
10 Best Mens Sun Protection Hoodie Options Reviewed And Rated
You are looking for the best mens sun protection hoodie?
Clothes are important for protection against direct UV rays. With summer just around the corner, no doubt you’ll find yourself reaching for sunscreen lotion once again, especially if you have tattoos or enjoy surfing.
I am sure you’ll have a fully stocked cabinet of sprays, creams, and potions. But, are you also keeping your wardrobe stocked with long sleeve super light protection shirts for the warmer months?
And no, we’re not talking about the upcoming spring/summer collections from your favorite high brands. We’re talking about the rapid innovations in lightweight UV protective clothing – specifically, long sleeve hoodies.
Check out the best men’s protective shirts and their reviews, and make sure to stay protected from the sun.
1. Vapor Apparel Men's UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Outdoor Performance Long Sleeve Hoodie
Vapor Apparel has delivered a wonderful long sleeve functional summer piece of sun shirt.
A basic and versatile hooded sun shirt that you can take camping, sailing, or just wear as a precautionary measure.
This outdoor men’s hoodie is woven from a UV protective fabric recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation.
What more significant endorsement could you possibly hope for when looking for the best protective gear on the market?
Don’t let the long sleeves fool you.
You won’t be overheating in this cool and comfortable garb, even in the most punishing of warm conditions.
Its lightweight build is purposely designed to regulate your temperature while keeping you covered.
In addition to its cooling technology, you need not worry about sweat and unwelcome odors, as these protection shirts offer great odor control.
Sweating and smells are kept at bay with this awesome long sleeve men’s hoodie.
This sun shirt comes in a variety of colors.
Remember that lightweight fabric tends to appear transparent when wet.
In other words, a darker hooded sun shirt might be better for those kayaking expeditions.
At an average of $30 in the Amazon marketplace, it’s a fair deal for a technical and highly user-recommended bit of gear.
The Vapor Apparel Men’s UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Outdoor Performance Long Sleeve Hoodie is currently rated 4.4/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Super lightweight material that protects you from UV light
- Cool and deodorizing hooded sun shirt
- Wide range of colorways to choose from
- Highly recommended by Amazon users
- Tasteful and understated design
2. ESEL Men's Long Sleeve Sun Protection Breathable Hoodie
ESEL has admittedly placed substance well before styling these sun shirts.
This could be among the best and most modestly priced men’s sun protection shirts you’ve been looking for.
Made from breathable polyester, these protection shirts are another solid lightweight option with a face cover.
Yes, ESEL has conjured up a novel solution in the form of a detachable face cover.
For better or worse, this could leave you looking like a suspicious character to some, but your skin will surely thank you for it.
If you hadn’t already figured it out, these sun protection shirts have been designed for fishermen.
Compared to other sun shirts, ESEL has a neat design feature: it has snug little thumb holes.
These thumb holes are there so the cuffs can double up as gloves to enhance your fishing rod grip and absorb sweat.
This low-cost technical piece sports a utility pocket on the sleeve, which is a perfect size for plasters, fishing bait, or any other utilities to help you through your outdoor excursions.
We should note that you should order a larger size of this sun hoodie.
As one of the cheaper options out there, you’re likely to be dubious, but this piece of clothing will provide the maximum sun protection you can think of.
However, with largely favorable reviews, you’re looking at maximum bang for the minimum buck with this one.
Pros & Benefits:
- Great for fishing
- Practical and functional design
- Provides maximum coverage
- Cool and well ventilated
- Excellent value for such a low cost
3. BALEAF Men's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie
Lightweight and resilient, this men’s hoodie has added sun protection: it boasts UPF 50+ as endorsed by dermatologists and health experts.
Baleaf has ensured a distinctly athletic silhouette with a fine entry into the protective sun hoodie game.
The breathable and waterproof fabric keeps you feeling fresh and free while allowing splashes of water to bead away on contact.
The sturdy polyester can withstand a reasonable amount of battering, which makes the Baleaf hoodie a solid choice for those long runs or intense training sessions on the seafront.
This is another item to sport subtle thumbholes for maximizing coverage and keeping you fully protected from any perilous elements you encounter.
At a modest price tag of a little over $20, this is a seriously solid option for any sun safety-conscious athlete.
With that said, this by no means suggests that this piece should be reserved for the fitness-savvy.
You’ll not fill out of place if you simply want to kick back on a sun lounger.
The BALEAF Men’s UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie is currently rated 4.4/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Great for sport and exercise
- Cooling and insulating
- Hooded and long-sleeved sun protection
- Perfect protection from sun rays
- Very reasonably priced
- Good skin coverage
- Versatile design makes it appropriate for a variety of situations
4. Willit Men's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Lightweight Long Sleeve Shirt
These sun shirt hoodies from Wilit don’t skimp out when it comes to color options.
With the hoodie design and 21 variants to choose from, you’ve got a rich selection when mulling over how to best flex your personality on your next hiking trip.
On a more practical level, different tones offer different advantages and disadvantages that are worth noting before buying.
You are still susceptible to sun damage in the morning and evening.
Therefore, make sure to stay protected at all times.
Wilit’s extensive range of colors can help you make the right decision, especially if you play outdoors one of the summer sports.
With UPF 50+ and lightweight polyester, you’ll be more than ready for any vigorous outdoor activity that demands extensive sun exposure.
The $20 asking price is difficult to contest, making it easy to see why this is a great shirt and one of Amazon’s more popular items in the category.
Pros & Benefits:
- Wide variety of color options
- Long sleeves
- Excellent value
- Good skin coverage
- Lightweight and comfortable
5. Koofin Performance Fishing Hoodie
Now let’s look at something a little more striking if you’re looking to make a little more of a statement on the lakefront.
Koofin stands proud in an ocean of performance wear that is otherwise largely indistinguishable from one another.
The Performance Fishing Men’s Hoodie is a masterclass in design, weaving the all-essential UPF 50 technology into its light and flexy T-shirt.
The hooded sun protection snugly fits a cap or visor underneath to enhance protection against ultraviolet radiation as you see fit.
These are great protection shirts that could be your companion for boating, swimming, fishing, or even strolling during midsummer.
Just don’t be surprised if you turn heads along the way.
It’s a more casual and relaxed fit than many of its counterparts in the market.
Koofin’s Performance Hoodie has sought to become a solid option for those who are on the prowl for adaptable outdoor wear.
A little over $30, you also won’t be breaking the bank if you opt for this hoodie.
The Koofin Performance Fishing Hoodie is currently rated 4.5/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Unique and interesting look
- Long sleeves protect from sun rays
- Wide variety of colors
- Relaxed and casual fit
- Versatile and robust
- Made with fishing trips in mind
6. Bassdash UPF 50+ Men’s UV Sun Protection Long Sleeve Performance Fishing Hoodie
Bassdash is another manufacturer that puts fishermen first.
That said, you shouldn’t let that be a deterrent if you’re in the market for a protective piece to get you geared up for your summer activities.
Made from a blend of polyester and fabric, this could be a good contender for you if you’re after something that’s both lightweight and flexible.
This elastic material allows freedom of movement and maximum comfort.
Breathability is a must for any sun-protective hoodie.
Bassdash has enhanced the airflow of the men’s hoodie with a light mesh construction under the arms.
This is to make sure you stay cool and breezy even in the most intense heat.
We’ve gotta say, we’re big fans of the logo placement, which looks especially slick running up the sleeve.
The pocket print’s pretty neat too.
Undoubtedly, there are garments slapped with far higher price tags.
However, they are nowhere near as technically effective or comfortable as this men’s hoodie.
The Bassdash UPF 50+ Men’s UV Sun Protection Long Sleeve Performance Fishing Hoodie is currently rated 4.6/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Nice blend of fabrics
- Breathable underarm meshing
- A favorite for fishing
- Lightweight and cooling material
- Flexible and good for rigorous movement
7. TSLA Men's UPF 50+ Zip Front Hoodie
It seems there’s a real gap in the sun-protective outerwear market for full zip hoodies.
TSLA has sought to plug that gap with their men’s zip-up piece.
TSLA subverts any unnecessary flashiness or fluff with this well-rounded and understated UV protection hooded jacket.
It’s composed of a dense, UPF50+ fortified polyester/spandex blend to keep you both protected and comfortable in the harshest of heats.
In opting to include a full zip, TSLA has given its customers added freedom to regulate their heat and adapt to a range of climates.
In addition, the quick-drying fabric staves off any excess moisture to keep you dry in all conditions.
There are a few colorways to choose from, but we’d recommend navy or white, as the condensed material looks especially glossy in pale blue.
You could be forgiven for dismissing TSLA’s UPF men’s hoodie as the budget alternative.
But, we honestly think this small brand’s venture into the UV protective sphere is hard to beat for the money.
The TSLA Men’s UPF 50+ Zip Front Hoodie is currently rated 4.7/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Full-zip for better heat regulation
- Cool, the basic design
- Suitable for a variety of activities and conditions
- Great value for low cost
- Extra protective and dense material
8. Columbia Men’s Terminal Tackle Sun Hoodie
Now we’re bringing out the big guns.
Colombia is a juggernaut when it comes to rugged, technical, and functional all-weather wear.
Their Terminal Tackle hoodie is not an exception.
The men’s hoodie boasts of Columbia’s own Omni-Shade UVA and UVB protection technology.
This means that it’s packing some serious attributes.
The basic and relaxed fit can accommodate a range of vigorous outdoor activities whilst maintaining optimal comfort.
The material of this hoodie will make sure that you stay comfortable and dry no matter what.
The Tackle Sun Hoodie is not far from Columbia’s range of long-wearing active and outdoor clothing.
This group of clothing is renowned for looking no less out of place on the high street than it does in the highlands.
Averaging at around $40 on Amazon (depending on your size), it’s a notable markup compared to other entries on this list.
That said, Columbia’s reputation as powerhouses of high-performance wear surely precedes them when they come to deliver results.
The Columbia Men’s Terminal Tackle Sun Hoodie is currently rated 5/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Cool and casual design
- Moisture-wicking technology
- Unrestrictive and protecting
- Purposely built for a wide variety of environments and activities
- A good investment for those looking for a high endurance item
9. Quiksilver Men's Hooked Hoodie UPF 50+ Surf Tee
Another renowned manufacturer of solid outdoor wear is Quicksilver.
They’re stepping into the UPF50+ game with this sleek sun protectant piece.
Making a name for themselves as a household name of surfing gear, Quicksilver is bringing that nautical know-how into other terrains.
Their time-honored reputation should serve to encourage prospective buyers who want the most waterproof and insulating piece for their summer romps.
Coming in a relaxed and loose fit, you can don this fine men’s garb when hiking, running, fishing, or even to your next beachside barbeque.
One key thing that sets this men’s hoodie apart from its UV protective contenders is Quicksilver’s neat deployment of bamboo fabric.
This is far different from polyester, spandex, and lycra which otherwise dominate the mark
Not only is it comfortable and lightweight, but it’s also notably more sustainable than using cheaper materials.
The techy yet tasteful aesthetic of the piece is consistent with Quicksilver’s reputation.
This hoodie is durable for your outdoor adventures without sacrificing style.
One should, however, note that the use of more sustainable materials demands prospective buyers to dig a little deeper into their wallets.
But if you ask us, it’s a worthwhile investment for the quality and reduced impact on the environment.
The Quiksilver Men’s Hooked Hoodie UPF 50+ Surf Tee is currently rated 5/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Lightweight and sustainable bamboo fabric for the environmentally conscious
- Slick design and two-tone colorway
- Nice, casual, and relaxed fit
- A soft and comfortable alternative to polyester
- Tough and enduring material
10. Roadbox Men's Sun Shirts UPF 50+ UV Protection Quick-Dry Hoodie
Lastly, this is another unembellished, yet highly rated men’s sun protective hoodie.
This time it’s from Roadbox.
Roadbox is a small outdoor-wear company that puts quality at the forefront.
They shun flashy ad campaigns and unnecessary noise.
Cut from a technical and breathable fabric, you can subject this garment to a variety of weather conditions and activities.
It can withstand all the battering and not lose its form and function.
The fast-drying fabric will make sure you stay free of unwanted moisture and liquid.
You get that while giving you the sun protection you need during long periods of exposure.
Another plus is that it fits true to size.
The Roadbox men’s hoodie will be just as at home up a mountain, as it will on a long fishing trip.
It’s also difficult to argue with the price tag, making it one of the more affordable sun protection pieces out there.
The Roadbox Men’s Sun Shirts UPF 50+ UV Protection Quick-Dry Hoodie is currently rated 5/5 on Amazon.
Pros & Benefits:
- Great value for money
- Multifunctional and robust for all kinds of activities
- A clean, basic design making appropriate for just about anywhere
- Fits true to size so you don’t have to interpret difficult size charts
Why Do We Need Sun Protection?
When we think about the best clothing for staying cool and comfortable in hot climates, hoodies and sun shirts probably aren’t at the top of our lists.
However, to best protect yourself from harmful levels of UV radiation, you need to be getting serious about taking the proper preventative measures.
You could be forgiven for reaching for the most lightweight item with the least amount of skin coverage when planning your summer wardrobe.
Note that this will inevitably leave you having to continually reapply sunscreen.
Sunscreens can only go so far in terms of their protective properties.
It’s well established by now that regular cotton protection shirts are not sufficient enough to protect you during continued exposure to sunlight.
Besides, tight clothing reduces protection, as the fibers of the clothes pull away and let ultraviolet light pass through.
Therefore, regular cotton and tight clothes can still leave you vulnerable to severe skin damage.
What Is Sun Protective Clothing?
You may be skeptical or reluctant to opt for a hoodie in the baking heat.
However, your clothing not only should look great but should also absorb or block UV radiation to protect you against sun damage and skin cancer.
What’s more, sun-protective clothing is the simplest way to stay safe; unlike sunscreen, you never need to reapply!
It’s hard to imagine a scenario where you’ll feel cool while your entire upper body is adorned in fabric.
Huge leaps have been made, however, in designing outdoor gear that strikes the perfect balance between staying protected and staying comfortable.
More and more athletes, explorers, fishermen, and even holidaymakers are thinking outside the box when considering the best technical wear to accompany them during their seasonal activities.
What’s the Difference Between Regular Clothing and Sun Protective Clothing?
When making responsible choices about what clothes to wear in hot conditions, you’ve got to keep a set of critical criteria in mind.
This includes the density of the weave, the thickness of the material, and comfort – to name but a few.
If you want your regular clothes to protect you from the sun, make sure that the piece is made of a densely woven cloth, it’s loose and dark.
Dark colors absorb sun rays and prevent them from penetrating your skin.
Consider all these qualities in choosing the appropriate men’s long sleeve sun-protective hoodie.
What’s the Difference Between UPF and SPF?
Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates the amount of UVB and UVA rays your clothes block and prevents these harmful UV rays from reaching your skin.
The higher the UPF, the better is your protection; unlike sunscreens, clothes protect you the entire time you spend outdoors.
A piece of fabric must have at least a UPF of 30 to provide solid protection against the sun.
On the other hand, clothes with UPF of 30 to 49 offer good protection, while UPF 50+ clothing rates as excellent.
While UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures the UV radiation that penetrates fabric and reaches your skin, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures the time it takes for skin to start burning when directly exposed to the sun.
If you burn after 30 minutes under the sun, an SPF 30 sunscreen may protect your skin 30 times longer.
Here is a really important thing you need to know: while UPF gauges both UVB and UVA rays, SPF measures only UVB.
Final Thoughts
It’s time to wake up to what may be a harsh reality for many, and that’s that sunscreen only goes so far.
Worse yet, the sun’s damaging UV rays penetrate through regular cotton clothing, leaving you vulnerable even when you think you’re protected.
However, you should know that, soon, UPF attire will become permanent residents in our wardrobe, so add to the cart the ones you like best and prepare for your next adventure!