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Current Issue
Sunshirts
We tested so you dont have to
// By Dina Mishev
DUCKCAMP ROCKPORT HOODIE
What it is
A lightweight UPF 50+ hoodie that, rather than overdoing it with unnecessary features, focuses on getting the important things—coverage and breathability—perfect.
Strengths
The Brrr° fabric’s claim of “innovative micro-mineral cooling technology” sounds gimmicky until you’ve been sitting on your boat in the sun on a 80-degree day for hours and, amazingly, feel cool.
Weaknesses
To keep it smelling fresh, this top needed more frequent washing than most others.
Best for
Anyone who says they get too hot in long sleeves; everyone on the hottest days.
Details
$99; available at JD High Country Outfitters, 160 W. Broadway Ave., Jackson
SMARTWOOL MERINO SUN HOODIE
What it is
A new-this-season UPF 40+ hoodie made from 88% Merino wool and 12% recycled nylon.
Strengths
The ponytail hole in the hood of the women’s version is genius; although the fabric blend includes nylon, the layer closest to your skin is 100% soft Merino.
Weaknesses
While not as insulative as the Smartwool baselayers we wear in winter, it was warmer than the other tops tested.
Best for
Women with voluminous ponytails.While not as insulative as the Smartwool baselayers we wear in winter, it was warmer than the other tops tested.
Details
$130; available at Teton Mountaineering, 170 N. Cache St., Jackson
ROYAL ROBBINS SALATHÉ
What it is
A snap-down, long-sleeve, light-as-air collared shirt with UPF 40+ sun protection and the brand’s proprietary Mosquito Protection Technology.
Strengths
Wrinkle-resistant protection from the sun and mosquitoes? Yes, please! A bonus is that the anti-mosquito-ness is chemical-free and doesn’t wash or wear away.
Weaknesses
Less of a problem with the men’s fit, but the women’s style is a little boxy.
Best for
Anyone equally sensitive to the sun and mosquito bites.
Details
$105; available at Skinny Skis, 65 W. Deloney Ave., Jackson
STIO VESCENT HOODIE
What it is
A medium-stretchy, fast-drying, lightweight hoodie that offers UPF 40+ and packs down to the size of a bagel sandwich.
Strengths
Stio’s proprietary Dot Air fabric has small ventilating holes that allow body heat out and breezes in. The stitched sunglass loop on the zippered chest pocket seems silly until you use it.
Weaknesses
We wish there were thumb holes; the tops of our hands deserve sun protection, too.
Best for
Days on the river—fly fishing, SUP-ing,rafting, floating.
Details
$129; available at Stio Mountain Studio, 10 E. Broadway Ave., Jackson
PAKA SOL HOODIE
What it is
A lightweight hoodie made from traceable alpaca fiber and a stretch blend with UPF 30+, a hat-compatible hood, and men’s and women’s fits.
Strengths
Paka’s alpacas must be magical—the fabric is cashmere-soft, antimicrobial, and hard to snag.
Weaknesses
At the time of writing, it only comes in two colors, navy and heather grey, and most sizes are out of stock. (We guess we’re not the only people who love this top.)
Best for
Taking on a multiday trip where weight is a premium—wear it all day, and, thanks to it being odor-resistant, all night.
Details
$99; available at pakaapparel.com
THE NORTH FACE LIGHTRANGE SHORT-SLEEVE
What it is
With 40+ UPF, a water-repellent finish, anti-odor technology, and integrated venting, this short-sleeve shirt is as overachieving as it is suitable for both mountain and city adventures.
Strengths
Ummm, everything. Seriously.
Weaknesses
We’ll get back to you. If you’re not into short-sleeves, a long-sleeve version is available.
Best for
Light packers who insist their clothes perform multiple duties.
Details
$85 (women’s), $95 (men’s); available at JH Sports, 7720 Granite Loop Rd., Teton Village JH
