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I hike, bike, fish, and play sports all over the Southwest and, on occasion, some spots in the Northeast, and for years, I've been on the quest for the best sun hoodie. I've tried several: I really enjoy Free Fly's Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie for hot days and Prana's Sol Shade Hoodie for cooler ones, but I recently got to test REI's core sun hoodie, and it may be my favorite.
The REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie is another one of these UPF 50+ sun-blocking hoodies that keep popping up, and it really works. I recently spent a day hiking various trails in Vermont, and everything from head to neck, my arms, and even my hands were burn-free. Best of all, now might be the perfect time to get one: During REI's Anniversary Sale, all colors are just $42, but it appears that pricing ends on May 25.
REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie, $42 (was $60) at REI
Pros
- Lightweight but not too light that the wind will send a chill down your spine
- The thumbholes allow you to keep the sleeves down in intense sunlight
- High neck and oversized hood mean both the front and back of your neck are protected
- Doesn't shrink in the wash
- The cord loop on the back of the neck allows you to hang without snagging the fabric
- Fair price
Cons
- Polyester fabric retains odor
This hoodie is part of REI Co-op's Sahara collection, which features styles specifically designed to breathe, shield skin from the sun, and keep you comfortable in warm temperatures.
It's available in seven colors and comes in sizes small through 3XL, with options for tall sizes. The construction is typical, polyester and spandex, which many will find useful outside.
Design-wise, there's nothing really new here. It has thumbholes, a high neck, and a nice loose-but-not-too-loose fit. One thing that does differ here is the hidden drawstring in the front, though that may or may not be useful, depending on what you're doing.
Related: REI's 'Most Comfortable' Sleeping Pad With 'Great' Insulation Is $138 Off Right Now
My Honest Thoughts
This is a fantastic sun hoodie. While I do appreciate merino wool for its odor-fighting properties, I think the polyester fabric in this hoodie makes a difference, maintaining optimal ventilation, wicking away sweat, and stretching in all directions for an enhanced range of motion. I have worn this as my sole top when stepping out, and even on a full-day excursion, I felt mobile, shaded but not cold, and dry at the same time, even when sweating.
The three-panel hood easily fits over a cap, and I used the thumbholes to keep the sleeves comfortably over my hands so they didn't burn, and it worked. I also found that the sleeves scrunched up easily and didn't fall.
The hoodie definitely stinks after a full day of sweaty adventure, but it washes up nicely and doesn't retain odors. I also didn't find the drawstring the first few wears, and so while I think it's neat that REI was able to offer that, I don't think it's totally necessary, save for some who may be experiencing heavy splashing or wind.
If you're poised to hit the outdoors this summer, it's worth picking up a Sahara Shade Hoodie, especially while they're on sale.
Shop More Deals
- REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack, $75 (was $100) at REI
- REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, $60 (was $80) at REI
- REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles, $67 (was $90) at REI
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