Sun protection is key on hiking adventures. Here, we review shirts crafted specifically for thru-hiking, those made to act as technical base layers for year-round wear, and those casual shirts that bring ultra comfort to the trail.
We studied the comfort, sun protection and UPF ratings, breathability, moisture wicking, odor resistance, and versatility of each shirt to ensure that we answer any question you may have. From brands like Jolly Gear, Mountain Hardwear, Arc’teryx, REI, and more, we’ve tested and reviewed the best of the best.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Sun Shirts
Check out this quick list of the best sun shirts, or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.
Best Overall Sun Shirt: Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie Men’s ($75) / Women’s ($75)
Best Backpacking Sun Shirt: Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down Men’s ($95) / Women’s ($95)
Most Comfortable Sun Shirt: Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody Men’s ($72) / Women’s ($72)
Best Technical Sun Shirt: Arc’teryx Cormac / Taema Men’s ($90) / Women’s ($90)
Best Everyday Sun Shirt: Milk & Whiskey Chaser Sun Hoodie Men’s ($99) / Women’s ($99)
Best Budget Sun Shirt: REI Sahara Shade Men’s ($50) / Women’s ($50)
Best Sun Shirt for Temperature Regulating: Minus 33 Micro Weight Wool 1/4 Zip Woolverino Men’s ($110) / Women’s ($110)
Best Ultralight Sun Shirt: Outdoor Research Echo Men’s ($75) / Women’s ($75)
Best “Townie” Sun Shirt: Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie II Men’s ($74) / Women’s ($74)
Best Casual Sun Shirt: Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie II Men’s ($68) / Women’s ($68)
What’s new
While many of our long-time favorite sun shirts still hold a spot in our top 10, a few had to move over for some new options that deserve a spotlight.
- We were excited to add the Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie men’s / women’s for being a versatile, reasonably priced, breathable top that still gets you maximum UPF protection.
- Mountain Hardwear’s Crater Lake Sun Hoodie men’s / women’s is one of those tops that you’ll end up wearing for any outing because it is so comfortable, breathable, wicking and protective.
- We tested the Milk & Whiksey Chaser men’s / women’s and it placed high on comfort and sun protection.
Sun Shirts Overall Testing Scores
Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie
Best Overall Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.9/5.0
Price: $75
UPF Rating: 50+
Weight: 5.2 oz.
Fabric Weight: 148 GSM
Fabric: 100% recycled polyester
Pros
- Super breathable
- Comfortable
- Fits true to size
- Great sun protection
- Great look
- Wicking
Cons
- Shorter hemline (women's) might not work for everyone
Initially, the Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie (men’s / women’s) did not stand out as a spectacular sun shirt. There are others in the bunch that have more technical benefits…and then others that have softer, more comfortable fabric. The short length seemed like it could be an issue while backpacking or layering. But the Cotopaxi earned its accolade: Best Overall Sun Shirt, and here’s why:
This shirt splits the difference between more technical styles and the uber comfortable casual sun shirts. The result strikes a balance between breathability, sun protection, stretch, comfort, and versatility. We thought the shirt fit exceptionally well, though it does feature a shorter hem that not all will love.
More than just being solid all around, it wears well year-round, from summer backpacks to winter climbing. The cherry on top is that all this versaility doesn’t break the bank.
Some may have problems with its short length, especially if you have a long torso. When we raised our hands, the hem went above our belly buttons, and we were uncomfortable biking in this top.
However, its short length is just about the only complaint we have about this top. Its body is loose and fits well. The fabric is breathable, wicking, and light. It kept up during an intense 2,500-foot climb in 4 miles—we didn’t notice any oversaturated part of the fabric, stuffiness, or discomfort. The great fit and fabric type help airflow, even when layered over a fleece.
This shirt’s sun-protective features are excellent. It has a UPF 50+ rating, thumbholes, sleeves that fully cover the hands, and a scuba hood with fabric covering the neck.
Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down
Best Backpacking Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $95
UPF Rating: 30
Weight: 8.5 oz.
Fabric Weight: 85 GSM
Fabric: 86% polyester, 14% spandex
Pros
- Two large chest pockets
- Sun hood and thumbholes
- Breathable and moisture wicking
- Comfortable for long trips/heavy packs
- Roomy fit, true to size
- Fun patterns
- Button-up and cuff buttons for adjustability
Cons
- Price
- Thumbholes were too small
- Hood needs a hat for optimal function
The Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down (men’s / women’s) is our Editor’s Pick because it has a very comfortable fit, is super light, has excellent breathability and wicking powers, dries quickly, provides good sun protection, and features many thoughtful details.
This shirt is smooth, silky, and lightweight. It feels like true luxury, especially when paired with its wonderful fit. The fit is relaxed and roomy, especially apparent in the arms. The design is such that almost no fabric touches your body unless pressed against you with your pack. We found the roomy fit true to size, especially comfortable at the chest and shoulders.
The woven fabric is more structured than other sun shirts in this review. Despite this, the fabric retains a good amount of stretch, especially the mesh body. Like other woven shirts, this shirt provides excellent breathability, wicking, and quick dry time. When tested on a sunny, 50+ degree day with a fully-loaded overnight pack on and then again on a challenging bike ride, we never felt overly sweaty, mucky, or gross.
Drawbacks of this top include a poorly fitting hood and uncomfortable thumbholes, though both can be easily remedied with a hat underneath. The thumbholes are irritating, but the cuffs completely cover the hands even when the thumb holes are not in use.
The Jolly Gear might not be the best fit for all activities or times of year, which might affect the value some could see in it. However, if you are an avid backpacker, mountain biker, or traveler, this is a top that you’ll probably wear multiple times a week.
Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Hoody
Most Comfortable Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $70
UPF Rating: 50
Weight: 4.2 oz.
Fabric Weight: 120 GSM
Fabric: 88% polyester, 12% elastane
Pros
- Super soft, silky fabric
- Comfortable, drapey fit
- Breathable for a knit top
- Lightweight fabric
- Hood and thumbholes
- Pocket at side panel
- Fit true to size
Cons
- Drawcord on women's shirt is awkward
- Hood needs a hat
- Pocket isn't suitable for set of keys
Overall, the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody (men’s / women’s) is an amazing sun protective shirt. The knit material feels luxuriously soft while still being able to deliver good breathability and wicking power. The drawbacks are slight and nitpicky: the fabric clings to the upper arms; the drawstring at the hem feels awkward (only on women’s version); the hood doesn’t fit well without a hat under; and the seams at the thumbholes began to wear after just a couple uses.
This sun shirt’s combination of benefits awarded it the most comfortable sun shirt of the year. It has an amazing comfort to it that feels like a gift when hiking. The UPF 50 rating, hood, and thumb holes are also a gift to your future self, keeping you covered and protected from the sun while you adventure.
This top is great for day hikers wishing to go for longer adventures. It dries quicker than other knits, weighs less, feels good as a layer under fleeces, and breathes well but doesn’t feel too technical or unapproachable. We did find that the shirt fit true to size, though it felt like the arms were tighter than some of the others.
While this shirt performs well during the summer, it might not be the best choice for layering during winter. While testing on a 50-degree day, our gear analysts found that they had to keep switching from fleece to no fleece after this shirt became sweaty. When it was wet, it was too cold to just wear on its own, but too warm under a fleece.
More: Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody Full Review
Arc’teryx Men’s Cormac / Women’s Taema Hoody
Best Technical Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $90
UPF Rating: 40+
Fabric Weight: 110 GSM
Weight: 5.6 oz. / 4.9 oz.men’s / women’s
Fabric: 100% polyester (80% recycled)
Pros
- Great technical fabric
- Breathable
- Moisture wicking
- Dries quickly
- Good sun protection
Cons
- Fit could be awkward in the shoulders and arms
- Not the most flattering
- Price
While the Arc’teryx Taema / Cormac Hoody (men’s / women’s) rates highly for sun protection, breathability, wicking, and odor control, it performs poorly in comfort.
The Taema / Cormac is considered ultra lightweight (men’s: 5.6 oz / women’s: 4.9 oz.). Its fabric is a polyester (made from 80% recycled materials) that outperforms a lot of sun shirts in our gear guide for breathability, wicking, and dry time.
It is also one of the only that still performs just as well as a base layer during cool or wet weather.
Though it is a light woven fabric with excellent breathability, it also has a UPF rating of 40+ and includes other sun protective features like a hood with neck gaiter and thumbholes. Not only that, but it is protected with a DAO™ (Durable Anti Odor) finish. While hiker BO is unavoidable, we did notice that it kept the stench away even after intense workouts
While this shirt rates highly for sun protection, breathability, wicking, and odor control, it performs poorly in comfort. The fit around the shoulders and upper back is tight, and it isn’t the stretchiest. We generally noticed this awkward fit when we first put it on but didn’t really notice it once we were hiking. The sleeves tend to twist unless the wearer uses the thumbholes to keep them in place. And though it has thumbholes, they are tight for those with long arms.
This sun shirt works well for strenuous and lengthy outdoor activities. Wearers can depend on the breathability to layer appropriately without overheating during cooler months. It makes an exceptional trail running shirt because of its quick drying time and ability to wick. The quality and year-round application make this shirt a great investment for those who are looking for more technical gear. Those who are looking for sun protection for mild day hikes might choose a more affordable and comfortable option.
More: Arc’teryx Men’s Cormac / Women’s Taema Sun Hoody Full Review
Milk & Whiskey Chaser Sun Hoodie
Best Every Day Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $99
UPF Rating: 50+
Fabric Weight: 179 GSM
Fabric: 49% polyester, 28% modal rayon, 18% naia, 5% spandex
Pros
- Super soft fabric
- Great handfeel
- Comfortable
- Great sun protection
- Great for town and trail
Cons
- Absorbs sweat and dries slower than other sun shirts
- Heavier than others
- Price
- Double layer thumbholes and hood
We awarded the Milk & Whiskey (men’s / women’s) “Best Everyday Wear” in our gear guide because of its easygoing comfort and fit. Though its softness shines, this shirt absorbs a lot of sweat and dries very slowly, making it a dubious choice for backpacking needs. This shirt is ideal for casual hikers and sunny outings.
We love the excellent sun protective features, including a UPF 50+ rating and comfortable thumbholes that help the cuff cover the entire hand. This shirt fits well under layers and, frankly, is our choice for running errands around town. The fit is true to size and wonderfully comfortable.
Its heavier fabric makes it a great stand-alone piece for easy and moderate hikes during cooler weather. It is comfortable down to sunny days in the mid-40s.
This shirt is also one of the pricier sun shirts we tested, and the value you get out of it depends on what you’re buying it for. We think the average person would wear every cent and more out of this shirt. Our gear analysts have barely worn anything else during the week since getting this top.
REI Sahara Shade Hoodie
Best Budget Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $50
Weight: 8.8 oz. / 6.4 oz.men’s / women’s
UPF Rating: 50+
Fabric: 92% polyester, 8% spandex
Pros
- Price
- Soft & comfy fabric
- Flattering
- Great sun protection
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Some dislike the hem on women's version
- Takes longer to dry than other sun shirts
The REI Sahara Shade (men’s / women’s) is one of our go-to tops. for It’s comfortable, fits great, and doesn’t skimp on sun protection. For the second year in a row, our gear analysts have awarded this top Best Budget Buy. However, this shirt does not have the same breathability, wicking, or drying powers that some of its peers do.
This shirt is one of the most approachable sun shirts in this review that has high ratings for fit, fabric handfeel, and stretch. It is a simple, comfortable, and flattering top. This shirt is a great value for casual, bluebird hikers who are looking for an easy-going shirt with great sun protection. It gets bonus value points because we love wearing it in town just as much as on casual hikes, and it still isn’t showing any signs of wear and tear.
Having said that, this is not the most technical shirt and won’t dry, breathe, or wick like other shirts we tested. Also, while it can work as a base layer during colder months, it is not really what it is made for. So, if you’re not planning on getting extreme or sweating buckets in this top, it’s a great buy.
Minus33 Micro Weight Woolverino 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie
Best Sun Shirt for Temperature Regulating
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $110
Weight: 9 oz. / 8 oz.men’s / women’s
UPF Rating: 20
Fabric: 84% merino wool, 12% nylon, 4% spandex
Fabric Weight: 145 GSM
Pros
- Natural, wool-based fabric
- Odor-resistant
- Temperature regulating
- Fabric softens over time
- Breathable
- Fits true to size
Cons
- Price
- Low UPF rating
- Moderate dry time
The lightweight Minus 33 Micro Weight 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie Woolverino (men’s / women’s) does an outstanding job of regulating body temperature. Unfortunately, a UPF rating of 20 doesn’t cut it for being in the sunshine all day.
The wool fabric reminds us of classic outdoor wear. Wool is soft (and softens over time), odor-resistant, and has great breathability and wicking. For all these reasons, wool is a classic outdoor fiber. The most incredible aspect of the fabric is its lightness. We were surprised at how light this shirt was, especially for a wool blend. The light fabric didn’t betray us during cooler temperatures or even when wet. As we hiked with this shirt, we were shocked again at how comfortable we were through sunny climbs and shaded descents. This ability to adapt to temperature is one that we haven’t seen from other sun shirts we tested.
We thought the shirt fit true to size. However, it is a slimmer/tighter fit than others on this list. The fabric clings to the body, and the sleeves hug the arms. This style of fit might not work for everyone.
While it hikes exceptionally well, this shirt didn’t meet the Skin Cancer Foundation’s recommendation for a UPF rating. At only UPF 20, it can provide protection, but it may not be enough to make everyone feel comfortable during sunny days.
Despite this, we believe this shirt is a great value. It fits well, feels comfortable, performs well in a variety of activities and settings, and the fabric feels durable.
More: Minus 33 Micro Weight 1/4 Zip Woolverino Sun Hoodie Full Review
Outdoor Research Echo Sun Shirt Hoodie
Best Ultralight Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $75
Weight: 5.2 oz. / 4.2 oz.men’s / women’s
UPF Rating: 15
Fabric: 100% recycled polyester
Pros
- Ultralight
- Great value
- Breathable
- Full coverage
- Very comfortable
- Inclusive sizing men’s / women’s)
- Wicking
- Quick-drying
Cons
- Not the best sun protection
- Light colorways are see-through
The Outdoor Research Echo (men’s / women’s) sun shirt is an excellent and comfortable choice for all outdoor recreation, from casual jaunts to demanding epics. It’s been a top pick for CleverHiker gear analysts for years because of its great combination of sun protection, fit, light fabric, and versatility. Coming in at UPF 15 for light colors and UPF 20 for darker colors, this shirt isn’t recommended for sun protection by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
The trade-off for poor sun protection is incredible performance on the trail. Its permeable fabric allows air to pass through easily and dries very quickly. These qualities make it great for year-round wear, ensuring that this shirt earns its value for adventurers who take on demanding treks. We also loved the comfortable fit and found it to be true to size.
We wear this sun shirt with and without layering under a fleece. Thankfully, both ways are very comfortable. The almost-naked, ultra (ultra) lightweight sun shirt retains its airiness and quick-drying properties even when covered. The almost-naked look is thanks to a light, meshy fabric. This fabric feels really smooth and silky against the skin.
This is the shirt for people who like to charge through challenging adventures and prefer to hike in a bra or no top and want some coverage. It’s also great if you’re planning on having one top for baselayer, sleepwear, and sun protection on a thru-hike or long backpacking trip where low weight and bulk are a top consideration.
Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie II
Best “Townie” Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $74
UPF Rating: 50+
Fabric Weight: 180 GSM
Fabric: 68% Viscose from Bamboo / 29% Polyester / 3% Spandex
Pros
- High UPF rating
- Really soft fabric
- Fits true to size
- Flattering
Cons
- Breathability/Moisture-wicking
- Long dry time
- Retains odor
While the Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie II (men’s / women’s) lacks the technical aspects seen in our other favorite sun shirts, this shirt provides excellent value.
The standout feature of this sun shirt is its comfort. The silky, soft fabric is almost unbeaten among our favorite sun shirts. The fit, sun protection, stretch, and versatility all rate well for this top, but we found that it wasn’t the quickest drying, best breathing, or best at wicking.
While hiking with this shirt, we kept returning to the fabric’s softness. Our notes repeated over and over how great the fabric felt against the skin. The fit is relaxed and easygoing and was modeled throughout the shirt, including the hood and thumbholes.
As our testing hikes became more challenging, we noticed immediately how much sweat accumulated on both our skin and the back of this shirt. We didn’t feel great airflow through the shirt and noticed it took a while to dry. During the warm day, the lack of breathability was uncomfortable.
Despite this, we believe this is a good recommendation for the average hiker who goes for casual, frontcountry adventures. It has good value as it can be worn both in town and on the trail. Its heavier fabric works well for transition temperatures, working well for us during sunny fall days.
Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie
Best Casual Sun Shirt
CleverHiker Rating: 4.0/5.0
Price: $68
UPF Rating: 20+
Fabric Weight: 145 GSM
Fabric: 70% viscose from bamboo, 30% polyester
Pros
- Silky, soft fabric
- Thumbholes
- Hood
Cons
- Not the most comfortable neck
- Lower UPF rating
- Fit issues along sleeves and shoulders
- Long dry time
- Not the most breathable
The Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie (men’s / women’s) is a silky, soft, casual hooded shirt.
The Free Fly brand knows how to create irresistible fabric. When testing this, our gear analytics could not stop rubbing their arms or telling passersby to feel the soft fabric. Initially, this top also had great stretch. Unfortunately, after mistakenly putting it through the washer and dryer, the shirt lost many of these qualities. The fit issues we found in the arms became exaggerated after the wash as well, constricting the shoulders and making them too uncomfortable to wear.
The wash was absolutely our mistake, but it seemed like an important distinction between this and other favored sun shirts we tested. Every other shirt made it through the washer and dryer with no issues.
Though this shirt has many redeeming qualities, we suggest trying it on first because of its fit at the arms and neck. If the lower UPF rating, and lackluster breathing/wicking/drying powers aren’t a must-have, this is a worthy buy. The delicate washing recommendations—that must be followed or else the shirt loses its softness and stretch—turn us off, too. At the end of an adventure, we want to be able to throw everything in the wash without hassle.
This shirt would be perfectly acceptable for someone looking for a casual shirt for hiking or town that rates comfort highly and has a short wingspan.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | UPF Rating | Weight | Fabric Weight | Comfort | Sun Protection | Breathability | Wicking | Odor Control | Versatility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie View Men's View Women's 
|
$75 | 50+ | 5.2 oz. | 148 GSM | 4.6 | 4.9 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| 1 |
Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down View Men's View Women's
|
$95 | 30 | 8.5 oz. | 85 GSM | 4.6 | 4.7 | 5.0 | 4.9 | 4.4 | 4.6 |
| 2 |
Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Hoody View Men's View Women's 
|
$70 | 50 | 4.2 oz. | 120 GSM | 5.0 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.8 |
| 3 |
Men’s Cormac / Women’s Taema Hoody View Men's View Women's
|
$90 | 40+ | 5.6 oz. / 4.9 oz. men’s / women’s | 110 GSM | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 4.7 | 4.0 |
| 4 |
Milk & Whiskey Chaser Sun Hoodie View Men's View Women's
|
$99 | 50+ | – | 179 GSM | 4.9 | 4.7 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.7 |
| 5 |
REI Sahara Shade Hoodie View Men's View Women's
|
$50 | 50+ | 8.8 oz. / 6.4 oz. men’s / women’s | – | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 4.5 |
| 6 |
Minus33 Micro Weight Woolverino 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie View Men's View Women's |
$110 | 20 | 9 oz. / 8 oz. men’s / women’s | 145 GSM | 4.4 | 3.8 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.3 | 4.2 |
| 7 |
Outdoor Research Echo Sun Shirt Hoodie View Men's View Women's |
$75 | 15 | 5.2 oz. / 4.2 oz. men’s / women’s | – | 4.6 | 3.9 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 3.9 | 3.9 |
| 8 |
Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie II View Men's View Women's |
$74 | 50+ | – | 180 GSM | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 3.6 | 4.3 |
| 9 |
Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie View Men's View Women's |
$68 | 20+ | – | 145 GSM | 3.9 | 3.9 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 3.7 | 4.4 |
How We Test & Methodology
COMFORT
The most important metric in a sun shirt is its comfort. If you don’t find a shirt comfortable, you won’t wear it.
As much as comfort is a subjective factor – and so dependent on how a shirt fits your unique shape – this metric was determined by three factors: fit, handfeel, and stretch and how these help up over the course of hiking five miles with a loaded overnight pack. These factors might be awarded differently for your particular needs, which is why it is important to understand how our testers rated fit well and qualities like the benefits of a stretchy versus structured fabric.
Our Gear Analyst, Helena, is 5’8”, wears a women’s size medium, has a small chest, broad shoulders, and self-described “big arms.” She found fit issues across the shoulders, arms, and upper back of the Outdoor Research and Free Fly Bamboo shirts, which were common complaints from other reviewers as well.
Handfeel is simply the quality the fabric has against the skin. Most of these shirts had a pleasant handfeel, especially styles like Mountain Hardwear. Though not the biggest determinant of a shirt’s worthiness, it can tip the scales if stuck between two styles.
Stretch is a desirable quality, but it is not standard across sun shirts. The amount of stretch has to do with the fabric construction and fiber content, and opting for a shirt with optimal stretch might mean giving up other desirable qualities like breathability. Generally, woven shirts – like the Jolly Gear, Outdoor Research, and Cotopaxi – won’t stretch like a knitted fabric – like the REI Sahara. However, wovens will breathe better, dry better, and have longer-lasting quality.
SUN PROTECTION
Sun protective features include a UPF rating, hoods with neck gaiters, and cuffs that cover the hands. This 5-point metric was rated against these three qualities. Each gets a point for a total of three points. For UPF, half points are awarded to UPF under 50+ but above 29. Zero points are awarded to anything under 30+. Half points are awarded for a hood without a neck gaiter. Half points are awarded to thumbholes that don’t pull the sleeve to cover knuckles. Finally, zero points are awarded to sleeves that cover less than half of the hand.
Let’s break down UPF ratings here a bit more. UPF measures the amount of UV radiation that reaches the skin through the fabric. Having a sun shirt with a high UPF rating is better protection than SPF, as it blocks both UVA and UVB rays (SPF only measures protection against UVB). UPF ratings top out at 50+, which blocks 98% of solar radiation. To qualify for the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation, a fabric must have a UPF rating of at least 30. For comparison, a basic cotton t-shirt has a UPF rating of about 5-7.
UPF protection can be affected by the color of a top. You’ll notice that the Outdoor Research has a higher UPF rating for its dark vs light colored shirts. It can also decrease when the fabric is stretched across the skin or when it gets wet. However, research for efficacy when wet is not comprehensive, nor does it note how much the rating decreases.
BREATHABILITY/MOISTURE-WICKING
Breathability is about air circulation. Wicking is about actively pulling moisture away from the skin. We also included dry time as a part of wicking, as a fabric labeled “wicking” should be able to pull sweat to the outer part of the fabric and dry quickly.
These two metrics are the hardest to test, as it was mostly recording how each shirt felt while being active in them. Our gear analyst put each shirt through three comparison tests: a five-mile hike with a fully-loaded overnight pack, a 3-5 mile hike with a fleece or jacket over, and 20 minutes of intense stationary biking. Through each of these tests, we recorded how much air we felt getting to the skin, how much sweat was pulled from vs pooled on our skin, and how comfortable overall we felt. At the end of each bike ride, we recorded the time it took for each shirt to dry.
VERSATILITY
Versatility is a measurement to see how much you can get out of your shirt. This metric was based on the following factors: the shirt’s ability to perform in a variety of sports, warm-weather wearability, cold-weather wearability, features like pockets, and how well the style translates from trail to town. This metric is all about measuring how convenient each shirt is.
The ideal shirt would be able to go to a casual work meeting and then immediately out for a hike, run, or bike ride, allowing you to stash keys and snacks in unobtrusive pockets. It would help you keep your cool in the summer and layer well in winter. It should be able to work in as many situations as possible to maximize your investment and make your life easier.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Price is an obvious one here, and these shirts can hurt the wallet. From the REI (cheapest) to the Milk and Whiskey (most expensive), you have to consider where you are in your budget to afford this. Take into consideration the most important qualities. For someone on a budget, the REI is a great choice that provides excellent sun protection and is highly rated for comfort and versatility. While it will save your wallet, it might not provide you with a great shirt for year-round wear, intense activities through changing temperatures, or layering. It might also lack some long-lasting quality.
Odor was another fun consideration. Knowing just how bad we can smell after a hike, it would be nice to know if there is a shirt that can travel from trails to town without causing everyone to leave the brewery screaming.
Some sun shirts are treated with anti-odor finishes. Wool-based fabrics are naturally odor-resistant.
Why Trust CleverHiker
Our team of experts took out these sun shirts in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the high desert of Northern Nevada.
Gear Analyst Helena Guglielmino has thru-hiked the Tahoe Rim Trail and John Muir Trail, giving her a deep understanding of the need for clothing that performs day after day, from morning frost to sizzling afternoons along granite ridges. She also spent the summer working full-time on a local trail crew, personally destroying a number of sun shirts. Quality and value for investments are high markers of her analysis. Off trail, Helena has studied fabric types and constructions as well as the unique benefits of fibers for a copywriting job at a sustainable women’s wear brand.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
Value to us means a shirt that can handle most all situations and sports so that your dollar stretches further. The frequency and situations in which sun shirts may be worn are subjective. You may find that you’d get more use out of a casual shirt or more use out of a technical one. Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake and Cotopaxi Sombra rated high on all our metrics, wears well on the trail and in town, and doesn’t drain your bank account.
COMFORT
Comfort is such an important metric when it comes to sun protective clothing, because if something isn’t comfortable, you won’t wear it. It’s not surprising that the top four rated sun shirts for comfort are all knit shirts.
Knits generally have better drape, a more relaxed fit, and greater stretch compared to woven fabrics. Mountain Hardwear’s Crater Lake, Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie, REI Sahara Shade, and Milk & Whiskey Chaser all were uber comfy. Each of these has a super soft handfeel, great fit, and stretch. But the one that stands out is the Mountain Hardwear because its fabric is the softest and the lightest of the bunch.
The next most comfortable shirts are the Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down and Outdoor Research Echo. Though the Jolly Gear lacks stretch in the arms (the body is a stretchy mesh), the arms are roomy enough to not need stretch to enhance its comfort. We also dinged Outdoor Research’s Echo comfort score because the lighter colorways are see-through.
The lowest score is the Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie. While reviews are abundantly positive in this department, we made the mistake of washing it improperly, and the comfortable fit, soft fabric, and stretch all diminished.
SUN PROTECTION
If you love the outdoors, you gotta love sun protection. Your dermatologist will thank you for taking this category’s winners into consideration. Top ranking shirts include the Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie and REI Sahara Shade. These both embody everything we could want from a sun shirt: UPF 50+ ratings, hoods, neck gaiters, and thumbholes to keep the cuffs covering the hands.
The shirts that rated the lowest were the Outdoor Research Echo and Minus 33 Micro Weight 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie Woolverino. Neither of the shirts has a UPF rating that the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends for sun protection. Plus, both the Echo and Woolverino have thumbholes, though they aren’t the best for covering the hands. Thankfully, they have scuba hoods for more physical coverage.
BREATHABILITY
Those shirts that are rated highly on breathability are the three ultra-lightweight woven shirts. This is not a surprising result, as heavier knit fabrics can’t let in as much air. The Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down, Arc’teryx Taema / Cormac, and Outdoor Research Echo are the top picks here. While they all excel, the Echo is much, much lighter than the other two, donning an almost naked feeling against the skin. The Echo and the Taema work better than the Triple Crown for year-round wear. The Triple Crown’s button-down doesn’t fit as easily or comfortably under layers during colder months.
While each of the above rates highly for breathability, they also are the thinnest and first to retire (at least for solo wear) as summer turns to fall. Shirts like the Minus 33 Micro Weight 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie Woolverino offer adequate breathability but also better help regulate body temperature. This wool-based shirt can keep you warm in cool temperatures.
When we tested this shirt, we took it out on a mid-40s, sunny day into a canyon with many shaded sections. This shirt held up well throughout the hike, from the sunny climbs to the shaded downhills.
WICKING
Wicking is an important feature for those looking for technical gear to accompany them on challenging adventures. Wicking, however, might not be the make-or-break feature for everyone.
For example, a person who is interested in the Arc’teryx Taema / Cormac (a highly technical, wicking, and quick drying shirt) is probably not the same person who is interested in the Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie II (a casual, non-wicking comfort-forward shirt). Gauge the weight of the wicking metric by the type of activity you see yourself doing the most.
Woven shirts tested the best for wicking moisture and quick dry times. The Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down, Arc’teryx Taema / Cormac, and Outdoor Research Echo, again, are the top picks for wicking capabilities. The Echo dried noticeably quicker (within about ten minutes of inactivity). The others are no slouches to quick drying though; they each dried within 30 minutes of inactivity.
The three lowest-rated shirts for wicking are the two Free Fly sun shirts and the REI Sahara Shade. These fabrics absorbed all of the sweat and dried much slower than the others we tested.
ODOR RESISTANCE
While odor resistance isn’t a make-or-break metric, a shirt with low odor retention can provide greater value in the long run. Not only does a better-smelling shirt pass easier for off-trail activities, but it also allows you to wash it less often. Washing degrades fabrics over time, which isn’t great for gear that already takes a beating on the trails.
The least smelly shirt of the bunch is the Outdoor Research Echo sun shirt. After two separate 8-mile runs, one during rain while wearing a waterproof shell, this shirt didn’t smell at all.
Other shirts that don’t turn up our noses include the Cotopaxi Somba Sun Hoodie, Minus 33 Micro Weight 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie Woolverino, and Milk & Whiskey Chaser. We were most surprised by the Mountain Hardwear Women’s Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody. After two hikes and a bike ride, this shirt only had the slightest whiff of residual sweat.
It was surprising how the knit fabrics handled sweat, some ranking in the top five, but unsurprisingly, the Free Fly Women’s Bamboo Shade Hoodie II was the smelliest. After just one 20-minute bike ride, it reeked.
VERSATILITY
Versatility is perhaps the most important metric for determining value. If a shirt only wears well in a few conditions, it isn’t a great buy, in our opinion. Sun shirts are, by design, quite versatile. So we had to get nit-picky about style, features, season transferability, layering comfort, and conditions and sports they work for.
The only two that didn’t rank high in versatility were the Arc’teryx Taema / Cormac and Outdoor Research Echo. These rated poorly only because they are a little too techy for casual front country style. In terms of multi-sport and 4-season wearability, they are highly versatile.
How to Choose a Sun Shirt
USES
Like most outdoor gear, you want to use the right tool for the right job. Casual day hiker? Opt for soft fabrics and wallet-friendly knits.
Looking for a sun shirt to wear on backpacking trips, thru-hikes, or fast-packing treks? Do you sweat a lot? Opt for a performance top that optimizes comfort and breathability and has a moisture-wicking/quick-drying material that is odor-resistant.
WOVEN OR KNIT
One of the largest differences in sun shirts is the construction type and fiber content. These components affect how the shirts move, breathe, and wick. Knits are generally going to have a softer quality, fabric that drapes easier, and a greater stretch. Knitted fabrics also, generally, absorb water better than woven fabrics, though this is a bit nuanced and depends largely on the fiber content of the fabric.
Woven fabrics will have a more structured feel and look. This is very apparent when compared to a knitted shirt. Woven fabrics are also more breathable than knits, which makes the shirts in this category very lovely during big climbs.
A major benefit of woven fabric is its increased durability compared to knit fabrics—something we noticed while testing this group. Several of the knits started having threads pull or small holes appear, while the wovens have not.
MATERIAL
Another factor to consider is the fibers used to create the fabric. A lot of our favorite sun shirts use synthetic fibers. Synthetics, like polyester and nylon, do not absorb sweat like natural fibers. This is why they say cotton kills: it soaks up moisture and holds on to it, causing clothing to stay wet, which can be uncomfortable or downright dangerous as the temperature drops and your body loses heat.
We also love a good wool blend. Wool is a great fiber for outdoor wear, as it is antimicrobial, resists odors, and wicks moisture (aka absorbs) but dries quickly.
Some shirts look like natural fibers but are actually considered synthetic –– like viscose from bamboo. This fiber undergoes intense processing that puts it in a weird category somewhere between synthetic and natural. Its characteristics lie somewhere in the middle as well. These tend to feel buttery soft when they are dry but are clingy and heavy once they get wet and take longer to dry.
SUN PROTECTION
Unless you don’t go outside when it is sunny, we suggest shopping for a high UPF-rated sun shirt. This is especially prudent if you travel on or near snow/water or at high elevations; the sun is stronger, and the glare will come at you from all angles. Your dermatologist will thank you.
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. This differs slightly from SPF, which measures the UVA protection of sunscreen. UPF measures how much light – both UVA and UVB – can penetrate fabric. The higher the UPF, the less UV rays the fabric lets through. The difference between a UPF 15 shirt and a UPF 50 shirt, however, is relatively small. This is how it breaks down:
- UPF 15-24: Blocks 93.3-95.9% of UV rays
- UPF 25-39: Blocks 96-97.4% of UV rays
- UPF 40-50+: Blocks 97.5-98+% of UV rays
Conclusion
While a sun shirt might not seem like the most important piece of gear, it contributes to your comfort and safety when on trail. Each sun shirt provides benefits to fit specific needs and wants. With dedicated research, our gear analysts are confident that the information we’ve found can help you buy the sun shirt that will fit your needs. From backpacking and trail running to biking, these picks can follow you on your adventures.
