Last Updated on July 17, 2023
Hiking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. A good sun shirt is essential for staying safe and comfortable while you’re hiking.
There are a few key factors you need to consider when choosing a sun shirt for hiking:
- Sun protection: The shirt should have a UPF rating of 30+ or higher. This means that the fabric will block at least 95% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
- Moisture-wicking: The shirt should be made from a fabric that will help you stay cool and dry. This is especially important if you’re hiking in hot weather.
- Fit: The shirt should have a relaxed fit that allows for layering, but it shouldn’t be too baggy. This will help to keep the sun off your skin and prevent chafing.
- Features: Some sun shirts have features like a hood, thumb loops, or pockets. Consider which features are important to you.
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Best Hiking Sun Shirts
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie
- Lightweight, breathable fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection
- Relaxed fit allows for layering
- Hood can be cinched tight to keep the sun out
This lightweight and breathable hoodie is a popular choice, offering UPF 50+ sun protection. Its relaxed fit allows for easy layering, and the hood can be cinched tight to keep the sun out.
The Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or camping. Its moisture-wicking fabric helps to keep you dry and comfortable, even during intense physical activities.
The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent sun protection, making it suitable for long hours under the sun.
Arc’teryx Squamish LS Shirt
- High-performance sun shirt
- Lightweight, breathable fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Perfect for hiking in all conditions
If you’re looking for top-notch performance, the Arc’teryx Squamish LS Shirt is the ideal choice.
This high-performance sun shirt is made from a lightweight and breathable fabric with a UPF 50+ rating. It’s exceptionally durable and weather-resistant, making it perfect for hiking in any conditions.
The Arc’teryx Squamish LS Shirt is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand the best. Its advanced fabric technology not only protects you from the sun but also repels water and withstands harsh environments.
Whether you’re climbing mountains or exploring rugged trails, this shirt is built to endure and keep you comfortable throughout your adventures.
THE NORTH FACE Men’s Wander Pullover Sun Hoodie
- A great option for those who want a comfortable and stylish sun shirt.
- Made from a lightweight, breathable fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection.
- Has a relaxed fit that allows for layering.
- Features a hood that can be cinched tight to keep the sun out.
- Also has thumb loops to keep the sleeves in place.
The NORTH FACE Men’s Wander Pullover Sun Hoodie is a great option for those who want a comfortable and stylish sun shirt.
Made from a lightweight and breathable fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection, it keeps you protected from harmful UV rays while ensuring optimal comfort.
The relaxed fit of this hoodie allows for easy layering, making it versatile for various weather conditions. The hood can be cinched tight to provide additional sun protection, and the thumb loops keep the sleeves in place during active pursuits.
Hiking Sun Shirts FAQs
What is a sun shirt?
A sun shirt is a type of shirt that is designed to protect you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Sun shirts are typically made from a lightweight, breathable fabric with a UPF rating of 30+ or higher. This means that the fabric will block at least 95% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
These shirts provide an extra layer of protection against sunburn and skin damage while allowing for comfort and mobility during outdoor activities.
Why is it important to wear a sun shirt when hiking?
The sun’s UV rays can cause skin cancer, premature aging, and other health problems. Wearing a sun shirt can help to protect your skin from these harmful rays.
A sun shirt acts as a physical barrier between your skin and the sun, reducing your exposure to UV radiation. It helps to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, keeping you comfortable and protected during your hiking adventures.
What is the difference between a sun shirt and a regular shirt?
A sun shirt is designed to protect you from the sun’s harmful UV rays, while a regular shirt is not. Sun shirts are typically made from a lightweight, breathable fabric with a UPF rating of 30+ or higher.
This means that the fabric will block at least 95% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Regular shirts, on the other hand, are typically made from heavier fabrics that do not offer as much sun protection.
Regular shirts are more suitable for everyday wear and may not have the same level of sun protection features as dedicated sun shirts. Sun shirts are specifically designed to prioritize UV protection, moisture-wicking, and comfort for outdoor activities.
What is UPF?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It is a measure of how well a fabric blocks the sun’s UV rays. A UPF of 30+ means that the fabric will block at least 95% of the sun’s UV rays.
The higher the UPF rating, the more effective the fabric is in providing protection against harmful UV radiation. It is important to choose sun shirts with a UPF rating of 30+ or higher to ensure adequate sun protection during outdoor activities.
What type of sun shirt is best for desert hiking?
A sun shirt that is made from a lightweight, breathable fabric with a UPF of 50+ or higher is best for desert hiking. The fabric should also be quick-drying to help you stay cool and comfortable. Opt for long-sleeve shirts that will cover every inch of your body for maximal protection.
Desert environments often have intense sun exposure and high temperatures, making it crucial to choose a sun shirt that provides excellent UV protection and keeps you comfortable. Long sleeves and high UPF ratings offer greater coverage and safeguard your skin from the intense desert sun.
Read more: Best Shirts for Desert Hiking
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