I live in the tropics so I'm glad that the knit is not too heavy. The materials used are in fact the perfect blend for hotter, summer-like areas like San Francisco and Miami. I'm also 5'8" and 220lbs so I ordered XL. fits me with a little room which i'm glad for. I did not want it painted on. Going to wash it and wear it out next and then I will give some more feedback.