Last Updated on June 12, 2023
When you are hiking in the desert, choosing the right clothing is essential to stay comfortable and protected from the intense sun, heat, and dryness, and to cover yourself head to toe, including long sleeve shirts and pants.
The best desert hiking shirt should be lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and provide sun protection.
In terms of fabric, opt for materials that are able to allow air to circulate, in terms of color prefer light shades that reflect the sun’s rays and blend well with the environment, and finally, consider the style of shirt that will be most suitable for your outdoor activity.
As part of the Amazon Associate and eBay Partner Programme, we earn from qualifying purchases.
How to Pick a Shirt for the Desert
When you’re searching for the perfect desert hiking shirt, there are some important qualities you should keep in mind. Look for a shirt that is lightweight, as it will allow you to move with ease and remain cool in hot weather.
Opt for a breathable fabric like merino wool that allows air to circulate, preventing sweat buildup and keeping you feeling fresh.
Additionally, a moisture-wicking shirt will draw sweat away from your skin and dry quickly, keeping you comfortable during your hike. Make sure to choose a shirt with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to protect you from harmful UV rays and prevent sunburn.
Best Fabric
One of the most important factors to consider when picking a desert shirt is the fabric. The desert can be an unforgiving environment, with hot days and cool nights. That’s why you want a shirt that is breathable and lightweight.
Cotton, linen, and rayon are great choices for desert shirts. They’re lightweight, breathable, and allow air to flow through to keep you cool. Avoid fabrics like polyester or nylon, which don’t breathe as well and can trap heat.
While wool may seem like an odd choice for desert hiking, Merino wool is an exception. It’s lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable, making it an ideal fabric for hot, dry conditions. It’s also naturally odor-resistant and provides excellent sun protection.
Color Choice
When it comes to color, there are a few things to consider. First, consider the climate you’ll be in. If you’re in a hot, sunny climate, you’ll want to avoid dark colors that absorb heat.
Light colors like white, cream, and pastels are good choices for the desert because they reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cooler. Additionally, darker colors may attract more insects like mosquitoes, so keep that in mind when selecting your color.
Another factor to consider is the setting you’ll be in. If you’re going on a desert hike, you may want to wear earth tones like beige, khaki, or olive green that blend in with the environment.
If you’re attending a desert festival, you may want to go for something more vibrant and eye-catching like a bright yellow or orange.
Best Shirts for Desert
Long-Sleeve Shirt
A long-sleeve shirt with UPF protection is an excellent option for desert hiking, as it provides additional sun protection and can be rolled up if you get too hot. Look for a lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric.
The long sleeves will also protect your arms from scratches and abrasions from rocks and plants. Many long-sleeve shirts come with adjustable cuffs and roll-up sleeves, making it easy to customize your coverage as needed.
Hooded Shirt
A UPF hooded shirt is another great option for desert hiking, as it provides additional sun protection for your head and neck and can be useful in windy conditions. Look for a lightweight, breathable fabric with UPF protection.
A hooded shirt can also be a good choice for backpackers who need to pack light, as it can serve as both a shirt and a sun hat. If you’re concerned about the hood obstructing your vision, look for one with an adjustable drawstring.
 Columbia Women’s Sun Trek Hooded Pullover |  MAGCOMSEN Men’s Hooded UPF 50+ Sun Protection T Shirt |  Boys’ Performance UPF 50+ UV/Sun Protection Hoodie T-Shirt Long Sleeve with Pockets |
Sun Shirt
A dedicated sun shirt is designed to provide maximum sun protection with UPF ratings of 50 or higher.
These shirts are typically made of lightweight and breathable fabrics with long sleeves and a high collar. They can be worn alone or layered over a t-shirt for added protection.
Sun shirts also often feature thumbholes to protect the backs of your hands from the sun. Look for a shirt with flatlock seams to prevent chafing and irritation during long hikes.
Button-Up Shirt
A button-up shirt can be a versatile option for desert hiking, as you can wear it open for ventilation or buttoned up for additional sun protection. Look for a lightweight, breathable fabric with moisture-wicking properties.
A button-up shirt can also be a good option if you plan to go from hiking to a more formal setting, as you can easily dress it up by tucking it in and pairing it with a pair of long pants. Some button-up shirts come with zippered pockets for storing small essentials like your phone or wallet.
T-Shirt
If you prefer a more casual look, a moisture-wicking t-shirt can be a good option for desert hiking. Look for a lightweight and breathable fabric with UPF protection.
T-shirts are usually the most affordable option and can be found in a wide variety of colors and designs.
They’re also easy to layer under other shirts for added sun protection or warmth. However, be aware that t-shirts offer less sun protection than other shirt styles and can leave your arms and neck exposed to the sun.
If you do choose to wear short sleeve t-shirts, remember to apply generous amounts of desert-proof sunscreen every two hours or so, especially in the afternoon.
Don’t forget to bring a Jacket
While a good desert shirt is essential for staying comfortable and protected during the day, it’s also important to remember that the desert can get quite cold at night.
Temperatures can drop drastically, even in the hottest climates. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight jacket or sweater with you on your desert hike.
Look for something that is easy to pack and won’t take up too much space in your backpack.
A jacket made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric can also help regulate your body temperature and keep you comfortable no matter what the desert climate throws your way.
Read also: Desert Hiking Checklist
Your n°1 source of information on the world of sandsports and desert adventure travel. Our articles are the result of extensive research, personal experience, and knowledge-sharing within the global sandboarding community.
