Best Sun Shirts and Hoodies Compared on UPF (2026)
Three long-sleeve sun layers with very different UPF ratings. We have not tested them.
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A sun shirt does the work of sunscreen on the skin it covers. The key number is UPF, and these three range from 15 to 50+.
Quick picks
- Best overall coverageSahara Shade Hoodie (Men's)Check price
- LightestEcho Hoodie (Men's)Check price
- Best without a hoodMen's Aricia Long Sleeve ShirtCheck price
Side-by-side specs
| Spec | Top pickREI Co-opSahara Shade Hoodie (Men's) | Outdoor ResearchEcho Hoodie (Men's) | CoolibarMen's Aricia Long Sleeve Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Most UPF per dollar of coverage | Hot, high-effort days | Water and stain resistance |
| Weightlower is better | 0.55 lb8.8 oz (mens); 6.4 oz (womens) | 0.33 lb★ Best5.29 oz (150 g) | Not listed |
| UPF | 50+ | 15 (light colors), 20 (dark colors) | 50+ |
| Coverage | Hood, long sleeves, thumbholes | 3-panel hood, thumbholes | Long sleeves, no hood |
| Fabric | 92% polyester, 8% spandex | 100% recycled polyester, bluesign approved | 100% polyester (3D Dri) |
| Features | Wicking, quick-drying, raglan sleeves | AirVent, ActiveFresh odor control, flat seams | Wicking, water-repellent, stain-resistant |
| Price | Check price | Check price | Check price |
Specs from each manufacturer's US product page. Bars compare each spec against the best value in this table; they are not test scores. Prices change often, so we link out instead of quoting them.
The picks
★Best overall coverage
REI Co-opSahara Shade Hoodie (Men's)
Best for: Most UPF per dollar of coverage
A stretch-knit sun hoodie with UPF 50+, a 3-panel hood and thumbholes. REI says the protection is built into the fabric.
What we like
- UPF 50+ with a hood
- Women's and plus sizes
Watch out for
- Heavier than the Echo
UPF 50+ stretch knit with a 3-panel hood and thumbholes. Men’s is 8.8 oz.
★Lightest
Outdoor ResearchEcho Hoodie (Men's)
Best for: Hot, high-effort days
An ultralight recycled polyester hoodie. OR rates it UPF 15 in light colors and UPF 20 in dark colors.
What we like
- Lightest shirt here
- Very breathable fabric
Watch out for
- UPF 15 to 20 is well below 50+
Only 5.29 oz. OR rates it UPF 15 to 20. Pair with sunscreen on long days.
★Best without a hood
CoolibarMen's Aricia Long Sleeve Shirt
Best for: Water and stain resistance
A long-sleeve UPF 50+ shirt in Coolibars 3D Dri polyester, which Coolibar says is water-repellent and stain-resistant.
What we like
- UPF 50+ certified
- Repels water and stains
Watch out for
- No hood
UPF 50+ polyester that repels water and stains, with no hood.
How to choose
- Aim for UPF 50+ if the shirt is your main protection. See what UPF means.
- Add a hat. See best UPF sun hats.
- Kids: see sun safety for kids.
Frequently asked questions
Is UPF 15 enough?
UPF 15 blocks about 93% of UV. The Skin Cancer Foundation's seal needs UPF 50 or more.
Does a hood matter?
It covers ears and neck, which CDC says need shade too.
