Why You Should Consider a Long-Sleeve Sun Hoodie for Hot Summer Runs

While summer to some is the time for “suns-out, guns-out” attire, an increasing number of trail runners are realizing the benefits of superlight, longsleeve hoodies for their sun protection, versatility and even style that crosses over seamlessly to the pub (post-corona era, of course!) post run. All of the hoodies reviewed here are comprised of technical fabric for wicking sweat and fast drying.

For most running situations, worn next to skin or combined with a light shortsleeve baselayer, the sun hoodie covers a wide spectrum of conditions. The full-length sleeves provide sun protection and, perhaps counter-intuitively, can keep you feeler cooler over exposed skin, and the hood covers your neck and sides of your face and fits over a running cap for even more shade (style-point deductions for wearing your cap over the hood!). Add a superlight water-resistant shell and you’re set for most summer mountain runs.

We rounded up our top sun hoodies for some sunny runs in Colorado—our testers are all now converts.

Black Diamond

Alpenglow Hoody

$85

Made with BD’s Polyester Stretch Textured Knit fabric, this slim-fitting model is touted to “reflect 71% of near-infrared rays” for a cooling effect and incorporates Polygiene odor control. Of the models tested here, the Alpenglow was by far the stretchiest material, which means you could even size down for a more of a form fit or if you prefer wearing it next to skin.

While there are no thumbholes, the sleeves can be easily pulled down over your hands for full protection.

Pros: Comfortable and highly stretchable fabric; generous-fitting hood; UPF 50+

Cons: Runs slightly long in hem and sleeve length.

Voormi

River Run Hoodie

$129

Over the past several years, wool has made a huge splash in the technical-apparel space, and, yes, it even has its place in hot-weather conditions. In fact, one of our editors wears wool socks and underwear pretty much everyday, year round. American-made and based in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Voormi produces a variety of wool and natural-fiber garments, and uses a plush, blended Merino wool in the River Run Hoodie, which features a relaxed, non-clingy comfortable fit in the body, arms and hood.

Thumb loops allow you to secure the sleeves over your hands, and a single-button closure can snug up the fit at the neck.

Pros: Comfortable, stylish and odor reducing material

Cons: Pricey

Patagonia

Capilene Cool Daily Hoody

$55

The beautifully simple Cool Daily Hoody offers a fit between athletic and relaxed, and the fabric felt soft and comfortable next to skin. With HieQ Fresh odor control built in, the hoody offers some stretch and a hood that fits a bit closer (but non-restrictively) than other models tested here.

The comfort and fit of the Cool Daily Hoody made it a quick favorite of testers.

Pros: Athletic fit; comfortable fabric; good value; uses recycled material; UPF 50+

Cons: None