You just bought a new Windbar tee, and you're excited to wear it on your next trip. But even a brand-new tee can have issues if you're not careful. The most common early-life problem I see is shrinkage. If you wash a 100% cotton tee in hot water or put it in the dryer on high, it can shrink a full size. That's frustrating, especially when you're packing for a trip and need consistent sizing.

Another early sign to watch is the collar. A brand-new tee should have a snug, even collar. If it starts to stretch or warp after just a few washes, that's a red flag—it might be a lower GSM fabric that's more prone to distortion. Before you buy, check the GSM. For travel, I'd recommend a GSM of at least 180. That's the sweet spot for durability without feeling like cardboard.

Also, check the seams. Run your fingers along the shoulder and side seams. If you feel any loose threads or uneven stitching, that's a sign the tee might not hold up to the rigors of packing and washing. A quick test: pull gently on the seams—if they give too easily, they'll likely fail early.