how to layer
When it comes to layering clothing for backcountry camping, it's important to remember the three Ws: wicking, warmth, and weather.
Your base layer should be made of moisture-wicking materials, such as soft merino wool or synthetic blends, to keep sweat away from your skin and prevent chills. Your mid-layer provides insulation, and can be made of fleece, down, or synthetic materials. Finally, your outer layer should be windproof and waterproof to protect against the elements.
In hot weather, it's important to balance protection from the sun and heat with breathability. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as nylon or polyester are ideal, and your clothing should be loose-fitting to allow for airflow.
In cooler weather, focus on warmth and insulation with heavier fabrics such as wool and down, and when it's cold, be sure to cover your hands, feet, and head.
It's also important to consider the specific weather conditions and terrain you'll encounter on your trip, and to pack extra layers in case of unexpected changes.
sUN sHIRT reviews
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 a host of colors. 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 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.
This long-sleeved sun shirt boasts quick drying, eco-friendly mesh fabric, a stretch fit, and UPF 20 protection for dark colors. Good for running, hiking, biking, or as a layer all day long. It comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Fit is loose and boxy.
Made from 100% polyester, the Echo tee is ultralight, moisture-wicking, and breathable. The AirVent moisture management keeps you dry and sweat-free when things get strenuous. Raglan sleeves compliment movement-mirroring stretch-ability and flat seams add to comfort. There are no thumb holes.
The fabric leans towards sheer, ladies. You may not wish to wear it as a standalone. The air passes right through, keeping you nice and cool. It doesn't feel like you're wearing a long sleeve at all. The fabric also snags like Velcro, so expect pulled threads.
Care is machine wash. It dries insanely fast. While the Echo tee incorporates odor control, it won't repel odors with extended use. The sweat smell becomes part of the shirt over time.
For the fair-skinned, this tee prevents you from bringing tubs of sunblock camping or hiking. The Echo tshirt dries very quickly when handwashed at night on the trip. It offers warmth when chilly and is highly breathable when you warm up and start exerting yourself.
Willit Women's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie
This budget-friendly, moisture-wicking, lightweight hoodie offers UPF 50 sun protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Good for fishing, hiking, running, and biking. It comes in a multitude of colors. Order a size up because it's form-fitting, the sleeves are too short to use the thumb holes, the hoodie is on the small side and it shrinks slightly in the wash.
Made from 100% polyester, the Willit Sun Protection Hoodie is lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking. It's quick drying, feels soft and is stretchy. Raglan sleeves, flatlock seams and a tagless collar add to comfort. The sleeves are short, making the thumb holes useless for most women. The hoodie is on the small side, but fits great under a baseball cap. No pockets.
Care is machine wash. The hoodie will shrink slightly and some find the colors fade after multiple washings. If you're taking it camping, it usually drip dries overnight. The fabric may stain where you apply sunscreen (neck, face, hands, wrists). Any stains are stubborn!
The Willit UPF 50 Sun Protection Hoodie is a lightweight, moisture-wicking, stylish shirt for tucking under a baseball cap. It drip dries overnight when camping and protects you from sunburn during the day.
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.
