective of the climb, showing her climbing skill and interest in the new equipment. Their successful ascent changed the world of climbing, and the route was named the Nutcracker Suite.
Liz and Royal’s partnership helped push forward the clean climbing movement and created the clothing brand we interact with today. Incredible.
About the Royal Robbins Brand
During and after Liz’s Half Dome climb, she was stuck with the idea of making clothing that was better suited for climbers. She utilized their network to find a pattern maker and create the initial designs for a clothing line that would fulfill the active needs of rock climbers. They built the Royal Robbins brand on clothing that was durable and functional for any activity while being as sustainable as possible and looking good. And these values can be seen today. They have a “Get Dressed Once” motto to embody the idea of clothing that is comfortable enough casually while being ready for anything – rock climbing, hiking, or getting brunch. Each one of the pieces I tried felt durable, with quality fabrics and classic lines.
As for sustainability, I can feel the impact of the original nutcracker route and leaving-no-trace on the granite rocks in Yosemite in the brand’s choices. Everything from sustainable packaging (including natural-feeling ties instead of plastic) to fabric choices (organic cotton and non-muscled wool to promote the ethical treatment of sheep) and clothing guarantee have the environment in mind. At least to me, it doesn’t feel like green-washing. Instead, it feels like sustainability and conscious environmental impact are baked into the brand as part of the culture set forth by Liz and Royal.
I particularly love the section on their sustainability page titled “A Journey of Continuous Improvement” because they consider that there is not just one level or aspect of sustainability to reach. But just like discovering the nutcracker, new technology will be developed that will be an even more sustainable way to operate, and they are open to that change. Overall, I am glad I got to try these durable clothes and research this outdoor brand.
Recreating the Look: Choosing Items and Where I Went
I scoured the Royal Robbins website to recreate the photo of Liz Robbins. I wanted to use current products as of summer 2022 while balancing my personal style to try out items I would genuinely wear. With a focus on sustainability, I don’t think Liz would approve of getting things to look like her, to only wear once or twice. The styling and colors helped narrow down the items, and I landed on four primary items: two turtlenecks to compare and two shorts to compare. In the original picture, Liz’s feet are not visible. However, in other climbing photos, Liz wears high socks! Since Royal Robbins creates socks, we added those too!
I wanted to try out the products, not just pose for photos. This meant going on hikes and wearing the clothes. For several months, I wore each item multiple times – together and also separately to see how I could incorporate them into my wardrobe. Here are some of the places I took the products:
- Oregon hikes, like Spencer Butte, Spirit Falls, and McDowell Creek Falls.
- Oregon casual — I wore the turtlenecks and socks in day-to-day life.
- YOSEMITE!! When I visited my family at the end of October, I couldn’t resist taking the clothes to the place that inspired the Royal Robbins brand. I didn’t do any rock climbing, but I did take in the granite walls that Liz and Royal became the first in the world to ascend (on particular routes).
Initial takeaway:
I could tell the quality and focus on sustainability from the moment I received the items. All the packaging was eco-friendly, recyclable, or made from recycled materials, and the products felt durable yet soft. And with that, let’s jump into the products themselves.
At a Glance:
My Sizing:
- Height: 5’10” (may affect how you look at the shorts’ length)
- Size of Turtlenecks: Medium or Large
- Size of Shorts: Medium or 8
Turtleneck 1: Kickback Organic Cotton Turtleneck
- Website: Royal Robbins Product Page
- Other Websites: Moosejaw has a few left, and Amazon has more colors but not the creme color.
- Price at the time of writing: $65.00
- Color: Creme
- Personal Rating: 5 out of 5; I wear this turtleneck regularly because of how comfortable it is!
- How Well It Matches Liz: 10 out of 5; this must have been super similar to the one she was wearing – just a loose, cotton, cream turtleneck.
- Best Use: This is an excellent turtleneck for layering, staying warm, and casual wear. I’m warming up to the idea of wearing a turtleneck while active, but not sure of it yet.
Turtleneck 2: All Season Merino Turtleneck
- Website: Royal Robbins Product Page
- Other Websites: Moosejaw and Amazon
- Price at the time of writing: $95.00
- Color: Creme
- Personal Rating: 7 out of 5; I love it because it has a classic look while still being machine washable.
- How Well It Matches Liz: 4 out of 5; not quite the same, but if you squint your eyes, it could work.
- Best Use: Dress it up or down; this turtleneck can be worn in various ways. It felt too nice to wear in an active situation, but I appreciated the merino wool’s anti-odor properties!
Shorts 1: Billy Goat II Shorts
- Website: Royal Robbins Product Page
- Other Websites: Moosejaw (on sale as of 12/7/22), surprisingly Zappos, and Amazon
- Price at the time of writing: $65.00
- Color: Everglade
- Rise: Mid-Rise, hits two inches below my belly button
- Inseam: 5”
- Personal Rating: 5 out of 5; I enjoyed hiking in these shorts and will continue to wear them
- How Well It Matches Liz: 5 out of 5; these are definitely the best choice for recreating the look but could be looser to match the photo. Plus, I love the backstory of these shorts!
- Best Use: Hiking, walking, biking, or even casual wear.
Shorts 2: Backcountry Pro Shorts
- Website: Royal Robbins Product Page
- Other Websites: Moosejaw (on sale as of 12/7/22), Zappos again, and Amazon (limited colors, but some discounts as of 12/7/22).
- Price at the time of writing: $65.00
- Color: Light Khaki
- Rise: Mid-high rise, hits one inch below the belly button
- Inseam: 5”
- Personal Rating: 4 out of 5; these shorts just fit, and they do not stretch, so they were great when I first put them on, but if I’m hiking or sitting for long periods, they become uncomfy. However, the pockets are super clever, they are lightweight/quick-dry, and more my style, so I hope to fit into them better next year!
- How Well It Matches Liz: 3 out 5; these shorts are too modern to match Liz’s style.
- Best Use: Hiking! Walking, biking, and other active activities.
Bonus Socks: Treetech Crew Pattern Sock
- Website: Royal Robbins Product Page
- Price at the time of writing: $22.00
- Color: Stellar and Collins Blue
- Personal Rating: 7 out of 5; these are quality socks I’ve worn hiking, biking, and around the house. They are made with hemp, so they are durable and comfortable.
- How Well It Matches Liz: 6 out of 5; these were a bonus item that matches Liz’s style in a few other photos, and I feel she would approve.
- Best Use: Hiking, biking, climbing, running, walking, lounging – any of the ings!
Turtleneck 1: Review of the Royal Robbins Kickback Organic Cotton Turtleneck
Starting off strong out of many strong products from Royal Robbins with the Kickback Organic Cotton Turtleneck. A winter staple, this turtleneck is soft to the touch but feels durable, like it will last a decade. It feels good on the skin and is breathable, which is very different from my other nylon, polyester, or blended-fabric athletic apparel. However, cotton has its downfall in athletic endeavors – it is not moisture-wicking or odor-resistant. Instead, it is moisture-absorbing!! At the same time, I don’t believe many people are looking at this turtleneck to go exercise in… unless you’re trying to recreate Liz Robbins’ look.
2023 Update: It looks like Royal Robbins is no longer carrying the Kickback Organic Cotton Turtleneck, so I’ve linked to the similar Vacationer Turtleneck, which is made with eco-conscious of hemp, organic cotton, and recycled poly.
How Well It Matched the Look
Of all the products I tried from Royal Robbins, I believe the Kickback Organic Cotton Turtleneck matched Liz Robbins’ photos the best. Like, am I wearing the same exact turtleneck as her?? Loose, creme-colored, and organic cotton could be the same style she rocked (pun intended) back in her climbing days. One small note, I got a size large (instead of my usual medium) for a slightly oversized/looser fit. This turtleneck was off the charts as a match, and I gave it a 10 out of 5.
Favorite Features
100% Organic Cotton: For daily wear, nothing beats the feel and breathability of cotton. I appreciate that the Royal Robbins brand went with 100% organic cotton because I used this as a base layer, directly touching the skin. I haven’t been too concerned about this in the past, but I would like to be more conscientious of my base layers in the future.
Comfy and Relaxed: Beyond the cotton making this turtleneck comfy, the style is relaxed without being overly tight anywhere. For example, even the sleeves are tight enough, like some turtleneck styles. The relaxed fit is comfortable for layering. One thing to note is that this shirt is full-length, so if you have cropped sweaters or high-waisted pants, you may be tucking the bottom of this turtleneck, as I have done in nearly every photo. It’s tricky, I wouldn’t want this turtleneck to be cropped, but maybe 2-3 inches shorter would make it easier to wear with more high-waisted items.
Durable: I’ve washed this turtleneck several times, and it seems to be thriving. There are no signs of piling or fluffing. I’ve been hang-drying it (although you could pop it in the dryer), and I believe I will get at least 3-4+ seasons out of it.
Drawbacks
Limited Colors: Perhaps I caught this product later in its lifetime, but limited colors and sizes were available. The large size ended up working better for matching the photo, but I might try out a medium in the future, which is not always available in the desired colors. Speaking of colors, I wish Royal Robbins stocked more colors. How nice would it be in a lighter brick, olive, light blue, tan, or brown?
Not Sure About Hiking/Active: Wearing turtlenecks on the trails was an unusual experience. I was digging the long-sleeves with shorts combination but had to get used to the turtleneck. Looking at my other hiking posts, you’ll see I’m constantly wearing a bandana around my neck. With that in mind, I am no stranger to having something around my neck and can appreciate something keeping my neck protected from the sun. However, as soon as I started sweating, I felt constricted. How did Liz do it?! Maybe it takes getting used to, or maybe your neck isn’t sweating as much while climbing? Also, since the cotton absorbed my sweat, the extra moisture in the shirt made me extra chilly once I cooled down. Overall, I wouldn’t totally recommend this as a hiking shirt, but it might be good for brisk walks or short bike rides. It’s fantastic for casual use.
Usage Review/Who is This For?
While I had to try this turtleneck out on the trails, I primarily enjoyed wearing this turtleneck casually. Especially once I moved to Oregon, I started layering the shirt under sweaters and sweatshirts. Or with a looser corduroy shirt jacket. I loved having the breathable organic cotton closest to my skin, with warm layers on top. I’ve also been embracing turtlenecks for the extra warmth around the neck in the last year or so. I’ve focused on scarves for so long that I’ve missed out on turtlenecks, and I am glad to have them back in my life.
Overall, get this turtleneck if you’re looking for a comfy, full-length (as opposed to cropped), classic organic turtleneck for layering.
WHERE TO PURCHASE THE Kickback or Vacationer Turtleneck:
Turtleneck 2: Review of the Royal Robbins All Season Merino Turtleneck
As a comparison shirt from Royal Robbins, I wanted to try out the All Season Merino Turtleneck. I knew it wouldn’t match the photo of Liz Robbins due to the tan sleeve detail, but I wondered if the merino wool would be better for outdoor activity. Turns out the Merino Turtleneck fit like a dream, has visual interest with the sleeve detail and made me feel elegant.
How Well It Matched the Look
If you squint, this could work as a Liz Robbins’ look recreation. It has the spiritual fit of Liz with the cream color, natural fabrics, and turtleneck design, but ultimately isn’t quite right with the fitted shoulders and arms or the tan color on the sleeves. I give this a 4 out of 5 in terms of matching the original photo or any of Liz Robbin’s climbing photos.
Favorite Features
Machine Washable! I remember my mom asking me if I wanted to wear this sweater while hiking around the Mariposa Grove in Yosemite because she was concerned I would need to get it dry-cleaned. “It’s machine washable!!” I proudly told her, “I’ve already washed it twice.” She was impressed. I love that this sweater is machine washable because otherwise, I likely would never wear it for fear of getting it dirty. After a few washes, it still looks brand new.
55% Merino Wool + 45% Cotton: With this turtleneck, you get the benefits of Merino wool (moisture wicking, odor resistant, and warmth) but the softness and breathability of cotton. I love wool, so having a washable and wearable sweater is an A+ in my book.
Fitted, Classic Design: I got a medium size, and the fit is a dream. It is fitted perfectly to my shoulders and bust, which makes the rest of the shirt fall naturally from there without being overly tight. The arms are also more fitted, which brings extra attention to the sleeve detail. Personally, I love the brown sleeve detail with the cream. I feel very fancy wearing this turtleneck.
Drawbacks
Too Fancy for the Outdoors? With the fit, classic design, and merino wool fabric, I felt super odd taking this outdoors and on the trails. However, it did keep me warm on a chilly October morning in Yosemite, and resisted odor after frolicking around. Not only did it feel weird to wear a nice sweater on the trails, but it was not built to handle the constant friction of outdoor activities, as I’m not noticing a bit of piling where my backpack hit my lower back. So SAD! My recommendation: keep this to regular life!
Long Length: With both turtlenecks, I ran into the issue of the long length of the shirt, which doesn’t work as well with mid- or high-rise shorts and pants. So I kept doing a side or full tuck and trying to elegantly fold over the extra fabric — successful? You be the judge. There are slits on the sides for increased movement, so the designers knew it would be long!! As someone who is always trying to lengthen the line of my leg, I wish this was about 5 inches shorter.
Usage Review/Who is This For?
Selfishly, I’m stoked I got to try out the All Season Merino Turtleneck because I walked away with a machine-washable, elegant merino sweater that fits perfectly. Family, if you’re reading this, I’m absolutely wearing this for the holidays! And likely any/all upcoming dinner parties. I’m super bummed that my backpack created a bit of pilling on the back of the sweater, but it’s a good reminder that it has limits — especially with repeated movements in a particular area. Now that I know, I’ll be sure to wear it a little more carefully, and I’ll get great use out of the sweater as it matches my personal style.
Overall, get this turtleneck if you are looking for a fitted yet wearable merino wool sweater. Wearable in that it’s soft to the touch and looks great, and you can also chuck it in the wash with your other lights.
WHERE TO PURCHASE THE All Season Merino Turtleneck:
Shorts 1: Review of the Royal Robbins Billy Goat II Shorts
The original Billy Goat Shorts were born of necessity. After tackling Half Dome’s face with Royal, Liz Robbins recognized they needed flexible clothing for climbers. In this article from Culture Trav, Liz Robbins says, “Nothing was as flexible as Royal wanted. And that’s where the Billy Goat® waistband came from: it allowed flexibility in the waist and the body without wearing stretchy, Polyester things.” The Billy Goat Shorts were the first clothing item requiring Liz to work with a pattern maker; plus, Liz adjusted an elastic waistband to lay more like masculine shorts with wide legs and not like swim trunks. The shorts became incredibly popular and were the beginning of the Royal Robbins clothing brand.
How cool is this story?! While the design of the shorts has changed over the years, I can still see how the brand is holding onto some of these original ideals – an elastic waistband and staying away from polyester. The primarily cotton shorts were a breath of fresh air in an outdoor clothing world made from recycled polyester, nylon, and spandex. The Billy Goat II Shorts that I tried are part of the Royal Remastered collection, where they have redesigned some of the classic items for everyday use.
How Well It Matched the Look
The Billy Goat II shorts definitely matched the look the best of the two shorts I tried, but I wouldn’t say they are an exact match for the fit. In each picture of Liz Robbins, her shorts (sometimes cutoff jeans!) have ample legroom and a high waist. I got the Billy Goat II shorts in my size, and unfortunately, my gluteal goodness and thicc thighs filled these shorts. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a perfect fit, but it wasn’t the Liz Robbins legroom. I give these shorts a 5 out of 5 for being the best modern option available with a tangible connection to Liz herself.
Favorite Features
Trail to Happy Hour: If I wasn’t wearing all the other hiking accoutrement (shoes, socks, turtleneck, and backpack), these shorts could camouflage as regular shorts. To me, they don’t scream “HIKING SHORTS!!” the way some do. While I tried these on the trail, you could easily take these to happy hour, on a walk, or around town. They are multi-use and ready for anything.
Cotton with Stretch: The fabric of the Billy Goat II shorts is thicker than lightweight nylon or polyester hiking shorts. I wasn’t sure if I would like a 65% cotton short, but the softness, durability, and breathability are winning me over. And surprisingly, there is a stretch to the shorts! The stretch was definitely needed for hiking and big steps, and I never felt restricted. However, I have yet to try these shorts for extended sweaty exertion – something to consider.
Deep Pockets: I was impressed with the deep pockets of both pairs of shorts. You wouldn’t even know it with the Billy Goat II shorts, but I can fit my entire iPhone 12 Pro without it showing in the front pockets. Bravo! Plus, the back right pocket has a hidden zippered pocket. The hidden zipper pocket is on the smaller size, but could fit credit cards, cash, and car key with a little more security.
Historical Connection: The front button of the shorts has a goat with the words “Billy Goat, Since 1975.” I love the story behind the shorts, inspiring me to scale some boulders, like a billy goat in the mountains.
Drawbacks
Leg Opening: Again, these shorts fit perfectly, and with the added stretch, I never felt constricted. However, it would be nice to have a little more legroom.
Just Don’t Get Wet: I liked the comfort and breathability of cotton, but it has typical drawbacks. This includes that it will take a bit longer to dry when wet. Perhaps that is something you want on a hot day, but maybe not so much on chillier days or in the evening.
Usage Review
The Billy Goat II Shorts are a great pair of comfortable, durable, and yet stretchy pair of shorts. These are comfortable and casual enough to wear on the trail and hit a coffee shop or happy hour afterward without feeling out of place. I like the color and inseam length, which feels modest when doing billy goat acrobatics on the trail while still being a modern length. Speaking of which, I cannot wear these shorts without thinking about the connection to the original Billy Goat Shorts! In Liz’s description from this article, it sounds like there was even more elastic and stretchy around the waist with looser/wider leg openings. It’s funny because I think that baggy 80s and 90s design with high-rise is back in style! I might have to buy a vintage pair as a comparison!!
Overall, get these shorts for multiple uses – from casual wear to hiking. They are comfy and durable but may hold onto water or sweat, so keep these around for land-based activities!
WHERE TO PURCHASE THE Billy Goat II Shorts:
Shorts 2: Review of the Royal Robbins Backcountry Pro Shorts
As another comparison, I wanted to try out the Backcountry Pro Shorts as a pair of Royal Robbins shorts specifically designed for active activity and sweating. I liked the structured look and LOVED the light khaki color, despite being different from the Liz Robbins photos. Royal Robbins knows how to design for adventure — these shorts are lightweight, quick-dry, and have massive pockets!!
How Well It Matched the Look
Okay, I knew from the jump that these shorts were more technical than Liz Robbins wore climbing in the 60s and 70s. I also knew that this light khaki color was not aligned either. However, I wanted to see if we could get closer to a high-waisted, wide-leg look in a color I would wear in real life. In particular photos, I was successful as the shorts fit snuggly at the waist and a-lines out from there, giving the appearance of a wide-leg. I’ll give these Backcountry Pro shorts a 3 out of 5 for matching Liz.
Favorite Features
Pockets Galore!! I cannot emphasize enough how cool the pockets are on these shorts. The Royal Robbins Backcountry Pro had the best pockets out of all the shorts I tested this summer, which is a feat. There are 3 full-sized pockets and 1 smaller zippered pocket. And when I say “full-sized,” I mean they extend to the hem of the shorts!! They are huge!! Thank you Royal Robbins, for finally giving women some real pockets. I can even fit my iPhone 12 Pro horizontally at the bottom of the pocket. Wow.
Lightweight/Quick Dry: Wow, I cannot believe how lightweight the fabric is on these shorts while still being durable. Made primarily from nylon, the shorts are light enough to let light through while remaining opaque from the exterior. Plus, the pockets are lined with mesh. All these features point to being quick-dry, which I accidentally tested when I slipped into a pool at the base of a waterfall. Haha! See if you can tell where I fell! They dried out quickly, and now I wish I had taken them on my Rogue River Rafting Trip!
Belt Loops + Adjustable Waist: Both pairs of shorts had belt loops, which is handy if these ever became too loose on me. In addition, the Backcountry Pro shorts has tabs and an extra button on each side of the waist to reduce the size at the waist if that’s the area that isn’t fitting right. Extra buttons are included on the interior tag.
Drawbacks
No Horizontal Stretch: AGAIN, my gluteal goodness thwarted my attempt to achieve a loose, wide-leg look. Don’t get me wrong, they look great and fit like a glove. However, a funny thing about these shorts is that there is vertical stretch, but they really do not budge when trying to stretch horizontally. The impact was that I could make large steps/lunges easily while hiking around, but unfortunately, they became uncomfortably tight when sitting for any period. I’d consider sizing up!
Possible Panty Lines: Maybe panty lines don’t bother you. But if they do, watch out in these shorts. One side has a back pocket, but it is flush with the back of the shorts. Combine the lack of pocket coverage with the fit and lightweight fabric, and you’re at high risk for panty lines. This is a warning.
Usage Review
Reviewing the photos, I really like how these shorts look. The structure, color, and pockets definitely fit my personal style. Not only that, but they also are comfortable to hike in with so many pockets. I wish these were a tad more comfortable while seated, which I didn’t realize until wearing them on an hour-long drive to a trailhead. But I was glad to be wearing these when I slipped and submerged the shorts at the base of a waterfall. After recovering (I had a bruise on my bun but nothing else, haha), getting more photos, and enjoying the waterfall, they were practically dry when I returned to the trailhead.
Overall, get the Backcountry Pro shorts if you’re looking for lightweight hiking shorts and might get wet. If you sweat a lot or plan to do water-based activities (paddleboarding, kayaking, waterfall chasing (haha), rafting, etc.), these shorts are great as they will dry out quickly.
WHERE TO PURCHASE THE Backcountry Pro Shorts:
Bonus Socks: Review of the Royal Robbins Treetech Crew Pattern Sock
Okay, I feel a little dumb for not realizing that “treetech” refers to the technical qualities of hemp – trees!! Get it “treetech”?! Haha, even though I didn’t know this at the time, I immediately noticed the Treetech Crew Pattern Socks felt solid. They are thick in the right parts without being rigid, cushioned in the right parts while still being breathable, and have a cute design to boot. Maybe I’m showing my age by being impressed with socks, but I’m stoked I got to try them out.
How Well It Matched the Look
The original inspirational/aspirational photo of Liz Robbins doesn’t include her feet. However, looking through the Royal Robbins Instagram account, I discovered other Liz climbing photos with her feet showing. She had ankle or knee-high socks peeking above her boots in almost every climbing photo. On top of Half Dome, her presumably knee-high socks are rolled down to the top of her boots. So when I proposed recreating the look, I suggested these Treeech socks as a “bonus” to match the look, but not totally necessary. I’m glad I suggested it because it is a special nod to the recreation. I give the Collin’s Blue color sock a 6 out of 5 for matching Liz and the Stellar color a 4 out of 5 (however, it fits my personal style a little better).
Favorite Features
Cushioned Soul and Seamless Toe: I didn’t think I would ever refer to socks as technical, but here we are. Upon closer inspection, these socks do not have a thick toe seam. Even when turning them inside out, there is a completely flush barely-noticeable line at the top of the sock. I wouldn’t feel the “seam” even if these somehow got turned around. The soul is also cushioned with thicker loops, while the top of the foot is thinner and breathable. It seems (pun intended) like a designer put some tangible effort into these socks.
Durable, Breathable, and “Odor-Resistant”: These socks point to the interesting benefits of hemp-blended fabric. I love that it is naturally durable and breathable. Honestly, I’ve worn these socks hiking, biking, walking, and falling into waterfalls, and they’ve always been comfortable without being overly hot. One pair of my hiking boots are not breathable, so while the socks likely tried their best to resist odor, they are not immune. When dried out, they were a bit less smelly and did not hold onto scent when washed!
Cute Design: Beyond the technical design of the socks, the colorways and patterns are cute! My personal style aligns more with the Stellar color, and I love the mountain-related layering of organic forms. The inside of the cuff reads “Royal Robbins M” — is there any part of these socks that were not thought about??! The “M” sizing is helpful if you’ve got different household members with varying sock sizes!
Drawbacks
Stellar White Getting A Bit Less White: As I mentioned, I put these socks through the wringer and didn’t tiptoe around dust or dirty situations. With that in mind, like any white socks, the top white section of the Stellar color is not as brilliant as when I first got it. I’m sure I could use brightening detergents to get this section back to its original state, but I also know these socks will go right back on the trail. Just something to consider. The Collins Blue colors look exactly the same as when I first got them.
Slight Pilling After Multiple Washes: I’ve washed the socks multiple times and noticed slight pilling. I can see it easier on the Stellar color as there are larger sections of the same fabric next to one another. The green areas are not pilling, which creates contrast. It’s not extensive and feels normal compared to other socks.
Usage Review
The Royal Robbins Treetech Socks are smartly designed – smart fabrics, clever technical choices, and cute color choices – with activewear in mind. But they are still comfortable for regular wear, which I’ve definitely done. I’m impressed with the seamless toe (how did they do that?!) and find them very comfortable. With the durable fabric, I plan to wear these a ton over the next decade… or until the elastic wears out. I’ll try to remember to update this post when that happens (check back in 2032, hah!).
Overall, these are great socks to wear every day or while hiking on the trails. Throw a pair into your cart when purchasing other Royal Robbins apparel, and I bet you won’t regret it.
Full Transparency: Gifted Robbins, My Opinions
For total transparency, I wanted to let you know that I received all Royal Robbins items at no cost. I researched and chose clothing to match the photos of Liz Robbins but also fit my personal style, so I would wear them regularly. Royal Robbins is aware of my writing this post but does not know my specific opinions about the different items. Or if I was even successful in recreating the look! Going into the post, I had little knowledge of the Royal Robbins brand but believed it would be fun to learn more about Liz Robbins and to match the 60s or 70s style outfit. I didn’t realize all the items were going to be such HIGH quality that I would genuinely enjoy wearing them or that I would be even further inspired by Liz herself. In short(s), all opinions are my own.
Overall Thoughts: Recreating Liz Robbins’ Outfit with Modern Royal Robbins Clothing
Oh, what fun it was to recreate Liz Robbins’ climbing outfits. It was strange to wear turtlenecks on the trails, but worthwhile to channel the inspirational Liz Robbins and try Royal Robbins products. Upon researching Liz’s life, I feel we are kindred spirits – UC Berkeley alumni, curiosity to explore the world, and ultimately building a brand to help women be comfortable outdoors. Inspired by the original picture of Liz Robbins, and I am somehow EVEN MORE inspired by her life and the clothing created by the Royal Robbins Brand.
Speaking of the clothes, I chose these items for a specific purpose, but they ended up being a nice variety of fabrics and designs. Across the board, the items were made from durable materials with clever design choices, like everything being machine washable and having large pockets. I feel comfortable recommending the brand to wear in multiple circumstances, such as:
- Turtleneck 1: Kickback Organic Cotton Turtleneck: Buy for comfy layering with organic cotton.
- Turtleneck 2: All Season Merino Turtleneck: Buy for easy-wash merino wool with a stylish design.
- Shorts 1: Billy Goat II Shorts: Buy for a mix of casual use and hiking.
- Shorts 2: Backcountry Pro Shorts: Buy for hiking and vigorous sweaty activities and when you want a lot of pockets.
- Bonus Socks: Treetech Crew Pattern Sock: Buy these durable socks for all activities!!
Before reading this article, were you familiar with the Royal Robbins brand? If so, what is your favorite product from the brand? Let me know, so I can check it out in the future! And if you were not as familiar (like me!), let me know what you think and if you’d try Royal Robbins in the comments!
Happy Travels,
Hanna
