When it comes to the best hiking shirts for women, there are many options to choose from, and it can be challenging to find the right one for your needs. I want to help you demystify “hiking clothes”.
My kids always tell me that I dress like a nurse or hiker. I’m a pro at “functional clothing”. (I can rock some linen too! Darn it!)
Let me share the best value, comfort and style picks for hiking shirts for women of varying sizes and shapes.
Despite having no rack, I ask all the questions of my girlfriends who may be endowed and have figured out the different types of shirts are good for different sets of DNA, climate, and needs.
Do you need a shirt to protect from sun damage because you’re transparent? Maybe you want to carry a pack? Maybe you’re blessed with melanin and simply want more air up in the pits despite the sun exposure.
⭐️ Jump directly to the buying guide.
I’m obsessed with women getting out in Nature and have hiked in 3 continents. Trust me, a good shirt can make a difference and help you feel more comfortable out on a hike.
Let’s jump in the top picks.
My Review Process
When selecting a hiking shirt, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the material. Hiking shirts are typically made from synthetic materials or natural fibers like wool or cotton. Synthetic materials are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, making them an excellent choice for warm weather hiking. Natural fibers like wool are more durable and can provide insulation in colder temperatures.
Another factor to consider is the fit of the shirt. You’ll want a hiking shirt that fits well, but is also comfortable and allows for a full range of motion. Look for shirts with stretchy materials or features like gussets that allow for greater movement.
11 Best Hiking Shirts for Women
When it comes to hiking, having the right gear can make all the difference. And one of the most important pieces of gear for any hiker is a good quality shirt. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best hiking shirts for women.
Black Diamond Lightwire Tech Tee
If you’re looking for a comfortable and functional hiking shirt, the Black Diamond Lightwire Tech Tee is a great option.
Pros
- Made with recycled content
- Quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric
- Underarm gussets for added mobility
Cons
- Only available in one color
- Sizing runs small
- Reflective logos are not very visible
The Lightwire Tech Tee is made with recycled content, making it an eco-friendly choice for hikers. The quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric keeps you comfortable on hot and sweaty hikes, while underarm gussets provide added mobility for scrambling over rocks and logs.
However, the shirt is only available in one color, which may not suit everyone’s taste. Additionally, the sizing runs small, so it’s recommended to size up for a comfortable fit. Finally, while the shirt does have reflective logos, they’re not very visible, which could be a safety concern for hikers who are out after dark.
THE NORTH FACE Women’s Terrain Short Sleeve Scoopneck Tee
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish hiking shirt, you should consider purchasing THE NORTH FACE Women’s Terrain Short Sleeve Scoopneck Tee.
Pros
- The shirt is made of a soft and sustainable blend of cotton, polyester, and TENCEL Lyocell fabric that feels great against your skin.
- The shirt has a flattering shape and ample mobility through the chest and shoulders, making it easy and comfortable to move around in.
- The shirt is versatile and functional, with a slightly curved hem with ladder stitching that provides extra coverage and makes it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.
Cons
- The shirt may have either slight body shaping or a straight fit throughout, which may not be ideal for everyone.
- The shirt may not be suitable for colder weather, as it is designed for warm-weather use.
- The shirt may not be suitable for those who prefer a looser fit, as it fits true-to-size.
The Women’s Terrain Short Sleeve Scoopneck Tee is an essential closet staple that is perfect for hiking, training, or just kicking back. You can pair it with your favorite jeans or athletic shorts and proudly wear the badge of exploration with The North Face.
The shirt is made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and TENCEL Lyocell, which is derived from renewable wood sources using sustainable processes. This makes it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for those who are conscious of their environmental impact.
The shirt has a stylish scoop-neck collar and a flattering shape that fits true-to-size, making it easy and comfortable to move around in. It also has functional features that help you go further, such as a slightly curved hem with ladder stitching that provides extra coverage.
Mountain Hardwear Women’s Trek N Go Sleeveless
If you’re looking for a comfortable and sustainable hiking shirt, the Mountain Hardwear Women’s Trek N Go Sleeveless might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The soft and stretchy jersey fabric is perfect for all-day wear and impromptu yoga sessions.
- The UPF 40 fabric provides excellent protection against harsh UV rays, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- The cropped length and curved hem add a stylish touch to this functional hiking shirt.
Cons
- The sleeveless design might not be suitable for those who prefer more coverage.
- The shirt might run small, so it’s important to check the sizing chart before purchasing.
- The shirt is only available in one color (Cactus White), so there’s not much variety in terms of style.
Crafted from a sustainable jersey-knit fabric that’s soft and stretchy, the Mountain Hardwear Women’s Trek N Go Sleeveless is perfect for hiking, yoga, or lounging around in the park. The UPF 40 fabric filters harsh UV rays, making it ideal for outdoor activities, while the moisture-wicking properties keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
The cropped length and curved hem add a stylish touch to this functional hiking shirt, and the sleeveless design allows for maximum range of motion. However, if you prefer more coverage, this shirt might not be the best choice for you.
It’s worth noting that the shirt might run small, so it’s important to check the sizing chart before purchasing. Additionally, the shirt is only available in one color (Cactus White), which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Cotopaxi Do Good Organic T-Shirt – Women’s Nectar Small
If you’re looking for a comfortable, eco-friendly hiking shirt that supports a good cause, the Cotopaxi Do Good Organic T-Shirt is a great option.
Pros
- The organic cotton and recycled polyester blend is soft and comfortable, with a slightly fitted cut that’s flattering without being restrictive.
- The shirt is manufactured in a Fair Trade Certified factory, so you can feel good about supporting ethical labor practices.
- The “Look good, Do Good” message printed on the shirt is a great conversation starter and a reminder to be mindful of your impact on the environment.
Cons
- The shirt is only available in one color (nectar), which may not be to everyone’s taste.
- Some users have reported that the shirt runs small, so you may want to consider sizing up if you prefer a looser fit.
- The price point is a bit higher than some other hiking shirts on the market, but the ethical manufacturing and eco-friendly materials may justify the cost for some buyers.
If you’re looking for a versatile hiking shirt that’s both comfortable and eco-friendly, the Cotopaxi Do Good Organic T-Shirt is definitely worth considering. The organic cotton and recycled polyester blend is soft and breathable, making it a great choice for warm weather hikes. The slightly fitted cut is flattering without being constricting, and the shirt is available in sizes XS to XL to accommodate a range of body types.
One of the standout features of this shirt is the “Look good, Do Good” message printed on the front. Not only is it a great conversation starter, but it also serves as a reminder to be mindful of your impact on the environment and to support ethical manufacturing practices. Speaking of which, the shirt is manufactured in a Fair Trade Certified factory, so you can feel good about your purchase knowing that it supports ethical labor practices.
While the nectar color may not be to everyone’s taste, it’s a cheerful and summery option that pairs well with a variety of hiking pants and shorts. Some users have reported that the shirt runs small, so you may want to consider sizing up if you prefer a looser fit. And while the price point is a bit higher than some other hiking shirts on the market, the ethical manufacturing and eco-friendly materials may justify the cost for some buyers.
Smartwool Women’s Merino Sport 150 Tee
If you’re in the market for a comfortable and versatile hiking shirt, the Smartwool Women’s Merino Sport 150 Tee is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made from 100% wool, this shirt is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- The custom mountainscape design adds a touch of style to this functional shirt.
- The regular fit silhouette offers plenty of room to move without adding bulk.
Cons
- The shirt is on the pricier side compared to other hiking shirts on the market.
- Some customers have reported sizing issues, so be sure to check the size chart before ordering.
- The shirt requires special care when washing, so it may not be the most convenient option for some users.
The Smartwool Women’s Merino Sport 150 Tee is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality hiking shirt that looks and feels great. Made from 100% wool, this shirt is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Plus, the custom mountainscape design adds a touch of style to this functional shirt.
In terms of fit, the regular fit silhouette offers plenty of room to move without adding bulk, so you can stay comfortable all day long. However, some customers have reported sizing issues, so be sure to check the size chart before ordering.
While the Smartwool Women’s Merino Sport 150 Tee is on the pricier side compared to other hiking shirts on the market, the quality and durability of the shirt make it well worth the investment. The only downside is that the shirt requires special care when washing, so it may not be the most convenient option for some users.
Columbia Women’s Silver Ridge Lite Long Sleeve Shirt
If you’re looking for a lightweight, breathable, and comfortable hiking shirt for women, then the Columbia Women’s Silver Ridge Lite Long Sleeve Shirt is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Made with moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry and comfortable during your hike
- UPF 40 sun protection to protect your skin from harmful UV rays
- Roll-up sleeves and vented back for added breathability
Cons
- May run slightly small, so consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit
- The shirt may wrinkle easily, so it’s recommended to pack it carefully for travel
- Some reviewers have noted that the buttons may come loose over time
The Silver Ridge Lite Long Sleeve Shirt is made with Columbia’s Omni-Wick technology, which helps to wick away moisture and keep you dry and comfortable during your hike. The UPF 40 sun protection is also a great feature to have, especially if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors. The roll-up sleeves and vented back also help to keep you cool and comfortable on warmer days.
One thing to keep in mind is that the shirt may run slightly small, so it’s recommended to size up if you’re looking for a more comfortable fit. Additionally, some reviewers have noted that the buttons may come loose over time, so it’s important to take care when washing and wearing the shirt.
Outdoor Research Women’s Echo Long Sleeve Tee
If you’re looking for a comfortable and breathable hiking shirt that provides UV protection, then the Outdoor Research Women’s Echo Long Sleeve Tee is a great option.
Pros
- The eco-friendly mesh fabric with a stretch fit keeps you cool and dry in hot weather.
- The AirVent moisture management system keeps you dry and sweat-free, even during high-exertion activities.
- The UPF sun protection of the shirt protects you from harmful sun rays.
Cons
- The shirt is not very durable and may start to wear out quickly.
- The sizing runs small, so you may need to order a size up.
- The shirt is not very stylish and may not be suitable for everyday wear.
This long sleeve hiking shirt is made of bluesign approved 100% recycled polyester, making it both durable and soft. It features flat-seam construction and wicking Echo fabric, which keeps you sweat-free even during high-exertion activities in the heat. The shirt is also breathable and keeps you comfortable, unlike other UV protection clothing.
The movement-mirroring stretch of this women’s long sleeve tee shirt offers better stretch and fit for a full range of movement. Its ActiveFresh odor control feature blocks odor, keeping you stink-free all day long. The shirt also comes with a reflective logo and set-in sleeves, making it a great option for outdoor activities.
Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody
If you’re looking for a reliable hiking shirt that can protect you from the sun and rain, the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody is a great option.
Pros
- The UPF 50+ fabric and Empel Technology provide excellent sun protection and water resistance.
- The thumbloops and over-the-helmet compatible hood make it easy to wear with other gear.
- The zippered chest pocket is a convenient place to store small items.
Cons
- The hand wash only care instructions can be inconvenient for some users.
- The price point may be a bit high for some budgets.
- The sizing may run a bit small for some users.
The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody is a great choice for hikers who need a shirt that can handle a variety of weather conditions. The UPF 50+ fabric and Empel Technology provide excellent sun protection and water resistance, while the thumbloops and over-the-helmet compatible hood make it easy to wear with other gear. The zippered chest pocket is also a convenient place to store small items.
While the hand wash only care instructions may be inconvenient for some users, it’s a small price to pay for the added protection and durability of the shirt. The price point may be a bit high for some budgets, but the quality of the shirt makes it a worthwhile investment. It’s worth noting that the sizing may run a bit small for some users, so it’s important to check the sizing chart before purchasing.
BALEAF Women’s Quick Dry Shirts Long Sleeve
If you’re looking for a comfortable, stylish, and functional hiking shirt, the BALEAF Women’s Quick Dry Shirts Long Sleeve is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The quick-dry and lightweight fabric is perfect for keeping you dry and comfortable all day.
- The UPF50+ sun protection is great for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- The hidden zipper pocket is a convenient feature for keeping your valuables safe and secure.
Cons
- The shirt is slightly see-through, which may not be ideal for some users.
- The perfume odor of the shirt may be too strong for some users.
- The shirt may run a bit larger than expected, so be sure to check the sizing chart before purchasing.
The BALEAF Women’s Quick Dry Shirts Long Sleeve is made with a combination of soft and stretchy fabric on the front and quick-dry and lightweight fabric on the back. This design allows for moisture to be wicked away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable all day. The UPF50+ sun protection is great for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, and the long-raglan sleeves with thumbholes provide extra coverage to keep you safe in the sun. The hidden zipper pocket is a convenient feature for keeping your valuables safe and secure, while the 2 special hidden window design on the wrist allows you to check your watch or fitness tracker anytime without pulling the thumbhole off.
Jessie Kidden Women’s Hiking Shirt
If you’re looking for a lightweight, comfortable hiking shirt that offers maximum sun protection, the Jessie Kidden Women’s Hiking Shirt is a great option.
Pros
- The Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric provides excellent sun protection, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- The Omni-Wick technology keeps you cool and dry by wicking moisture away from your skin.
- The roll-up sleeves make it easy to convert the shirt from a long-sleeve to a short-sleeve shirt on hot days.
Cons
- Some customers have reported issues with the buttons coming loose or falling off after a few wears.
- The sizing can be a bit inconsistent, so be sure to check the size chart before ordering.
- The shirt may not be as durable as some other hiking shirts on the market.
This hiking shirt is perfect for women who want a comfortable, breathable shirt that offers excellent sun protection. The fabric is lightweight and dries quickly, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing. The mesh-lined vented back provides additional breathability and comfort, even on hot days.
The Jessie Kidden Women’s Hiking Shirt features two chest pockets with closures and a sunglasses hanger loop, making it easy to store your essentials while on the go. The modern classic casual fit is both stylish and comfortable, and the shirt comes in a range of colors to suit your personal style.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best hiking shirt for women, there are a few key features you should consider:
Material
The material of your hiking shirt is important to consider. Look for a fabric that is moisture-wicking and breathable, so that you stay cool and dry on the trail. Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon are popular choices for hiking shirts, as they dry quickly and are lightweight.
Fit
The fit of your hiking shirt is also important. Look for a shirt that fits well and allows for a full range of motion. A shirt that is too tight or too loose can be uncomfortable and restrict your movement on the trail.
Sun Protection
If you plan to hike in sunny conditions, look for a hiking shirt with built-in sun protection. Many hiking shirts come with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) ratings, which indicate how much protection the fabric provides against the sun’s harmful rays.
Features
Consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as pockets for storing small items, ventilation for added breathability, or odor-resistant technology to keep you smelling fresh on longer hikes.
When choosing a hiking shirt, keep in mind the specific conditions you will be hiking in and what features are most important to you. By considering these factors, you can find the best hiking shirt for your needs and enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some features to look for in a hiking shirt?
When selecting a hiking shirt, you should consider features such as breathability, moisture-wicking, UPF sun protection, and durability. Breathable fabrics will help keep you cool and comfortable during your hike, while moisture-wicking properties will draw sweat away from your skin. UPF sun protection will help shield your skin from harmful UV rays, and a durable fabric will hold up to the wear and tear of the trail.
Are there any hiking shirts specifically designed for hot weather?
Yes, there are hiking shirts designed for hot weather. Look for shirts made from lightweight, breathable fabrics such as nylon or polyester. These fabrics will help keep you cool and dry during your hike. Some shirts also have mesh panels or vents to increase airflow.
What are some popular brands for hiking shirts?
Some popular brands for hiking shirts include Columbia, Patagonia, The North Face, and REI Co-op. These brands offer a variety of styles, fabrics, and features to meet your hiking needs.
Can you recommend a quick-dry hiking shirt?
Yes, a quick-dry hiking shirt is a great option for those who want to stay dry and comfortable during their hike. The Columbia Women’s Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt is a popular choice. It is made from a quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric and has UPF 40 sun protection.
What is the difference between a hiking shirt and a regular shirt?
Hiking shirts are designed specifically for outdoor activities and are made from technical fabrics that offer features such as breathability, moisture-wicking, and sun protection. Regular shirts are not designed for outdoor activities and may not have these features.
Do hiking shirts come in different sleeve lengths?
Yes, hiking shirts come in different sleeve lengths, including short sleeve, long sleeve, and 3/4 sleeve. Choose a sleeve length that suits your needs and the weather conditions you will be hiking in.
Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.