Want to cruise in style without scorching your skin under those harmful UV rays? Lucky for you, there’s an entire arsenal of boating shirts designed for you to do just that. And with ample experience in the boating industry, our pros have narrowed down the best boat shirts in today’s blog post. Stay tuned!
The 8 Best Shirts for Boating
On the hunt for a new boating wardrobe? If so, you’ve come to the right place; below are 8 of the best shirts for boating:
1. Patagonia Men’s Stretch Planing Hybrid Shirt
With 50+ UPF sun protection, this shirt is one of the best UV shirts for boating. It reflects both UVA and UVB rays, making it ideal for fair-skinned folks. And because it’s made entirely from lightweight, recycled polyester (with a DWR finish), you’ll be just as comfortable as protected. It can be worn both in and out of the water.
Shop the Patagonia Men’s Stretch Planing Hybrid Shirt.
2. Coolibar Men’s Andros Fishing Hoodie UPF 50+
Want even more sun coverage? Check out this Coolibar Men’s Andros Fishing Hoodie UPF 50+. With full-length sleeves, hand coverage, a full-fitted hood, and a face buff (complete with a shapeable wire nosepiece to prevent slippage), this boating shirt can’t be beaten. In fact, Coolibar was the first clothing company to score The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.
Shop the Coolibar Men’s Andros Fishing Hoodie UPF 50+.
Read Next: Sun Safety Tips for Boaters
3. Howler Bros Loggerhead Shield Hoodie
Any anglers out there? If so, the Howler Bros Loggerhead Shield Hoodie has some features you’ll love. The flowy, loose fit is ultra-comfy, and the porous weave on the polyester material breathes wonderfully.
Additionally, fishermen appreciate the roomy kangaroo pocket’s storage capabilities (a rare feature on sun shirts). And, of course, we can’t forget the microfiber-lined sunglasses pocket.
Shop the Howler Bros Loggerhead Shield Hoodie.
Read Next: Fishing Tips: Freshwater & Saltwater Fish
4. Grundens Windchop Insulated Shirt
Still a bit chilly out there? The Grundens Windchop Insulated Shirt is one of the best boat shirts for colder weather.
Not only is it insulated, but it also features handwarmer pockets. And while it’s not waterproof, it is water- and wind-resistant. Despite the limited design selection, its neutral color options look good on anyone – trust us.
Shop the Grundens Windchop Insulated Shirt.
5. Gill UV Tech Hooded Shirt
This long-sleeve hooded sun shirt is ideal for all-around protection. Made with 100% polyester, the Gill UV Tech Hooded Shirt is fast-drying and has a UPF rating of 50+. And if you didn’t already know, that means just 2% — or less! — of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate it.
This sun hoodie also boasts technical tailoring features (like flatlock stitching and thumb loops) that enhance both comfort and performance.
Shop the Gill UV Tech Hooded Shirt.
6. Helly Hansen Merino Lightweight Tee
This insulated short sleeve shirt was designed for hotter days that get chilly with wind and splashing water.
In addition, this boating shirt achieves a wide thermal range by incorporating fine Merino wool with Helly Hansen’s proprietary Lifa technology. Therefore, we recommend this shirt as a sheer base layer for spring and fall sailing. And the best part? It has odor control, so it doesn’t trap body odor.
Shop the Helly Hansen Merino Lightweight Tee.
7. Gill Pro Rash Shirt
A rash guard is an item that should be in every boater’s closet. Worn on its own, this Gill Pro Rash Shirt blocks harmful UV rays. And worn as a base layer, it reduces chaffing from wet suits. This shirt protects your skin from stinging organisms while snorkeling or diving and provides warmth when paired with other layers.
We love this boating shirt because it offers the highest possible UV protection rating (UPF 50+), has four-way stretch fabric for mobility, and is a versatile garment for all your boating needs.
Shop the Gill Pro Rash Shirt.
8. Musto Foil Sunblock Impact Top
If you’re a competitive sailor, you know the sport comes with its fair share of bumps and bruises. However, that’s where the Musto Foil Sunblock Impact Top comes in. This rash guard has integrated padding in the shoulders, elbows, and forearms, which — as you know — are areas prone to getting whacked by the rigging.
Although it was developed for high-speed sailors, we believe anyone can benefit from the removable D30 pads. D30 is a soft, thermoplastic polyurethane that changes its molecular structure upon impact to cushion hard blows. And as a bonus, this premier boating shirt has a UPF rating of 50+.
Shop the Musto Foil Sunblock Impact Top.
Your One-Stop Shop for Boating Guides and Resources
If you’re getting ready to embark on your nautical adventure, we hope you bring one of these best shirts for boating along for the ride. And for more buying guides, boating resources, and excursion info, check out the Discover Boating blog.
