Mens Sun Shirts
Sun shirts aren't just your run-of-the-mill tees. They're your ticket to blocking UV rays while looking ruggedly handsome. Here's the lowdown on why these bad boys are a game-changer and what to scope out when you're snagging one:
... UV Protection: Sun shirts are like your shield against those harmful sunbeams. Look for UPF-rated fabric that blocks those UV nasties like a boss. The higher the UPF, the better. Shoot for UPF 50+ if you wanna be a real sun-fighting warrior.
... Moisture Wicking: When you're out in the wild, things can get sweaty. Look for shirts with moisture-wicking properties. That means they'll pull that sweat away from your body, keeping you cool and dry like a breeze.
... Quick-Drying: You don't have time to wait around for your shirt to dry. Opt for fabrics that dry faster than you can crack open a cold one. It's all about staying comfortable, man.
... Breathability: Airflow is your friend. Find shirts with breathable materials that let your skin breathe even when you're hiking up a storm or casting a line out on the water.
... Durability: Out in the elements, you need gear that can handle the rough stuff. Look for tough fabrics that can take a beating without tearing or wearing out after a few adventures.
... Fit and Style: Get something that fits your style but doesn't restrict your movement. Whether you prefer a loose fit for that laid-back vibe or a more athletic cut, make sure you can move freely.
... Collar and Coverage: Don't overlook the small stuff. A collar that shields your neck and longer sleeves can provide extra protection where you need it most.
... Versatility: Find a sun shirt that can do it all. From hiking and fishing to chilling by the beach, you want gear that's as versatile as you are.
Remember, sun shirts aren't just about looking good (although that's a definite bonus). They're about keeping you protected while you conquer the great outdoors. So, go out there, find yourself a sun shirt that's as tough as you are, and own those sunny days like a boss!
sUN sHIRT reviews
Cooling, moisture-wicking and with a UFP 50 sunblock rating, these shirts are comfortable and breathable during any active hot weather adventure. Outdoor Research's ActiveIce Spectrum Sun Tee comes in multiple sizes and one color. Sizes fit standard.
A special additive (the ActiveIce technology) drives a cooling process via phase changes. This keeps the wicking, breathable t-shirt ideal for spending energy in hot, sweaty, sun-baked conditions. The tee is quick drying, durable and stretchable, made of 94% polyester and 6% spandex. Movement-mirroring stretch allows full range of motion and unrestricted mobility when you’re hiking or climbing.
With UPF 50+ protection, this lightweight shirt protects you from harmful sun rays. Featuring flat seams, a center back loop, thumb holes and a drop-tail hem, toss the ActiveIce Spectum Sun t-shirt in the washing machine at the end of the day. Polyester fabric pills after short periods of use so hang dry to reduce the pills.
This tee was chilly in cooler climates. It's suited for summer wicking, breathing and cooling.
BALEAF Sun Protection Shirt
These budget-friendly, moisture-wicking t-shirts offer UPF 50 sunblock and are a loose form fit, like a regular t-shirt. Good for gardening, farming, hiking, fishing, swimming and surfing with quick-dry fabric, they're available in several sizes and a host of colors. Order a size larger than you normally would. The neck and shoulders tend to run a little small, though the sleeves tend to be long.
Made of 100% polyester, Baleaf's Sun Protection t-shirt is quick-drying and offers great breathability and moisture-wicking, especially in hot or humid weather. UPF 50+ fabric protects you from 98% of the sun's harmful UVA/UVB rays. Raglan sleeves permit full range of motion. Flat seams and a tagless collar round out this tee's features.
Machine wash cold and hang to dry to slow the fabric pilling. It was hard to remove stains from the white t-shirt and some of the more vibrant colors faded over time with both sunlight and washing.
These are comfortable t-shirts to wear in extreme summer heat conditions doing any activity. Baleaf offers a variety of sunblocking t-shirts (short sleeve, polo, etc.) but these weren't so great for the hiking and camping we did.
Outdoor Research Astroman Sun Hoodie
These quick drying, moisture wicking, nylon-spandex hoodies have UPF 50 sun protection, a 3-panel hood and quarter zipper to ventilate. Men's sizes tend to run true to size. Shorter sleeves make the thumb loops impractical. Great for hiking, paddling and outdoor activities in hot, but not humid, conditions.
Made from bluesign approved 84% nylon and 16% spandex, this hoodie is breathable, quick drying and has movement-mirroring stretch. You'll find yourself soaked in humid conditions. Nylon hold stinky sweat smell more than other fabrics.
UPF 50 sun protection and a scuba hood designed to be used with helmets protects the back of your neck and head. The hood contours around a baseball cap and doesn't blow away in wind gusts easily. There's no drawstring around the hood to hold it tight.
The fabric comes across as delicate, thin or fragile. It tends to snag easily on things and pills in high use areas. Bushwhacking and scrambling are out. Regular outdoor activities are fine. It's a bit wrinkly coming out of the stuff pocket. Care is Machine Wash.
If you're headed out in the blazing sun, the Astroman Sun Hoodie is light, breathable, protects you from the rays and packs away into a compact pocket.
GOT FEEDBACK?
If you've used one of the sun shirts I reviewed and you have something to add, I'd love to hear it.
Same, if you have a shirt you love (or hate) that's not reviewed here, tell me about it and I'll check it out.
