Whether you’re an avid sailor, a casual boater, or someone who enjoys a day of fishing, having the right gear is essential. One of the most important pieces of clothing you can wear on the water is a good boat shirt. The ideal boat shirt not only shields you from the sun’s harmful UV rays but also ensures comfort, functionality, and style while you’re out on the water. In this article, we’ll explore the 8 best boat shirts for both protection and style, offering options that cater to different needs, budgets, and tastes.
1. Columbia PFG Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt
Price: $40–$50
Best for: All-around protection and versatility
The Columbia PFG (Performance Fishing Gear) Tamiami II is a versatile choice for anyone who spends long hours on the water. This shirt is designed with the outdoors in mind, offering UPF 40 sun protection, which blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays. It’s lightweight, made from moisture-wicking polyester, and includes mesh-lined vents to keep you cool in warm weather. Additionally, its antimicrobial treatment reduces odor, making it perfect for all-day wear.
Specs:
- UPF 40 sun protection
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric
- Antimicrobial treatment
- Vented design for breathability
- Roll-up sleeves with tab holders
Style Points: Available in a wide range of colors, the Tamiami II strikes a balance between performance and casual style, making it equally appropriate for a day of fishing or a casual seaside lunch.
2. Simms SolarFlex Hoody
Price: $69.95
Best for: Anglers and sun protection
The Simms SolarFlex Hoody is a favorite among anglers due to its sun-blocking power and lightweight design. This long-sleeve hooded shirt provides UPF 50 protection, making it one of the most protective shirts on the market. Its lightweight, breathable fabric is also moisture-wicking and quick-drying, ideal for staying cool and comfortable on hot, sunny days.
Specs:
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Lightweight and breathable polyester
- Hood for extra sun protection
- Flat-seam construction for comfort
- Quick-dry and moisture-wicking fabric
Style Points: The Simms SolarFlex Hoody is sleek and functional, available in neutral and vibrant color options. Its athletic fit is both flattering and practical, and the hood offers additional protection for your neck and ears without sacrificing style.
3. Patagonia Tropic Comfort II Crew
Price: $59
Best for: Environmentally conscious boaters
Patagonia is well-known for its environmentally friendly and high-performance outdoor gear, and the Tropic Comfort II Crew is no exception. This shirt is made from 100% recycled polyester, offering UPF 50 sun protection. It’s lightweight, breathable, and has Polygiene odor control, ensuring you stay fresh even after a long day on the water.
Specs:
- UPF 50 sun protection
- 100% recycled polyester
- Polygiene permanent odor control
- Fair Trade Certified™ sewn
Style Points: The Tropic Comfort II Crew is simple yet stylish, available in subtle shades that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Patagonia’s eco-friendly ethos adds extra appeal for those who prioritize sustainability.
4. Huk ICON X Long Sleeve
Price: $45–$55
Best for: Fishing enthusiasts
The Huk ICON X Long Sleeve is designed specifically for anglers, with a focus on performance and durability. It offers UPF 30 sun protection and features advanced cooling technology with internal cooling yarns. The fabric is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, keeping you comfortable even during intense physical activity.
Specs:
- UPF 30 sun protection
- Advanced cooling yarns
- Moisture-wicking and breathable
- Stain-resistant fabric
Style Points: The Huk ICON X has a modern, sporty design with bold colors and patterns that make it stand out. It’s a great choice if you want a stylish shirt that performs exceptionally well for long days of fishing.
5. Under Armour Tide Chaser 2.0 Long Sleeve
Price: $65
Best for: High-intensity activities
The Under Armour Tide Chaser 2.0 is built for intense water activities, offering UPF 40 sun protection and quick-drying fabric to keep you comfortable during long days on the boat. This shirt features stain-resistant and odor-fighting technology, which is a big plus for anyone who spends a lot of time fishing or handling wet gear.
Specs:
- UPF 40 sun protection
- Quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric
- Stain-release and anti-odor technology
- Ventilated back panel for extra breathability
Style Points: With a slim, athletic fit and bold color choices, the Under Armour Tide Chaser 2.0 offers a modern, sleek look while providing high-performance features for boating or other intense outdoor activities.
6. Gill UV Tec Pro Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Price: $50
Best for: Sailors and water sports enthusiasts
Gill is known for its high-quality sailing gear, and the UV Tec Pro Long Sleeve T-Shirt is a standout for those who need reliable sun protection and comfort. This shirt provides UPF 50+ protection and is made from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly. The flatlock seams ensure comfort even during long periods of wear.
Specs:
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Lightweight, breathable fabric
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
- Flatlock seams for extra comfort
Style Points: The Gill UV Tec Pro has a more classic, understated style compared to some of the more vibrant options on this list, but it’s functional and sophisticated, perfect for sailing or a casual day on the water.
7. Helly Hansen Lifa Active Solen Hoodie
Price: $70
Best for: All-day boating adventures
Helly Hansen’s Lifa Active Solen Hoodie offers premium sun protection with its UPF 50+ rating and moisture-wicking, quick-drying properties. This shirt is designed for long days outdoors and features Helly Hansen’s Lifa fabric, which excels at keeping you dry and cool even in humid conditions.
Specs:
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Lightweight and breathable Lifa fabric
- Quick-dry and moisture-wicking
- Hood for extra protection
Style Points: The Lifa Active Solen Hoodie combines high-performance features with a sleek, modern design. It’s available in muted tones and offers a snug, athletic fit that’s perfect for active boaters.
8. AFTCO Samurai Long Sleeve Sun Protection Shirt
Price: $35–$45
Best for: Budget-friendly performance
The AFTCO Samurai Long Sleeve shirt is an excellent choice for those looking for high-performance sun protection without breaking the bank. This shirt offers UPF 50 protection and features AFBLOCK sun protection technology, moisture-wicking fabric, and a stain-resistant finish.
Specs:
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric
- Stain-resistant finish
- Antimicrobial treatment for odor control
Style Points: The AFTCO Samurai Long Sleeve comes in a variety of colors, from neutral to bright, and offers a relaxed fit that suits both casual and performance-oriented boaters. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or style.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Boat Shirt
When selecting a boat shirt, consider factors such as sun protection, fabric breathability, moisture-wicking capabilities, and overall comfort. Whether you’re a casual boater, serious angler, or sailor, there’s a perfect option for you among these top 8 picks. Look for shirts that offer a high UPF rating, especially if you’ll be out in the sun for extended periods, and don’t forget about style—after all, you want to look good while staying protected on the water!
Make sure to find the right fit and features for your specific boating needs. With these options, you’ll stay safe, stylish, and comfortable while enjoying your time on the water.
Happy Boating!
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Read The Top 15 Must-Try Boat Restaurants in the U.S. until we meet in the next article.