My Favorite Women’s Hiking Tops (2026)
My favorite hiking tops are lightweight, provide full coverage from the sun, and feature a high amount of breathability and wicking properties so I don’t get overheated when exerting.
When it comes to hiking tops, I focus on performance in a wide range of conditions — from hot, exposed trails to cooler days that require layering. These are my favorite women’s hiking tops, with options I’ve worn on everything from day hikes to backpacking trips.
For warmer weather, I look for lightweight fabrics that provide full sun protection while still allowing for plenty of airflow and ventilation. Breathability is key for staying comfortable on exposed trails, especially during long days in the sun.
In colder weather, I prioritize tops that layer well with mid-layers — pieces that fit comfortably under jackets or fleece without feeling bulky or restrictive. Having a good layering system makes it easier to adapt to changing conditions throughout the day, whether I’m hiking in the mountains, in the forest, or along the coast.
Sun Hoodies
REI Flash Shade Hoodie
New for 2026, this sun hoodie from REI is an ultralight layer designed for warm-weather hikes, offering built-in UPF 50+ sun protection without sacrificing breathability. The fabric has an open, mesh-like weave that allows heat to escape, making it more comfortable than many sun hoodies in higher temps. It has a flattering fit that’s not too boxy or too tight, along with raglan sleeves for better mobility and comfort through the shoulders and underarms. Thoughtful details — like extended neck coverage, a ponytail-compatible hood, and longer sleeves with thumb holes — add extra sun protection where it counts.
- sizes available: XS – 3X
- fabric: 67% recycled polyester/33% LanzaTech polyester (bluesign approved)
See my full review of the Flash Shade Hoodie
Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Merino Hoodie
The Tern hoodie is one of my top favorite hiking tops. I wear it as a base layer when hiking and backpacking in all seasons due to the comfortable fit and its quick-drying and sun protection properties. The fabric of this hoodie is slightly textured, super soft, and lightweight. And while it has some stretch, the polyester blended with the merino wool helps to retain its shape without becoming baggy after several days of wear. With more of an open weave to the knit fabric, it’s also very breathable for allowing airflow when exerting. And best of all, it doesn’t retain odors, even when I’ve been sweating all day.
- sizes available: XS – 3XL
- fabric: 63% merino (18 micron), 29% polyester, 8% nylon, knit
See my full review of the Tern Hoodie
Himali Eclipse Sun Hoodie
The Himali sun hoodie is made from a mesh-like polyester fabric that offers outstanding breathability in hot weather. It features four-way stretch for added comfort, a UPF 20 rating for sun protection, and excellent moisture-wicking performance. A lightweight design at just 4 ounces, it also includes a zipper-free side pocket for convenience.
- sizes available: XS – XL
- fabric: polyester
See my full review of the Eclipse Hoodie
Outdoor Vitals Altitude Ultralight Hoodie
The Altitude Sun Hoodie from Outdoor Vitals is one of the lightest top layer options available – both in weight and in breathability. The polyester fabric is an open weave, with plenty of ventilation and moisture-wicking properties for wearing in hot weather to prevent overheating. It also dries super fast. And it only weighs 3.3 ounces for a women’s size small. For hiking, I really like the looser fit of this hoodie, and the longer sleeves with thumbholes.
- sizes available: S – 2XL
- fabric: 80 GSM 100% polyester
See my full review of the Altitude Hoodie
Best for Mosquito Protection
Royal Robbins Expedition III Long-sleeve Shirt
New for 2025, the Royal Robbins Expedition III shirt, made from 100% recycled polyester, features a tightly woven fabric with chemical-free Mosquito Protection Technology™ – creating a chemical-free barrier that effectively shields against bites while staying environmentally friendly. I like the loose fit of the top for hot weather since it allows air to flow and keeps me cool on trail and at camp. It also provides sun protection with a 40+ SPF rating.
- sizes available: XS – XL
- fabric: 100% polyester
Long-Sleeve Tops
REI Sahara Shade Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
The Sahara Shade top is made with UPF 50+ performance fabric, offering excellent sun protection while maintaining a loose, comfortable fit. I love the shorter length since most t-shirts tend to run too long on me, yet the sleeves — with thumb loops — are long enough to cover my hands. The overall fit is fantastic — neither too tight nor too loose — allowing for great freedom of movement, which I really appreciate.
- sizes available: XS – 3X
- fabric: 91% polyester/9% spandex (bluesign approved)
Paka Aire Long Sleeve Top
The Paka Aire is made from a blend of alpaca fiber and Tencel, making it the softest top I own for hiking. Naturally moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, the alpaca fibers provide excellent thermoregulation and handle moisture even better than wool. I use it as a baselayer on hikes and as a sleep top on backpacking and camping trips. Paka’s products are sustainably made with zero microplastics, while also supporting alpaca farmers and artisans in Peru.
- sizes available: XS – XXL
- fabric: 85% Tencel / 15% Royal Alpaca
Short-sleeve tops
While merino wool may not seem like a good choice for hot weather, it naturally helps regulate temperature, wicks moisture, and resists odor — keeping you comfortable even on hot days. This short sleeve top from Ibex is a good choice for hiking in warmer weather, with a soft fabric feel and a looser fit that offers excellent breathability. Part of Ibex’s GOAT collection, it uses a special knitting method where strong synthetic fibers are wrapped around the merino wool to make it more durable without losing comfort. It also provides UPF 50+ sun protection, and thoughtful details like offset shoulder seams help reduce chafing under a backpack.
- sizes available: XS – XXL
- fabric: 89% merino wool, 11% nylon
See my full review of the Ibex GOAT Top
REI Swiftland Running T-shirt: This ultralight polyester t-shirt is made from a stretchy mesh-like fabric that wicks sweat and dries fast to keep you cool on the trail. Features include flatseam construction, underarm gussets and side vents for comfort. Fair Trade certified manufacturing and made from bluesign-approved materials. I like the fitted shape of the Swiftland for wearing with hiking pants or shorts.
- sizes available: XS – 3X
- fabric: polyester (bluesign approved)
REI Sahara T-shirt: The Sahara t-shirt is made from a polyester/spandex blend for soft, comfortable stretch. Features include an antimicrobial treatment that inhibits odors, and UPF 30 sun protection. I like the looser fit of this top and longer length – great for wearing with leggings.
- sizes available: XS – 3X
- fabric: 91% polyester/9% spandex (bluesign approved)