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I hike, bike, fish, and play sports all over the Southwest and occasionally a few places in the Northeast, and for years I’ve been on the hunt for the best sun hoodie. I’ve tried several: I really enjoy Free Fly’s Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie for hot days and Prana’s Soul Shade Hoody for cooler days, but I recently got a chance to test out REI’s Essential Sun Hoodie, and it might be my favorite so far.
The REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie is 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 was left with no burns from head to neck, my arms, and even my hands. The best part is that now might be the perfect time to buy it: During REI’s 4th of July Deals sale, which ends on July 6, some shades are just $42.
REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie, $42 at REI (was $60).
Pros
- Light but not so light that the wind chills your spine
- Thumbholes allow you to keep the sleeves down in bright sunlight
- High neck and oversized hood means both the front and back of your neck are protected
- does not shrink in washing
- Cord loop at the back of the neck allows you to hang clothes without any obstruction
- fair value
Shortcoming
- Polyester fabric retains odor
What to know before buying
This hoodie is part of REI Co-op’s Sahara collection, which includes styles specifically designed to breathe, protect skin from the sun, and keep you comfortable in hot temperatures.
It’s available in seven colors and comes in sizes small up to 3XL, with longer size options as well. The construction is typical, polyester and spandex, which many people will find useful outdoors.
Design-wise, there’s nothing really new here. It has thumb holes, a high neck and a nice loose but not too loose fit. One thing that’s different here is the hidden waistband at the front, though this may or may not be useful, depending on what you’re doing.
RELATED: REI quietly takes 50% off hiking boots – Danner, Salomon, Keen and more
my honest thoughts
This is a great sun hoodie. While I appreciate merino wool for its odor-fighting properties, I think the polyester fabric in this hoodie makes a difference, maintaining optimal ventilation, wicking sweat, and stretching in all directions for an increased range of motion. I’ve worn it as my only top when going out, and even on all-day excursions, I feel mobile, shady but not cold, and dry at the same time, even when sweating.
The three-panel hood fits easily over a hat, and I used thumbholes to keep the sleeves snug on my hands so they wouldn’t burn, and it worked. I also found that the sleeves crinkled easily and did not fall apart.
The hoodie definitely stinks after a long day of sweaty adventures, but it washes out well and doesn’t retain odors. The first few wears I couldn’t even find the drawstring, and so while I think it’s nice that REI was able to offer this, I don’t think it’s completely necessary, save for some people experiencing heavy gusts or wind.
If you are preparing to go out this summer, it is worth buying Sahara Shade hoodies, especially when they are on sale.
buy more deals
- Keen Targhee II Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots, $82 at REI (was $170).
- Prana Stretch Zion Field Pant, $50 (was $98) at REI.
- REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles, $67 at REI (was $90).
