The best short sleeve t-shirt for hiking. Lightweight, breathable, quick-drying.

While we tend to prefer hiking in sun hoodies because they provide more coverage, the Outdoor Research Echo T-Shirt is our pick for the short sleeve lovers out there.

• Price: $46
• UPF Rating: 20
• Weight: 2.8 oz
• Fabric: Recycled polyester
• Pros: Lightest. Most breathable. Versatile. Quick drying. 100% recycled
• Cons: T-shirt chassis is inferior to a hoody.

Features

It is constructed with the same lightweight, breathable, comfortable AirVent mesh fabric as our top pick, the Echo Hoodie, and derives most of the same benefits.

The 100% recycled Airvent polyester feels like nothing at all. It is stretchy, moisture wicking, and supremely breathable. And it dries very quickly. Back sweat quickly dissipates upon arrival at camp. The Echo Hoodie never chafes and we find it to be very comfortable. This sun shirt is the perfect barrier against most ultraviolet light. We have never been sunburned through the fabric, even when hiking above 10,000 feet. Lastly, it is treated with ActiveFresh odor control, for which we are grateful.

Verdict

Not only is this a great hiking shirt, the Echo Tee is also great activewear for lounging at home on a hot day. It is a very useful garment, and while we prefer sun hoodies, the tee shirt version is ideal for those who prefer short sleeves and have adequate sunscreen on-hand.

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Compare this to more great options in our guide to the best hiking shirts of the year. And while you’re at it, perfect your layering system with our guide to rain jackets, down jackets, and fleece jackets.