Best Wool Sunshirts for Hiking in 2025: Top Picks for Sun Protection and Comfort

When it comes to hiking under the hot sun, there’s one piece of gear that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential: the sunshirt. Whether you’re logging miles in the high alpine or wandering through the desert, staying protected from UV rays without overheating is key. And if you’re not a big fan of slathering on sunscreen every couple of hours, a good sunshirt is your best friend.

While synthetic sunshirts are everywhere, wool-blend sun hoodies are gaining traction for their breathability, odor resistance, and natural thermoregulation. They’re especially great for multi-day trips where staying fresh matters, and they’re surprisingly comfortable even in hot weather.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the best wool sunshirts for hiking in 2025. These top picks use merino or alpaca blends to give you coverage, comfort, and performance—all in a lightweight, trail-ready hoodie.

Why Wool Sunshirts Are a Game-Changer

Wearing long sleeves in the heat might seem counterintuitive, but a good sunshirt can actually keep you cooler than a t-shirt. Here's why more hikers are turning to wool:

• UV Protection Without Chemicals – Many wool shirts have a UPF rating, and they cover your arms, neck, and shoulders without relying on sunscreen.
• Melanoma Risk is Real – Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and melanoma is the deadliest form. Long-term exposure, especially at high elevation, significantly raises the risk.
• Breathable & Cooling – Merino and alpaca wick moisture and help regulate your temperature naturally.
• Stink-Free Hiking – Wool is naturally antimicrobial, so it stays fresh longer than synthetics—ideal for thru-hikes and multi-day trips.
• Great for Sensitive Skin – No harsh chemicals, no heavy sunblock—just soft, natural fabric between you and the sun.

If you’re ready to ditch the sunscreen hassle and upgrade your trail wardrobe, here are our top wool sunshirts of 2025.

The Best Wool Sunshirts for Hiking in 2025

PAKA Sol Hoodie

Material: Alpaca & TENCEL™
UPF: 30+

PAKA’s Sol Hoodie is made from a breathable blend of baby alpaca and TENCEL™, giving it a silky, light-as-air feel. This shirt is a standout for its soft texture and eco-friendly fiber sourcing. It’s perfect for warm days when you want something very lightweight but protective.

Standout Features:

• Ultra-soft and breezy for hot weather
• Great airflow and thermoregulation
• Natural odor resistance from alpaca fiber
• Packable and quick-drying

What to Consider:
The fabric is thinner than some merino options—great for breathability, but may not hold up as well under pack straps over time.

WURU Corespun Merino Lightweight Hoodie

Material: Merino wool (125 GSM) with nylon core
UPF: 40

Hand-sewn in Salt Lake City, WURU’s Corespun Hoodie is a high-performance wool sunshirt made with durability in mind. By spinning the merino around a nylon core, you get better longevity without losing the softness and performance of wool.

Standout Features:

• High UPF 40 protection
• Thumb loops and a fitted hood for extra coverage
• Great next-to-skin comfort with a relaxed fit
• Breathable, durable, and stink-free

What to Consider:
A bit shorter in the torso than some other options—size up for a roomier fit if needed.

Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Hoodie

Material: 87% merino wool / 13% nylon (145 GSM)
UPF: 30+

This hoodie is a cult favorite for good reason—it strikes a perfect balance between performance and comfort. The Solstice Hoodie is ideal for long days on the trail, and the slightly thicker fabric makes it a bit more durable for shoulder-season hikes.

Standout Features:

• Deep hood with plenty of coverage
• Drop hem and thumb loops for sun protection
• Great for layering in cooler temps
• Subtle style, so you can wear it off-trail too

What to Consider:
It’s a little heavier than others on this list—but that’s a plus in variable weather.

Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Hoodie

Material: 58% merino wool / 42% nylon (115 GSM)
UPF: 36+

If you’re looking for the lightest possible wool sunshirt, this is it. The Tern Hoodie is built ultralight for big miles, minimal pack weight, and maximum comfort in the heat. It’s got a sleek, technical cut with flatlock seams that won’t chafe under pack straps.

Standout Features:

• Super lightweight and trail-specific
• Great packability and breathability
• Simple, no-frills design focused on function
• Fast-drying and odor-resistant

What to Consider:
No thumb loops or extra hem length—but it makes up for it in weight savings.

Fjällräven Abisko Wool Hoodie

Material: Wool and recycled polyester blend
UPF: Not listed, but provides solid coverage

This isn’t a pure merino sunshirt, but it’s worth including for those who want a slightly burlier hoodie that still breathes well. The Abisko line is designed for trekking and durability, with a great blend of natural and technical materials.

Standout Features:

• Reinforced hood brim for sun and wind
• Full-length fit and articulated sleeves
• High-wear durability with soft hand-feel
• More structured than ultralight options

What to Consider:
Heavier and bulkier than the others here—great for mountain conditions, less ideal in desert heat.

Ibex Springbok Sun Hoodie

Material: 45% merino wool / 45% TENCEL™ / 10% nylon (150 GSM)
UPF: 35+

Ibex’s Springbok Sun Hoodie is a standout for active hikers and runners seeking a lightweight, breathable layer. The merino-TENCEL™ blend offers exceptional moisture-wicking and thermoregulation, making it ideal for both hot and cool conditions.

Standout Features:

• Lightweight and breathable fabric
• Elastic thumb loops for added sun protection
• 3-panel anatomical hood fits under helmets
• Offset shoulder seams to prevent chafing from backpacks
• Hang loop for easy drying

What to Consider:
This one runs athletic/slim—great for layering or active movement, but you might want to size up if you prefer a looser fit. Also note the lighter weight fabric may not offer as much durability under heavy backpack straps.

Quick Comparison Table

Final Thoughts

Wool sunshirts are a smart, eco-conscious choice for hikers who want to stay protected and comfortable without constant sunscreen reapplication. Whether you’re going ultralight, need something for shoulder-season backpacking, or just want to smell less funky on trail, these hoodies have your back—literally.

Drop your favorite into your summer hiking kit, and enjoy the miles ahead with less sunburn, less stink, and a whole lot more comfort.

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