Sun Shirts
Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie
This has been our favorite sun hoodie for the last few years. The microgrid fabric allows the lightest breeze to pass through and it feels it nearly weightless. I know shirts have UPF ratings these days and this one is only a 15, but even after months with a continuous UV index of 11 in the Sonoran desert I've never experienced any sunburn, or even tanning under the shirt. (Not medical advice, skin cancer is serious, I'm just saying I've never been burned through this shirt, or any other...)
It's only has two shortcomings of note: One, the thin material that makes it so comfortable and breathable is also prone to wearing out on the shoulders after about 1000 miles of hiking, so pretty heavy use. Two, the cut is very slim, this works well in arid environments but when the humidity climbs the pits and the more snug areas can feel a little clammy. For this reason I'm going with baggier shirt on our next hike through the Caucasus where I expect much more humid conditions. But in the desert, it's the Echo every time.
(seen here on Moose and Bugs at the monument at the Northern terminus of the Arizona Trail)
Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoodie
This shirt, like a lot of Patagonia's gear is almost indestructible. When you do wear it out, they'll repair or replace it with their Ironclad Guarantee. That said, I can't wear this one out. And I try, it's used for cooler temps and winter slogs, warm PNW skiing and snowshoeing, rainy early spring training hikes and more. It doesn't stretch out over time, it's as pretty odor resistant for a polyester material and just so damn durable. There's not much more to say, buy it once, that's all you have to do.
I also own shirts on this same material without the hood and with short sleeves.
(seen here on Moose and Bugs on Mt. Baker)
Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie
This is a new addition, anticipating more humid conditions in the Caucasus on our hike of the Transcaucasian Trail, especially in Northern Georgia in the Greater Caucasus I added a sun shirt with a looser cut. I've worn it on a few training hikes and I love the fit and the material but come back for a long term review after I put this one through the wringer!
