Best Hiking Shirts of 2025 (Must-Have)

Being an important component of outdoor activities, comfortable and efficient clothing makes a huge difference in the hiking experience. Whether hiking, trekking, mountaineering, or any other physical activity, the best hiking shirts come with distinctive features, unlike regular shirts. Hiking shirts are more breathable and quick-dry and have moisture-wicking capabilities that keep your skin at the required temperature while you are on the go.

Related: Best Hiking Shorts

In this article, we reviewed the best hiking shirts based on our extensive hiking experience, field testing, and user reviews.

Editor’s Note: We updated this guide on December 29, 2024, after further experimenting with hiking shirts to give better comparisons and insights into the 2025 top options.

Best Overall Hiking Shirt

1. Columbia Silver Ridge Lite

The Columbia Silver Ridge Lite shirt material is comfortable. It’s ventilated, keeps the skin covered from the sun’s heat, and keeps the chill off. It is the best to wear in bad weather. For hot days it has incredible cooling properties. Also, it dries pretty quickly.

Another feature that makes this shirt very likable is its long length. It will not pull out of your pants, regardless of physical activity. Plus, the Columbia shirt is loose enough to roll up the sleeves and strap them in place comfortably. Hence, it’s not like other shirts where when you roll up the sleeves, you don’t have enough of it to engage the sleeve strap, or it just gets too tight at the bicep. Also, this shirt doesn’t have broad shoulders, but they fit perfectly.

Moreover, it’s highly compact and a go-to for hikes and camping. It’s not plastic-like, nor does it have any rough feeling like many synthetic shirts. In addition, it has stylish sleeve holders and Velcro pockets.

However, the white shirt is so thin that you can see chest hair through it. If the shirt was thick enough, like they were made in the past, these were great fitting shirts. Further, this shirt is not very durable and may develop little lumps of thread when going through a thorny brush. The mesh inside the shirt or the pocket line may chafe a little after a few days of hiking, but not to the point where you won’t be able to wear it.

For some people, the shirt runs a little large and loose. However, it’s a fit for an athletic build or those who don’t wear fittings. Besides, it’s a prime shirt for hot days on the trail.

Read More: Columbia Silver Ridge Lite Shirt Review

Best Merino Wool Option

2. Icebreaker Tech Lite Ii

The Tech Lite II is a high-quality, eco-friendly garment made entirely from ethically sourced merino wool. It has a reduced environmental impact as it is not made from any plastic material. In addition, one of the standout features of this shirt is that it is odor resistant. And that is because of using merino wool, which naturally can resist the smell. Thus, you don’t need deodorant anymore. 

Merino wool is perfect for breathability, for drying rather quickly, and for the fact that when you sweat, it does not smell like a cotton or synthetic T-shirt. This means you don’t need to wash Tech Lite II shirts after every use. Hence, you can freely wear the shirt for days, hang it upside down on a hanger at night and have to wash it extremely rarely when the heat is burning.

Merino wool is also best because it doesn’t contribute to the increment of microplastics in the environment. 

Furthermore, maintaining an average body temperature during rigorous hiking is vital for comfortable hiking, so Tech Lite Shirt II is excellent for maintaining a proper body temperature. Since this shirt feels loose and airy, so provides plenty of comfort during winter as well. 

Material seems to be thinner, but not sure how long this will remain intact. However, this is expensive compared to a few other lightweight shirts on our list. But the truth is that we often pay the same for a regular shirt which is not on the same functional level as Tech Lite II. Consequently, an icebreaker is the best hiking T-shirt for versatility and functionality.

3. SmartWool Men’s Merino 150

SmartWool Men’s Merino 150 is another great hiking shirt on our list. This fit base layer offers room to move throughout the silhouette without additional bulk. The core-spun technology wraps merino wool around a nylon core for extra durability.

SmartWool Men’s Merino shirt is a versatile shirt fit for everyday wear. It’s a comfortable-sized shirt, and the flatlock seams reduce chafing while offset shoulders increase comfort. It helps maintain a warm body temperature and quickly evacuate sweat when hiking in winter. So, if you tend to sweat, this shirt will evaporate more of it and will dry pretty quickly.

Most importantly, it still has merino’s quick dry/low odor capabilities. Moreover, it’s a great base layer, so you can use it as a shirt or base layer. It’s thin, light, and warm, perfect for summer hiking or under another layer in the fall. And it is probably pretty fitting for anyone with an athletic build.

Further, it is super lightweight but isn’t super thin like some other merino t-shirts, so you feel like you are wearing a t-shirt. Plus, the neck is not too tight or too loose. Although it’s not soft and luxurious, it’s negligible and comfortable enough to wear as a base.
However, SmartWool Men’s Merino shirt may show pilling where the backpack is rubbed. But this is a drawback that you will find in almost all merino shirts.

4. ExOfficio Air Strip Long Sleeve

ExOfficio Air Strip Long Sleeve shirt is a 3-position sun collar and UPF 40-rated fabric, which protects from the sun. The shirt works really well on an 8 km hike up to the base of a glacier. It’s a lightweight and easy-care fabric. This reflects less hassle while traveling.

Moreover, it has side vents and roll-up sleeve tabs that keep you cool and comfortable when the temperature rises. So you will never feel terrible about it. Plus, its utility loop holds a fishing rod or a hat while you are making your next move. Then the Pen/sunglasses slot in the left chest pocket makes it easy to jot down directions or grab your shades on a sunny day.

Worth mentioning that after the updated version, the pockets now have two velcro closures, one at each side, instead of the single in the middle. This eliminates the pocket corner curl. Another feature is its zippered security pocket, which securely holds your wallet and passport.

Also, the shirt holds up well with sustained travel and minimal washing without giving off much odor. It is highly recommended for a light but professional-looking travel shirt in hot weather locations where sun protection is needed.

Conversely, some people find this shirt loose. Also, many people have reported that the new shirts are skinny and no more like the past ones. It has hardly any weight to it. It even shows the extra hidden color which pops up in the sun. It is roomy enough to move freely but not boxy or baggy. It looks good and is functional. Unlike a cotton shirt, it wicks away moisture rather than getting soggy.

Best For Hot Weather

5. ATG by Wrangler Long Sleeve

ATG by Wrangler shirt is the best in materials and design for shirts. The fabric is VERY SYNTHETIC compared to the other shirts. It constitutes 73% nylon, 27% polyester, and 8% spandex (undersleeves). This is a great garment for trips to warm and temperate climates, with long sleeves and a collar to protect from the sun.

Besides, the color is not black. As black absorbs heat and causes a suffocating feeling, this shirt eradicates this disadvantage.

You can also use it for hiking and everyday use in the city. It comprises lightweight and comfortable material while still being durable. Also, this is well-made and very durable, and the cut and size are perfect.

Moreover, it has a grand stretch in the elbows. They have enough stretch for you to move in them and are breathable. Its sleeves can be converted to semi-short sleeves. It has elastic and soft fabric sections on the arms at the height of the armpits. The shirt possesses functional pockets plus a zipper with all the right stretch and wicking while staying professional.

Furthermore, it is given a touch of elegance by added metal buttons, which give it a more rustic and resistant touch. You can even clean lenses on the bottom. Plus, it has UV protection, so a good product for sunny outdoor days. Also, it has good ventilation to keep you dry. It has ventilation in the upper part of the back that goes unnoticed by the naked eye.

Although the sleeves are a perfect size in terms of length, the width of them is another thing since they are a little narrow. If you are a type with strong and wide arms, this shirt is not for you, at least not to wear the sleeves rolled up and rolled over your arm. However, you won’t regret buying this shirt if your arm is thin or not too wide.

In addition, it feels a little stiff or crunchy. But what is comfortable is the soft gray fabric waist on the sides and under the sleeves that helps you have comfort. That being so, it’s a marvelous choice.

Best Budget Friendly Option

6. MAGCOMSEN Tactical Polo Shirt

Undoubtedly, MAGCOMSEN Tactical Polo Shirt exudes exceptional qualities, including its remarkable design. Although the waist size is slightly wider than the regular L size, the collar and sleeves are XL and much wider than pictured. It’s not a standard polo shirt cut but redesigned somewhat. No static-cling or wrinkles. More specifically, the collar does not wrinkle up like other knitted materials.

In addition, the material is UBER comfortable. You may have seen many overweight men, and shirts like these usually show men’s breasts (gynecomastia). This one doesn’t. Not snug at all, and it provides plenty of room. Functional clothing and pen pockets on the sleeves are also a plus.

Further, if you have to do a lot of running around and are with a high-stress job, don’t worry about sweat stains. These polo shirts will do the job for you. There is only one small problem if it is tag-less. Also, this shirt’s neck area is vast, right around the collar. Too much material around the back of my neck.

Plus, the sleeves are too wide for most people’s liking. Besides, it’s a little thinner. Remember, if you order the yellow shirt, it’s incredibly bright. Wherever you go, you will look like you took a piece of the sun. And you can’t wear this in the winter. However, It’s the best polo shirt to wear in summer.

Best Lightweight Option

7. Columbia Thistletown Park Crew

This shirt is OMNI-SHADE, which will keep you safe and protected. It comprises Omni-Shade, which blocks UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. Also, the tight weave construction with UV absorbent yarns blocks the full spectrum of harmful UV rays. This shirt will fit well. It is comfortable and long-lasting.

The fabric is very likable and fresh. It can withstand multiple climbing and hiking trips ranging from 8F to 90Fs. Also, the shirt has kept me pretty dry from sweat with quick drying features when some rain pops up too. It even resists the humid heat we experience in our summers. It’s a very light and breathable material. It is durable enough to do yard work.

Furthermore, most shirts’ necklines lose shape. But this polo shirt’s neck doesn’t stretch out of shape like most cheap T-Shirts. Thus, Worth the price. This shirt fits as expected and is pleasantly warm to wear as an undershirt in the winter.

However, the material is a little thinner, and screen printing wears off. Also, the sleeves are a little fitted around the cuff. The only bad thing is that it is a little long, but the quality is very good. Besides, we noticed that after washing, the shirt shrank. Another thing not to leave out is that the shirt appears more on the cotton side than synthetic. It is 33% cotton. Lastly, this one is a little tight around the middle but long enough.

How To Choose Hiking Shirts: Buying Guide

Understand Fabric Types

The type of fabric used to design hiking shirts is very important. Both novice and experienced hikers often lack knowledge in this area. As a result, hikers often experience discomfort during their treks. I learned the importance of the right fabric the hard way, struggling on the trail with sweaty, uncomfortable shirts that didn’t account for the weather, all because of cheap hiking clothes.

Hiking shirts are crafted from materials like merino wool, synthetic fibers, and other natural fabrics. The fabric most commonly used in hiking shirts is made from synthetic materials like nylon and polyester.

They offer sun protection, breathability, comfort, and moisture-wicking properties. Polyester is ideal for water activities and hot climates due to its quick-drying properties and lightweight nature. It is strong, gentle on the skin, and lightweight.

Merino wool is used in most shirts because it is antibacterial, soft, breathable and warm. It is ideal for long journeys and in cold environments. However, merino wool is quite expensive. The higher the ratio of wool, the more expensive that shirt will be. Cotton shirts are unsuitable for hiking due to moisture retention, chafing, and poor temperature regulation and breathability. It takes much longer to dry and causes discomfort on the trail. Cotton shirts swell when wet, becoming heavy and uncomfortable.

Cotton

It’s better to avoid cotton ones. This material is neither firm nor has properties like odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and quick drying. And if it gets wet, it can be heavy and uncomfortable. However, there is an advantage of cotton in hiking shirts. This advantage applies to conditions of extremely hot weather.

Related: Why Cotton is Bad for Hiking

As cotton takes time to dry and absorbs moisture like a greedy sponge, you could wear this shirt which will pass on a hydrated sensation throughout the rough trail. You can even opt for polyester-cotton blends. Thus, having the combined effect of durability and softness.

Hiking shirts are preferred lightweight; in this regard, polyester and nylon-made shirts are good options. Besides, these are synthetic materials. Other than being weightless, they are also quick-drying and moisture-resistant.

Polyester and Merino wool

Polyester and Merino wool, though thin, have excellent ventilation. They are also ultralight, even lighter than cotton. The material of your hiking shirt is important. Being odor resistant is a most wanted attribute. Merino wool has natural antibacterial properties. As a result, it can intensively resist sweat and odor, no matter how long you wear it.

Related: Is Polyester Good for Hiking? 

Merino wool will allow you to walk with your head up without having that smell. Besides, you don’t need to take tons of heavy deodorants. It is also a wallet savior, as you won’t have to buy expensive deodorants that have the power to keep you fresh and clean on hiking trips.

Moving on, merino wool is another option that provides warmth in cooler weather while remaining airy in warmer conditions. Another point worth mentioning, you should go in for hiking shirts made of biodegradable material, like merino. This stuff has a lesser impact on the environment. But merino is indeed quite expensive.

Nylon

Nylon is another commonly used material for hiking shirts. The best thing about it is that it’s tougher than polyester, as nylon has great stretch strength and flexibility. This makes it a good choice for your rugged trips. Moreover, nylon-spandex blends are another delightful option.

Fit

Wearing a shirt that is of your perfect fit is the only way to bring in comfort and mobility on tiring trips. You should go for a search that fits well but doesn’t restrict movement. It should not have a tight feeling and also avoid a baggy look.

Don’t just focus on the overall size, but evaluate the shoulder, waist, and chest too. Some shirts have adequate waist sizing, but their arms, cuffs, or even collar is tight. Thus, causing discomfort and blocking air. For convenience, correctly evaluate your hiking shirt while wearing it. And move around in the hiking shirt.

A properly fitting shirt will allow for a full range of motion and will not restrict movement. Specifically, to have the best fit choose the right size. This will save you from returning it, as the main problem faced after purchasing a shirt is immobility.

Besides, hiking shirts come in varying sizes that are illustrated on size charts. Carefully inspect every detail of the size chart rather than the overall size. Keep in mind that sizes vary from brand to brand. Likely, a well-fitting shirt you brought from a particular brand may not be the exact fit as another brand of the same size.

Style

There are various styles of hikers’ shirts, which include:

• Hoods
• Short-sleeved
• long-sleeved
• Tank tops
• Button-up shirts

Button-up shirts provide ventilation, sun protection, and a fashionable look. The short-sleeved shirts are suitable during mild weather or summer. They do not provide adequate skin coverage for extended exposure to direct sunlight. Be sure to protect your skin from direct sunlight during the summer.

During sunny summer hikes, I prefer wearing a long-sleeved shirt to protect my arms from the sun.

Tank tops allow airflow, but they expose the skin directly to the sun. They are not suitable for trekking with much sunlight. Sleeve shirts and hoodies offer UPF ratings and protection. They are not ideal for trekking in direct sunlight. Additionally, some hiking shirts have features like sun protection, insect repellent, and ventilation zips that can be useful for specific hiking environments.

Breathability

A shirt with good ventilation prevents any part of the body from becoming saturated with sweat. Shirts with zippers, mesh panels, and loose fits enhance airflow in hot weather. Sweat is common during rigorous summer hikes, so a breathable shirt helps speed up the drying process.

The mesh panels, many shirts with come with mesh panels, regulate the flow of air in the areas where the user sweats mostly. In cold weather, merino wool keeps hikers dry and comfortable. Effective moisture-wicking and breathability help hikers focus on their trip.

Zippers provide adjustable ventilation, while mesh panels increase airflow in high-sweat areas. These characteristics help to regulate the body temperature. They keep the skin breathable, wick moisture away, and prevent overheating.

Odor resistance

Cleanliness is crucial, especially when it comes to controlling offensive odors. Sportswear requires odor-resistant fabric to prevent unpleasant smells. Synthetic materials can retain odors, although various treatments help minimize them.

Merino wool fabrics, however, do not have this issue. It prevents bacterial growth. It extends the time a shirt is wearable, reducing how often it needs to be washed.

UPF

Another factor that affects hikers’ exposure to UV radiation. Yet, I often see many hikers wearing clothing during sunny hikes that provide no UV protection. The level of protection varies, with options such as UPF 30 or UPF 50 providing different degrees of UV defense. These levels protect against sunburn, early signs of aging, and skin cancer.

Make sure that you read the UPF ratings before making the purchase. With my extensive hikes in summer and mild weather, I found Columbia silver ridge an excellent option. They are designed to guard the skin against the effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Some have vents, like Columbia silver ridge shirt, to prevent irritation and overheating of the body Many button-up shirts feature openings and mesh panels that provide ventilation.

Layers

Consider wearing multiple layers if you hike in cold weather, like using base layer. Also, wearing a hiking shirt as an innerwear under a jacket on these cold and chilly days would be a great idea. And in this regard, you will have to size up your other outer garments, so they won’t be caught in a suffocating situation.

Velcro pockets

Velcro pockets or straps are features that bring ease to your journey and boost your confidence by upgrading your hiking shirt. These are highly functional features that will enhance your performance on the hikes. What are Velcro pockets? These are pockets with a flap with a strip on them. This strip performs the function of great safety.

Velcro pockets are handy features because they provide a secure seal to whatever small stuff you have put in them. You can keep snacks, maps, passports, wallets, cards, a compass, a small torch, a phone, etc. These pockets are far more secure than regular ones, as Velcro pockets can also help prevent items from bouncing around and jingling in your pockets as you hike.

Moreover, unlocking the strips layered onto the pockets is not hard. They are very manageable. They are unlike zippers or buttons, which are difficult to handle when wearing gloves. Even if your hands are cold or wet, they won’t be a headache. They are excellent keepers.

Furthermore, Velcro pockets can also be more versatile than other pockets. Make sure that the pockets are positioned correctly. Also, some shirts have pockets on the back. Consider how much gear you need to carry. And don’t overlook the number of pockets because a shirt with too many pockets looks too over and weird, except if you need them.

Sustainability

Manufacturers are embracing innovation by producing hiking shirts with sustainable materials and methods, including natural and recycled textiles. For many businesses, sustainability is a top priority.

Some companies prioritize respect for their workers and the environment, focusing on ethical material procurement. These companies often buy used equipment and merchandise from second-hand shops to minimize waste.

I prioritize buying shirts from these companies to support environmental causes. As an outdoor enthusiast, this matters a lot to me. Everyone should contribute to this cause for future generations.

Brand

Look for a reputable brand that specializes in outdoor gear. Brands like Patagonia, REI, and Columbia offer high-quality hiking shirts designed for the outdoors.

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