The Best Hiking Shirts For New Hampshire's Summer

Let’s face it. New Hampshire summers are not only hot, but they are also humid. This powerful combination means that you are likely to emerge from your hike a soggy, sweaty mess. 

Unless you want to look like something the cat dragged in, you’ll need a moisture-wicking, quick-drying hiking shirt. 

Not only will a quality shirt keep the moisture away from you and allow you to enjoy the pleasures of evaporative cooling, but it will also protect you from cuts, nicks, and harmful UV rays, especially if you’re spending some time above the treeline with the sun beating down mercilessly on you. 

If you’re shopping for a new hiking shirt, here are some of our favorites! 

1. Under Armour Tech 2.0 V-Neck

This 100% polyester shirt is a fuss-free go-to for sweaty gear. Loose, lightweight, and cooling, it wicks sweat away and dries in a flash. 

Available in an impressive range of colors and sizes from XS to 5XL.

Link - 1. Under Armour Tech 2.0 V-Neck

2. Toumett Women's UPF 50 Long Sleeve 

Super lightweight and breathable, this relaxed, casual shirt keeps you comfortable all day. This stain-resistant fabric has UPF 50 protection to reduce UV exposure and the mesh-lined vented back lets the air right through. 

Too hot for long sleeves? Roll them up and button them down and presto, short sleeves. 

Available in several colors and sizes from XS to 2XL.

3. 33,000ft Men’s UPF 50 Long Sleeve 

This shirt is made with high-tech air vent fabric for superior breathability. With excellent moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, you’ll stay cool and comfortable all day. 

Soft, stretchy, and wrinkle-free, this versatile shirt can also be converted to a short sleeve by buttoning it up. Available in a women’s version too! 

4. Columbia Men's PFG Tamiami II 

This UPF 40 shirt also wicks moisture and is quick drying. The mesh-lined vented back adds to its breathability, and with a modern classic fit, this ultra-light shirt is comfortable enough to be worn on the most grueling of hikes. 

Columbia’s patented Omni-Shade tight weave construction blocks the full spectrum of harmful UV rays while the durable fabric protects you from mild cuts and scrapes. Available in multiple colors and sized from XS to 6XL. 

5. TACVASEN Men's Convertible Long Sleeve Shirt

Made with 100% nylon, this shirt has removable half sleeves, instantly converting it from a long sleeve to a short. Abrasion-resistant and breathable with a back mesh design, this shirt delivers maximum ventilation on hot days. 

Available in multiple colors and sized from small to 2XL.

6. Little Donkey Andy Women's UV Protection Shirt UPF 50+

This simple shirt is constructed with air-hole technology fabric, allowing moisture to evaporate quickly and keep you dry. With UPF 50 sun protection, this ultra-light shirt allows freedom of movement with an innovative four-way stretch. 

The hidden back mesh panels deliver superior airflow which is perfect for the hot, humid New Hampshire summers. Available in four colors and sizes from XS to 2XL. 

Tips on Picking a Hiking Shirt 

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Here are a few things to look out for when summer-hiking-shirt shopping.

Durability - When bush-whacking, getting stuck in branches, or scraping against sharp rocks, the last thing you want to hear is the sound of your shirt tearing. 

Breathability - Synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester keep you more ventilated than other fabrics like cotton, which absorbs moisture. 

Quick Drying - Not only do you want your sweat to dry off fast, but having the shirt washed, dried, and ready for the next day’s hike is also helpful. 

Comfort and Fit - The best shirts make you forget they are even there until they save your skin. Literally.

Lightweight - There are exceptions of course, but the lighter they are, the quicker they dry. You also want to keep your travel weight down. 

Odor-Resistant - Synthetic fabrics and Merino wool tend to minimize odors, which is great (for others) if you’re thinking of going for a post-hike celebratory beverage. 

Sun Protection - The sun can be merciless in the summer, especially at higher elevations and above the treeline where there’s zero shade. You don’t want to burn or damage your skin. 

Final Thoughts

Hiking in the summer is what it’s all about, and a good shirt can make or break your day. Do you have a favorite go-to shirt? Drop us a note and let us know, we’re always game to try something new!