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What to Wear Hiking & Backpacking: The Ultralight Packing Guide

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The Fundamentals of Outdoor Clothing

There’s no bad weather, only bad gear, as the saying goes. As hikers, we expect a lot from our clothing. It has to insulate us from the cold, breathe well, dry quickly, and protect us from everything from rain, snow, and wind to intense sun exposure and bugs.

This guide highlights techniques for how to approach your backcountry outfits so you are well-prepared for what the wilderness throws your way.

Weather and temperatures can fluctuate widely and somewhat wildly, especially at higher elevations. You want to bring clothing that can be layered and either worn all at once for maximum warmth or pared down to base layers if you need to stay cool – it’s all about effective thermoregulation and sweat management. Do bring tops, bottoms, jackets, and accessories that complement each other and work together. Don’t bring multiple items that serve the same purpose and can’t effectively be used in tandem.

On almost every trip, we bring underwear, base layers, a fleece and/or down jacket, rain jacket, and (maybe) rain pants.

Mix & Match

An efficient outdoor clothing system is made up of a collection of essential items that can be mixed and matched. For backpacking, we wear the same basic outfit daily while hiking, and supplement when needed when the weather changes. It’s a delicate balance, but for example, you want a rain jacket that is both loose enough to accommodate a bulkier fleece or puffy jacket underneath but not so baggy that you go swimming in it if you are caught in a warmer rain shower and don’t need the insulating layer.

Embrace the Grime

Even with the most methodical trail hygiene routine (and we do love to stay clean on trail), gear will get gross if you are out for long enough. Having said that, generally, the only garments we have at least two of are socks and underwear, wearing one set during the day and another set at night after we rinse off (and using that clean set as a backup for day use if disaster strikes). It’s also often easy enough to clean (or at least rinse out) clothing periodically.

Managing moisture is one of the key challenges of staying comfortable and healthy on a trip. Sweat, precipitation, and water crossings are part of the experience so it’s really important that clothing dries quickly. Fabrics that stay wet for a long time (cotton and cotton blends) hold moisture against the skin, which can be a huge problem in cold temperatures and/or high winds since that moisture sucks away body heat much, much faster leading to hypothermia. Even in warm weather, wet clothing also leads to other problems like chafing, blisters, and rashes, all of which can be a real bummer.

Synthetic fabrics, like polyester and nylon, are excellent for wicking moisture away from the skin. They also dry quickly, are fairly durable, lightweight, and affordable. The downside to synthetics is that they tend to hold odors more than natural fibers do.

Natural fibers , like wool, are legendary in the hiking world for their ability to keep you warm even when wet. Fine merino wool is also excellent at helping you thermoregulate in warm weather and is naturally antimicrobial for minimal odor buildup on multi-day trips. Wool clothing has come a long way, but historically, the downsides of wool are that it can feel itchy to some, it’s expensive, and it tends to be less durable than synthetics. Some people also prefer hiking in silk underwear (sounds fancy but it’s super practical) to reduce chafing and rashes on sensitive skin.

Don’t Overpack; Streamline

It’s common for hikers to overpack clothing and layers, making backpacks unnecessarily heavy and bulky. We tend to do this because we’re nervous about being too cold, wet, and dirty out on the trail.

That’s why it really pays to dial in an efficient set of clothes that work together and can be easily adjusted to meet changing conditions. Keeping your clothing system minimal and lightweight will increase your overall comfort by reducing the load strain on your body.

Safety & Comfort

When it comes down to it, clothing choices are about staying comfortable and safe in the myriad elements you’ll encounter in the backcountry. Having the right rain jacket in a storm or sun hat and pants in the sun-scorched desert will keep you happier and healthier on your adventure.

If you know your personal comfort limits and properly prepare, you should feel confident that your shelter, sleep system, clothing, and skills can get you through almost anything nature throws at you.

What to Wear While Hiking & Backpacking (By season)

For summer backpacking trips, when temperatures typically won’t drop below freezing:

• hiking shorts
• hiking pants (at high altitude or in desert conditions)
• t-shirt or sun shirt
• quick-dry underwear (or lined shorts)
• lightweight hiking socks
• trail running shoes
• running gaiters
• windbreaker or rain jacket (to retain heat if it gets chilly)
• liner gloves
• base layer top
• shorts or pants
• down jacket

SPRING & FALL

Shoulder seasons are typically a bit colder and rainier, so they require a few extra clothing items. For these trips, we bring our full summer clothing setup and add a fleece jacket , a full set of base layers , and an extra pair of hiking socks. We may also bring more robust rain gear including rain pants and an umbrella if the forecast looks super wet.

• hiking pants or leggings
• t-shirt, sun shirt , or long-sleeve hiking shirt
• quick-dry underwear
• trail running shoes or lightweight boots (if snowy/muddy terrain is expected)
• rain jacket
• fleece jacket
• baselayer top and bottom

Hiking and backpacking in winter requires a bit more redundancy in clothing since it’s more challenging to stay warm and dry in stormy, sub-freezing conditions. Pay close attention to the weather forecast and make sure your shelter and sleep system are sufficiently warm for nighttime lows.

We typically wear baselayers and a lightweight fleece under rain gear when hiking in wet, cold conditions. In camp, we change into a second set of dry base layers (reserved for camp only) and put on an extra puffy down jacket (cold people may want down pants as well). We also like to have an extra pair of gloves on winter trips since it’s very common for the liner gloves you wear during the day to be wet by nightfall.

• fleece jacket or midlayer
• warm hat or hat w/ a brim
• midweight socks (2 pairs)
• winter boots
• snow gaiters
• sunglasses (really important in the snow)
• rain mitts or shell gloves
• baselayer top and bottom (2nd pair)
• down pants (if you tend to run cold)
• liner gloves (2nd pair)

Things to Keep in Mind While Packing

You won’t need all of this on every trip.

Now, before you look at the list below and say, “That’s not ultralight, that’s way too much stuff!” remind yourself that this is all about creating a system that works for you. Choose only the items you truly need with the intention of using them together as a system.

Pick and choose from the items on this list

Create clothing systems for hiking and camping in warm, cool, and wet conditions from the items listed below. Be thoughtful about each piece and build around the most important non-optional items.

Base your decisions off your preferences and the climate/conditions

Prioritize the articles of clothing you’ll wear the most and then think through the trade-offs methodically. Do you want a fleece and a puffy? Maybe. Are you willing to wear your long-sleeved shirt even if it’s warmer than you were expecting? Maybe? Sure it’ll rain, but will it rain pants rain? Maaaybe? Plan for the most extreme weather you know you’ll encounter, but always do what feels right before and during a trip.

Hiking Clothing Checklist

Ready to start assessing what you’ve already got in your closet and what you may need to buy? Print copies of our free Ultimate Backpacking Checklist and Day Hiking Checklist .

1 Long-Sleeve Shirt

A long-sleeve shirt will be one of the most useful clothing items you bring. Depending on weather conditions and your style preference, you’ll probably want to choose between a UPF sun shirt and a base layer top .

Sun shirts are lightweight, breathable, and can be worn in hot conditions to protect your skin from intense sun and/or mosquitos. A base layer top provides a bit more insulation when hiking in cool conditions. Zip-necks are generally our go-tos since they provide some added ventilation in the neck/chest area.

For more recommendations, see our Best Sun Shirts & Best Base Layers lists

Our Top Picks:

• Patagonia Capilene Midweight Zip-neck ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Outdoor Research Echo ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Columbia Silver Ridge Lite ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Short-sleeve shirt

A lightweight, synthetic or wool t-shirt is a bit more breathable than a long-sleeve, sun shirt and can be comfortable for some when hiking in hot weather. Short sleeves protect your shoulders from abrasions caused by backpack straps better than a tank top for backpacking. The tradeoff is that you’ll have to use more sunscreen and bug repellent if the sun is strong or the mosquitoes are bad.

• Nike Dri-Fit Legend ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Smartwool Classic All-Season ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Down or Synthetic Jacket

A warm down or synthetic jacket is your insurance in the backcountry. It’s easy to underestimate how cold it can get in the mountains (and the desert) even during the summer months. Once the sun goes down or the weather shifts, temperatures can swing dramatically.

We wear our down jacket on breaks, around camp, or to supplement our sleep system when it’s exceptionally chilly. Quality down jackets can be expensive, but a good one will undoubtedly become of your most heavily-used pieces of gear.

For more recommendations, see our Best Down Jackets list

• Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 ( Men’s / Women’s )
• REI 650 Down ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Montbell Plasma 1000 Alpine Parka ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Rain Jacket

A lightweight, waterproof rain shell with a hood is an essential item on all hiking and backpacking trips. You will sweat and overheat hiking in rain gear if temps are mild, so rainwear with good ventilation via pit zips and breathable materials are preferred.

Rain jackets are typically worn while hiking or in camp when conditions are wet and cold. A rain jacket can also be worn in windy conditions to help retain heat. Size up to accommodate any layers you plan to wear under your rain jacket (puffy, fleece, baselayer top, etc.).

For more recommendations, see our Best Rain Jackets list

• Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Montbell Versalite ( Men’s / Women’s )

Ponchos & Alternative Rain Gear

Some hikers prefer to use a poncho instead of a rain jacket because they’re lightweight, cover your backpack, have good ventilation, and can also be used as a groundsheet or emergency shelter.

That said, ponchos are also a bit awkward and are much worse at keeping water out in windy conditions. We prefer the versatility of rain jackets and pants, but a lightweight poncho can serve as lightweight emergency rainwear for trips when the weather is expected to be fair. We usually wear a hat with a bill to keep the rain out of our faces with any poncho or rain jacket.

• Outdoor Products Multipurpose Poncho
• Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape

1 Fleece Jacket

Fleece will keep you warm even when it gets wet, which is a key advantage over other insulating layers like down jackets. For that reason, a fleece can be a great addition to your clothing system for cold, wet trips. We prefer light to midweight fleeces with quarter- or full-length zippers.

For more recommendations, see our Best Fleece Jackets list

• Patagonia R1 Air ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 & Benton Springs

1 Windbreaker

These thin ultralight jackets prevent wind from stripping away body heat. They’re usually made of water-resistant nylon and though they aren’t sufficient protection for sustained rain, they can be worn over a fleece or long-sleeve top to keep you warm in high wind and light mist. Wind shirts are a particularly handy light layer to wear over your long-sleeve shirt when you’re starting to hike in the cool of the morning.

For more recommendations, see our Best Windbreaker Jackets list

• Smartwool Active Ultralite ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Patagonia Houdini ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Base Layer Top

Some backpackers like to like to carry a synthetic, silk, or wool base layer top to wear in camp after a long day on the trail. If this top is in addition to your main hiking shirt, try to keep it as lightweight and compact as possible.

For more recommendations, see our Best Base Layers list

• Patagonia Capilene Midweight ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Smartwool Classic Thermal ( Men’s / Women’s )

BOTTOM LAYERS

1 pair hiking pants.

Worn while hiking in mild or cooler weather, or even in hot weather instead of shorts for added protection from brush, sun, and mosquitoes/ticks. We look for pants that are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. It also helps when they’re relatively durable and have a pocket configuration that’s convenient on the trail.

For more recommendations, see our Best Hiking Pants ( Women’s / Men’s ) and Best Leggings ( Women’s ) lists

• The North Aphrodite 2.0 ( Women’s )
• Outdoor Research Ferrosi ( Men’s )

1 Pair Shorts

Hiking shorts are breathable and offer excellent freedom of movement, so they’re generally our top choice when bugs aren’t biting and we’re not bushwhacking. The waistband should be comfortable under a hipbelt. Shorts with a liner also make it possible to hike with one less pair of underwear.

For more recommendations, see our Best Hiking Shorts ( Men’s / Women’s ) lists

• Patagonia Quandary ( Men’s )
• Outdoor Research Ferrosi ( Women’s )

1 Pair Rain Pants

A lightweight, waterproof, but minimalist rain shell. Full-length zippers make it easier to put them on and take them off without removing your shoes/boots, but that also makes them heavier. Worn while hiking or in camp when conditions are wet, cold, or windy.

For more recommendations, see our Best Rain Pants list

• Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Outdoor Research Helium ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Pair Base Layer Bottoms

Lightweight or ultralight, synthetic, silk, or wool. Usually reserved for wearing in camp and sleeping in, but can be worn under other layers when necessary for hiking in very wet or cold weather.

• Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Pair Insulated Pants

In really cold conditions, a pair of down pants can be a lifesaver. We typically only use these for winter trips in the backcountry, but they’re also useful for car camping trips with chilly nights and mornings.

• Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Pants ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Pants ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Montbell Light Down Pants ( Men’s / Women’s )

1-2 Pairs Underwear

Comfortable, breathable, quick-drying, anti-odor. Worn daily. Cycle between pairs, rinsing out and air-drying them as needed. Keep at least one pair clean by only wearing them in camp after washing up for the day.

Many women also wear a sports bra on the trail. We recommend a comfortable, breathable, quick-drying one that doesn’t fit too tight.

• ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Underwear ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Patagonia Barely Sports Bra

A good hiking hat has a brim long enough to cut the sun out of your line of vision. It should also dry quickly, be breathable, and be reasonably packable so that you can store it when not in use. We wear a hat almost all the time while hiking, especially when the sun is intense or when it’s raining (to keep drops out of our faces).

Wide-brimmed hats with neck capes provide the most protection, but they’re not everyone’s favorite style-wise. Baseball and trucker hats work well with hoods, but they don’t protect your ears and neck, so make sure to sunscreen up, use a sun shirt hood, or tuck in a bandana when necessary.

• Patagonia Duckbill Trucker Hat
• Adidas Superlite 2 ( Men’s / Women’s )

A warm hat is the easiest piece of clothing to put on or remove quickly for thermoregulation on the go, on breaks, in camp, or in your sleep sack. Fleece is preferable since it will keep you warm even if it gets wet. It provides a huge amount of bang for the buck when you need to get or stay toasty.

Our Top Pick:

• Zpacks Ultralight Fleece Beanie

This multifunctional headwear can be worn as a headband, hat, hair band, helmet liner, or balaclava. They’ll also do in a pinch if you need a mini towel, pillowcase, or pot holder. Some people (including a few members of the CleverHiker team) absolutely love these and some opt not to bring them at all.

• Buff Original

1 Pair Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses (and a protective case) is essential for almost every trip into the backcountry. Polarized sunglasses are preferable since they help cut glare and are easier on the eyes. If viewing pretty scenery is part of your aim, it probably makes sense to get some quality polarized lenses and leave the $10 gas station shades at home. Having said that, there are some fashionable polarized options out there that won’t break the bank.

• Ray-Ban New Wayfarer Polarized

CAMP CLOTHING

We love having a clean lightweight base layer top and bottom to wear in camp after we’ve washed up at the end of the day. In a pinch, you may have to wear extra layers while hiking when conditions are really cold or wet but either way, you should bring the long johns.

Keeping camp clothes clean requires a little resilience to pull on those soggy socks or sweaty t-shirt before you set out for the day, but in our opinion, it’s well worth it to have clean/dry clothing when you get to camp that night, so we avoid hiking out in our camp clothes.

For recommendations, see our Best Base Layers list .

Choose one of the following shoe options that best suits your trip based on:

• Weather/season/conditions
• Pack weight
• Personal preference/needs

1 Pair Trail Runners or Hiking Shoes

At CleverHiker, we almost always backpack in lightweight trail runners. They minimize blisters, dry quickly, and offer excellent traction. They also keep our feet nimble and don’t exhaust our legs over long days of hiking. Choose a size with a little extra wiggle room in the toe box to allow your feet to swell. Too-tight shoes are a recipe for disaster.

For recommendations, check out our shoe guides:

• Best Hiking Shoes ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Best Trail Running Shoes ( Men’s / Women’s )
• 5 Reasons to Ditch Your Hiking Boots

1 Pair Lightweight Hiking Boots

Though trail runners have become very popular in most hiking/backpacking circles, many people still prefer the durability and support of hiking boots. Boots offer superior protection on rocky rugged terrain, and on cold, wet trips, especially if extensive snow travel or extremely muddy/mucky trails are involved. Look for lightweight, comfortable boots that will allow your foot to flex, and make sure to break them in well before your hike.

• Best Hiking Boots ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Pair Sandals

Though sandals are still among the least popular options for trail travel, there is a growing population of hikers that prefers them over other footwear choices. When all goes according to plan, sandals are comfortable, breathable, and they dry quickly after river crossings or rain.

That said, sandals provide the least amount of support and they leave your feet open to abrasion from rocks and other sharp objects along the trail, so watch where you step carefully. If you do wear sandals, bring a pair of wool socks to slip on if the weather gets cold/wet. Also, make sure to bring a first aid kit with plenty of tape to prevent any hot spots so your feet don’t get rubbed raw.

• Best Hiking Sandals ( Men’s / Women’s )

1 Pair Camp Shoes

Though they should be considered a luxury item, some hikers like to carry an alternate pair of shoes to change into for relaxing in camp and wearing in town (if thru-hiking). Good camp shoes are lightweight, compact, dry quickly, and protect the toes. Ideally, they’ll also be compatible with warm socks.

We normally choose to travel without camp shoes, but they can be a nice luxury on wet trips when our hiking shoes/boots are soaked by the time we get to camp.

For more recommendations, check out our Best Camp Shoes list

• Xero Shoes Z-Trail ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Vivobarefoot Ultra 3

1 Pair Gaiters

If you wear trail running shoes, a pair of minimalist gaiters will help keep debris from creeping into your shoes. This will keep your feet more comfortable on long trail days and you’ll have far fewer stops to remove pebbles from your shoes. Thru-hikers tend to be big fans of gaiters because they spend so much of their time on the trail. The biggest downsides to gaiters are that they won’t allow your shoes/feet to breathe quite as well and they require one more step every time you put your shoes on or take them off.

• Altra Trail Gaiters
• Dirty Girl Gaiters

1-2 Pairs Hiking Socks

Cycle between pairs of quick-drying wool or synthetic hiking socks, rinsing and drying in direct sunlight when necessary. On cold/wet trips, you may want to bring an extra pair of thick wool socks, which will help keep your feet warm when wet and/or can be used to help dry your shoes after rain showers or river crossings.

1 Pair Camp/Sleep Socks

Keep at least one pair of thick wool socks clean and dry, reserving them for use in camp. On chilly nights you can also sleep with them on to help boost your warmth.

For more recommendations, see our Best Hiking Socks list

• Darn Tough Micro Crew Light Cushion ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight Technical ¼ Crew
• Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full-Cushion ( Men’s / Women’s ) – warm socks

GLOVES & MITTENS

1 pair liner gloves.

Basic thin synthetic or wool gloves are the bare minimum you should have to keep your hands warm while on the move. Make sure your liner gloves and rain mitts can be layered together if needed.

1 Pair Fleece gloves

Thin/medium weight gloves are great for hiking and in camp on slightly colder spring and fall trips. Again, make sure these are compatible with your rain mitts.

1 Pair Rain Mitts / Shell Gloves

Waterproof mitts help retain your body heat and can be layered with other gloves to protect your hands from the elements when it’s windy, cold, and wet.

For more recommendations, see our Best Winter Gloves list

• Patagonia Capilene Midweight Liner
• REI Fleece Gloves
• REI Minimalist GTX Mittens

ACCESSORIES

In addition to rainwear, an umbrella can be a fantastic addition to your rain system when conditions are particularly wet and the weather changes frequently. Umbrellas are quick and easy to deploy and pack away while on the move and provide convenient rain protection without causing the body to overheat.

In the desert, umbrellas also provide portable shade to protect your skin and eyes from the sun and keep your body temperature lower. For best performance, while hiking, choose an umbrella that’s lightweight, resistant to wind damage, and reflective for maximum cooling potential.

• Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow
• Six Moon Designs Rain Walker SUL
• Gossamer Gear Lightrek

BUG DETERRANTS

Clouds of mosquitoes can easily ruin any backcountry trip, so it pays to do your research and check trip reports. Check online forums or try calling the local ranger station to find out if it’s typical for the bugs to be thick during the dates of your trip. In general, July and August tend to be the worst months for mosquitoes. If the mosquitos are going to be voracious, don’t cancel your trip, just prepare by doing the following:

Wear breathable, but tightly-woven clothing that covers your arms and legs.

• ExOfficio BugsAway Long-Sleeve Shirt ( Men’s ) & ExOfficio BugsAway Lumen Hoody ( Women’s )
• ExOfficio BugsAway Pants ( Men’s  /  Women’s )

Treat your clothing with Permethrin spray pre-trip.

• Clothing Treatment: Permethrin

Use a little Picaridin lotion on exposed skin.

• Topical Bug Repellant: Picaridin Lotion

Wear a head net over a hat. They’re a bit annoying at first, but they keep bugs from getting in your ears, eyes, and mouth. It beats breathing in mosquitos while you’re sucking wind!

• Sea to Summit Head Net

If you’re short on cash, you can find a lot of perfectly functional used clothing from thrift stores if you know what you’re looking for. Pay attention to fabrics, fit, comfort, and weight. Check the activewear section, which is often full of synthetic t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, shorts, and fleece jackets. We’ve found some absolute steals this way.

Learn the Basics

If you’re a visual learner, you might also enjoy our Ultralight Clothing and Rain Gear Video.

Also, feel free to print a copy of our free Ultimate Backpacking Checklist to start assessing what you’ve already got in your closet and what you may need to pick up.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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11 Best Hiking Shirts

By Annierose Donnelly

If you’ve started to think about planning some hikes for 2024 , then your closet will need to be up-to-date and ready to go for whatever adventure you might have planned. Why not add a couple of new hiking shirts to the packing list?

Whether you’re an avid hiker, or just love being outside in nature, finding the best hiking shirts can be a challenge with so many options to choose from. With our selection of the best hiking shirts, including garments made from merino wool, synthetic materials, and options for hot weather hiking.

Our top pick for women’s hiking shirts was the KÜHL Konstance Short Sleeve , which stood out for its adaptability and flattering fit. For men, the Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Shirt is a great investment piece that can take you from day to night with ease. 

Other great closet additions include the Patagonia Caplene Graphic Shirt and the Ice Breaker Merino Tech Lite, both available for men and women.

This post contains affiliate links.  Outdoors.com  may earn a commission when you make a purchase through these links. Thank you for your support.

The Best Hiking Shirts at a Glance 

• Best Overall Women’s Hiking Shirt – KÜHL Konstance Short Sleeve
• Best Women’s Hiking Sun Shirt – Outdoor Research Women’s Astroman Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  
• Best Women’s Long Sleeve – BALEAF Women’s UPF 50+ Sun Shirt Long Sleeve  
• Best Women’s Long Sleeve Button Shirt – Eddie Bauer Women’s Departure 2.0 Long Sleeve Shirt
• Best Men’s Overall Hiking Shirt –  Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Shirt
• Best Men’s All Purpose Long Sleeve – REI Co-Op Sahara Long-Sleeve T-Shirt  
• Best Men’s Best Hiking Sun Shirt – Outdoor Research Way Station Long-Sleeve Shirt  
• Best Men’s Short Sleeve T-Shirt – Under Armour Men’s Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve T-Shirt 
• Best Men’s Long Sleeve T-Shirt – Columbia Mens Tech Trail Long Sleeve Crew 

Best All Merino: Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve – Women and Men

• Best Quick Drying Tee – Patagonia Caplene Cool Daily Graphic T-Shirt – Women and Men 

Best Overall Women’s Hiking Shirt – KÜHL Konstance

There are so many good hiking shirts out there to choose from, but the KÜHL Konstance was a standout among them. The comfort and roomy fit of this one makes it a great option for hiking days, with the curved split bottom hem allowing for enhanced mobility. 

The combination of polyester and Tencel fabric makes it an easy piece of clothing to take care of, and lasts well through many washes. It is wrinkle-free and quick-drying which makes a great choice for hiking.

The fabric also features maximum UV sun protection (UPF 50+) so it’s great for hot-weather hiking. 

The silhouette of the t-shirt is very flattering compared to some basic tee shirts, it drapes perfectly and it fits true to size. The black tee is more like a soft charcoal gray, which will go with every outfit on your next hiking trip. 

Best Women’s Sun Shirt – Outdoor Research Women’s Astroman Long Sleeve Sun Shirt  

A button-down shirt for hot weather hiking can be an incredibly useful addition to your closet. Wearing a shirt will protect your arms and shoulders from the sun on long days in direct sunlight. It will also help protect you from bug bites

This shirt by Outdoor Research is super lightweight, feels cool on the skin, and is made from a durable combination of 85% Nylon and 15% Spandex.

The nylon material makes this hiking shirt stretchy and moisture-wicking, which allows for a wide range of movement. It features an attractive crossover back detail which adds to its feminine look.

With UPF 50+ protection and several color options, it’s a staple for your hiking wardrobe. Choose one of the lighter colors for sunny days. This shirt is a useful layering option and can be worn over a tee or tank top.

It fits true to size but offers a loose fit for wider coverage. If you prefer a more fitted shirt then you might want to try sizing down or choosing a more form-fitting option. 

Best Women’s Long Sleeve Shirt – BALEAF Women’s UPF 50+ Sun Shirt Long Sleeve  

This shirt makes the list because of its great value for money, the variety of colors and sizes available, and its reliable sun protection.

It’s one of the best hiking shirts out there and makes for a versatile addition to your closet. It can be worn for lots of outdoor activities, including running, swimming, hiking, cycling, and watersports. 

The basic crew neck style suits all body types and comes in sizes XS to 3XL. The material is 100% polyester and provides UPF 50 + sun protection.

The top is a breathable, moisture-wicking, and skin-friendly layer to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Although it doesn’t add much warmth, it can also be worn as a base layer for hiking in cooler conditions, too. 

These long-sleeved shirts are great for packing into backpacks and suitcases, and they dry very quickly. 

Best Women’s Long Sleeve Button Shirt – Eddie Bauer Women’s Departure 2.0 Long Sleeve Shirt

If you are looking for a more fitted option than the Outdoor Research Astroman Women’s Sun Shirt, consider the Eddie Bauer Women’s Departure 2.0 Shirt. It comes in several beautiful colors and offers superior stretch comfort in a flattering style. 

It has convertible roll-up sleeves and is made from a long-lasting material combo of spandex and polyester which washes well. Wear it open with a white tee or on its own. It has a rounded hem at the back and double pockets on the front with buttons.

While this shirt is not a slim fit, it still offers a flattering shape with plenty of space for movement. Sometimes it can be a tough balance between style and practicality, but you don’t want to purchase a super tight shirt for hiking as it’s important to be comfortable. 

Best Overall Men’s Hiking Shirt –  Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Shirt

Perfect for hot weather hiking, this short-sleeved option from Swedish brand Fjällräven is made from 100% polyamide and is a great shirt for all-day hiking. 

The zip pocket on the front of the shirt is large enough to fit a passport or wallet, so it’s perfect to pack for hiking trips or wear while traveling.

With a retail price of $84.95, it’s an investment shirt but its versatility means it can be worn for many activities. A vented back panel provides airflow and is quick-drying. The light but durable fabric feels cool on the skin, making it a great shirt for hot-weather hiking.

After a day in the outdoors, it’s smart enough that you won’t even have to change to go to dinner. 

Best Men’s All Purpose Long Sleeve Shirt – REI Co-Op Sahara Long-Sleeve T-Shirt  

The Sahara shirt is an all-purpose long-sleeve shirt. It makes for a useful base layer in winter and offers solid protection from UV rays in the summer. 

Incredibly soft to the touch, these crewneck tees are made from a mix of poly and spandex, so they do a great job of wicking sweat. The built-in UPF 30 protection is a key feature. 

The shirt comes in tall sizes and the fit is comfortable. It comes in a range of subtle, muted colors for everyday wear. 

At a full price of $34.95, this shirt is good value for money and will be a go-to choice in your closet.

Best Men’s Hiking Sun Shirt – Outdoor Research Way Station Long Sleeve Shirt  

This performance shirt is made from a technical fabric blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex. The material has built-in UPF 50 protection and it’s light and cool to wear in hot temperatures or muggy conditions.

The design is carefully constructed with two chest pockets and a subtle zip, a useful feature in a hiking shirt. There are roll-up tabs for the sleeves. The Movement-mirroring stretch and back pleat allow for great mobility. 

The shirt also comes in a short-sleeved style and there is a version of it for women , as well. 

Best Men’s Short Sleeve T-Shirt – Under Armour Men’s Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve T-Shirt 

Our pick for a short-sleeved shirt is Under Armour’s Tech 2.0. With its ultra-soft fabric, it’s a polyester shirt that works well in many scenarios, whether you are training in the gym or heading outdoors.

The shirt dries so quickly, you could skip the dryer step and leave it to hang overnight. 

Under Armour has updated the style to feature a more streamlined fit and a shaped hem. The fit is loose enough to stay cool and comfortable while you are on the go, and there is a great selection of colors available at reasonable prices.

The small logo in the corner is subtle and there is a long-sleeved option , too.  

Bear in mind that this tee has no official UPF rating, so you’ll want to make sure you bring extra sunscreen with you. That being said, we still think it’s still a great addition to any workout closet.   

Best Men’s Long Sleeve T-Shirt – Columbia Men’s Tech Trail Long Sleeve Crew II  

You can always count on Columbia for some good quality hiking clothes, and the Men’s Tech Trail Long Sleeve Crew is another great example of their long-lasting quality. 

The fabric is polyester and elastane, and the fit is classic with a soft and lightweight feel. Made with Omni-Wick technology, it quickly removes moisture from the skin into the fabric, where it quickly evaporates.

Another feature to note is the shirt’s Omni Shade UPF 50 protection. The tightly wound fabric construction and modified fibers provide maximum protection from the sun. The shirt has thumb holes to keep sleeves in place and to keep hands warmer in cooler temperatures. 

For anyone who enjoys hiking, a few merino wool t-shirts are super handy to have in the closet. This Icebreaker tee is made from 150g Merino wool jersey fabric, which is lightweight, odor-resistant, and wicks moisture. 

The sustainable fabric is incredible at adapting to different conditions, keeping you cool in warmer weather and warm in cold weather. It works perfectly as a base layer, but you’ll find it to be a very versatile addition to your hiking clothing collection.   

Made for men and women, the wool is not itchy to wear and it washes well, so it could also work well as a go-to everyday tee. 

The shoulder seams are offset, so you will not feel any discomfort when wearing a backpack.   

Buy Women’s

Buy men’s, best quick drying tee – patagonia caplene cool daily graphic t-shirt – women and men.

Patagonia is a safe bet for anyone looking for sturdy and durable outdoor clothing. Their Caplene t-shirt is a lightweight, active shirt that is ideal for hiking. 

The designs are eye-catching and fun, and the material is soft and made from recycled polyester jersey. It has odor-resistant technology which makes it a great option for long multi-day hikes.

The quality of the fabric is long-lasting and is substantial enough to support all types of adventurous hiking and rock climbing. A looser fit, these tees are excellent hot weather shirts and comfortable for long days out in the wild.

What to Look For in a Hiking Shirt

You’ll find there are endless options available when it comes to most hiking shirts. For any clothing purchase, it’s important to consider your specific needs first and think about what gaps you might have in your closet. 

You can start with basics and layering pieces, such as polyester shirts with long sleeves, before moving on to button-up hiking shirts.

Consider adding a few pieces that are specifically for sun protection if you spend a lot of time exposed to the sun. Always shop for lightweight and breathable materials that are easy to wash and take care of.

It’s easy to be tempted by cheaper brands, but in most cases, reputable outdoor retailers are a safe bet for long-lasting outdoor clothing. Look out for these features when you are browsing for your new hiking shirt.

UPF protection 

You will notice several hiking shirts feature a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. This gauges how effective the fabric is at protecting your skin from the sun.

One of the contributing factors is the construction of the garment, if it is made with tightly woven fibers, this will avoid the sun hitting your skin. Sometimes, chemicals and dyes are used to absorb UV light and enhance protection. 

Don’t forget to always apply sunscreen to exposed areas of skin, particularly the face and neck. 

Materials and Fabrics 

For hiking, look out for shirts made from fabrics such as polyester, nylon, spandex, and merino wool. These fabric combinations are moisture-wicking, designed to keep you dry by moving sweat away from your skin.

These fabrics also wash and dry quickly, making them very useful additions to your everyday life. A quick-drying shirt is so useful if you encounter rain or perspire heavily on your hike. They will pack easily into a backpack because they are so lightweight.

Some clothing brands will add antimicrobial treatments to help reduce odors. This is a useful feature for multi-day hot weather hikes, though it is not necessary.

It’s always worth considering the durability of the fabric, especially if you’ll be navigating rough terrain. Look for abrasion-resistant materials that will not damage easily. If environmental impact is important to you, consider shirts from brands with a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly fabrics.

Sizing and Fit  

For hiking, it’s best to opt for a shirt that won’t restrict your movement. It’s wise to check size guides before you order one and compare the measurements with your own. Size up if you feel you are between sizes. 

Colors 

Your personal preference will guide you best when it comes to choosing colors for your new shirts, but it’s worth keeping a couple of things in mind.

As a basic rule, choose shirt colors that suit your skin and hair color combination. Or, you can’t go wrong with basic shades like black, white, or gray. You might also consider a couple of bolder colors for more remote hikes, so you can be seen from afar.    

Useful Features 

Keep an eye out for useful features like roll-up sleeves, thumb holes, and zip pockets. Pockets can be handy for storing small items such as a map or trail snacks. Shirts with mesh panels and vents will enhance airflow, preventing overheating in hot weather.

Budget 

You will find that there are good hiking shirts available at all price points. The shirts we looked at in this guide were in a price range of $20 – $95. 

Wrapping Up

A good collection of shirts is essential in any closet, but there are some specifics to consider if you will be primarily wearing it for hiking and exercise. When you’re shopping for a new hiking shirt, it is always a good idea to read the customer reviews for information about wearability, sizing, and fit.

Yes, there is a lot of choice out there. If you find yourself in doubt, stick to reputable outdoor brands that specialize in hiking gear. 

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Best Women's Hiking Shirts of 2024

From simple short-sleeve tops to button-ups and sun hoodies, we survey the best women’s hiking shirts of the year.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Shopping for a hiking shirt isn’t as research-intensive as looking for the best hiking boot or backpack, but the next-to-skin layer is nevertheless a very important part of a trail kit. First to consider is the shirt’s fabric—polyester offers the best in durability and moisture-wicking, although some might prefer the softer feel of natural fibers like merino (we recommend against cotton). Next up, you’ll want to consider what style best suits your needs: a tank or t-shirt, a button-up short- or long-sleeve, or a sun hoody. We’ve surveyed the field and tested extensively to provide our breakdown of the best women’s hiking shirts of 2023. To learn more, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Women's Hiking Shirt Picks

• Best Overall Women's Hiking Shirt: Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily
• Best Merino Wool Hiking Shirt: Smartwool Active Ultralite Short Sleeve
• Best Button-up Hiking Shirt: Rabbit High Country SS
• Best Sun Hoody for Hiking: Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Active Hoody
• Best Hiking Tank Top: Outdoor Research Essential Tank
• Best Traditional Long-Sleeve Button-up: REI Co-op Sahara Solid LS Shirt

Best Overall Women’s Hiking Shirt

1. patagonia capilene cool daily ($39).

Choosing a hiking shirt isn’t rocket science: Most trail-goers will want a short-sleeve design that looks good and is lightweight and airy, breathable and moisture-wicking, and comfortable under a backpack. The Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily delivers in all these categories. We’ve worn the classic summer-weight shirt for everything from week-long backpacking trips to 100-mile running races, and have been impressed with its soft, flowy feel and quick-drying nature (significantly better than merino tops in our testing). And for just $39, it’s notably durable and long-lasting—our shirt has yet to show wear despite a lot of hard use. There aren’t a ton of features to mention (a good thing, in our opinion), but we do appreciate the Daily’s thin cord loop at the nape for drying, in addition to its sleek seams that minimize chafing underneath a backpack. 

Polyester’s primary downside is its tendency to retain odor, but modern odor control technologies are very effective. Patagonia’s HeiQ Pure doesn’t fully eliminate stink (a sniff test on our recently laundered Capilene Cool Daily reveals this), but it's a big improvement from untreated polyester. It’s also worth noting that the shirt has a fairly techy look and feel and is not particularly form-fitting; you can go a lot softer or classier with some of the merino or button-up designs below (or check out the Capilene Cool Lightweight , which features thinner fabric and a trimmer fit). But for function above all else, the Daily is still our top choice for everything from sweaty summer hiking to mild-weather running, biking, spring ski touring, and more. For a softer, cotton-like alternative, check out the Capilene Cool Trail Shirt (featuring 30% natural fibers), but be prepared for a less durable and more water-absorbent fabric, along with a slightly different fit. See the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily

Best Merino Wool Hiking Shirt

2. smartwool active ultralite short sleeve ($50).

Merino wool is far and away our favorite material for cold-weather baselayers and socks, thanks to its warm yet breathable, soft, and odor-resistant nature. But for summer or active use, the added insulation can be too much. Going with a thinner merino can often result in a host of durability issues, so our favorite workaround for mild weather is a blended material. The Smartwool Active Ultralite is our headliner for this category, featuring a mix of 53% merino and 47% lyocell, a fiber made in part from wood pulp. We tested the hybrid shirt side by side with Smartwool’s Merino SS (88% merino), and the differences were palpable: While the thick Merino caused us to overheat on a number of occasions, the Active Ultralite felt light and smooth, kept air flowing, and was overall a great match for summer backpacking in the Cascades.

Pilling and other durability issues (such as little holes) can be one of the biggest downsides of lightweight merino shirts—we’ve experienced this with the Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino (65%) and Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II (100%)—but the Active Ultralite has yet to show signs of wear despite a lot of hard use. It’s certainly not our first choice for particularly sweaty days or use around water, as lyocell and merino both have more absorbent qualities than polyester. And the fit of the Smartwool is slightly more boxy and relaxed than we hope for in a hiking shirt, although we’ll take it over the skin-tight look of many merino designs. All told, we love the look and feel (and smell) of merino for everything from multi-day treks to casual day hikes, and the Active Ultralite pulls it off better than most. See the Smartwool Active Ultralite Short Sleeve

Best Button-up Hiking Shirt 

3. rabbit high country ss ($75).

Button-up hiking shirts offer a boost in style compared to standard t-shirt designs, and are just as at home on the trail as they are during après at the local brewery. They’re also noticeably ventilated, which has its benefits in hot weather or if you’re building heat while hiking fast. Among the options, the Rabbit High Country SS is our team’s runaway favorite. Don’t be fooled by the plaid: The High Country is fully a performance piece. The stretchy polyester/spandex fabric feels noticeably premium and is highly mobile, lightweight (on our scale, it checks in just 0.3 oz. heavier than the Capilene Cool Daily), and a joy to wear, and Rabbit even included a subtly perforated back for increased venting.

Rabbit’s apparel is geared toward runners, but the High Country is durable enough to hold up to all manner of trail abuse. And while the ventilated backpanel was initially eyebrow-raising, it didn’t pose any issues under a full backpacking pack. What’s more, the metal snaps are well-executed, hard wearing, and much quicker to operate than buttons, and they’re spaced enough for air to flow through the gaps, which creates a really nice cooling effect. Do keep in mind that the button-up design isn't very versatile for activities like layering and sleeping, and is thus not our first choice for extended backcountry trips. But if you like the style or are intrigued by the added ventilation, the High Country’s lightweight, stretchy, and airy personality makes it our favorite button-up hiking shirt of the year. See the Rabbit High Country SS

Best Sun Hoody for Hiking

4. mountain hardwear crater lake active hoody ($72).

Ah, the sun hoody. We love this small but mighty piece of gear, which provides nearly complete protection from the sun without adding too much in the way of warmth. Among the options, we keep coming back to the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake for its buttery soft and stretchy fabric, nicely fitting scuba hood, and trim yet airy fit. Although the fabric rides fairly close to the skin (particularly around our arms), the polyester and elastane blend has a just-right amount of stretch and offers a cooling effect that we just can’t get enough of. We’ve worn this hoody everywhere from Washington’s Glacier Peak Wilderness to the Teton Range in Wyoming, and have yet to find fault with the design.

We found the Crater Lake Active to be perfectly serviceable for hot-weather hiking, but those prone to overheating might want a thinner, looser-fitting, or better-ventilated alternative like the Outdoor Research Echo Hoody or Rabbit UPF Deflector below. However, the Mountain Hardwear is the most durable and comfortable of the bunch, and its 50+ UPF rating beats out the Echo’s 15-20 by a large margin. It’s worth noting that the standard Crater Lake Hoody features a hem drawcord and zippered hip pocket, both of which pair poorly with a backpack hipbelt (the “Active” version here has a simple hem design). All told, for hikers trying to avoid sun exposure, a sun hoody like the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Active is strongly worth considering. See the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Active Hoody

Best Hiking Tank Top

5. outdoor research essential tank ($44).

We don’t always recommend tank tops for hiking, especially when you’re schlepping a heavy backpack. Most don’t offer the coverage you need across the back and shoulders, which can lead to chafing, pressure points, fabric bunching, and more. But if you’re dead set on freeing your arms, the Outdoor Research Essential is a great option. Built with a buttery soft fabric not dissimilar to the Crater Lake above, the Essential Tank offers generous shoulder, back, and hem coverage. And it looks good doing it—we’ve received a lot of compliments when wearing the OR, namely by women on a similar hunt for an under-the-backpack tank.

All that said, we still don’t recommend pairing the Essential Tank with too large of an overnight load. While decently wide, the fabric doesn’t extend all the way across the shoulders, which isn’t great news for hefty backpacking packs with beefy shoulder straps ( Arc’teryx's Lana Merino Wool Tank offers a bit more coverage). A tank top can also be a risky choice for sunny days, as shoulders are a UV magnet, particularly at higher elevations. But if you’re not worried about sun exposure and are carrying a lighter and more minimalist day-hiking pack, the Essential Tank is a really fun and flattering option, and we especially love the drop-tail hem for added coverage at the back. Within this category, it’s also worth checking out Oiselle’s Flyout Trail Tank , which was made specifically for pairing with a running hydration pack. See the Outdoor Research Essential Tank

Best Traditional Long-Sleeve Button-up

6. rei co-op sahara solid ls shirt ($65).

If you’re in the market for a traditional long-sleeved hiking shirt, the REI Co-op Sahara Solid is a classic go-to. With a design that’s equally at home for travel, going on safari, or hiking, the Sahara Solid features a full button-up closure at the front, collared neck, and a host of useful features. Storage is great for both on- and off-trail commutes, including two chest pockets with hook and loop closure, a secure zip pocket at the lower back, and a hang loop for sunglasses at the left chest. And when the mercury rises, a mesh-lined back vent keeps air flowing, and rolled-up sleeves secure with button tabs. Finally, the Sahara Solid touts a 50+ UPF rating, which pairs well with its high-coverage design.

Unlike most of the synthetic shirts here, the Sahara Solid is built with nylon, which offers a boost in durability and water resistance compared to polyester. But while nylon is ideal for items like tents and hardshells, it’s a tougher sell in a shirt—the Sahara Solid has a sturdier feel than we’re used to and might cause overheating on particularly hot days. It also has a tendency to wrinkle, which we’d rather not deal with in a hiking shirt. Finally, we wish that REI had chosen a different placement for the zippered pocket—it lies right underneath a backpack’s hipbelt, and also makes the shirt difficult to tuck in (if that’s your style). But for day hikers and cool summer conditions, the Sahara Solid still has a lot going for it, and availability in seven sizes and four colorways will boost its appeal for many. See the REI Co-op Sahara Solid LS Shirt

Best of the Rest

7. outdoor research echo t-shirt ($46).

Outdoor Research’s Echo collection has been around for long enough to gain a loyal following, and is home to an array of offerings, including a tank top, sun hoody, and the short-sleeve shirt here. The 100% recycled polyester fabric is remarkably lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, which makes the T-Shirt a great match for hot days or when sweat or water (trail-side dip, anyone?) are part of the equation. And with a trim fit and flat-seam construction, it rides well under a backpack and is a fantastic layering piece in cooler conditions. Finally, OR uses ActiveFresh technology to manage odors, which we’ve found to perform on par with Patagonia’s comparable treatment. 

So how does the Echo differ from the Capilene Cool Daily above? The “trim fit” rides closer to the body than the Patagonia’s boxier “regular fit,” and the scoop neck adds a nice feminine flair without exposing too much skin. And with a thinner fabric, it’s noticeably lighter and quicker to dry. However, the Echo’s fabric is prone to snagging and pilling and lacks the smooth, free-flowing feel of the Capilene, and only gets a 15-20 UPF rating (granted, this should get the job done for most). But it’s nevertheless a really nice option for summertime adventures, and we love that it comes in 10 sizes (including four plus sizes) and nine colorways at the time of publishing. Finally, for a comparable shirt from Patagonia, check out the Capilene Cool Lightweight ($49), which also features a slim fit, scoop neck, and thin fabric. See the Outdoor Research Echo T-Shirt

8. Icebreaker Tech Lite II Short Sleeve ($80)

Icebreaker goes old school with their Tech Lite II, which features 100% merino construction. That’s right: no polyester, no lyocell, no cotton—this one’s all wool. That said, the fabric is delightfully stretchy, and the 150-gram weight is thin and relatively airy. We grabbed the Tech Lite II for a summer backpacking trip in Washington’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness, and found the merino’s soft touch and odor resistance to be a great match for the multi-day adventure. Since then, we’ve kept reaching for the cozy, high-performance, and never-stinky shirt for everything from daily runs, gym workouts, and even casual use. In essence, it offers most of the performance of polyester, but without the techy look and feel—a combination we love.

It wouldn’t be merino without some insulative properties; despite its thin build, the Tech Lite II does provide a little extra warmth. It was perfectly serviceable up to the mid-70s Fahrenheit throughout our testing, but we wouldn't want to push it in warmer weather. And while the shirt will do a great job absorbing your sweat (merino excels at moisture-wicking), it will also hang onto it—if you’re looking for a quick-drying shirt, this isn’t it. Finally, 150-gram merino will always have durability issues, and our shirt has grown fairly fuzzy across the back after about six months of use. But for the right applications (we love the odor-resistance of merino for multi-day adventures), the Tech Lite II is a great looking and feeling merino shirt. Icebreaker also offers their Sphere II , which features a more lightweight and flowy 60% lyocell, 40% merino build. See the Icebreaker Tech Lite II Short Sleeve

9. REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie ($50)

REI’s Sahara collection goes in a different direction from the Sahara Solid above, with a buttery soft and stretchy polyester/spandex blend and simple t-shirt design (available in short sleeve, long sleeve, and hoody styles). All three variations are worth trying, but the hoody has quickly become one of our favorite hiking tops. The bluesign-approved fabric feels super high quality, holds its shape between washings, and even offers a nice cooling effect in the hot sun. And unlike many performance-driven pieces, the Sahara Shade has a decently roomy fit, and the flowy drape is complemented by a scoop hem and subdued, Easter-egg-like colorways. Some hikers might want a more technical vibe (the sleek Crater Lake above offers a trimmer fit and straight hem), but we think the Sahara Shade hits a nice balance for use both on and off the trail.

Compared to other sun hoodies, the Sahara Shade’s hood design is one of the best we’ve seen, with a hidden cinch that stays out of the way but still allows you to batten down the hatches in windy conditions. You also get well-designed low-profile thumbholes, along with an effective antimicrobial treatment and a UPF 50+ rating. Finally, reflecting REI’s push toward more inclusive sizing, the hoody is available in a great range of sizes, including women’s plus options. All told, for a calm, cool, and relaxed sun hoody, the Sahara Shade is a very well-rounded and affordable pick. See the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie

10. Arc’teryx Taema Crew Neck ($70)

This wouldn’t be a hiking gear list without at least one Arc’teryx offering. Based in the lush Coast Range of British Columbia, Arc’teryx knows a thing or two about proper layering for changing mountain weather. The Taema is a 100% polyester shirt that features the brand’s Phasic LT fabric, a relatively thin material with a good bit of mechanical stretch. In many ways it feels like a softer and better-made Echo (above), with a corresponding price bump to boot. All told, the Taema is a great match for high-output use and true summer-time temperatures, and one of the most premium hiking shirts here.

Arc’teryx recently revised the fit of the Taema, and reviews have been mixed. We love the long cut (nothing’s worse than a too-short hiking shirt poking out over your backpack’s hipbelt) and roominess of the regular fit, but some women will want a trimmer, more shapely design. If that’s you, the OR Echo T-Shirt or Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight might be better hot-weather options. But as with everything Arc’teryx, the Taema is extremely well executed from the construction to the material—we’ve used various blends of their Phasic fabric over the years, and have always been impressed with how it holds up over time. If the $70 price tag doesn’t put you off, the Taema is a solid choice for everything from hiking to running, climbing, biking, and more. See the Arc’teryx Taema Crew Neck

11. Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Short Sleeve ($55)

After trying the Rabbit High Country above, we truly have no need for any other button-up hiking shirt—it’s just that good. That said, we respect that the trendy plaid vibe, perforated backpanel, and $75 price tag aren’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a more subdued button-up, check out the Columbia Silver Ridge Utility, which starts with the similar foundation of a stretchy polyester fabric. Columbia thought through the details of this one, placing two easy-to-operate snaps near the neck (the rest of the front panel uses buttons) and employing large shoulder vents to keep air flowing. The venting doesn’t work perfectly while wearing a backpacking pack, but the Silver Ridge is nevertheless a very breezy shirt and good for hot-weather hiking.

The Silver Ridge Utility also comes in a long-sleeve version , which offers a great alternative to the Sahara Solid above. The Columbia’s polyester fabric is noticeably thinner and more pliable than the REI’s nylon, but you still get UPF 50 sun protection. Overall, we think it’s a better match for warm temperatures, while the Sahara Solid gets the edge for cooler and wetter weather. It’s worth noting that both versions of the Silver Ridge Utility are short and boxy and run a bit large, which won’t work for everyone. For Columbia’s take on a simple tee, check out the polyester/cotton Sun Trek T-Shirt ($35).  See the Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Short Sleeve

12. Fjallraven Abisko Cool T ($60)

If techy hiking clothing isn’t your thing, Fjallraven is a brand to have on your radar. The Swedish company is known for mixing high-end performance with classy colorways and styles, and has a distinct look that’s earned some trail cachet over the years. We’re big fans of their Abisko Cool T, which features a flattering neckline and trim fit, and comes in a variety of fun, striped colorways. This shirt would look right at home around town—from the coffee shop to the brewery and everything in between—but it’s also a great performer on the trail.

The Abisko Cool has a really interesting fabric list, including a mix of lyocell and viscose (both derived from tree pulp), cotton, and polyester all woven together with a good bit of mechanical stretch. The result is a shirt that’s very soft, lightweight, and effective at wicking moisture, which makes it a great match for warm conditions (if you don’t mind the snug fit). However, with more absorbent materials under the hood than your standard polyester shirt, all that wicked moisture sticks around—the Cool T is notably not quick to dry, and thus not our first choice for inclement weather or time spent around water. Fjallraven does make the 100% polyester Day Hike, but the fabric has a super techy feel that’s rougher against the skin and prone to snagging and pilling. See the Fjallraven Abisko Cool T

13. Ridge Merino Wander Crew Neck ($60)

At this point, you know our gripes about merino hiking shirts: they can run warm, aren’t as durable as synthetics, and hold onto moisture, which isn’t great news for drenching conditions and sweaty hikers. But despite the downsides, we still love this miracle fabric for its soft and natural feel and odor-wicking properties, and reach for it often for low-output activities and around-town use. If you too are a fan of merino, it’s worth checking out Ridge Merino, a California-based company with a small lineup of offerings that are priced very competitively.

The Ridge Merino Wander is available in both crew- and v-neck versions, both of which feature a relaxed fit with a bit of shape at the waist. We love the V-Neck for casual wear, but the Crew Neck provides more coverage along the shoulders for use with a backpack. All told, the Wander splits the difference nicely between the Smartwool Active Ultralite and Icebreaker Tech Lite II above: 13% nylon adds some durability without detracting from the merino look and feel, and the price is right at $60 (although still $10 more than the Smartwool). We’ve also found it to be a touch thinner than the Tech Lite II, which is great news for warm conditions. For an even higher nylon content, we love the Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino ($69), but expect thinner fabric and some pilling issues. See the Ridge Merino Wander Crew Neck

14. Outdoor Research Astroman Sun Shirt ($99)

If you’re searching for that easy, breezy button-up that will keep air flowing and the sun off your shoulders, take a look at the OR Astroman Sun Shirt. With cuffed sleeves, pleating at the front shoulders and center back, and a drop tail hem, the Astroman has a light and playful look that belies its technical prowess. Under the hood it’s ready for action, with OR's Astroman fabric that’s lightweight, stretchy, and durable (picture a very, very lightweight softshell) and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. OR also hid a zippered pocket at the right hip, which is a fun feature that will almost certainly come in handy.

Many women will like the Astroman’s roomy and free-flowing style, but it’s not particularly ideal for use underneath a backpack. OR claims that the shirt was built to pair well with a hipbelt or harness, but we’d love a little more length for some extra assurance. And finally, after experiencing the user friendliness of a snap closure on the Rabbit High Country above, we wish every button up used metal snaps rather than traditional buttons. Gripes aside, the Astroman Sun Shirt is a great mix of form and function and a particularly fun option for adventures that don’t involve a ton of time wearing a backpack, including paddling, biking, and climbing. See the Outdoor Research Astroman Sun Shirt

15. Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down ($95)

If you’ve spent any time on long-distance trails like the PCT, CDT, or AT, chances are high you’ve seen the Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down. Designed and built by a thru-hiker named Jolly who knows firsthand the need for breathable sun protection, the Triple Crown Button Down combines the hood of a standard sun hoody with the button-up ventilation of a hiking shirt. Aside from the brilliant Frankensteined design, our favorite thing about the Triple Crown is the variety of fun patterns, all of which are built with stretchy, antimicrobial (read: odor-resistant) polyester. The shirt is made in both long- and short-sleeved versions, and Jolly Gear also offers sun sleeves (a $35 add-on) for those who choose the latter. 

Standard sun shirts can offer some amount of cooling, but the effect is limited on truly hot days; with no way to ventilate, the long-sleeve design can grow too warm (especially if you’re also generating your own heat). And while button-up hiking shirts are a dime a dozen, they don’t offer the complete protection of a hooded design. For this reason, the Triple Crown Button Down is an outstanding hybrid and truly the best of both worlds for serious hikers who care about sun protection—if you can handle its distinct thru-hiker personality and decidedly flashy looks. See the Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button Down

16. REI Co-op Active Pursuits T-Shirt ($30)

Our top-ranked Capilene Cool Daily is very affordable at $39, but budget shoppers can do even better with the REI Active Pursuits here. For just $30—and we've seen it on sale a number of times during the year—the Active Pursuits has a lot to offer: It’s quite soft and offers the performance characteristics we’ve come to expect from polyester (lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying). And unlike many offerings from REI, the Active Pursuits actually has a really nice shape, which is relaxed without being too boxy (although some might want to size down), and features a curved hem for a nice combination of style and coverage. 

What do you give up with such an affordable hiking shirt? Some women will want a trimmer fit or lighter fabric, like what you might find with the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight or Fjallraven Abisko Cool. And don't expect merino levels of softness and odor resistance (all expected compromises at this price point). In the end, don't let the last-place ranking deceive you: Most casual hikers will love what the Active Pursuits has to offer; and like most REI branded clothing, the t-shirt is available in a large array of sizes (including three plus sizes), which is more than most shirts here can claim. See the REI Co-op Active Pursuits T-Shirt  

Women's Hiking Shirt Comparison Table

Women's hiking shirt buying advice, hiking shirt materials, hiking shirt styles, breathability and ventilation, warmth: materials and weight.

• Odor Resistance

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Hiking shirt durability, hiking shirt features, hiking shirt fit, hiking shirts with stretch, sustainability, layering for cold-weather hiking.

Synthetics (Polyester and Nylon) The vast majority of hiking shirts are made with polyester, which is soft and comfortable, lightweight and breathable, moisture-wicking and quick to dry, and impressively abrasion resistant for the thickness. Polyester is also robust enough to keep most UV radiation at bay. Some shirts, like the traditional button-up REI Co-op Sahara Solid or climbing-ready Outdoor Research Astroman Sun Shirt , use nylon, which is another synthetic that’s generally a bit stiffer and more durable but not as comfortable or moisture-wicking as polyester. The primary downfall of both polyester and nylon is that these materials can really hold a stink, although most shirts now include fairly effective odor-resistant treatments. All told, for the vast majority of use cases, and particularly for warm weather and activities around water, synthetic hiking shirts are our top choice.

Merino Wool Merino is far and away our favorite material for cold-weather baselayers and socks, thanks to its warm yet breathable, soft, and antimicrobial nature. We also love it as the key material in our hiking shirts, with a few caveats.

First off, merino's insulating properties can be a bit too much for warm temperatures, and you'll want to take care in selecting a thin enough variety. This can be difficult to discern online; in general, a lower fabric weight (often measured in grams per square meter) will be lighter, in addition to a blend (with polyester, nylon, or a fiber like lyocell). The second caveat is that merino absorbs moisture far more than synthetic materials, which means it can grow heavy and be slow to dry—not great for drenching or sweaty conditions (although if you need it, merino continues to insulate when wet). And finally, it's not particularly durable, although blended fabrics can fare better than pure merino. Caveats aside, we find ourselves reaching for our merino hiking shirts at least half the time, and especially for multi-day trips or crossover use. They have a nice casual vibe compared to techy synthetics, are delightfully soft, and their odor resistance is unmatched.

Cotton We don't often see cotton used in outdoor clothing, and hiking shirts are no exception. In fact, there's even an old adage that reads, "cotton kills." The reason is this: Cotton absorbs moisture and doesn't dry quickly, and—unlike merino—does not continue to insulate when wet. This can be a dangerous combination for backpacking, especially in alpine zones or during shoulder seasons when things can cool down quickly. However, you can get away with cotton for day trips in dry and sunny areas like the Utah desert—in fact, some actually prefer it for its cooling abilities (just get it wet and you'll have natural AC all day). And as we all know, cotton is soft and comfortable, and is decently breathable too (especially thinner varieties). We don't have any dedicated cotton shirts on our list above (the Fjallraven Abisko Cool T has 15% cotton), but they're a dime a dozen and even available from brands like Patagonia, REI Co-op, and more.

Other Natural Fibers A few hiking shirts above use viscose and lyocell, which are two very similar fibers derived from wood pulp. Both materials are incredibly soft, offer a cooling effect, and are highly breathable. They're also very water absorbent—lyocell is said to be 50% more absorbent than cotton—which means they're great for wicking moisture away from the skin (but like merino, they can grow heavy with water and don't dry out particularly quickly). These fibers are often blended with merino (as seen in the Smartwool Active Ultralite and Fjallraven Abisko Cool T) to add durability and softness and relax the fabric for a nicer drape. It's worth noting that lyocell, viscose, and merino require extra care when it comes to laundering, and won’t hold up to heavy use as well as comparable synthetics (those that are blended with polyester generally fare best). Regardless of their downsides, fibers like lyocell and viscose are well worth checking out, particularly for the comfort they offer.

Many of the shirts above come in multiple styles, including tank top, short-sleeve (SS), long-sleeve (LS), and hoody variations. In most cases, a short-sleeve t-shirt is the most versatile form of hiking shirt—it’s airy enough to keep you cool on warm days, yet with enough coverage to avoid sunburned shoulders or chafing from pack-on-skin contact. However, there are some merits to the other varieties. Tank tops can be a great choice for those who need a lot of ventilation (and don’t mind the sun exposure), and many varieties, like the Outdoor Research Essential Tank , are designed to offer coverage underneath a backpack. On the other hand, long sleeves and hoodies boost sun protection, and many feature roomy designs that keep air flowing. 

Some hikers will opt for a button-up shirt, which come in both short- and long-sleeve varieties. Aside from style, one of the clear benefits of a button-up is its built-in ventilation. To pair with the front venting (the gaps between the buttons/snaps), many shirts incorporate venting at the rear: The Rabbit High Country has a perforated back, while the Sahara Solid has a horizontal vent across the back with mesh underlay. Button-ups aren’t our top choice for layering (the front panel of snaps is bulky underneath a snug baselayer ) and they’re not super comfortable to sleep in, so they do have their limitations compared to standard t-shirt designs. But for great sun protection (especially in the long-sleeved varieties) alongside natural cooling, they’re a really nice option.

No matter what time of year you’re hitting the trail, you’ll want a hiking shirt that can wick moisture, keep air flowing, and move with you. Thin polyester designs like the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily are the best for venturing out in real-deal heat: They’re breathable, lightweight and free-flowing, and their hydrophobic nature means they’re much quicker to dry than merino wool, lyocell, or thicker nylon. Natural fibers are very skilled at wicking moisture, but they absorb moisture and take some time to dry out (and merino actually has insulative properties, which are unwelcome on hot days). Nylon sits at the bottom of the list in terms of both breathability and ventilation, making it best suited for mild conditions and when durability matters most.

It's also worth thinking about how a shirt's fit and features can help with ventilation. Free-flowing shirts can feel a lot better in warm temperatures than snug-fitting designs; it's for this reason that most of the shirts on our list are fairly loose fitting (even the trim fitting designs are not skin-tight). Button-up shirts also boost air flow with built-in ventilation at the front (in between the buttons/snaps) and a neckline that can be lowered to allow more air in. And as mentioned above, most also feature venting at the back.

Most of us aren't buying hiking shirts for their warmth—in this category, it's generally about coverage and breathability. That said, all fabric insulates at least a little, which should be an important consideration in the purchasing process. In general, synthetics and natural fibers like lyocall add as little warmth as possible, and might even have some inherent cooling properties (we've experienced this in many a sun hoody). On the other hand, merino is naturally insulative and provides a noticeable amount of warmth even in the thinner varieties—especially if you're generating some of your own heat (we've experienced this first hand with a shirt like the Icebreaker Tech Lite II ). As a result, we recommend against merino for warm and sunny conditions; but in mild weather, it can provide a nice first barrier against the chill while also promoting breathability.

A fabric's weight can also be an important spec to consider, especially when discerning between similar designs. This is often given in grams per square meter (g/m2, or gsm) or ounces per square yard. For example, the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily uses 3.7-ounce polyester, while the Capilene Cool Lightweight uses 2.3-ounce polyester. In terms of merino, Icebreaker gives their Tech Lite II a 150-gram designation, while the Sphere II uses 125-gram merino. In looking at these apples-to-apples comparisons, it's clear which shirt is heavier (and thus, warmer) than the other. Unfortunately, this isn't a foolproof strategy: Not every shirt specifies a fabric weight, nor does it perfectly align with warmth due to variations in fit and material (especially when it comes to blended materials).

O dor Resistance

Synthetic fabrics are known to build stink, which isn’t a great characteristic when sweat is practically a given. To help keep B.O. at bay, most modern synthetic sun shirts incorporate some sort of anti-odor treatment—Patagonia uses a technology called HeiQ Pure on their Capilene Cool Daily , for example, while Outdoor Research’s Echo features their ActiveFresh tech. Surprisingly, these technologies generally work quite well, which is good news for everyone. And if you prefer to keep your clothing natural and chemical-free, the good news is that natural fibers like wool are impressively odor resistant.

Most hiking shirts have a UPF rating, which gives an estimate of how much UV radiation the fabric allows to pass through. A UPF rating of 50 means that just 1/50th (or 2%) of the available UV rays are able to make their way to the other side of the fabric, while a UPF rating of 30 denotes that 1/30th of rays will pass through. For reference, a UPF of 15 is the lowest possible rating, and 50+ is the highest (of note: UPF 30 is the minimum rating that qualifies for the Skin Cancer Foundation’s official recommendation ). And of course, if you’re wearing more than one layer, you get more sun protection. We have yet to meet anyone who’s been burned through a hiking shirt, but if your priority is maximizing sun protection, it’s worth aiming for the higher numbers.

Several factors contribute to a hiking shirt’s UPF rating, including the fabric thickness and color, fiber type (polyester and nylon are more effective than wool and cotton), and whether or not the material has been treated with a UV-resistant chemical or dye. In general, darker fabrics offer better sun protection than lighter-colored fabrics (Outdoor Research’s white-toned Echo Hoodie gets a 15 UPF rating, while all other colorways are 20). And to boost protection, one technique (used by Patagonia) is to apply a titanium dioxide additive to the yarn, similar to the active ingredient in many reef-safe sunscreen products. This allows manufacturers to use lightweight (read: breathable) fabrics while still maximizing UV resistance.

Hiking shirts can vary a great deal in terms of durability: Some are built to handle the rigors of bushwacking and hard use, while others are so thin they’re prone to ripping and snagging. Nylon is particularly hardwearing—seen in designs like the REI Co-op Sahara Solid LS and Outdoor Research Astroman—and polyester is next in line; merino wool, on the other hand, will not hold up well to sustained wear and tear. Natural fibers like lyocell, bamboo, and modal are somewhere in the middle, and when blended with a bit of polyester or spandex, we've found them to be fully sufficient for activities like hiking and backpacking. Finally, thicker fabrics generally offer better tear resistance than thinner designs, although fabrics of any weight can be prone to pilling and snagging.

Hiking shirts are incredibly simple pieces of gear, many of which have very few features to speak of. Take the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily, for example: it’s just a t-shirt, nothing less and nothing more. Under the hood, these simple shirts will have a few features we love to see, including streamlined stitching or offset seams, both of which help to reduce chafing when worn underneath a pack. On the other hand, a shirt like the Rabbit High Country has a more feature-rich design, including a front metal snap closure and perforated vents at the back. Some shirts will also add a small chest pocket or zippered pocket at the hip, and long-sleeve shirts can often tack on thumb loops (helpful for maintaining coverage down the arm) and hoods.

There are a few factors worth considering when looking at hoods. Size is the first: You’ll want to think about whether or not you want to wear the hood over your bare head, a ball cap, or a climbing helmet . Further, some hoods incorporate a drawcord, which can be a nice feature in the wind, although we rarely find ourselves using it. If you opt for this style, we’d recommend a sleek system like that on the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie or Jolly Gear Triple Crown over a design with a long drawcord (like we’ve seen on the Ridge Merino Solstice Hoody). These can get in the way and are largely impractical. A hat can be an excellent way to tame an unruly hood—not only does it keep it off your face, but it also provides friction to secure it in place in the wind or while hiking briskly.

The two most common fits we see among hiking shirts are regular (or relaxed) and trim (or slim). Regular shirts might feature a bit of shape at the waist, but in general they’re meant to drape in a relaxed manner and not cling tightly to the skin. Trim-fitting shirts, on the other hand, are usually made with decently stretchy material and are built to fit snug. They’re usually not skin tight, but they do follow the contours of the body. This distinction is apparent in Patagonia’s Capilene Cool line—the Daily features a regular fit, while the Lightweight is a slim fit. Button-ups are generally relaxed, but there’s still some variation within the category. For example, the Rabbit High Country is fairly svelte (Rabbit advertises it as semi-relaxed), while the Outdoor Research Astroman Sun Shirt has particularly roomy dimensions.

Shirts with built-in stretch are a popular choice for hiking, and for good reason: They feel great and the extra “give” in the fabric is appreciated both on the trail (for freedom of movement while hiking and scrambling) and at camp (for bending down to cook, setting up a backpacking tent , etc.).

In terms of construction, stretchy shirts fall into two camps: designs with an elastane (spandex) blend and those that are woven with mechanical stretch. The former type gets you the most elasticity, and we particularly love the extra-stretchy feel of a shirt like the Rabbit High Country (12% spandex). But a 100% merino or polyester shirt can still have quite a bit of give and certainly enough for most intended uses (one of our favorites is the all-merino Icebreaker Tech Lite II ). Even if manufacturers don’t advertise it, we’ve found that most hiking shirts have a bit of added stretch. Of course, it’s by no means a gotta-have-it feature—a relaxed-fit, non-stretchy design can offer similar amounts of mobility—but a forgiving and soft shirt is undeniably a nice luxury item in the backcountry.

One of the primary ways we see manufacturers innovating is through the use of more sustainable materials and practices. In terms of hiking shirts, this means recycled and/or natural fabrics (like modal, lyocell, and merino), more responsible production practices (including the elimination of harmful chemicals used in UV-resistant treatments), and an emphasis on the ethical treatment of workers, often denoted by a “Fair Trade” certification. Many companies also utilize the bluesign system for sourcing materials responsibly. Patagonia is a clear leader in the sustainability movement, and brands like Outdoor Research, REI, and Arc'teryx have also made a sizable effort to reduce their footprint. Finally, while we encourage you to shop sustainably, we’re also big advocates of lowering consumption by reusing old gear—hiking shirts are a dime a dozen at our local consignment shop, many of them with a lot of life left to be had.

The vast majority of hikers head out in fair-weather conditions, when a t-shirt, sun hoody, or button-up is the primary layer of choice. But for cooler evenings or shoulder-season conditions, you’ll want more insulation. When layering is in the forecast, we’ll generally leave the button-ups at home and stick with a short- or long-sleeve shirt or sun hoody as our primary layer. 

What kind of jacket you choose to layer on top of your hiking shirt will come down to weather and personal preference. For windy conditions or when you just need to cut a little chill, we love a windbreaker jacket , especially those with stretchy and breathable designs like the Patagonia Houdini Air or Black Diamond Alpine Start. If you need to add more warmth, a performance fleece or breathable synthetic jacket is an ideal outer layer. For technical fleeces, we particularly love the Arc’teryx Kyanite Jacket and Black Diamond Coefficient LT Hybrid Hoody; our go-to synthetic jackets are the Patagonia Nano-Air and Arc’teryx Proton Lightweight. And if precipitation is in the forecast, a rain jacket or hardshell is your best bet—we particularly love stretchy and breathable designs like the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch and Outdoor Research Microgravity.  Back to Our Top Women's Hiking Shirt Picks   Back to Our Women's Hiking Shirt Comparison Table

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5 Collared Shirts to Wear on the Trail This Fall

Every hiker needs a reliable, trail-ready button-up. from cozy fleeces to high-tech sun shirts, these are five of our reviewer's favorites..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

The year was 2017. The United Kingdom, my home country, had just voted to leave the European Union, the Trump administration had imposed a controversial travel ban on several majority-Muslim countries, and Iraqi and Kurdish forces had finally retaken Mosul from the Islamic State group. Meanwhile, I was in a thrift shop in Paso Robles, California, trying to decide if I should purchase a sheer flannel shirt with glitter woven into the threads. 

I was buying the shirt as part of a hastily-thrown-together attempt to bikepack into Big Sur while a world-famous stretch of Highway 1 was closed to cars. I’d still have to share a section of that road with automobiles, though. Thanks to a study i n which a British researcher rode for over 200 miles, some of them with a long wig on to make him appear more feminine, I knew that drivers gave more space to cyclists who they thought were women. Building on that study, and my refusal to get a haircut more than twice a year, I opted to buy the glittery shirt for my bikepacking trip. Maybe it helped: I survived the trip with a minimal amount of “coal rolling” from the drivers of central California, and in the process, I discovered my new favorite outdoor outfit. 

I’d always been partial to a flannel shirt for sitting about drinking coffee or beer, but I’d never really tried a lightweight button-up shirt for higher-exertion activity. For years afterwards I held onto that shirt, prizing its ability to protect me from the sun and still allow me to feel the cold air on my chest as I sweated up mountains in Colorado or across the deserts of California. 

I still have that shirt, but I’ve since discovered a bevy of other outdoor button-ups that don’t require you to sort through the rusted farm implements and pleather cowboy boots of a Paso Robles thrift store. They’ve become my uniform when I travel for my work as a conflict and border reporter as well as when I hike on my own time. I really appreciate the ability to switch between long and short sleeves simply by rolling up the arms, ventilate my chest on hot days , and enjoying protection from the wind and sun without having to work out what to do with the hood of a hoodie for the 90 percent of the time that I am not wearing it. If you too are looking to benefit from the finest in outdoor haberdashery, here are a few of my favorite collared adventure shirts. 

Outdoor Research Astroman (on sale for $50)

If you’re looking for a super lightweight summer flannel, you can’t go wrong with the Astroman. There’s little it can’t do: I’ve worn mine for work travel to the jungles of the Thai-Burmese border, on a paddling trip on the Colorado River, and to a meeting with the president of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The Bluesign-approved nylon/spandex blend is featherweight-light, and cool enough for hikes on triple-digit days or climbs up south-facing routes, all while keeping the sun off your back. The plaid design avoids the “wrong kind of British guy in the tropics” vibe, which is a big concern for me and a major reason why nobody should wear a collared outdoor shirt with those hiking umbrellas that ultralighters use. 

Kuiu Mesa Long Sleeve ($109)

The one downside of the Astroman is that it doesn’t really have many pockets: I’ve come to enjoy a couple of pockets on a shirt as they allow me quick access to a map, my satellite communicator, or the notepad and pen that I like to carry so people know I am a “serious” journalist. Kuiu’s Mesa Long Sleeve offers chest pockets, as well as tabs to secure your rolled sleeves and a vented back that boosts airflow I’ve worn this on backpacking trips in the Southern California summer, reporting jaunts to the South Pacific, and while distributing humanitarian aid in the Sonoran desert. I really appreciate the athletic cut, and I’d probably wear this for more formal meetings if I hadn’t opted for the “park ranger green” variant. 

Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Lite ($60)

The Silver Ridge is a classic of the genre. Like the Mesa, it’s very lightweight while including pockets, a vented back, and snaps to secure the sleeves. It also has a very clever closure system, where the top two buttons are snaps, and the rest are more traditional buttons. Admittedly, this prevents you from ripping off your shirt Chippendales-style before you go for a wilderness swim, but on the plus side, it also prevents your shirt getting pulled open by a branch or your pack and still allows you to quickly adjust your level of chest ventilation. It also has a hanging hook for drying, which I used on a recent trip and greatly appreciate. The cut is a little more boxy than the Kuiu Mesa, but on the plus side, that only helps it vent better.

Mountain Hardwear Jackson Ridge ($110)

If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably thinking “hold up a second, it’s decorative gourd season mother****er , why would I need all these summer shirts?” Don’t worry, even when the sun abandons you, the collared shirt has your back (and neck, and arms). For chill autumnal hikes, I really enjoy the Mountain Hardwear Jackson ridge: a solid-color canvas work shirt that feels as natural to wear in the coffee shop as in the campsite. Unlike a lot of high-end outdoor gear, it can stand up to serious abuse and you won’t shred the shoulders or elbows if you find yourself carrying lumber or bushwhacking to retrieve an errantly-thrown dog toy. (Caveat: It is cotton, so it’s better suited for casual hikes and camping trips. Don’t count on it to keep you warm if the weather turns wet or you sweat it out, but unlike more high tech fabrics, it won’t be ruined by a few errant campfire embers.)

Howler Bros. Qunitana Quilted Flannel ($89)

Tragically, Kitsbow’s aptly named Icon Shirt , which is as close to perfect as any item of apparel I own, is no longer available. Instead, if you are seeking classic flannel vibes I’d suggest looking to Howler Bros . Their shirts all feel perfectly soft right out of the box and have a more athletic cut than some flannels. Howler Bros. offer pretty much every flavor of flannel known to mankind, from western snaps to classic cuts with a reinforced right shoulder for all that shooting hunters are doing at this time of year. My preference is the Quintana, which both looks great and keeps me warm well into the autumn. It’s a polycotton blend, so it’s not really suited for high-mountain antics, but the warmth, fit, and softness make it a perfect choice for weekends in the woods. 

Sadly, despite much effort on my behalf, I still have not been able to find another glittery shirt, so you’ll still have to cruise the thrift stores out west for those. While I can’t really promise you any more certainty as we stare down the barrel of another election year, at least some of these classics are still as reliable as they ever were. 

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Best Hiking Shirts of 2024

Everyone will agree that boots are essential to the success of a long hike, but when it comes to shirts, many don’t notice the difference between technical and regular models. The best hiking shirts are built to last a lifetime while supporting you on your outdoor explorations. Starting from the fabric, hiking shirts provide features that outperform normal clothing, keeping your body insulated and sweat free for hours on end.

We have selected the best hiking shirts available on the market, with products designed for both warm and cold climates. Long sleeve and short sleeve shirts should both have their space in your backpack, especially if you are setting out for a multi-day adventure in uncertain weather. Luckily, we are here to help you spend less time choosing and more conquering peaks.

For more of our top hiking apparel recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Hiking Shirts for Women |  Hiking Shirts for Hot Weather

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Quick Answer - The Best Hiking Shirts

• Columbia Silver Ridge Lite View at REI
• Icebreaker Tech Lite Crew View at Backcountry
• Columbia Thistletown Park Raglan View at Amazon
• Columbia Silver Ridge 2.0 Blocked View at Amazon
• REI Co-op Active Pursuits View at REI
• Flylow Royal View at Amazon
• Marmot Aerobora View at Backcountry
• Columbia Bugasweat View at Amazon

Comparison Table - Best Hiking Shorts

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Reviews - The Best Shirts for Hiking

Columbia silver ridge lite.

• Material : Polyester
• Style : Button-up
• Moisture Wicking : Yes
• Sleeve Length : Long
• Pulls Moisture Away From Body
• Treated To Help Prevent Sunburn
• Ventilation Ports Allow Air To Flow Around The Shoulders

BEST FOR: WEEKEND HIKING

If you like combining a stylish button down shirt with all the features of a traditional hiking shirt, you should pick up the Columbia Silver Ridge Lite Plaid shirt. This shirt is great for hiking, with vented back panels that enhance it’s breathability, as well as Omni-Shade fabric that blocks UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburn if you plan to hit the trails in the warm summer months. The Omni-Wick fabric helps to pull sweat away from the body, keeping you from sticking to the shirt like you would in a traditional button down. If you do feel that you’d be better off in a short-sleeve shirt, that’s alright — the Columbia Silver Ridge Lite Plaid Shirt has roll-up sleeves that can be kept in place with tab holders.

Icebreaker Tech Lite Crew

• Material : 87% Merino Wool / 13% Nylon
• Style : Crew Neck
• Sleeve Length : Short

BEST FOR: BACKPACKING TRIPS

If you’re one of those guys who enjoys setting out on a backpacking trip with the least amount of weight on your shoulders, the Icebreaker Tech Lite Crew Shirt is a great choice. This short sleeve shirt with UPF 20 fabric helps to shield you against the harsh morning sunshine, while the quick drying material helps to keep you from ending up sopping wet if you get a particularly slippery catch. Thanks to the flat shoulder seams you don’t have to worry about chafing, even when you are traveling with a heavy pack. The blend of merino wool and nylon creates a perfect combination between strength and stretchiness. Plus, thanks to its moisture wicking properties, you’ll be able to wear it for more than one day in a row without smelling.

Columbia Thistletown Park Raglan

• Material : 67% Polyester / 33% Cotton
• Style : Crew-neck
• Built With A Mix Of Two Materials For Extra Warmth
• Moisture Wicking Technology To Keep You Dry After A Sweat
• Soft Against The Skin

BEST FOR: THE CASUAL ADVENTURER

If you’re the kind of guy who loves adventuring, but also enjoys the more casual side of things, the Columbia Thistletown Park Raglan T-Shirt may be the shirt for you. The soft cotton and polyester blended fabric feels extremely comfortable against your skin, making you want to wear this shirt every day. This shirt comes in three different combinations of colors, all meant to make you feel in perfect harmony with the nature that surrounds you. This comfortable shirt for everyday wear is soft and durable, with the addition of a moisture wicking technology that helps you stay dry even when you break a sweat.

Columbia Silver Ridge 2.0 Blocked

• Material : Nylon
• Style : Button up
• Durable, Moisture-wicking Fabric
• Designed To Allow Airflow In To Keep You Cool
• Two Chest Pockets To Store Essentials

BEST FOR: CASUAL TO ADVENTURER 

Sometimes even a casual button up can be hiding something. The Columbia Silver Ridge 2.0 Blocked Shirt looks like a traditional button up shirt, and can be worn if you’re needing some smart-casual attire, but it doesn’t stop there. This shirt has nylon fabric, combined with a modern technology that allows moisture to be wicked away from the skin, keeping you from sticking to the fabric during even the most humid adventure. 

The fabric also has added UPF 50 sun protection, meaning you don’t have to worry about getting burnt if you’re out hiking in the blazing midday sun. The vented design of the shirt allows for air to flow through it, ensuring you stay cool and sweat free throughout your adventures. The two chest pockets are perfect for storing any essentials, and they are extra secure with hook-and-loop closures, ensuring nothing will fall out of them.

REI Co-op Active Pursuits

• Material : 89% Polyester / 11% Spandex
• Style : Partial Zip
• Traps Air To Keep Warmth From Escaping
• Deep Neck Opening For Extra Ventilation
• Thumbholes To Keep Sleeves In Place

BEST FOR: THE COLD RUNNER

The REI Co-op Active Pursuits Half-Zip Shirt has a four way stretch that will allow you to move freely along a trail. Its polyester and spandex blend fabric ensures that moisture and sweat is wicked away, while trapping in air to keep you warm and comfortable, even on those cold winter morning runs. 

The neck opening is deep, allowing you some extra venting if the day is hotter than normal. The thumb straps keep the shirt in place even when you’re running fast along a trail, where a normal shirt wouldn’t be able to keep up with the pace. The UPF 50+ sun protection assures that you won’t end up burnt to a crisp when you’re training in the midday heat.

Flylow Royal

• Material : 85% Polyester / 15% Spandex
• Double Chest Pockets For Storing Small Items
• Stretchy, Durable Fabric Blend
• Quick-drying

BEST FOR: THE MOUNTAIN BIKER

It’s never easy finding the perfect shirt to wear when you’re burning rubber on the trails, but the search ends here — The Flylow Royal Shirt is built with a fabric blend of polyester and spandex, ensuring that you’re kept cool and comfortable in hot weather. Additionally, it stays comfortable and easy to wear if you happen to get a little bit wet in the rain. 

The stretchy fabric allows for easy movement on your bike, wicking away moisture and drying quickly if you do happen to get wet. You don’t even have to worry about getting caught in the sun, as this shirt comes equipped with UPF 50+ sun protection. You’ll be feeling like royalty in this shirt, the custom stitching detail and black pearl snaps giving it a casual western feel, even though it’s packed with amazing features.

Marmot Aerobora

• Breathable, Quick-drying Fabric
• Flat Seams For Increased Comfort
• Pocket On The Chest For Carrying Small Items

BEST FOR: THE LIGHT PACKER 

If you’re looking for a great hiking shirt that will easily fit in your carry on without taking up much space, the Marmot Aerobora shirt may be the one for you. It’s a great shirt to have in your bag in preparation for a spontaneous hike or climb, packed with all the features you’d expect in a traditional hiking shirt. 

The AirExchange fabric is extremely breathable, has quick drying capabilities, and is stretchy enough that it won’t get in the way if you need to make any big reaches during a climb. The moisture wicking polyester fabric ensures that you won’t feel weighed down and sweaty, even after the most intense hiking trail. The single patch pocket is perfect for carrying any small essentials you may have.

Columbia Bugasweat

• Material : 77% Cotton / 23% Polyester Fleece
• Moisture Wicking : No
• Side Zip Pocket For Storing Small Items
• Cotton And Fleece Blend For Extra Warmth And Comfort
• Includes A Coat Hanging Loop

BEST FOR: THOSE COLDER DAYS 

Sometimes you just need a top that you can toss in your day bag and throw on your body when it gets a bit too cold out on the trail, and the Columbia Bugasweat Crew Top is exactly what you need. The cotton and polyester fleece blend fabric ensures you’ll feel comfortable and warm, even on the coldest of treks. 

The side of this top holds a small zip pocket, allowing you to bring whatever essentials with you that you may need without having to worry about a bag weighing you down. This top is extremely versatile – if you’re not wearing it on the trail, it can make the perfect sleep shirt during those cold winter months. The design of this crew top is extremely clean, coming in black or grey, making it perfect for any situation, on trail or off.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN A SHIRT FOR HIKING

The main point of consideration when purchasing a hiking shirt should be the fabric. When you’re completing an activity that could leave you hot and sticky from sweat, you need a shirt that can wick away the moisture and stay breathable, so picking the wrong fabric could end in disaster on the trail.

Even though we’re often told that pure cotton shirts are the most comfortable, this doesn’t exactly apply to hiking shirts. Cotton holds in your sweat as it blocks it from evaporating, which in turn makes you feel sticky, often ending up stuck to the fabric by the end of your hike. What other fabrics may be the best choice?

SYNTHETIC FABRICS

Polyester, which you may normally be told to stay away from, is one of the best choices when it comes to picking a hiking shirt. Polyester is able to wick away moisture and sweat, and is extremely lightweight and breathable, which helps in keeping your body temperature regular throughout your trek.

MERINO WOOL

Although the merino wool tops have some good qualities, they aren’t particularly fast at drying and tend to soak up more moisture than a synthetic fabric.Although the merino wool tops have some good qualities, they aren’t particularly fast at drying and tend to soak up more moisture than a synthetic fabric.

Although the merino wool tops have some good qualities, they aren’t particularly fast at drying and tend to soak up more moisture than a synthetic fabric.

You should be looking into whether the shirt has buttons or zips, which can allow the regulation of temperature to happen quickly. Having a high collar can also ensure that you don’t end up with a nasty sunburn.

The fabric that the shirt is made of has a large contribution to whether or not a shirt is comfortable, meaning that one that is made from a light and breathable fabric will keep you feeling more pleasant on the trail.

Having a flatlock seam, where two of the seams are sewn together without actually crossing over one another can stop chafing from occurring, as you aren’t having a thick seam rubbing against you. Another positive of a flatlock seam is that they hold a lot of strength, which can help the shirt take a beating if it needs to.

How your shirt fits can also affect how comfortable you feel in it. Some shirts are made to fit quite snugly to the contours of your body, while others are looser to ensure breathability. You should choose your fit based on your own personal opinion, but reading up on how other people feel about the sizing and fit can help you make your decision.

You would expect a hiking shirt to be able to withstand the impacts of wearing it outside, which could mean getting wet from the rain, getting muddy, being snagged on branches etc. Natural fabrics are more likely to start pilling or tear, whereas synthetic fabrics tend to have a big more stretch to them.

Although, when washing synthetics, you must read the washing instructions in order not to damage them, so you can preserve them and they can be worn for a long time. The best feature of synthetic fabrics is that they are almost always quick drying, meaning you can give them a quick wash in the sink and then leave them out to dry, and it shouldn’t take more than a few hours.

ANTIMICROBIAL QUALITIES

When considering a hiking shirt, you need to be wary of the fact that these kinds of activities will cause you to produce a lot of sweat, and therefore the fabric of your shirt will definitely be exposed to absorbing quite a large amount of that. A lot of hiking shirts are marketed as being treated with antimicrobial mediums, meaning that it eliminates odor causing bacteria from growing on the fabric and causing your shirt to smell.

Merino wool has naturally occurring antimicrobial properties, but polyester and other synthetics will need to be treated with antimicrobial mediums.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

The capacity of clothing to protect the skin against dangerous ultraviolet rays, ranging from 0 to 50.

A synthetic fabric commonly used in hiking shirt because of its ability to dry fast and wick moisture.

CREW NECK STYLE

A shirt with a round neckline.

ANTIMICROBIAL

The capacity of a shirt to repel bacteria and reduce odor.

For more of our top hiking & backpacking gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Best Hiking Backpacks

Best Backpacking Tents

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads

Best Backpacking Stoves

Best Hiking Boots For Men ( and Women )

Best Hiking Shoes For Men ( and Women )

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations
• Wildland Shirts

• About Wildland Trekking

How to Order

Add a shirt when you register or purchase now and have it shipped!

Wildland Trekking t-shirts are a heather soft blend (65% Polyester, 35% Cotton), pre-shrunk, custom designed, destination-specific shirts to show off the national park or area you’re hiking with us. We have Mens and Womens versions with the same artwork but specialized colors and cuts. We invite you to check out the shirts below.

To order a shirt you can go to our product checkout page  to purchase and have the product mailed to you; or when you register for a trip, you can add our shirts to your order, and you will receive them when you arrive to do your trip.

Simply choose the number of shirts you’d like, choose men’s or women’s, and select sizes ( S-XL) .

It’s that easy! The cost of the items will be added to your trip cost, and the product will be waiting for you when you arrive to do your trip.

PLEASE NOTE : The Women’s Shirts run small, so we recommend sizing up one level. Sizing chart provided at the bottom of this page.

Feel free to email us or call us at  1-800-715-HIKE (4453)  with any questions!

DEATH VALLEY SHIRTS

Mens death valley shirt, cost: $33.00.

To order now, please go to our product checkout page . Or you can add shirts on when you reserve a trip, and they will be waiting for you on arrival.

WOMENS DEATH VALLEY SHIRT

GRAND CANYON SHIRTS

Mens grand canyon shirt.

Note: Mens medium and large shirts currently unavailable.

WOMENS GRAND CANYON SHIRT

Greater Yellowstone Shirts

Mens greater yellowstone shirt.

Womens Greater Yellowstone Shirt

Pacific Northwest Shirts

Mens pacific northwest shirt.

Womens Pacific Northwest Shirt

Rocky Mountain National Park Shirts

Mens rocky mountain shirt.

Womens Rocky Mountain Shirt

Great Smoky Mountains Shirts

Mens smokies shirt.

Womens Smokies Shirt

Utah National Park Shirts

Mens utah shirt.

Womens Utah Shirt

Yellowstone National Park Shirts

Mens yellowstone shirt.

Womens Yellowstone Shirt

Yosemite National Park Shirts

Mens yosemite shirt.

Womens Yosemite Shirt

Sizing Chart

Sizes: S – 2XL

How to measure:

• BODY LENGTH: Lay garment flat (face down). Measure from center back neckline seam straight down to bottom of the front hem.
• BODY WIDTH: Lay garment flat. 1″ below the armhole flat measure the garment across the chest.
• FULL BODY LENGTH: Lay garment flat(face down). Measure from center back neckline seam straight down to back bottom hem.
• NECK CIRCUMFERENCE: Lay collar open. Measure along entire neckseam (from edge to edge)
• SLEEVE LENGTH: Lay garment flat(face down). Measure from center back neck to outer edge of shoulder seam, then along outer edge to sleeve end.

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