Hiking can be one of the most fun exercises and outdoor activities you can engage in. Not only will you be able to explore the great outdoors, but you will also be able to capture amazing views, reconnect with nature, and create long-lasting memories with family and friends.
However, figuring out what kind of hiking shirt to war while on a hike can be a bit difficult. You will not only want a shirt that is breathable, but also one that is water-resistant, comfortable, and stylish. Below, we are going to review the best women’s hiking shirts for hot weather in 2022.
There are, undoubtedly, a number of hiking shirts available for women for hot weather. From short-sleeve shirts to long-sleeve ones, to simple tank tops, to athleticwear. While each different shirt style has its own benefits, certain shirts are more beneficial for hiking, particularly in the warmer seasons.
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What to Look for in a Women’s Hiking Shirt for Hotter Weather
Hiking and mountaineering are physically demanding activities which require high-performance clothing that will keep you comfortable. This is particularly true when looking for a hiking shirt to wear during the summer and warmer months.
Hiking shirts are especially important as it will have direct contact with your skin. That’s why it should be breathable, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking. In addition, for longer hiking treks, having a hiking shirt that is also antimicrobial will help to prevent the growth of odor-causing microorganisms.
Most women’s hiking shirts are made of either polyester or Merino wool because both materials are generally quick-drying, breathable, and moisture-wicking. While polyester is a popular choice, Merino wool is often a fantastic alternative.
And although the term wool typically conjures up images of fireplaces, hot chocolate, and Christmas-themed movies, Merino wool is a great fabric to wear in the summer and warmer months due to its fine, lightweight fibers which draw moisture away from your skin, helping to keep you comfortable in the heat.
UPF Rating
Similarly, when looking for the best women’s hiking shirts for hot weather, pay close attention to the ultraviolet protection factor or UPF. This is the protection level that the garment will provide you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. And as you are planning on hiking during hotter weather, you should look for hiking shirts which provide maximum protection.
As a requirement, a fabric or garment must have a UPF of 30 to qualify for The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. Generally, a UPF of 30-49 offers very good protection and UPF ratings of 50+ offer excellent protection.
However, there are some considerations that need to be taken into account when purchasing a shirt for maximum coverage from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Firstly, different colors offer varying levels of protection, with both darker and brighter colors offering better protection than lighter ones.
Secondly is construction. Dense clothing such-as denim, canvas, wool, and synthetic fibers are more protective than sheer or loosely woven clothing. You can manually check a shirts construction by holding it up to the light. If you can see through it, then UV rays can easily penetrate the fabric and reach your skin.
Lastly is fit. Loose-fitting clothing is preferable and helps to protect better against the sun’s rays. This is due to the fact that tight fitting clothing can stretch and reduce the level of protection offered. Similarly, loose-fitting clothing offers more coverage than tight-fitting ones, which offers more overall coverage for your skin.
TBMPOY Women’s Hiking Shirt & Hoodie
The TBMPOY Women’s Hiking Shirt & Hoodie is our editor’s recommendation for the best women’s hiking shirts for hot weather in 2022. Comfortable, breathable, and fashionable, the TBMPOY Women’s Hiking Shirt & Hoodie offers superior UPF protection, with a 50+ rating. Made of 100% polyester, the TBMPOY Hiking Shirt & Hoodie is a great hiking shirt for women and offers an included hoodie for additional protection from the sun’s harmful rays or from the occasional downpour.
Columbia Women’s PFG Tamiami II Hiking Shirt
The Columbia Women’s PFG Tamiami II Hiking Shirt is a great alternative to the TBMPOY Hiking Shirt & Hoodie. Extremely lightweight, this shirt is comfortable and specifically made for long-term hiking use. And with a plethora of color options, you won’t have any issues finding one that fits your personality and style. In addition, with easy, snap-on buttons and simple, rollable sleeves, you can quickly toss on and off the shirt with ease.
KPSUN Women’s Zip-Up Hiking Hoodie
The KPSUN Women’s Zip-Up Hiking Hoodie is another great option for women looking to go on a hike during the warmer months. Made of 90% polyester and 10% spandex, we really liked this women’s hiking shirt due to its spandex properties. Spandex is a generally looser material, meaning that it stretches to conform to your body and can be much more comfortable to wear over longer periods of time.