REASONS TO BUY
UPF 50+
Versatile
Good stretch
Flat seams reduce chafe
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavier
Below-average breathability
Basic wicking
No odor control
REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt Review
A budget-friendly option with excellent sun protection and enough stretch for mixed activity, best for hiking and casual use
Credit: Matthew Richardson
By Matthew Richardson ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ July 2, 2026
RELATED: The Best Running Shirts for Men
Our Verdict
The REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt offers UPF 50+ sun protection at the second-lowest price in our running shirts review, which is its defining strength. The polyester/spandex blend has adequate stretch for hiking, gym work, and casual wear. Flat seams keep chafing low. At 5.10 ounces, it is one of the heavier shirts we tested, and its breathability and wicking performance fall behind those of more technical options. For budget-conscious runners and hikers who want reliable sun protection, the Active Pursuits gets the job done.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt at a riverside stop. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Likes
Where the REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt shines is across a range of activities. The 92% polyester and 8% spandex blend has adequate stretch for comfortable movement, whether hiking, lifting, or moving around town, and the regular fit is roomy without being baggy. The flat seams keep chafing low, and its UPF 50+ coverage at a price that undercuts most competitors makes it easy to stock up alongside a more performance-oriented shirt for harder efforts.
Stretching the poly spandex fabric of the Active Pursuits tee. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Dislikes
At 5.10 ounces, the Active Pursuits is one of the heavier shirts we tested, and we could feel the extra weight during sustained running. Breathability scored at the lower end of the lineup, with the heavier fabric moving air less efficiently than lighter competitors. Wicking is basic, with no special fabric technology or construction to accelerate moisture management. There is no odor control treatment, so the shirt needs to be washed after every use. In our dryer testing, it took 25 minutes to dry, absorbing 2.9 ounces of water. For dedicated running in warm conditions, the Active Pursuits falls behind.
The back of the REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt shows its fuller cut. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Should You Buy the REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt?
If you need affordable sun protection for hiking, gym workouts, and casual running, the Active Pursuits reliably fills that role. It is best suited as a secondary shirt for lower-intensity activities rather than a primary training piece for dedicated runners. The price and UPF 50+ are its strongest arguments.
What Other Running Shirts Should You Consider?
The Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 costs even less and adds antimicrobial odor treatment, though without UPF protection. The Brooks Dash T-Shirt offers better comfort and breathability with UPF 40+ at a moderate price step up. The Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt delivers a significant upgrade across every metric for a bit more.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $35 List Check REI (on sale!) |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | A budget-friendly option with excellent sun protection and enough stretch for mixed activity, best for hiking and casual use |
| Pros | UPF 50+, versatile, good stretch, flat seams reduce chafe |
| Cons | Heavier, below-average breathability, basic wicking, no odor control |
| Rating Categories | REI Active Pursuits... |
| Comfort (30%) | |
| Breathability (30%) | |
| Moisture Control (20%) | |
| Versatility (20%) | |
| Specifications | REI Active Pursuits... |
| Best For | Beginners; hiking; casual wear |
| Material | 92% polyester / 8% spandex |
| Reflective Areas | None |
| UPF | 50 |
| Chafe Risk | Low (flat seams) |
| Odor Control | No dedicated treatment |
| Weight (Size Large) | 5.10 oz |
| Fit Type | Regular |
| Care Instructions | Machine wash cold; tumble dry low |
—Matthew Richardson
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