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If you're tired of reapplying sunscreen every two hours (or just forgetful), a sun shirt is an incredibly effective and easy way to protect your skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays.
Similar looking shirts can actually offer wildly different levels of sun protetion, so we looked for the best UPF-rated shirts (it's like SPF, but for clothing) that will keep you covered and keep your skin cool in the heat of the sun, so you can keep moving all day long, whether out on the water, hiking at high altitudes, or spending a day in the garden.
The best overall option for men is the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie. Our team found it to be protective, yet versatile and comfortable enough to wear anywhere, from the trail to a backyard hangout. On the women's side, the Mountain Hardware Crater Lake Hoody provides great coverage and takes the win in comfort and breathability as well.
Our budget picks, the men's Baleaf Hoody and the women's Baleaf shirt, both provide high UPF ratings, while being a fraction of the cost of the other sun shirts we tested. You can get both the men's and women's in a hooded or non-hooded version to customize coverage as needed.
We've tested more than 70 sun shirts since 2019 to find the right balance of coverage and comfort by using a photochromic UV intensity card to double-check UPF ratings, and by wearing the shirts while kicking it around town and sweating it out on more active adventures. We're happy to say the options just keep getting better each year.
UPF: 50+ | Features: Long sleeves, thumb loops, hood drawstring
REASONS TO BUY
Hood cinch and thumbholes
Doesn't get smelly
T-shirt like comfort
REASONS TO AVOID
We wish it had a pocket
Average breathability
Who it is best for: The REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie is a comfortable sun shirt that is easy to wear for everyday summer outings, and doesn't slack on day hikes either. It has a relaxed fit and soft, stretchy fabric, which is decently breathable, but in our experience, it's a little too heavy for high-output activities like trail running or mountain biking. But for daily wear, we absolutely love how comfortable this sun shirt is, and the style is casual enough that you can hit up the brewery after your hike. It's a no-brainer to slip this thing on before heading out the door, which is key, because a sunshirt doesn't do you any good if you can't stand wearing it.
Why we love it: The shirt is made with fabric that has a high UPF 50+ rating (the highest achievable) and is incredibly soft, lightweight, and stretchy. Our tester compared it to pulling on a well-worn t-shirt. An antimicrobial treatment keeps the fabric smelling fresh for longer, which is nice because odor retention can often be a problem for synthetic fabrics. Another favorite detail is the hood's hidden drawstring, which you can cinch down around the face to keep it from slipping off on windy days.
Should you buy it? If you want a UPF-rated shirt that doesn't sacrifice comfort or style, the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie is an easy choice, and it's actually a pretty good deal. It's not perfect; the lack of pockets can be a bit annoying if you plan to wear it out on a kayak or paddleboard and need somewhere to stash your keys. But all things considered, it's a standout sun hoody, and beats the rest in its ability to hop from one activity to the next.
We also tested the women's version of the Sahara Shade Hoodie. Our women's team didn't love the baggier fit, but appreciated the extended coverage and skin feel of the fabric all the same.
The REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie is the sun shirt we found ourselves reaching for the most thanks to comfort, style, and a higher UPF rating. The versatile performance makes it a great choice for sun protection from one activity to the next.
Best All-Around Women's Hoody
Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody - Women's
UPF: 50+ | Features: Extra large hood, thumb holes, waist drawstring, zippered pocket
REASONS TO BUY
Great for hot days
Extended hand coverage
Waist cinch drawstring
REASONS TO AVOID
Thin material
Might need to size up
Who it is best for: Over the years, we've tested multiple versions of the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody, and after each season, our team agrees that this is the best all-around sun shirt for women. It has a bomber 50+ UPF rating, ranking it among the top performers in sun protection, and we can't emphasize enough how much we love the buttery-soft, super-light, and highly breathable fabric. It has the best next-to-skin feel we've tested, and is comfortable enough even for hammock naps in the backyard. Although ultra-cozy, it doesn't sacrifice performance, and we love wearing it just as much for trail runs, desert hikes, and stand-up paddleboarding during the heat of the day.
Why we love it: In our opinion, the best sun shirt design is the one that you'll actually wear. And the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake is definitely the hoodie we found ourselves in the most, thanks to a super-soft synthetic fabric that offers enough stretch to support your full range of motion while still offering a flattering fit. The lightweight fabric is so breathable that it almost feels cooling during hot days. This shirt is so unbelievably lightweight that our testers said, “It's the closest you can get to being shirtless while still getting solid UPF protection.”
Should you buy it? We love the fit and feel of the Crater Lake Hoody, but you should be aware that the material is thin enough to show the texture of anything you have on underneath, like a bikini or a sports bra. We also found that some of the lighter colors were slightly see-through when wet. Despite a few concerns, we think you'll love this sun shirt as much as we do. This is a great layer for women who want to spend as many days as possible outdoors and want to avoid the hassle of reapplying SPF on their upper body every 2 hours.
We also tested the men's Crater Lake Hoody, and it performed well, though our men's team noted that it lacks the zippered pocket found on the women's shirt.
Season after season our testing team selects the Crater Lake Hoody as their sun shirt of choice thanks to a soft and supple fabric that offers excellent performance in most of our testing metrics. Credit: Trish Matheny
Who it is best for: If you don't love the pullover, close-fitting style of hoody sunshirts, and prefer something more traditional, the Mountain Hardwear Canyon Long Sleeve is a good alternative. This shirt is made from a structured, lightweight fabric that doesn't cling to the skin and feels at home on a hiking trail, a fishing boat, and around town. We have friends who work as whitewater guides who love to wear this shirt while working, as it is both functional and professional.
Why we love it: Style aside, the durable Polyester Dobby fabric is comfortable and dependable, and doesn't snag as easily as the stretchy blends that most sun hoodies use. The UPF 50 rating ensures adequate protection for long days outside, and thoughtful features like roll-up sleeves that actually stay in place and ventilated back panels add to the practicality of this sun shirt. Lastly, if you know you will be hiking in buggy environments, the more structured material has a tighter weave and sits off the skin, providing a more effective barrier against insect bites.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for wearable, durable sun protection that doesn't scream “technical,” the Canyon Long Sleeve is a strong choice. The main limitation is the lack of a hood, which means less coverage for your neck, ears, and head than a sun hoodie. However, a unique double-fold collar can be popped to completely cover the back of the neck and is very effective when paired with a wide-brimmed hat. If you want durability, a clean, casual look, and the bonus of bug protection, this shirt should definitely be on your list.
The Mountain Hardwear Canyon Long Sleeve is the perfect choice for those seeking a less technical or sporty-looking sun shirt that remains comfortable and durable for a variety of outdoor pursuits.
Who it is best for: The REI Co-op Sahara Long Sleeve is a button-up style shirt that is great for ladies who want UPF protection without looking like they just got out of the gym. It's easy to throw on over a t-shirt for cooler days, and front buttons make it simple to vent even more when things start to warm up. When worn alone, a vented panel in the back helps keep air moving on really hot days. We found the fabric is more durable than stretchy sun hoodies and is a great choice to wear if your day takes you from the hiking trail or fishing boat straight to dinner at the local BBQ place.
Why we love it: This shirt has a more traditional style, but still has an excellent balance of breathability and comfort. The sleeves have a curved drop cuff that better protects the backs of your hands from the sun, and can be rolled up and held in place just above the elbow with a discreet button tab. Underarm panels made from stretchy fabric improve mobility and help prevent chafing, which is a big plus if you are wearing this shirt with a daypack. Another big bonus of wearing a button-down vs a hoodie is that the tighter weave has more structure and doesn't sit so close to the skin, providing better protection against bug bites and better ventilation throughout.
Should you buy it? If general wearability and a traditional fit are high on your list, the Sahara Long Sleeve is an excellent option. It fits in around town a lot better than more athletic-looking sun shirts that can leave you feeling like you're only halfway dressed. Its biggest drawback is that it lacks a hood, leaving your head and neck exposed unless you wear a hat. Otherwise, it stands out as the most versatile women's sun shirt we tested and is especially well-suited for outdoor jobs, such as raft guiding or forestry, which may have a professional dress code.
The REI Co-op Sahara Long Sleeve is a great choice for ladies seeking a versatile and reasonably-priced sun shirt that features a more traditional style and fit. Although it doesn't have a hood, we love the high UPF rating of the 94% nylon and 6% spandex fabric.
UPF: 50+ | Features: Extra large hood, thumb holes
REASONS TO BUY
Crazy affordable
Durable
Full coverage and high UPF
REASONS TO AVOID
Thicker/less breathable fabric
Can hold odor
Who it is best for: The Baleaf UPF 50 Hoody provides full coverage sun protection at a truly bargain price. It's not the most luxurious feeling top we've worn, but when it comes to the most essential task of protecting your skin from too much sun exposure, it delivers. The thicker polyester fabric is also a bit more durable than other hoodies, lengthening its lifespan and making it a good option if you often find yourself in situations that might cause more wear and tear, like sandy beaches or car camping trips.
Why we love it: We love this hoodie first for its accessible price, but it doesn't skimp on features like you might expect. The polyester material provides UPF 50+ protection, it has a roomy hood that covers your head and neck, and thumb loops to help keep the sleeves low to shield the backs of your hands. For the price, it offers dependable protection from harsh summer sun and covers all the basics without unnecessary extras.
Should you buy it? If you're shopping on a tight budget, the Baleaf UPF 50 Hoody works, but there are some trade-offs. The cut is very roomy, maybe too roomy for some, and if you're used to a more trim/athletic cut, you might not like the looser style of the Baleaf. Additionally, the thicker fabric is less breathable and can get uncomfortable under a blazing mid-summer sun. You might not want to wear it for trail runs or bike rides where you plan to get sweaty, especially because the synthetic fabric tends to hold odors if not washed promptly. But if you need something cheap that still provides reliable sun protection, this is it. The price point simply can't be beat.
The Baleaf UPF 50 Hoody is a budget-friendly design that combines a high UPF rating with a full coverage hood that's perfect for fellas seeking a durable sun shirt with ample protection from the summer sun. Credit: Justin Simoni
Who it is best for: The Baleaf UPF 50 Crew is perfect for women who want a simple, comfortable sun shirt for easygoing summer days at the lake. Its very affordable price makes it easier to pull the trigger on the purchase if you only plan to wear it occasionally. It lacks hood coverage, but this also makes it a more versatile piece for casual outdoor activities like gardening or light hiking. If you want to protect your skin but don't spend enough time outdoors to justify investing in a premium brand, the Baleaf is a good compromise.
Why we love it: This sunshirt is straightforward and comfortable - no bells and whistles, just solid sun protection from a smooth fabric that feels good against the skin. The athletic fit is somewhere between a rashguard and an athleisure top, fitting a little closer to the body than some of the others; if you're debating sizes, we'd say go for the larger. It moves well and is decently flattering, although we wish it had a bit more stretch - another reason you may want to size up. The crew neckline is comfortable, and the wide range of fun color options makes it easy to find one that suits you. At this price point, you can even buy multiple colors for less than the cost of a single higher-end sun shirt.
Should you buy it? If budget is your main concern, the Baleaf Crew is hard to beat. Unfortunately, this sun shirt lacks head and neck coverage, which is why we often prefer hoodies for long days in intense sun. If you are like us and prefer a hoodie, it also comes in a hooded version. The next biggest downfall of this shirt is that it tends to retain body odor if you try to rewear it without washing in between, and it's not super breathable, so if you sweat in it (which you probably will), be sure to toss it in the wash as soon as you get home. Still, for the best bang for your buck, the Crew delivers reliable sun protection for most of your body at an unbeatable price.
The Baleaf UPF 50 Crew features a basic design with a high UPF rating. Although it lacks some breathability, we think it's better than having to constantly reapply sunscreen to our upper body throughout the day.
Who it is best for: The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody is a shirt for serious outdoor enthusiasts who spend long days at high altitudes where UV rays pound down more intensely. It includes all the small details that make it functional in any environment, like side mesh vents to keep you cool, a half zip for easy on and off, a small chest pocket that fits a set of keys, and a helmet-compatible hood. Best of all, the comfortable fit simply disappears on the body and is easy to layer under, over, and all around. For climbers, backcountry skiers, and mountaineers who need a piece of gear that can stand up to heavy use throughout the year, this investment of a shirt will be worthwhile.
Why we love it: This hoodie is a true workhorse, but it doesn't sacrifice skin feel or mobility. The stretch fabric offers a UPF 50+ rating, and an extra-long cut provides excellent torso coverage, keeping you protected when reaching for that next handhold or bent in a crouch over the handlebars of your mountain bike. The super 50+ UPF rating comes partially from a tightly woven fabric, which also makes the shirt less breathable. It's better suited to the cooler temps you'll find at high altitudes, but mesh armpit panels and a half zip provide some airflow where it's needed most. Our tester wore it on a multi-day spring backpacking trip in the Rockies, and thanks to HeiQ Pure odor control technology in the Alpenglow, he didn't smell quite as bad by the end of the trip.
Should you buy it? If you want the absolute best sun hoody available and don't mind paying a high ticket price for it, the Alpenglow Pro Hoody is an outstanding choice. The main downside is the cost, which is more than twice that of many of the other sun shirts we tested. The other minor con is that it may be too warm and techy looking to wear for a casual lake day. That said, the build quality, durability, and sun protection are top-notch, and we consider this to be near equivalent to two lesser shirts. It is a worthwhile investment for those who just want to forget about what they're wearing so they can focus on the next objective.
If your summer plans include a ton of time in the high alpine with constant sun exposure, we highly recommend the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody as the newest addition to your kit. This workhorse combines abundant coverage with a high UPF rating that's perfect for your next objective.
Best Women's Shirt for Muggy Heat
Outdoor Research Astroman Air Sun Hoodie - Women's
UPF: 50+ | Features: 3-panel hood, perforated holes for ventilation, zippered side pocket
REASONS TO BUY
Stretchy yet structured fabric
Doesn't cling to the skin
High collar
REASONS TO AVOID
No thumb loops
Tight wrist cuffs
Who is it best for: For days when you walk out the door and instantly start to sweat, the Outdoor Research Astroman Air Sun Hoodie is the only long sleeve we want to pull on. It is an incredibly breathable shirt that would work well for anyone living in a hot, humid climate or planning a trip to one over the summer. The ultralight fabric lets in even the slightest breeze and allows airflow around the skin. In terms of coverage, the hood has an elastic rim that keeps it close to your face, and when the 1/4 chest zip is fully closed, the collar reaches up to the chin, providing top-notch coverage for the entire upper body. The only thing left to do is smear some SPF on your face.
Why we love it: The structured fabric of the Astroman holds itself away from the skin enough to allow some airflow, preventing that clammy “cling” you feel when you start sweating in a stretchy workout top, and panels with small perforations run down each side of the torso and under the armpits to further encourage airflow. The fabric also dries incredibly fast. The only time we accumulated sweat was when we were wearing it with a daypack, and the shirt dried out on our back just a few minutes after taking the pack off. We love it for the hottest, most humid weather, but the fit is relaxed enough that this top could be worn with a t-shirt or tank underneath, extending its use to slightly cooler weather.
Should you buy it? This shirt is a good balance between a stretchy casual pullover and a more traditional button-down sun shirt. The fabric has the structure and airflow of a button-down, but it has a much more sporty-casual look for those who aren't into the hiking apparel aesthetic. Elastic wrist cuffs replace thumb loops, reducing hand coverage, and our tester found them a bit too snug around the wrist. Darker colors of this shirt offer excellent 50+ UPF, but lighter colors offer closer to 30 UPF, so keep this in mind when choosing your style. Aside from this, we really didn't have much to complain about and would recommend this shirt to anyone who needs reliable sun protection in 80°/80% humidity weather.
The OR Astroman is airy enough to wear on desert hikes. Credit: Trish Matheny
Whether you're biking, climbing, or hiking the Astroman is a highly quality and breathable sun shirt that provides ample sun protection. Credit: Trish Matheny
The ultrabreathable fabric also dries in no time. Credit: Trish Matheny
The design doesn't include thumb holes but the sleeves are long and provide great coverage. Credit: Trish Matheny
We love the longer fitting torso for hikes and trails where we might have to scramble a bit. Credit: Trish Matheny
When fully zipped, the collar reaches the chin, providing full neck coverage. Credit: Trish Matheny
UPF: 50+ | Features: Center finger loop, ponytail hole in hood, invisible chest pocket, mask, shapable nose wire
REASONS TO BUY
Covers everything but they eyes
Cool bells and whistles
Stretchy but not clingy fabric
REASONS TO AVOID
Less versatile
May be overkill for some
Who it is best for: The Coolibar Andros Fishing Hoodie is a sun shirt with all the bells and whistles to ensure you get protection from every direction. Originally designed for anglers who spend long, exposed days on the water where UV rays bounce off the water and come at you from odd angles, its supreme coverage is also good for those who always seem to get sunburned, no matter how many times you reapply sunscreen. It has a close-fitting hood with a built-in mask that you can pull up over your nose, leaving only your eyes exposed. You can take it a step further with full coverage sunglasses if you like. It's perfect for fishing from a boat, shore, or kayak, when your hands, neck, and face are exposed to direct and reflected sunlight.
Why we love it: We love the innovative features on this sun shirt. Instead of thumb holes, it features a central finger loop that keeps the sleeves pulled over the backs of your hands all the way past the knuckles, whereas traditional thumbholes sometimes only cover half as much area. While it may not be the most fashionable, it's hard to discredit the true functionality of the unique face and neck gaiter system on this shirt. It offers a level of protection we haven't seen in other sun shirts, and it remains relatively comfortable to wear, if you're not worried about how you look. A bendable wire in the mask allows you to shape the nose to avoid stuffiness, and a ponytail hole in the back of the hood makes the shirt easier to wear for long-haired folks.
Should you buy it? If you spend a lot of time on the water, whether fishing or boating, you'll likely be exposed to the sun more than you should. The Andros Fishing Hoodie is a truly practical solution that doesn't require you to cut short your days on the water. However, this isn't a shirt you'll want to don for every occasion. It has a super tight weave that is not very breathable, and for higher intensity sports like hiking or trail running, you'll want something with more airflow. If you spend your days gardening or hanging out at the beach, you'll probably want a more low-key style with more versatility. If you enjoy spending long days on the banks of a river or in a fishing boat, and are prone to sunburn no matter how much sunscreen you apply, this is the best sun shirt for you.
The mask can be worn down as a gaiter and the hood can be worn separately from the mask. Credit: Justin Simoni
The gaiter/mask has an opening to make breathing easier. Credit: Justin Simoni
The hand coverage of the Andros is excellent, thanks to its extra-long sleeves and small loop for the middle finger to keep everything in place. Credit: Justin Simoni
Who it is best for: The Patagonia RØ Surf Top is a rash guard style design that features a super snug performance fit meant to stay put for activities in the water. For those who live near the beach or plan on snorkeling or swimming during their next summer vacation, we highly recommend wearing this shirt over your bathing suit for more coverage for your upper body. A tight, compressive fit is super important to prevent the feeling of dragging a ton of fabric behind you as you move, whether you're swimming laps or during an afternoon paddleboard session. It has a 40+ UPF rating, which isn't the highest, but our tester mentioned, “I never had to apply sunscreen beneath the layer during my 3 weeks of testing in Spain.”
Why we love it: If you've ever tried swimming in a loose-fitting tee, you'll know the struggle, and you'll appreciate the skin-tight performance fit of the RØ Surf Top. Bordering on compressive, the fit keeps the layer in place as you move, making it perfect for swimming laps or paddling out to catch the next wave. The raglan sleeves and thoughtful seams are positioned to increase comfort by reducing any chafing from repetitive motion at the armpits and shoulders. The shirt also includes water-specific features like a small storage pocket with a loop of webbing for a car key, in addition to a unique board shorts connector to keep the shirt pulled down over your midsection.
Should you buy it? We love the Patagonia RØ Surf Top for beach days, but it's not as versatile as some of the others in our lineup. It lacks the comfort, hood coverage, and breathability you'd want for trail runs or hikes, and is much too “performance” looking to wear casually around town. It's strictly for water sports, and if you're looking for everyday wear, we'd point you elsewhere. Caveats aside, the RØ Surf Top is one of the most comfortable rash guards we've worn, it's available for a reasonable price, and it excels in water sports activities. In general, we prefer extra coverage over applying zinc, and layering the RØ Top over your bikini is a great way to get that coverage.
The high neckline provides great sun protection. Credit: Trish Matheny
Flatlock seams feel great next to skin and also increase the quality of the construction. Credit: Trish Matheny
The sleeves offer great length and coverage. Credit: Trish Matheny
The seams are comfortable to carry with a pack on your approach to the shoreline. Credit: Trish Matheny
The sun shirt features a unique attachment point so you can connect it to your board shorts. Credit: Trish Matheny
Why Trust GearLab
This review was a team effort, with Trish Matheny holding down the fort on the women's side, while Justin Simoni tested the men's shirts. Trish spends most of the year living outside in Yosemite National Park, where she is a member of the Search and Rescue Team. She spends the majority of her free time scaling the Big Walls around Yosemite and hiding from the California sunshine. She tested the most recent round of sunshirts in sunny Southern Spain. Justin has worked closely with outdoor gear companies for over a decade, and spends a significant amount of time on ultra-long-distance self-supported missions at high altitude in the mountains around Boulder, Colorado. Both testers are year-round sunseekers and recognize the impact that proper sun protection has on skin health.
Hiding from the sun at Camp Two on the way up Denali's West Buttress. Credit: Kaylee Walden
How We Tested
Each round of testing begins with a deep dive into the hundreds of sun shirts on the market today. We research materials, marketing claims, and coverage styles from some of the most popular brands. From there, we buy the most promising options at full price, and start testing. Our testers wear each sun shirt for everyday activities, like drinking beers at a brewery, and outdoor adventures, like hiking and rafting.
If you're too busy adventuring to think about when you last applied sunscreen, then a sunshirt might be a good choice for you. Credit: Sara James
To test the effectiveness of the materials used, we wore the sun shirts to the beach, on kayaking trips, while alpine climbing, biking, and even on casual dates. Throughout weartime, we carefully keep track of how each shirt performs for each activity, noting if we overheat, experience any chafing, or just feel uncomfortable in the cut.
Our men's and women's teams tested sun shirts across the same five metrics in both our men's review and our women's review:
Comfort and fit
Sun protection
Breathability
Versatility
Durability
A good sun shirt can go straight from riding bikes to lunch on the lake. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Extra-long sleeves with thumb loops can be found on most sunshirts, men's and women's. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Many button-down styles have a different set of features, like sleeve tabs, collars, and vented back panels. Credit: Maggie Nichols
We test how each sun shirt functions during a variety of activities. Credit: Trish Matheny
Why Buy A Sun Shirt
Chances are, if you love to hike, bike, or paddle, you're regularly exposed to sunlight and are more at risk for sunburn and certain skin cancers. Enter the sun shirt. This garment does more than just cover your skin; it is made with fabric that provides a higher level of sun protection through a tighter weave, specialized materials, and, in some cases, UV-absorbing chemicals. This adds up to a Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating that can be anywhere from 30-50+. For reference, a standard cotton tee has a UPF rating of about 5. Yeah…
Using a UV sensitive card to test the manufacturer UPF claims (the card turns purple with UV exposure). With no visible color change, the Outdoor Research Astroman Air Hoodie passed with flying colors. Credit: Justin Simoni
If you consider yourself part of the aforementioned outdoorsy crowd, on top of blocking UV rays, your sun shirt needs to perform on par with your regular athletic wear. Days when you head out on a day hike, or to paddle your heart out in your kayak or paddle board are the times when you need sun protection the most. The best sunshirts are made of lightweight, breathable material that stays cool when worn in hot temperatures and doesn't restrict your mobility. Secondary features include hoods that provide protection for your ears when pulled up, and thumb holes that keep the sleeves pulled down over your wrists and hands. Some have neck gaiters that can be pulled up over the nose for maximum coverage.
Hood in the wind! Credit: Justin Simoni
Half-zips, or in this case, half snaps, can make it easier to get the shirt on and off over a hat, and can allow you to dump heat if you work up a sweat. Credit: Justin Simoni
Four Things To Look For In A Sun Shirt
The first thing to check is that the shirt you're looking at is in alignment with the kinds of activities you do the most. UPF is important, but every shirt we included in this review has at least a UPF 50 rating, so you can move forward knowing this spec is covered. Beyond this, different shirts have features that make some better for days on the water, and others better for days on the trail.
The Echo is an excellent activity-focused sun shirt. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Even if you're just chilling lakeside, the sun doesn't take any breaks, and neither should your sun protection. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Difference Between Men's and Women's Shirts
The easiest way to narrow down your choices is to decide if you need a men's or a women's shirt. Aside from different color options, the main difference between men's and women's sun shirts is the fit. Men's sun shirts are wider in the shoulders and the waist, and have a longer length down your torso. The sleeves of a men's shirt will also be a bit longer than a women's shirt. Women's shirts will be a bit more fitted through the waist, and often have a slight flare near the hips. Other than that, the technical aspects of men's vs. women's sun hoodies are all the same, so if you are a woman who prefers the men's sizing, or vice versa, you should simply buy the shirt that makes you feel most confident, regardless of your gender.
We wore these shirts side by side to get a feel for the differences in cut, material, breathability, and bonus features. Credit: Kaylee Walden
The chart below shows the full lineup of men's and unisex shirts we tested. These were all tested by our men's team, but some of the unisex options listed here were also tested by our female team, and scores may differ slightly.
There are also some cases where we tested both the men's and women's versions of these sunshirts; for the most part, different versions of the same shirt score pretty similarly. A full lineup of scores for the women's shirts we tested can be seen below.
We passed these shirts around to get opinions from our friends who have different hobbies and body types. Credit: Kaylee Walden
How Long Do You Typically Spend In the Sun?
The next step is to decide how much coverage you need. Any self-respecting sun shirt will cover your arms and torso, but some go the extra mile by including features like a hood, pop-able collar, and thumb loops to keep your hands covered. Hoodies offer more comprehensive coverage, including protection for your head, ears, and neck (provided you wear the hood), but have a closer cut and a stretchy, relaxed fit that may be too casual for some settings. Button-down options tend to feel more functional, with more pockets and venting options, but they don't have hoods, meaning you're missing out on key sun protection for your ears and head. If you're set on a hoodless option, we recommend pairing it with a sun hat.
Perhaps not winning any style contests, the Baleaf Hoodie with Face Cover does provide an impressive level of coverage, with UPF 50+ fabric. Credit: Maggie Nichols
The NRS Silkweight Hoodie has standard thumb loops, but also has an additional layered opening so you can check your watch without pulling up your sleeve. Credit: Maggie Nichols
Every shirt we tested provides acceptable baseline coverage, but without a doubt, the most impressive sun protection came from the Coolibar Andros Fishing Hoodie, thanks to its original face mask and neck gaiter system and the unique center finger loop hole. We love seeing innovation in any type of outdoor gear, and we were very impressed with what they came up with for their sun shirt. You might look like the blue Power Ranger's close cousin in this getup, but you definitely won't get sunburned.
While great for hiking or biking, we don't recommend wearing a button-down style for water activities. Credit: Maddock Rigby
We love a good hoodie when we head out on the lake, but sometimes the hood can get in the way of a backpack while hiking, and can bounce around too much when running. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Do You Prefer Dry Land or Water Sports?
Most of the sun shirts we tested are great for a variety of purposes, specifically the men's REI Co-op Sahara Shade and the women's Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake can be worn for just about anything you do under the sun. But if you are buying a sunshirt with a specific activity in mind, you can find one that has cool, purpose-built features. If you are going to spend all day in the water surfing, bodyboarding, or waterskiing, you'll want a shirt that lies close to the skin, reducing drag and preventing you from getting tangled in your own clothing. This type of shirt rarely has a hood, but if it does, you'll want it to be tight-fitting. The O'Neill Basic Skins L/S Crew or the NRS Silkweight Hoodie are the best options here. If you are going to be running, hiking, or climbing under the summer sun, it's likely you're going to sweat; breathability and mobility are the topmost priorities here. If you want to go straight to the bars after our hike, a button-down style would be our go-to.
Luckily, most sunshirts are pretty versatile, and unless you are in search of some specific features, a basic one will work for almost any activity. Credit: Kaylee Walden
What Does it Look Like to Prioritize Comfort?
If you can't stand to wear the shirt, it's not doing your skin any good. In general, the biggest differentiator in the comfort of any sun shirt is the material. Most are made with synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, spandex, or some blend of the three. While you won't get the easy-breezy feel of cotton or linen, you can still find synthetic shirts with a fabric that is soft on the skin and has well-placed seams that won't chafe when swimming, or when worn under backpack straps while hiking. Sunshirts typically have a more athletic fit, but different brands often offer slightly different cuts that work better for certain body types.
If you prefer a relaxed, t-shirt feel, then a stretchy pull-on hoody will be your best bet. Credit: Maddock Rigby
The majority of the sun hoodies we tried have fairly stretchy fabric that moves well with the body. Button-down options also have some stretch, though not as much as pull-on styles, so you'll want to make sure to grab a size that allows a full range of motion through your shoulders. Rash guards are the outlier in terms of fit. Rash guards are specifically made to be super tight-fitting, so they don't bunch up while actively moving through water. Because of this, they can be difficult to get on and off (especially when wet), but there should be enough stretch in the material to allow your arms to reach and retract while swimming.
Sometimes you'll need to layer your sunshirt under other protective gear, like a life vest or climbing harness. Flat seams and soft fabric are key to long-term comfort here. Credit: Sara James
Beyond skin-feel and fit, breathability is a huge factor in comfort. Most often you'll be wearing a sun shirt because you are preparing to spend a significant amount of time in the summer sun. Besides just protecting your skin from UV rays, you also need to make sure you don't overheat while wearing long sleeves. Venting options can range from ultrathin fabric to perforated panels under the arms to vent flaps on the back that increase airflow.
We hope this short article helps you select the best sun shirt for your upcoming summer adventures. Credit: Trish Matheny
FAQs
Ultraviolet Protection Factor, or UPF, is the fabric counterpart to the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating you see on your bottle of sunscreen. In both cases, the higher the number, the more protection you're getting; however, the numbers are not equivalent. SPF ratings refer to the amount of time it will take you to burn compared to if you had no protection. (SPF 50 means it will take 50 times longer for your skin to burn than if you weren't wearing sunscreen at all). UPF ratings refer to the actual percentage of UV rays blocked. Most sunshirts have a UPF rating of 30-50, and a sunshirt with a rating of UPF 50 blocks about 98% UV rays, while a UPF 30 rating blocks about 96%.
Yes, you get better broad-spectrum protection from wearing a sun shirt than from applying sunscreen. There are two key differences between UPF in fabric and SPF in sunscreen. First, SPF ratings only specify the level of protection from UVB rays (sunburn), but not necessarily UVA (aging, cancer risk), while UPF-rated fabrics protect your skin from both UVB and UVA rays, reducing both immediate and long-term skin damage from sun exposure. Additionally, SPF wears off pretty quickly and needs to be reapplied throughout the day. You don't have to do anything special to get full protection from a sun shirt; you just have to wear it. The benefit of not having to worry about reapplying every two hours makes sun shirts an easy choice for your summer outdoor wardrobe.
No. Sun shirts with a high UPF rating provide enough coverage that you don't need to use sunscreen underneath. However, you should still apply sunscreen to areas of your body that are not covered by the fabric, such as your face, neck, and hands.
Yes. Darker colors and vivid colors (black, navy, red) absorb more UV rays than whites or pastels. UPF fabric often has UV-absorbing chemical coating that can degrade over time from washing, wearing, and repeated sun exposure (it's taking a beating so your skin doesn't have to!). For maximum longevity, go with a darker color. Of course, lighter colors are going to feel fresher on a hot day, so if staying cool is your top priority, then go for a lighter color. You'll just want to replace your shirt every 1-2 years to make sure you have full protection.
We tested a range of colorful sun shirts in all kinds of full-sun environments to find the top performers. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Other Notable Sun Shirts
Patagonia Capilene Cool Sun Hoody: This sun hoody is one of our favorites for all-season use thanks to the thicker fabric. It's not the lightest in our lineup, but it works great for shoulder season bike rides and adventures into the high alpine. It features a button to secure the hood in place during high winds, a zippered side pocket beneath the right arm, and full coverage for the hands thanks to thumb holes and a unique elastic attachment for the middle finger.
The Capilene Cool Sun Hoody is great for long days at the crag or catching the sunset on the rim, it has ample sun protection and the fit is just right. Credit: Trish Matheny
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie: This sun hoody is built with an ample amount of breathability, meant to perform during high-output activity. The hood features a unique hole for the pony tail so as to reduce bulk, while long sleeves and thumb holes provide excellent coverage. We just wish it had a higher UPF rating.
The Echo is great for lightweight protection for high output activities. Credit: Kaylee Walden
We had a blast testing each and every sun shirt design in various environments, and we hope our testing perspectives help you select the best one for your next adventure. Credit: Ryan Mann
Conclusion
We wore these sun shirts for chill days at the beach, kayaking on the river, on hikes, in the garden, and during high-output activities like mountain biking and alpine climbing. The benefits of wearing a sun shirt rather than applying sunscreen were very clear across the board. While climbing, it was extremely helpful not to have to get our hands greasy from rubbing in sunscreen. During water activities, the sun shirts got wet and remained just as protective as they were while dry - no need to reapply anything! And while hiking and biking, the lightweight fabric wicked moisture away from our bodies, which actually kept us cooler than we would have been without a layer on. We hope this review helps you select the perfect sun shirt for your lifestyle and needs, so you can go safely soak up the sun.
