Long gone are my days of wearing tank tops on the trail. With all of the time I spend outside, all of that sun exposure really adds up. Between painful sunburns, visible aging, and my concern over skin cancer, protecting my skin when I’m outdoors has become a much bigger priority as I’ve gotten older.
Rather than constantly needing to lather up with sunscreen, which gets expensive and can be loaded with chemicals, I’ve opted to simply cover up. Over the years, I’ve tried a number of long-sleeved sun protection shirts that are designed to be lightweight and breathable, making them a great option for hiking and other outdoor activities even when it’s warm and sunny.
Here is a round-up of the best sun protection shirts for women to help you minimize your sun exposure when you’re outside on those sunny days.
Pros: quick-drying and breathable, super comfortable, holds up for years of wear without piling or loose threads
Cons: I’ve noticed discoloration of the sleeves due to dirt build-up over time, not UPF certified
Great for: daily wear, hot summer days, people who don’t want to wash it every time its worn
My Review
The Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody is my all-time favorite sun protection shirt for women. I own several colors and bring all of them with me on the road as part of my van life wardrobe. This shirt is a go-to for me no matter the climate, especially when I hike.
Made of recycled polyester and spandex, it is quick-drying and extremely breathable. With the soft, lightweight fabric, I find it extremely comfortable for hiking and hanging out at camp or even sleeping in at night if I’m backpacking.
The hood is a nice feature as it provides added sun protection on your neck and ears without making you hotter, but it also comes in a non-hooded version if you prefer.
This shirt doesn’t have an official UPF rating, but Patagonia’s tests found this shirt has a UPF rating that ranges from 17-45. While not certified, this is the shirt I wear the most on my adventures, and my skin has never shown any signs of the sun penetrating through.
While this shirt has odor control, I do find that it can develop a stink, but usually only after several days of wear, and that’s really the case for any of the shirts with odor control listed here.
I weigh 140 pounds and wear a size Medium in the Patagonia Capilene Cool sun protection shirts
As far as durability, these shirts last a long time. I’ve had mine for years and haven’t experienced any piling or loose strands, although I typically wash my clothes on the delicate cycle and run the dryer on low.
Like other Patagonia products, this shirt is made of 50-100% recycled material, fabrics are bluesign approved, and the shirt is sewn in factories where workers are paid fair wages.
Pros: affordable, super comfortable for hiking and everyday wear, longer tunic-length, sleeves have thumbholes
Cons: the material is on the thicker side so I wouldn’t recommend for hot-weather activities, light colors show dirt
Great for: daily wear, travel, covering up your hands
My Review
The REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie is another one of my favorite sun protection shirts. I especially like the price, as it’s more budget-friendly than the other shirts on this list. It’s buttery soft and comfortable with a loose yet flattering fit.
The shaped hem is longer in the front and the back (kind of like a tunic) so it looks stylish enough to wear out in normal life. I also love the crossover style opening on the neck that provides a little extra cover.
This shirt also has thumb holes and covers your hands really well (the fabric goes all the way to my knuckles). This is a huge plus since I often forget to put sunscreen on my hands, or it just rinses off as soon as I wash my hands.
Here I am 140 lbs (5’5″ tall) and wearing a size Medium
This sun protection shirt is slightly warmer and thicker than Patagonia’s Cool Capilene daily hoody so I don’t recommend it for hiking in extremely hot or humid temperatures.
It’s perfect for milder, sunny days on the trail and for lounging at camp. It’s so comfy that I like wearing it on road trips and for travel. I will say that the sleeves on mine are almost permanently dirty. It comes in several colors, and I’d recommend darker shades if your concerned about keeping it looking clean.
3. Outdoor Research Astroman Long Sleeve Sun Shirt
Pros: super lightweight and breathable, hidden zip-up pocket on the right hip, can be classed up
Cons: wrinkles easily
Great for: hiking with a baby, going from trail to town
My Review
When my little guy was born, I started wearing more button-up shirts because they were easier to breastfeed in. The Outdoor Research Astroman Sun Shirt is one of my favorite sun protection shirts with buttons that I still wear today.
It’s one of the most lightweight sun protection shirts on this list (after the Outdoor Research Echo below), so if you run hot, this shirt would be a great choice for ultimate breathability.
I’m wearing a size Medium in this photo
Lighter colors provide UPF 30, while darker colors are rated to UPF 50+, so it will protect your skin during long days in the sun. It has a pocket on the chest as well as a hidden zip-up pocket on the right hip, perfect for storing money or a credit card.
Made of a nylon blend, it has a soft, stretchy feel and fits true to size. Out of all of the shirts on this list, this one can most easily be classed up if you want to go from the trail straight to town. My only wish is that it came in different colors. It also wrinkles quite easily if you are planning to travel with it in luggage or a backpack.
Read next: If you want additional tips for staying sun-safe, check out our Sun Protection for Hikers blog post.
Pros: keeps you cool when it’s wet, high-neckline and quarter zip for additional coverage, flattering cut
Cons: material is thicker so you wouldn’t want to wear this hiking or during strenuous land-based activities
Great for: the beach, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding
My Review
When I’m at the beach, I always wear a sun protection shirt because it gives me much longer protection than sunscreen, which tends to quickly wash off and can have harmful impacts on aquatic and marine life.
The Carve Designs Cruz Rashguard is one of the best sun protection shirts for women who want to stand up paddle board, surf, and snorkel. I own this shirt in two different colors and any time I’m going on a beach vacation, I throw both of them in my suitcase. It was a staple on my last trip to Hawaii and also down in Baja.
I’m wearing a size large in this photo
With the cinching on the sides, I find this shirt to be super flattering. It’s also got a high neckline (with a zipper) which provides a little extra skin coverage compared to some of the other shirts on this list. I wear a large in this shirt and I’d recommend sizing up if you want a more relaxed fit.
My favorite thing about this rashguard is that after I get out of the water, it continues to keep me cool as it dries, which is great for hanging out in the hot sand. If I get hot, I just hop back in the water and get it wet again. Once it dries, however, it’s a little thicker than the other sun protection shirts on this list, so I wouldn’t recommend hiking in it, unless there is water to jump into at your destination.
5. Free Fly Women’s Bamboo Shade II
Key Features
Weight: 5.3 oz.
Fabric: 68% viscose from bamboo/29% polyester/3% spandex
Pros: soft material is great for lounging around camp, made of eco-friendly bamboo, sleeves have thumbholes
Cons: doesn’t wick moisture well, can’t go in the dryer and needs to be hung to dry
Great for: everyday wear, camping, travel
My Review
The Free Fly Bamboo Shade II is one of my favorite sun protection shirts for daily wear and lounging around camp. Made primarily of bamboo, it’s ultra soft and one of the more environmentally friendly sun protection shirts on this list. I love the neutral colors this shirt comes in and find they go well with almost anything.
The shirt runs long and fits fairly loose which is nice for those who don’t prefer form-fitting clothing. I typically tuck it in since I have a short torso. One of the best features is the thumbholes which help keep your hands covered – an area that I often forget to put sunscreen on.
I’m wearing a size Medium in this photo
I don’t find this shirt to wick moisture all that well so it’s not the best choice for activities where you really work up a sweat. I once hiked to the top of Alta Ski Area wearing this, and it was pretty soggy at the top. Another downside is you are supposed to hang it to dry in order to prevent shrinking and piling, which I find to be a bit of a hassle.
Pros: most lightweight shirt on my list, performs well in hot weather, ponytail hole in the hood, sleeves have thumbholes, flattering cut, fun bright colors
Cons: holds stink a bit more than the other shirts on this list, lower UPF
Great for: more technical, sweaty activities on hot days
Review
The Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie is the most lightweight sun protection shirt on for women on this list at less than 4 oz making it suitable for hot temps (like the Patagonia Cool Capilene). It’s also sweat-wicking and quick drying making it a great fit for hiking, climbing, and other high-exertion outdoor activities in the sun.
Like all good sun protection shirts, this one has thumb holes, and a good amount of stretch that allows for plenty of movement. And the women’s version has a ponytail port in the hood – a unique feature I don’t often see.
I’m wearing a size Large in this photo
This shirt is a bit more technical looking than some of the others on this list, so you might not wear it out on the town. I do love the bright colors though, and it’s super functional for any sunny day outdoor adventure. Plus, this sun protection top is made from 100% recycled materials which I’m all about.
I will say that after wearing this for a couple of weeks, I’ve noticed the odor control isn’t quite as good as the Patagonia cool capilene. I wore it to Phish concert once, and was slightly embarrassed whenever I lifted my arms to cheer (lol). This one definitely needs to go through the washer more frequently.
Also, because this shirt is so lightweight, the UPF isn’t quite as high as the other shirts on this list. I’ve never gotten sunburnt through it though.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does UPF mean for clothing?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and is a rating that tells you how much radiation gets through your clothing. A UPF 50 means that 1/50th or 2%. of the radiation gets through the fabric. A UPF 25 means that 1/25th or 4% of the radiation gets through. So the higher the UPF the more effective the shirt is at providing sun protection.
Don’t all clothes provide sun protection?
Well yes. Any clothing that you wear is going to provide more sun protection than having exposed skin, but certain colors and fabrics do a better job at preventing UV rays from reaching your skin. To be certain, it’s best to wear clothing that has an official UPF rating.
My favorite sale of the year – REI’s Anniversary Sale – is here! Taking placeMay 16-26th, 2025, this is the REI Co-op’s biggest sale, and I’ll be honest that – in my opinion – it’s one of the best Anniversary Sales in years.
There are so many brands on sale that rarely get discounted, and you can save up to 30% in this year’s REI Anniversary Sale.
To save you time scouring the REI website, I’ve handpicked my favorite deals on apparel, hiking, camping, backpacking, and van life gear. You’ll see in the photos below, I actually own and use this gear that I’m recommending here. These are items that my team and I love and think you will too!
Sponsored by REI Co-op
REI Co-op is my favorite outdoor gear retailer and a long-time supporter of my work here at Bearfoot Theory. Their 1-year return policy for Members is hands-down the best in the industry, and Members also get 10% back on their purchases every year.
REI Sale Highlights
First – here are some of the top deals that really grabbed my attention in this year’s REI Anniversary Sale.
Gone are the days of uncomfortable sleep on car camping trips. The NEMO Roamer Sleeping Pad is 4 inches thick, which means I never feel the ground, and it’s very easy for me to blow up with a self-inflation mechanism that actually works.
At 5 lbs 8 oz, I like how it’s lighter and less bulky than other comparable car camping sleeping pads or a traditional blow-up mattress. Trust me – once you try the NEMO Roamer, it’ll be on your “must-have” list for camping forever.
The Nemo Roamer (this is the 2-person) is so plush
ENO DoubleNest Hammock – 25% OFF
What’s better than lounging in a hammock after a nice long hike or setting up camp? ENO helped pioneer basecamp relaxation, and I love using their DoubleNest Hammock on trips because it has ample room for two but packs down super small. I can easily toss it in my daypack to string up for a mid-hike nap!
All ENO hammocks are currently on sale, so you can take your pick of single or double and find just the right color or pattern.
Nomadix Quick Dry Towel – 25% OFF
Quick dry towels are a must for any trip, whether I’m car camping, backpacking, or traveling on a plane. From showering, drying my dishes, or lounging in the sun, I appreciate how these Nomadix Towels pack small and dry much quicker than traditional towels. I find that quick dry towels always come in handy, so pick up a few right now for 25% off.
Nomadix Festival Blanket – 25% OFF
I always keep the Nomadix Festival Blanket in the van because it comes in handy for just about everything. Whether I’m heading to an outdoor concert, a beach day, or a picnic by the lake, this blanket is my go-to. Now that I have a toddler, it’s even more of a staple. It gives us a clean, comfy spot to sit, snack, or play wherever we are.
It’s lightweight, easy to pack, machine washable, and comes in tons of fun patterns. Plus, the material dries quickly and doesn’t collect a bunch of sand or dirt, which makes cleanup a breeze.
Rumpl Blankets – 25% OFF
Rumpl blankets are my go-to for camping and van life—I’ve used the 2-person Original Puffy as my comforter in the van since 2017. They’re soft, cozy, and surprisingly durable (even with a toddler and two dogs).
I love that they’re water-resistant, shake off dirt easily, and can be tossed in the washing machine when they need a refresh. Rumpl offers a few different insulation options, including recycled synthetic, NanoLoft, and down, depending on how warm you want to go.
Hydro Flask 32oz. Wide-Mouth Water Bottle – 25% OFF
With all the great options for reusable water bottles nowadays, there’s really no need (or excuse) to buy single-use plastic ones. The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Vacuum Water Bottle W/ Flex Straw Cap is one of my personal favorites. It’s a good size for all-day hydration, keeps my drinks hot or cold, has a straw for easier drinking on the go, and it’s easy to clean and carry. If you’re looking for something smaller or a bottle without a straw, Hydro Flask has lots of different styles and options, and many are on sale right now during REI’s Anniversary Sale.
My Hydro Flask keeps my water cold on hot summer days like this
Hydro Flask Camp Bowl and Camp Plate – 25% OFF
I’ve been trying to phase out plastic out of my camper van kitchen essentials, so recently invested in a set of Hydro Flask Camp Bowls and matching Camp Plates. They are made of food grade stainless steel, are lightweight, super durable, and just the right size for everything from a big bowl of soup, my toddler’s meals, or a full camp breakfast. I love that they don’t get too hot or cold to the touch, which makes them perfect for eating outdoors or straight from the camp stove.
The Hydro Flask Camp Bowls and Plates have been a great addition to my new rig
Ruffwear Float Coat Dog Life Jacket – 25% OFF
I love to bring my dogs with me on my adventures, whether that’s on land or water. The Ruffwear Float Coat Dog Life Jacket features a strong handle that allows me to easily lift my dogs in and out of the water. I like how the life jacket is designed with clips, making it quick and easy to take on and off of my dogs. It also features a reflective trim so I can spot my dogs in the water right away.
Duffel bags are incredibly versatile, serving purposes from organizing van life essentials to preparing for extensive travels. For quick getaways, my top pick is the REI Co-op Big Haul 40 Recycled Duffel. I love how I can just toss it in the back of my van during road trips.
During winter, I rely on my duffel daily to keep all my ski gear neatly stowed and easily accessible in my car, including my helmet, goggles, mittens, boot heaters, and midlayers. Something special that sets this duffel apart from others is its convenient stowable backpack straps and accompanying storage sack, allowing me to store it compactly when I’m not using it.
For those requiring smaller or larger capacities, it is also available in 28, 60, and 90, and 120-liter versions, as well as a rolling duffel equipped with wheels that would be perfect for overseas trips. All these styles are 30% off during the sale.
Stepping out of my old Sprinter van with the REI Co-op Big Haul Recycled Duffel
REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set – 30% OFF
In my van, packing cubes are essential for organization. I use the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set to sort my clothes (and make finding them much quicker and easier). This set includes three different sizes, making it convenient for me to know at a glance which one holds which items. I keep my tops in one, bottoms in another, and undergarments in the smallest cube.
My REI packing cubes are the perfect storage solution for my wardrobe when I’m living in my van
Nemo Moonlander Dual Height Table – 25% OFF
This NEMO Moonlander Table is hands down my favorite compact camp table. It’s small enough to store in the gear box on the back of our rig, but sturdy enough to handle my toddler’s rough-and-tumble mealtimes. Herbie loves eating on it, and honestly, he’s gotten so good at setting it up he can do it himself in about 90 seconds (it takes me less than 30).
It has two different heights – standard camp chair height and a mode that’s low to the ground.
Helinox Sunset Chair – 25% OFF
I travel with two Helinox Sunset Chairs in our van, and they’re my favorite for kicking back after a long day. The high back is super supportive, and the built-in headrest adds comfort, especially if you stuff it with a jacket or towel.
They’re lightweight (under 3.5 lbs), pack down small, and we can even store them fully set up in the van, which makes campsite setup a breeze. The only downside I can think of is that there is no cup holder. They’re definitely a splurge, so the Anniversary Sale is a great time to grab one and save on the comfort and quality.
NEMO Stargazer Chair – 25% OFF
I don’t own the NEMO Stargazer Chair yet, but my partner Ryan has been begging for one for years. After lounging in a friend’s on our winter trip to Baja this year, I finally see what all the hype is about.
It really does feel like a hammock with the easy setup of a camp chair—perfect for kicking back, stargazing, or hanging around the fire. This is what I’ll personally be picking up during REI’s Anniversary Sale this year.
REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent – 30% OFF
The REI Base Camp 4 tent has been through it all with me—desert downpours, freezing mountain nights in Utah, even a dusty music festival—and it’s held up every time. It’s incredibly sturdy and does a great job in wind and weather. I love how much airflow it offers with all the windows, and you still get plenty of privacy when you need it.
At 5’5″, I can almost stand up inside, which makes changing clothes and moving around way more comfortable than your average tent. It’s roomy, reliable, and one of my favorite picks for car camping trips with the family. Check out my detailed REI Base Camp 4 tent review for more thoughts.
Admiring how much space is in the REI Base Camp 4 Tent
If you’re in the market for a GPS watch, you can snag the Garmin fenix 8 AMOLED GPS Watch for $200 off during REI’s Anniversary Sale! This watch is a pretty big investment, so it’s best for people who are serious about tracking their activities or upping their fitness game.
With its built-in GPS and topo maps, it provides accurate tracking of my route and location, so I don’t have to constantly pull out my phone.
Garmin inReach Mini 2 – $100 OFF
I think a Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a must-have item for all outdoor enthusiasts. This little handheld device keeps me safe in the backcountry where there is no cell service by tracking my location, providing 2-way texting, and sending out SOS signalsshould things go wrong.
I’ve also used it in my van. One time our battery died outside of Sun Valley Idaho in winter in sub-zero temps. I was able to text my dad with our GPS coordinates, and he then contacted a tow company to come help us. Without the Garmin inReach, we would have been waiting there for a very long time.
I always bring my Garmin inReach Mini with me on my off-grid adventures
NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad – 25% OFF
The NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is lightweight with insulated layers to keep you warm all night in the backcountry. The 3.5-inch thickness makes it a great option for side sleepers. I like how this sleeping pad packs down small in my pack, and once I get to camp, it’s quick to inflate with the inflation sack.
The NEMO Tensor comes in regular, wide, and long sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your body! I personally prefer the wide, so I don’t roll off it in the middle of the night. You can find this sleeping pad in my collection of the best sleeping pads for backpacking.
The Nemo Tensor Sleeping All-Season Pad was perfect for our backpacking trip in Paria Canyon, Utah
REI Co-op Magma 15 Sleeping Bag – 30% OFF
Coming in nine different unisex sizes, the newly updated REI Co-op Magma 15 Sleeping Bag allows you to find your ideal fit for better sleep based on your measurements. BFT Contributor Kaylin Zittergruen tested this sleeping bag while backpacking in Havasu Falls and says, “I love how this sleeping bag is lightweight, warm, and soft. The 15-degree bag kept me really warm even when the temps dipped below freezing.”
Kaylin also said, “The design of the zipper makes it easy to unzip and rezip without snagging on the material, and the stash pocket fits my phone perfectly. I got some of the best nights of sleep I’ve ever had while sleeping in this bag!” To read more of Kaylin’s experience, check out her review of the REI Magma 15 Sleeping Bag.
BFT Contributor Kaylin setting up the REI Co-op Magma 15 Sleeping Bag on a camping trip
Jetboil Flash Cooking System – 25% OFF
I’ve been a committed Jetboil fan for nearly 20 years. I got my first one right when they first launched back in 2004. I love the Jetboil Flash Cooking System because it heats water in ~90 seconds, and it’s just so easy to use. You don’t have to worry about knocking the pot off the burner, and the stove fits inside the pot along with a small fuel canister, so it takes up very little room in your pack.
The only issue I have with the Jetboil is the push igniter is sometimes unreliable. But you can quickly light it with a lighter or matches, which you should always carry with you on a backpacking trip anyways.
Using my Jetboil Flash to boil some water for some dehydrated backpacking meals
Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Trekking Poles – 25% OFF
I love my Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Trekking Poles because they’re super lightweight and fold down smaller than other trekking poles, which makes them easy to pack for any trip (including air travel). They’re fully adjustable so you can change the length depending on whether you are going up or down, and they help me feel sturdier on steep, rocky trails. The foam grips are comfortable for long days, and the total weight of the pair is extremely light at ~1 pound.
Counter Assault Bear Deterrent Spray – 25% off
If you’re hiking or camping in grizzly country—like parts of Canada, Alaska, Montana, or Wyoming—carrying bear spray is a must. I always bring Counter Assault Bear Spray when I’m in these areas. It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need to use, but having it on hand gives me peace of mind and an added layer of safety. It’s easy to carry, has a strong spray range, and is one of the most trusted brands out there for a reason.
Just make sure you know how to use it before hitting the trail—this post on wildlife safety tips walks you through how to carry and use bear spray properly.
My partner Ryan with his bear spray easily accessible at the hip
Best Deals on Apparel
REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie – 30% OFF
You’ll hardly ever catch me outside in summer without a sun shirt on, and the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (the men’s version is here) is one of my favs. I wore it for a week straight in Maui without washing it and found that it didn’t stink, and the loose fit keeps me surprisingly cool even in warm weather. It’s one of my staples in my truck camper too. I especially love how much coverage the hood provides.
I’m 5’6″, 140lbs, and wear the REI Sahara Shade Hoodie in size Large
REI Co-op Sahara T-Shirt – 30% OFF
The REI Co-op Sahara T-Shirt (the men’s version is here) is a BFT Team favorite. The fabric offers UPF 50+ sun protection, plus it’s breathable and quick drying, making it ideal for sunny days and extended outdoor adventures when you don’t want to wear long sleeves (like in high humidity).
BFT Contributor Linda is 5’3″, 120lbs, and wears the REI Sahara T-Shirt in size Small
REI Co-op Trailmade Pullover – 30% OFF
The REI Co-op Trailmade Pullover is a great lightweight, quick-dry shirt that is perfect for both outdoor and everyday wear. The buttons and loose fit provide for great airflow. This shirt has a boxy fit and runs short, so it may not work for people with long torsos. It also wrinkles easily, so that’s something to keep in mind if you plan to travel with it. But, for an outdoor shirt that can pass as dressy, I’m sold on the design!
Here, I’m 5’6″, 140 lbs and am wearing the REI Trailmade Pullover in size Medium
Carve Designs Dylan Gauze Shirt – 25% OFF
I always pack one of these Carve Designs Dylan Gauze shirts in my truck camper for those moments when I want to wear something other than hiking clothes. The fabric is light and breathable—perfect for hot days—and it comes in a bunch of cute colors and patterns. It’s easy to dress up with jeans or toss over a swimsuit, and it hardly takes up any space. Just a solid, comfy staple that helps me feel a little more pulled together on the road.
I should add that the lighter colors can be a bit see-through so you’ll want to wear a light tank underneath or choose a darker color.
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pants – 25% OFF
The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pants have been one of my staples for hiking and backpacking trips for several years now (in fact, I’m wearing them right now as I type this). The elastic waistband is super comfortable, and because there is no button, drawstring, or zipper, they work really well when I’m wearing a backpack with a hip belt since there is nothing that will cause rubbing or discomfort.
I’m 5’6″, 140lbs, and wear a size Medium in the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Pants
REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts – 30% OFF
The REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts (the men’s version is here) have become a go-to in my adventure wardrobe. I wear them often on hikes and around camp, and I love the high-waist fit and lightweight feel. The elastic waistband is super comfortable, and the quick-drying fabric makes them perfect for active days on the trail. Plus, the pockets are actually functional—with plenty of room for snacks or small essentials.
BFT Contributor Courtney is 5’7″, 150lbs, and wears the REI Trailmade Shorts in size Medium
REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Jacket – 30% OFF
The REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Jacket (the men’s version is here) is a budget-friendly piece made for all body types. The material is super soft, warm, and cozy yet breathable and quick drying.
The fit is loose and comfortable with room to move and has a high neckline for added warmth. I appreciate how the jacket is versatile, making it perfect for camping trips, outdoor adventures, and everyday wear. Plus, it’s cute to boot. Snag this jacket for 30% off during REI’s Anniversary Sale!
Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie – 25% OFF
I absolutely love the Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie (the men’s version is here) because it is incredibly warm, lightweight, and packs down small, making it perfect for everything from chilly morning hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.
The 800-fill down feels like you’re wrapped in a cloud, and the waterproof shoulders add extra protection if you get caught in light rain or snow. It’s one of those pieces I always have in my pack because it delivers serious warmth without taking up much space.
The Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie is perfect for a winter hike
Nani Swimwear Cut Back Crop Swimsuit Top – 25% OFF
I’ve been loving the Nani Swimwear Cut Back Crop Swimsuit Top and matching ruched bottoms. The swimsuit top is very supportive for large-chested women like myself, and the bottoms are full coverage and very flattering. This swimsuit stays put when I’m active, so I don’t have to worry about it shifting around. When I was in Maui, I would wear this on hikes instead of a bra, that way I was always ready to jump in a waterfall.
Nani Swimwear makes their swimsuits out of recycled plastic water bottles and are an all-women ran company. All of their swimwear is 25% off during REI’s Anniversary Sale if you want to check out their other swim styles.
I’m 5’6″, 158lbs (at 5 months pregnant), and wear a Nani Swimwear top in size L (I’m a 36D) and size M bottoms
Nani Swimwear Hybrid Uinta Shorts – 25% OFF
Not only do the Nani Swimwear Hybrid Uinta Shorts make excellent swim shorts – they’re also perfect for hiking! I wore a pair of Nani hybrid shorts while adventuring in Maui and liked how I could wear them for walks on the beach and waterfall hikes. The quick-drying, stretchy material makes them comfortable to wear while working up a sweat on the trail or chilling on the beach.
Here I’m 5’6 and 140 lbs, wearing a size Medium in the Nani Swimwear Hybrid Shorts
Cotopaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat – 25% OFF
If you’re looking for a lightweight hat that will keep your head cool in warm weather, check out the Cotopaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat. This adjustable hat has a nylon strap and a clip closure, so you can get the perfect fit.
I like to wear it while hiking because it protects my scalp from the sun without making my head feel hot or itchy. It’s so light I can barely tell I’m wearing it, and it doesn’t push down on my sunglasses – so it’s really comfortable for hiking. It’s even cute to wear around town and to concerts.
My Christmas Day hike to the top of Angel’s Landing. The Cotoxpaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat was the perfect choice and didn’t impact my vision as I was hiking up the chains.
REI Co-op All REI Co-op Brand Socks – 30% OFF
If you need new hiking socks, you’re in luck – all REI Co-op brand socks are 30% off in the Anniversary Sale! REI sock are lightweight, comfy, breathable, and sweat-wicking. If you’re between sizes, I recommend sizing down.
Oboz Footwear Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots – 25% OFF
When backpacking with a heavier load, they’re my go-to boots thanks to their sturdiness, waterproofness, and grippyness from the lugs on the soles. Even better? No painful break-in period is required – the soft leather uppers make them ready for you to slip on straight out of the box.
Crossing a river wearing my Oboz Bridger BDry Hiking Boots while backpacking the Mineral King Loop in Sequoia National Park
Oboz Footwear Katabatic Low Hiking Shoes – 25% OFF
Unless I’m on a hearty backpacking trip, these days you’ll find me wearing lightweight hiking shoes instead of bulkier boots. The Oboz Katabatic Low Hiking Shoe (the men’s version is here) has become my go-to choice. They’re lightweight, supportive, and comfortable right out of the box, and they provide great traction too. I feel very nimble in these.
I opt for the low ankle, non-waterproof (more breathable) version for more mellow hikes, but they also come in a mid-ankle GORE-TEX version as well.
I’ve worn them on everything from mellow neighborhood walks to local hikes and even errands around town. At under 1 lb, 4 oz per pair, they’re one of the lightest hiking shoes I’ve tried, but still feel sturdy enough to handle uneven terrain. If you’re looking for a do-it-all shoe that can transition from trail to town, this is a solid pick.
How To Use Your Member Coupon
In addition to the sale deals, REI Members also get 20% off one full-price item, plus an extra 20% off one outlet item using the code ANNIV2025.
Here’s a few items I recommend using your 20% coupon on:
CGear Sand Mat: This is my MOST used piece of car camping gear. This mat creates a nice, clean patio in front of my Rossmonster Baja truck (or tent). It’s made of two layers that allow the dirt and sand to fall through it, so you don’t track as much dirt inside.
