The 5 Best Sun Hoodies for Adventure Travel
Sun’s out- hoodies on! When I’m on the trail, I practically live in sun shirts. Here’s a list of my top five sun hoodies for outdoor adventure travel.
One of my biggest mistakes (in my opinion) when I first started backpacking- was hiking all day in either a tank top or a sports bra. Hiking for hours directly under the sun without any protection was not only draining, it physically damaged my skin. Wearing a sun hoodie not only helps protect you from the sun, but if you’re hiking in the middle of summer- sun hoodies provide an extra layer from mosquitoes, so there is no need to reapply sun lotion as often, and they help protect your upper body like ears, neck, and arms.
Thumbholes are a personal favorite, but I’ve also grown to love these sun gloves!
Let’s dive in. In no particular order- however, thumbholes get priority. 😉
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1. Backcountry Tahoe Sun Hoodie
The Backcountry Tahoe Sun Hoodie is one of my top favorites because of the lightweight material that has a UPF 50+ rating to help protect against UV rays. It contains thumbholes that completely cover my knuckles and is comfortable to wear. The hoodie is large enough to fit a cap and cover my ears, neck, and cheeks. This sun hoodie is available in 10 colors.
2. Topo Designs Sun Hoodie
The Topo Designs Sun Hoodie is the newest addition to my collection. Pictured below is the Bone White and this top is currently available in 3 colors. It is the thickest sun hoodie I own, thanks to the grid interior for airflow. It contains thumb loops which are comfortable to wear. There is a back zippered pocket and the shirt is long enough to tuck into shorts. This sun hoodie is also UPF 50+ rated.
3. Royal Robbins Amp Lite Hoodie
The Royal Robbins Amp Lite Hoodie is the softest sun hoodie I own. It is made from recycled polyester and is lightweight. With a trim fit, this sun hoodie is UPF 50+ rated and also has comfortable thumbholes. This navy color is currently the only color option. The hoodie fits over a cap, however, I’ve found it to be a little snug at times- maybe a bigger option would help.
4. Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody
Black Diamond’s Alpenglow Sun Hoody has been one of my go-to for a while. I’ve backpacked the JMT with this sun hoodie and have really grown to love it. Unfortunately, this sun hoodie does not have any thumbholes. For that, I was able to purchase sun gloves which I’ve grown to enjoy. This sun hoodie is available in 6 different colors and I believe the color below has been discontinued. With a UPF 50+ rating, it was perfect for a backcountry summer.
5. Patagonia Calpiene Hoody
The Capilene Sun Hoody from Patagonia is one of my lightest sun hoodies. It does not have any thumbholes or pockets. The hoodie fits with a cap and is a bit of a tight snug. A bigger size may help this issue. This sun hoodie is available in 5 colors.
So, to wrap things up- here are a few things I look for in sun hoodies: thumbholes, the fit of the hoodie with a cap, the length of the shirt to be able to tuck into my shorts, UPF 50+ rating, lightweight and breathable material, and fun bright colors. As with any hiking gear and apparel, investing is worth it in the long run. I’ve used and abused a majority of these sun hoodies and truly believe they will last a while.
