Mountain Hardwear Sunshield Hoody Review

Sun hoodies are the wonder layers of summer (and year-round). I dig wearing them on cool mornings on into the heat of the day because they provide a little warmth and then glorious sun protection during the afternoon. I’ve taken the Mountain Hardwear Sunshield Hoody from Utah to the Pacific Northwest and from the trails to the lake and it’s a keeper.

Mountain Hardwear Sunshield Hoody Features:

• Broad Spectrum filters out harsh UVA and UVB (UPF 50 rated)
• HeiQ Mint plant based odor control built-in
• Three-piece, scuba-style hood for extra coverage
• Half-zip with lightweight auto-lock zipper
• Lightweight and packable into its own stash pocket
• Secure zip pocket on left chest
• Raglan sleeves add freedom of movement
• Finished with elastic binding at neck, cuffs, and hem
• Colors: Black (tested), Glacier
• MSRP: $99.00

More than just a sun shield

Versatility is key with any piece of gear and while the Mountain Hardware Sunshield Hoody is aimed at summer sun protection, it’s more than just that. First off, let’s talk about color. If you’re truly going for a summer sun layer, black is definitely not the obvious choice. However, if when you’re wearing it, you want a little added warmth and sun protection, black is a great option. If you’re curious when black makes sense, here are a couple of great examples.

We often vacation along the Washington coast in Long Beach. While it can often be sunny there, most of the time, the maritime winds keep temperatures a bit chilly. We lovingly like to call it the “cold beach” in our family. But, wearing the black Sunshield Hoody is perfect because it adds warmth while also protecting from the sun while hanging out on the beach.

Another great use case for it have been early-ups at the lake on wake surfing sessions. On the boat, the added wind protection, black color and deployable hoody all work in concert to provide coverage and comfort. While these are two examples of sun protection when it’s not Africa hot outside, you’ll definitely have to choose your color based on your chosen activities and temperatures.

While in the Seattle area, I was able to pull the Sunshield Hoody on for some early morning trail running sessions. As luck would have it one morning, the cloud layer stuck around and caused some light summer rain — perfect for testing the water resistance of this hoody. With that light rain, the fabric did a great job of both shedding it off while simultaneously breathing. It’s a great fabric for light showers or splashes from crashing waves on the boat. And, hauling it around in a cargo pocket or pack is easy as it stashes small in its own stuff pocket.

I appreciate the minimalistic approach that makes the Mountain Hardwear Sunshield Hoody much more versatile. In the summer, I’ve worn it on top of a lightweight running shirt. But, when on the beach or on the boat, it’s great all by itself. As temperatures have dropped, I’ve layered it on top of long-sleeve tops for comfort while trail running into the mid-40’s

Mountain Hardwear states that it features a “standard fit” that’s not too tight or loose, I’d still call it streamlined and efficient, if not athletic. I’ve been wearing the size medium and the hem length is good overall, but I do wish or about another inch in the sleeves for improved coverage when reaching upwards or wearing it with lightweight running gloves. Sizing up could be an option, but it may end up being too loose. I’m fine living with the sleeve length over an oversized fit.

Overall, the Sunshied Hoody has kept itself stink-free after multiple uses and the lightweight fabric is wearing well, with no signs of use. It dries in a jiffy after any activity or lake spray. The streamlined hood is spectacular as it conforms around my noggin perfectly and only blocks my peripheral with sudden, full head twists. If you have a healthy head of hair, it will likely move with you even better (my shaved head pivots in there much easier).

Fit: I’m 5’11” and 175 lbs. wearing the size medium. Size up, if you want a more oversized, casual fit.

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