Prototype Updates- Feedback Always Welcome

Hey Tall Girl!

Summer’s in full swing, but I’ve been deep in the weeds prototyping next summer’s gear. You might’ve seen a few sneak peeks—we’re working on two new pieces made for long-limbed movement: a UPF hooded long sleeve shirt and a hiking skirt. 

Round two of prototypes has been all about dialing in fit and trying out new fabrics. The shirt got some wrist and hood adjustments (because we deserve full coverage), and the skirt got a pocket tweak and a re-think on the liner fabric.

Let’s talk materials because they really do matter. Alta Reina is not a fashion brand, but a outdoor apparel brand. Durability and performance are integral element of the brand and sending garments into the world that are inferior will not due.

The skirt is currently made with Polartec® PowerWool™, which blends polyester for stretch and durability, with wool for breathability and natural insulation. Basically, it handles sweat, wicking, and movement without batting an eye.

The skirt liner has been tricky. Testing has used two different liner fabrics: one soft and fuzzy, the other smooth and slippery. Neither felt quite right long-term, so more exploration is due, no liner maybe? Sometimes less is more.

The UPF shirt is where things got nerd (in the best way). I’ve been testing two types of fabric blends:

-RPET ChitoSante: Recycled polyester made from recycled plastic bottles, and is treated with Chitosan (crustacean-based fabric application) to increase wicking, and inhibit bacteria and odor. It inherently offers high UPF protection, and is super durable. A bit more structured, but built to last.

-Bamboo-spandex blend: ridiculously soft, plant-based, uses a lot of water in processing, and feels dreamy on, but it’s a little more delicate and not as long-wearing.

The jury (product testers) is still deciding where to land on this one. One is better with performance, the other is soft as a cozy hug. More pro and con lists must be made.

Designing tall gear takes extra thought—tiny fit adjustments make a big difference when standard sizing doesn’t cut it. Thanks for being part of this process. These pieces aren’t quite ready yet (spring 2026 launch), but I’ll keep sharing the journey as we go. 

Tall girl feedback is always welcome. Got opinions on skirt liners or sun shirts? Hit me up.

suzi@altareina.com

Or better yet, fill out our fit survey

Cheerfully,

Suzi