April 30th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Dog Gear

A dog leash is what keeps you and your dog connected—literally. A good dog leash can make or break your dog’s safety, their training session, or an outdoor adventure. Choosing the right dog leash depends on the activity you’ll be using it for. There’s a different best leash for training, urban walks, backcountry hikes, and other activities.

As a professional dog trainer and longtime product tester in the dog gear category, I’ve tested a lot of leashes over the years. For this piece, I relied on my industry knowledge to put together a pool of high-quality leashes and then tested them across real-world walking conditions: urban sidewalks, trails, parks, during training sessions at the facility I work at, and in high-distraction environments. 

I tested these leashes with a variety of dogs, including my two dogs: Miso, a 40 pound Border Collie Mix, and Dashi, a 42 pound Rough Collie. I also tried these leashes on a variety of larger and smaller dogs, including dogs who are strong pullers. 

The best dog leashes meet at the intersection of durability, comfort, control, hardware quality, leash length, versatility, and safety features. 

The best overall dog leash is the Mendota Pet Snap Leash, thanks to its durability, quality craftsmanship, comfort, and lightweight and simple design. This leash is one you’ll buy and use for life for basically all of your dog’s activities, though you may like it so much that you end up buying multiples. I have a few of these myself.

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Comparison table

The winners

Best overall dog leash: Mendota Pet Snap Leash

Length: 6 feet
Material: Multi-filament polypropylene rope and leather splices
Width: ⅜ inch or ½ inch
Weight rating: ⅜ inch for dogs under 50 pounds, ½ inch for dogs 50 to 250 pounds
What we liked: Flexible; Comfortable to hold; Simple, secure hardware; Comes in a variety of colors; Lightweight; Easy to put in a pocket
What could be better: Wish it was fully waterproof

The Mendota Pet Snap Leash is easily my most versatile leash. It’s not only the best overall dog leash, it’s also the best dog training leash and best rope leash.

Dog sport and dog show exhibitors have been using Mendota Pet leashes for ages. They’re so common around this community that I find Mendota leashes all the time in the lost and found at the agility facility I work at. They’re well loved for a reason.

These leashes are lightweight, flexible, comfortable to hold for long walks, and can be easily scrunched up and put in your pocket when you’re not using them. It’s a no-frills type of leash that will last for your dog’s entire lifetime, if not multiple dogs’ entire lifetimes. After multiple years of use, my snap leash still doesn’t have any fraying or cosmetic damage (even though I have a dog who likes to use it as a tug toy). 

This leash has a simple, straightforward snap clasp that’s easy to clip and unclip with one hand, big enough to fit most collars and dog harnesses comfortably, and swivels to keep it from getting twisted on walks. 

The Mendota Snap Leash comes in two thicknesses: ⅜ inch and ½ inch, with the ⅜-inch option best for dogs under 50 pounds, and the ½-inch option best for dogs 50 pounds and over. 

It’s made of waterproof multi-filament polypropylene rope, and even when it gets wet, it tends to bead up and dry quickly.

At sub-$25, this leash is a buy-it-for-life type of investment, and one I’d gladly make multiple times if I had multiple dogs. 

Best affordable dog leash: PetSafe Nylon Dog Leash

Length: 4 feet or 6 feet
Material: Nylon
Width: ⅜ inch, ¾ inch, and 1 inch
Weight rating: ⅜ inch for dogs under 30 pounds, ¾ inch for dogs 30 to 75 pounds, 1 inch for dogs over 75 pounds
What we liked: Budget-friendly; Simple design; Comes in multiple colors
What could be better: Isn’t the most durable

The PetSafe Nylon Dog Leash is about the simplest, most frill-free leash you could possibly buy. It’s a flatweave nylon construction with a loop handle and a simple metal snap clip. I’m pretty sure this is the leash I bought my first dog back in 2006 at the local Petco. It’s the type of leash that gets the job done for a low price, but it’s not a buy-it-for-life type of investment.

The PetSafe Nylon Dog leash comes in six colors, two lengths, and three different widths. The size you choose will depend on the size and weight of your dog, and the prices range from a little over $4 to $10, depending on the configuration you choose.

This leash isn’t the most comfortable to hold, as it doesn’t come pre-broken in like some options. It’s also not the most durable. In our durability tests, it frayed really easily, so if you have a dog who’s hard on their gear, this may not be the best option.

However, with most colors and lengths under $10 and a handful under $5, this leash is a good choice for small and medium dogs, or as a cheap backup option to keep in your car or by the door. 

Best hands-free dog leash: Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash

Length: 5.5-7 feet or 7.3-11 feet
Material: 25 mm engineered webbing (81% polyester, 11% polyethylene, 8% elastane)
Width: 1 inch
Weight rating: Not listed
What we liked: Padded handle; Can be used as a handheld or a hands-free; Adjustable length; Traffic handle
What could be better: When waist-worn, it has a maximum size of about 46 inches; may be too bulky for some small dogs; some user reviews say that the bungee wears out over time with extremely strong pullers. 

I think the best way to go hands-free with your dog leash is a bungee leash attached to a running belt, fanny pack, or waist strap on a daypack if you already use any of those items. The Ruffwear Roamer Bungee dog leash is a close second, and is more streamlined.

If you’re going hands-free with your leash for hiking with your dog, running, or other active endeavors, a bungee section is 100% a must-have. The bungee on this leash is smooth and responsive, absorbing impact from sudden pulls and directional changes. 

I prefer Ruffwear’s Talon clip (the clip on this leash) to almost every other clip from the brand. It’s strong enough for a secure connection with your dog, but also truly easy to clip and unclip with one hand. If you need a true locking clip for a flight-risk dog, go for a different leash option. 

I love that this leash can be worn around the waist or handheld, and I prefer the longer size for hiking, running, and long walks than the shorter option. Note that if you’re planning to use this leash as a hands-free leash, the actual length of the leash depends on what size you need the waist section to be. As you make the waist section larger, the leash portion decreases, and vice versa. 

This hands-free dog leash doesn’t have any bulky clips, additional waist belts, or extras that you don’t need. It has a padded handle, is easy to adjust, and includes an additional traffic handle near the clip, in case you need your dog at close range outdoors, like in the event of a wildlife encounter. 

Best lightweight dog leash: Ruffwear Front Range Flex Leash

Length: 5 feet
Material: 25mm 80% polyester, 20% nylon engineered knit
Width: 1 inch
Weight rating: Not listed
What we liked: Super lightweight; comfortable to hold; additional traffic handle
What could be better: Wish the leash clip opening was a little bigger

The Ruffwear Front Range Flex Leash is an even lighter version of Ruffwear’s bestselling Front Range Leash, and it’s a worthy upgrade if you value ultralight gear. This is the lightest leash we tested, but it’s still fairly durable and performed adequately in our durability testing with only minimal fabric pilling.

The Front Range Flex leash is made of a knit webbing that’s inspired by athletic footwear. I find that this webbing has a bit of flex—not quite as much as a bungee leash, but enough to be responsive if you run with your dog or if your dog pulls ahead of you on walks. It comes with a pre-broken-in feel that’s comfortable to hold over long periods.

The swiveling, lockable Crux Clip is strong and secure, but I find that the actual clip opening is sometimes a bit too small for easy on and off with thicker harness and collar D-rings.

Best retractable dog leash: Flexi Classic Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash

Length: 10 feet, 16 feet, or 26 feet
Material: Nylon tape, plastic shell
Width: ¼ inch to ⅝ inch, depending on size
Weight rating: Three sizes: XS for dogs up to 26 pounds, S for dogs up to 33 pounds, M for dogs up to 55 pounds, L for dogs up to 110 pounds
What we liked: Gives dogs more freedom than a standard leash; less management than a long line; easy to decide how much leash you want to give your dog
What could be better: Releasing the brake can sometimes scare your dog; not a good leash choice for crowded spaces

I don’t always recommend retractable leashes, but I’m not a Flexi hater the way many dog trainers are. I’ll start with when not to use a retractable leash: in busy urban environments, in vet offices, in pet stores, or in any other space where you’ll be quite close to other people and dogs.

Retractable leashes are great tools that offer your dog freedom, but they can also offer less control, since they’re longer and require your attention to manage the length. I bought this Flexi leash when my collie was a puppy, and it was instrumental in teaching her recall. I also use it whenever one of my dogs is dealing with an injury to offer them controlled freedom during walks. It’s a great choice for decompression sniffy walks in areas where your dog can’t be off leash.

The Flexi Classic is my favorite retractable leash of several options I’ve tried over the years. It’s quiet and doesn’t rattle while you’re walking, and has a smooth retractable tape. The break is easy to use and in a comfortable position if you need to stop your dog while they’re walking. It also has a locking function to keep the leash at a certain length. 

This is not a good leash option for dogs who pull, but it is a good choice for training puppies, working on recall, or offering your dog some freedom in larger, open spaces. 

Best waterproof dog leash: Wilderdog Waterproof Leash

Length: 6 feet
Material: PVC coated polyester webbing
Width: 1 inch 
Weight rating: Rated for 2 kN of force (about 450 pounds of pulling force)
What we liked: Waterproof and repels mud/dirt; easy to clean; easy on/off snap clip 
What could be better: May be too thick/heavy for very small dogs; has a stiffer handfeel than fabric leashes

If you need a leash that can be easily wiped down or hosed off after a long day in the mud, go for the Wilderdog Waterproof Leash. This leash is waterproof and basically mudproof and dirtproof too—though any grime it accumulates can easily be cleaned off.

It has a tested strength rate of up to 450 pounds of pulling force, so it’s good for most size dogs. However, it’s not the lightest, and the clip may be a bit bulky for very small dogs. 

This is an ideal leash to use for days at the lake or beach, hiking, snowy weather, or any other outdoor activity where your dog (and their leash) might get dirty.

Taking your dog near a body of water? Check out our Best Dog Life Jackets guide.

Best bungee dog leash: Non-stop Dogwear Bungee Leash

Length: 6.5 feet or 9.2 feet
Material: Rubber core, polyester outer layer
Width: 0.9 inches
Weight rating: Not listed, but carabiner rated for 661.4 pounds
What we liked: Full-body bungee construction; secure twist-lock carabiner clip; comes in two lengths
What could be better: Pricey

The Non-stop Dogwear Bungee leash is not only the best bungee leash, it’s also the best leash for running with your dog, and the best dog bike leash. Unlike other leashes with sections of bungee, this leash is made entirely of a flexible bungee material, allowing your dog to pull to the max while still shock absorbing.

I regularly use this leash for hiking and backpacking with my dog, and it pairs well with my dogs’ hiking backpacks. This is also a favorite leash of canicross, bikejoring, and skijoring teams, and it’s easy to see why. During testing, the bungee on this leash felt the smoothest when dogs were pulling, and was clearly the best at shock absorption of the bungee options we tested. It’s gentle on your shoulders, arms, and back, and your dog’s body. Pulling causes stress to their bodies, as well as ours, so reducing as much impact as possible is best to preserve your pup’s physical soundness. 

This leash features a rubber core designed to retain its elasticity over time, unlike other bungee leashes that can easily get stretched out. It’s covered in a durable polyester webbing material that held up well to our durability testing with minimal fraying or loose stitching. 

For running, skiing, and hiking, this leash is best paired with a running belt. I have both the Trail Light Belt and CaniX Belt from Non-stop Dogwear, and use them for hiking and running, respectively. 

Best slip lead dog leash: Mendota Pet Slip Leash

Length: 4 feet or 6 feet
Material: Multi-filament polypropylene rope and leather splices
Width: ⅜ inch or ½ inch
Weight rating: ⅜ inch for dogs 50 pounds and under, ½ inch for dogs 50 to 250 pounds
What we liked: Flexible; Comfortable to hold; Simple, secure hardware; Comes in a variety of colors; Lightweight; easy to put in a pocket; easy to put over your dog’s head; doesn’t require a collar to use; stopper tab on collar end for sizing
What could be better: Doesn’t have a stopping point for tightening

The Mendota Pet Slip Leash is everything I love about the Mendota Pet Snap Leash, minus the snap part. This slip lead easily pulls over your dog’s head and can be adjusted for different head/neck sizes. It’s the easiest leash to grab when you need to take your dog out for a quick potty break or short walk and don’t want to put all their gear on them.

This is probably the leash I reach for most often. As a condo dweller with two dogs, every potty break becomes a walk, and sometimes, I just don’t want to put collars or harnesses on my dogs. This leash is lightweight and comfortable to hold, can be easily bunched up to fit in your pocket or a bag as a spare leash, and is quite durable despite its light weight. One of my Mendota slip leads is my dog’s favorite tug toy, and with three years of tugging, it shows no signs of damage.

The leather stopper on this leash is great for keeping the neck section at a specific size. This prevents your dog from backing out of it, and is a handy feature for those who use slip leads on dogs who are potential flight risks.

Slip leads are easy to put on and take off, and a great option if you don’t want to always put a collar on your dog. However, they should not be used with dogs that pull so hard that they may damage their neck or trachea. Slip leads don’t have a “stopping point” on how tight they can go, so intense pullers could potentially hurt themselves on a slip lead. Though slip leads are often marketed for use with dogs that pull, I don’t find them the safest (or most effective) option.

Best dog leash for large dogs: Max and Neo Dog Gear Nylon Reflective Double Handle Dog Leash

Length: 6 feet
Material: Nylon webbing and neoprene lined handles
Width: 1 inch
Weight rating: Not listed
What we liked: Padded handles; traffic handle for close-range control; sturdy nylon construction; extra D-ring to clip on poop bags or a light; reflective
What could be better: Too heavy for small dogs

The Max and Neo Dog Gear Double Handle Reflective dog leash is a favorite for large dogs. It’s sturdy, has a traffic handle in addition to the normal handle, features reflective stitching, and both handles are padded with neoprene. Compared to our top pick, this leash comes somewhat stiff and needs to be broken in a bit, but the padding on the handles helps a lot with overall comfort.

Despite being a pick for large dogs, it’s not overbearingly heavy or bulky. It folds down to a decent size for travel, especially given its additional traffic handle. Traffic handles help keep your dog close to you in busy areas like urban downtowns, at busy trailheads on the weekends, or at the vet’s office. Having a traffic handle is also great for extra control over pups with strong prey drives or reactive dogs. 

Many user reviews note that the traffic handle on this leash should be placed higher, but I find it depends on your dog's height. For most large-sized breeds weighing 50 pounds or more, the traffic handle is placed in an appropriate spot. For shorter, smaller breeds, the handle does feel like it’s too low on the leash. 

Note that this leash isn’t the most lightweight, and the clip is fairly heavy, so it’s not a good choice for small breeds. It’s best suited for dogs around 50 pounds or larger, and the durability matches that. It features a heavy-duty clasp that’s strong and secure, and material that doesn’t easily fray. 

If you’ll be walking your dog in the dark, check out our Best Light-up Dog Collars guide.

Other dog leashes we tested

Ruffwear Ridgeline Leash

Length: Adjustable between 4 feet and 6.5 feet
Material: Reflective silicone-dipped polyester webbing
Width: 1 inch
Weight rating: Not listed
What we liked: Can be handheld or worn around your waist as a hands-free leash; durable materials; adjustable length
What could be better: The swiveling, auto-locking Talon Clip is confusing to use

The Ruffwear Ridgeline Leash is almost the perfect hiking leash. It’s super durable, can be handheld or worn around your waist as a hands-free leash, and has a Fidlock magnetic buckle on the handle/waist section that’s easy to clip and unclip with one hand. The biggest downside is the new Talon Clip, which, though super strong and secure, is awkward to clip and unclip compared to Ruffwear’s other leash clips.

Primal Pet Gear Dog Leash

Length: 6 feet or 8 feet
Material: Nylon
Width: 1 inch
Weight rating: Appropriate for dogs up to 154 pounds
What we liked: Very strong and durable; padded handles
What could be better: Heavy and bulky; feels like overkill for most dogs

The Primal Pet Gear Dog Leash is really similar to the Max and Neo Dog Gear Double Dog Leash. This leash is just heavier and more bulky than the Max and Neo versions, but it’s also sturdier and more durable. This leash is too big and heavy for most medium and small breeds, and I think it’s overkill for even most large dogs, but it could be a good option if you have a very large, strong dog and need a heavy-duty leash.

Wilderdog Ultralight Leash

Length: 6 feet
Material: Tightly woven, lightweight polyester webbing
Width: 1 inch
Weight rating: Rated for 3 kN of force (about 674 pounds of pulling force)
What we liked: Durable hardwear; rated for specific pulling force; comes in 18 different colors/patterns
What could be better: Not as light as Ruffwear’s Front Range Flex Leash

The Wilderdog Ultralight Leash is objectively a great leash, especially for those who prefer locking carabiners on their dog’s leashes. It’s lightweight, comfortable to hold, and has durable hardware. However, the Ruffwear Front Range Flex Leash wins in the race for the lightest leash at 2.5 oz compared to the Wilderdog’s 3.75.

Types of dog leashes explained

• Standard flat leashes: Your standard pet store dog leash. These leashes normally have a loop handle, a leash body, and a clip to connect your dog's leash. A standard flat leash can be used in almost any scenario with almost any dog. 

• Retractable leashes: Retractable leashes can give your dog a little extra freedom (like on sniffy walks) without having to manage a long line. They’re not appropriate for tight areas where your dog may come across other people or dogs in tight proximity. 

• Hands-free leashes: Can often be worn at the waist or across the body. These are great options for hiking as they free up your hands for trekking poles, grabbing water bottles, and more. 

• Rope leashes: They often strike a balance between durability and comfort. Many are made of climbing rope, but most have a little give to absorb some shock when your dog pulls. Rope leashes often come pre-broken in, so they’re not stiff and are comfortable to hold for long walks, hikes, or runs. 

• Slip leads: A leash that doubles as a collar and harness in one. These leashes simply slip over your dog’s head, and tightness can usually be adjusted via a leather or plastic stopper. These types of leashes tighten when your dog pulls on them, so they’re not the best option for extremely strong pullers. 

• Bungee leashes: Bungee leashes can help absorb shock from dogs that pull and are especially helpful for hiking, biking, running, and skiing with dogs. Bungee leashes can be made completely of bungee or have bungee sections built in. 

What to look for in a dog leash

Durability

Choose a leash that's durable enough for your dog’s size. Small dogs won’t require thick, heavy-duty leashes in the same way that large dogs do. Regardless of size and strength, look for options with quality stitching and reliable hardware.

Length

Opt for a leash length that’s suitable for your intended purpose. Daily walks, outings, and basic training will require a 4–6-foot leash. If you’re working on recall or wanting to give your dog an unstructured sniff walk, long lines or retractable leashes are more appropriate choices. 

Comfort

You’re the one at the other end of the leash, so choose a leash that’s comfortable for you to hold. Look for features like padded handles and flexible, pre-broken-in fabric for the best ergonomics. 

Control

Some leashes offer multiple traffic handles, multiple clips, or shorter lengths to offer more control. If you have a very strong dog or a dog who isn’t friendly with other dogs or people, these extra features can help you keep your dog close to you. A shorter length, like 4-6 feet, may also be a better option if you need more control. 

Safety

Features like reflective webbing or stitching, strong clips, and locking systems can help keep your dog safe while you’re out and about with them. 

Shock absorption

If you need a leash for running, biking, or hiking with your dog, one with a bungee section is a good idea. Bungee sections reduce the impact of pulling, making it feel smoother on your end, even if your dog is sprinting full speed ahead.

Dog size compatibility

Ensure you choose a leash that’s appropriate for (and, ideally, tested for) your dog’s size and weight. A large, strong breed like an Alaskan Malamute will likely need a thicker, stronger leash, while small breeds like mini Poodles will be fine with a thinner option.

Care and maintenance of dog leashes

• Clean your dog’s leash when it’s dirty, wiping mud and dirt off with a wet cloth.

• Ensure you hang your dog’s leash to dry after walking in wet weather. Leaving a wet dog leash crumpled up or in a bag can invite mold or mildew.

• Check your dog’s leash frequently for loose stitching or broken hardware. Both of these can cause a leash to fail, posing a safety hazard for your dog.

• Replace your dog’s leash if the hardware is broken, if the stitching around the hardware or handle is damaged, or if it’s frayed or torn enough that it may rip. 

FAQ

• What is the best leash length for walking a dog?

  Usually, the best leash length for walking a dog is six feet. This gives your dog enough freedom to sniff and potty while keeping them close enough for control.

• Are retractable dog leashes safe?

  Retractable leashes are safe when sized and used properly. Retractable leashes should always be purchased with your dog’s weight in mind and used carefully, especially in crowded environments. Don’t allow your dog to pull to the end of their retractable leash around other dogs or people they don’t know. Ensure you safely retract the leash without tangling your dog. 

• What leash is best for training a dog?

  The best leash for training a dog depends on what you’re training. Loose leash walking and heelwork should be taught on a four to six-foot nylon, biothane, or rope leash. Introduction to recall can be taught on a 10 to15-foot training leash, and longer distance recall can be taught on a 20 to 30-foot long line. 

• Are rope dog leashes better than nylon?

  Rope leashes are often stronger than nylon leashes and are more ergonomic. These leashes are often made of climbing-grade rope and can be more durable and comfortable to hold.

• What leash works best for dogs that pull?

  There’s no leash that will stop your dog from pulling. However, dogs who pull can be taught to pull on command on a shock-absorbing bungee leash, giving them an outlet for their pulling instinct. These dogs should also be taught loose leash walking skills on a static four- to six-foot nylon or rope leash.

• How strong should a leash be for large dogs?

  Large, strong dogs require thicker, stronger, and heavier leashes than small dogs. For very strong pullers, look for a leash with a pull rating of 1,000+ pounds for extra peace of mind. 

• Are hands-free dog leashes safe for running?

  Hands-free dog leashes are safe for running if they’re secured properly to your dog and to you, and if your dog is properly leash trained. A big, strong dog who isn’t trained to walk nicely on a leash may be able to pull you over when attached to a hands-free leash.

• What is a slip lead, and when should you use one?

  A slip lead is a leash that slips over your dog’s head and acts as a collar and leash in one. A slip lead should be used when convenience is key and getting a leash on and off your dog is most important. Slip leashes are also commonly used for dogs who are flight risks.

• Do bungee leashes help reduce pulling?

  Bungee leashes will not help reduce pulling. However, bungee leashes may reduce the amount of force on the person walking the dog, as they are shock absorbing.

• How long should a training leash be?

  Training leash lengths depend on what skill you’re working on training with your dog. Loose leash walking and heelwork shouldbe taught on a four- to six-foot leash. Introduction to recall can be taught on a 10 to15- foot training leash, and longer distance recall can be taught on a 20 to 30-foot long line.

How we researched and tested

Walk testing with different dog sizes and energy levels: We used each leash with a variety of dogs of different sizes and with different pulling preferences.

• Durability checks on stitching, webbing, and clips: We evaluated the durability of stitching, webbing, and hardware over multiple weeks of use. We also performed a lab-style durability test on the stitching and webbing to see how strong each of these components was. 

• Comfort testing during longer walks and runs: We used each of these leashes on multi-mile walks, runs, and/or hikes with dogs.

• Pull-force evaluation: We did a lab-style strength test on leashes and hardware to evaluate strength and quality.

• Usability testing: We evaluated how easy it was to clip and unclip each leash to a variety of dog collars and harnesses, and tested adjustability and additional features, such as convertible hands-free leashes where applicable. 

Why you should trust us / About the author

Jae Thomas has tested nearly every dog leash on the market—multiple times. As a long-time gear reviewer in the pet space and as a professional dog trainer, Jae has an eye for dog leashes that sit at the intersection of safety, convenience, and price point. 

Jae has tested leashes with a huge variety of breeds, including working Malamutes bred for pulling when she worked as a kennel assistant at a Malamute kennel. 

Jae Thomas is an e-commerce journalist, editor, and dog trainer based in Colorado. She graduated from the New York University journalism program in 2020, and has written and edited commerce content for publications like Mashable, Apartment Therapy, Bon Appetít, Whole Dog Journal, Chewy, CNN Underscored, and more. 

Jae is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed, and teaches agility, rally, and other dog sports at Canine Athletics Training Center in Boulder County. Jae uses her background in dog sports and behavior to test outdoor-focused dog gear focused on fit, comfort, safety, and functionality for dogs and their owners. 

Jae shares her life with two dogs: mixed breed Miso, and Rough Collie, Dashi. Jae competes in conformation, agility, rally, herding, barn hunt, scent work, and other sports with her dogs and is a pro at traveling, camping, hiking, and adventuring with canine companions in tow.

April 28th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel

Our verdict

The North Face Alta Vista Rain Jacket is a versatile, waterproof shell ideal for hiking, walking, commuting, traveling, and backpacking (if you aren’t an ultralight backpacker). It’s not the lightest rain jacket we’ve tested, but it’s effective in harsh weather and has lots of pockets, is available in up to 3XL in both men’s and women’s, sports a simple design in a range of neutral and fun colors, and is a good value for the price.

We tested The North Face Alta Vista Rain Jacket, men’s and women’s, on hikes, runs, walks, commutes, and backpacking trips in Colorado, West Virginia, and Scotland. 

Made with The North Face’s proprietary DryVent 2.5-layer waterproof technology, the Alta Vista rain jacket is super effective at keeping water out in heavy downpours while transferring heat to feel more breathable than other waterproof materials. It’s similar to GORE-TEX, but less stiff and more budget friendly.

The Alta Vista isn’t particularly fancy, but the DryVent 2.5L material is both waterproof and relatively breathable. There are five pockets, including a chest pocket where you can pack down the jacket and stow it. And the hems, hood, and cuffs are all adjustable, so you can customize your fit.

If you’re looking for an ultralight jacket, this isn’t it. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty or insulated rain jacket, this isn’t it. But it’s a reliable, packable, and versatile jacket we’ve taken on our hikes, daily walks, and travels. It’s not the least expensive jacket we’ve tested either, but in the world of rain jackets, the cost is not bad, and the jacket is a good value at $160.

Bottom line: The North Face Alta Vista is for those seeking a rain jacket they can take on hikes, short backpacking trips, commutes, and traveling, especially if you want something quality at a more affordable price.

Find more of our favorite lightweight rain jackets in our Best Lightweight Rain Jackets guide.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

The North Face Alta Vista Rain Jacket Specifications

• Price (MSRP): $160

• Weight: 11.6 oz (men’s), 9.3 oz (women’s)

• Material/membrane: DryVent 2.5L shell with a non-PFC DWR finish

• Waterproof rating: 15,000 mm

• Seam sealed: Yes, fully
  Available sizes and fit type: S-3XL (men’s), XS-3XL (women’s), regular fit

• Back length: 27.75" (men’s), 26.6" (women’s) 

• Pit zips: Yes

• Pockets: 5 (2 zippered hand, 2 internal drop, 1 zippered chest)

• Hood type: Adjustable 3-piece hood with cinch cord

• Cuff closure type: Hook and loop (generic Velcro)

• Packable: Yes

• Sustainability features: 100% recycled nylon, non-PFC DWR finish 

• Warranty information: Limited lifetime warranty

Comparison tables

Men's

Women's

Best for

• Hikers who spend time in wet environments

• Backpackers who aren’t counting grams with ultralight gear

• Commuters, travelers, and those looking for a versatile everyday rain jacket

• Anyone looking for a quality waterproof jacket on a budget

What we liked

• Effective waterproofing

• Venting pit zips

• Packs into chest pocket

• Versatile as a hiking and backpacking jacket or an everyday rain jacket

• Value for the price

What could be better

• Not as lightweight as other rain jackets we’ve tested

• Hook and loop cuffs can get caught easily

• Less breathable than similar jackets, like The North Face Terrain Vista 3L Pro

How we tested

We tested The North Face Alta Vista Rain Jacket, men’s and women’s, on hikes, runs, walks, commutes, and backpacking trips in Colorado, West Virginia, and Scotland. We wore the jacket in the rain and in muddy, humid conditions. 

We tested The North Face Alta Vista in temperatures that were cool and warm—we did not test this jacket in frigid cold or scorching heat temperature extremes, but imagine it would work well over warm layers in cold weather. Rain varied from light sprinkles to heavy downpour. 

Additionally, we tested this jacket in the shower alongside other waterproof jackets in our Best Lightweight Rain Jackets and Best Women’s Running Jackets guides. We stood in the shower wearing each jacket for a few minutes each to test waterproofness and comfort in a more controlled environment.

Performance in the field

Weather protection

The North Face’s proprietary DryVent 2.5-layer waterproof technology is super effective at keeping water out in heavy downpour while transferring heat to feel more breathable than other waterproof materials. It’s similar to GORE-TEX, but less stiff and more budget friendly. We had no issues with it wetting out.

The non-PFC durable water repellent (DWR) finish also keeps you dry, so the water beads up and rolls away. However, it is important that you wash your jacket periodically to maintain the DWR’s effectiveness. Scratches, dirt, everyday wear, and our own skin oils can reduce the effectiveness of the DWR finish, but washing the jacket reactivates the DWR.

This jacket is also windproof, so you could also wear it as a windbreaker. The hood is adjustable and stays put pretty well, with a small cap for extra coverage over your face. The seam seals and zippers are durable and have worked well at maintaining weather protection.

Breathability and ventilation

While no waterproof jacket is truly breathable, The North Face’s proprietary DryVent technology is far more breathable than trashbag-like materials that are only waterproof, as it transfers heat. This prevents you from getting super sweaty. We wouldn’t say this is the best option for a high-output activity like running, but it works well for hiking, walking, and commuting.

The pit zips, then, allow you to dump heat faster and improve ventilation. This is especially great when you’re hiking or backpacking and warm up quickly.

Fit and comfort

The Alta Vista fits true to size, and is roomy enough for a warm midlayer underneath. You could fit a lightweight puffy underneath, but it would limit your range of motion. Unless you’re wearing a lot of layers underneath, the jacket has a wide range of motion.

I wouldn’t say this has next-to-skin comfort (I have yet to encounter a waterproof jacket that does), but it’s less stiff than GORE-TEX, which some folks may appreciate. The material is on the crinkly side, but not excessively loud.

The hem falls around the hip, so unlike a parka-style rain jacket common in commuter jackets, coverage is limited to your upper body. There is an internal elastic cinch cord with a cordlock at the hem, allowing you to adjust the fit. The adjustable hood isn’t specifically helmet compatible, but we were able to wear it with hats no problem.

Packability and weight

The Alta Vista stows into its chest pocket, making it easy to pack away. It doesn’t pack down as small as ultralight rain jackets—somewhere between a large grapefruit and a small cantaloupe—but it has a small loop so you could attach it to the outside of your pack. 

Weighing between 9 and 12 ounces depending on size, this is not the lightest rain jacket we’ve tested. If you’re an ultralight backpacker, you may want to consider something lighter, like the ~6-oz Montbell Versalight or the Outdoor Research Helium. However, it’s not super bulky or heavy, either, and is a great, more affordable option for non-ultralight hikers and backpackers, commuting, travel, or an everyday rain jacket for people who live in rainy places.

Features

Waterproof technology

The North Face Alta Vista Rain Jacket has DryVent 2.5-layer waterproof/breathable technology with a non-PFC DWR finish. In order for the DWR finish to work well, you should wash this jacket regularly.

The Alta Vista also features a water-repellent front zipper and sealed seams for even more water protection.

Hood design

This jacket has an attached 3-piece hood with drawcords and cordlocks for adjustability. It’s not specifically listed as helmet compatible, but it fits over hats and stays put fairly well. The extended brim adds extra protection over your face.

Ventilation systems

The Alta Vista has zipped ventilation at both pits, which effectively dumps heat.

Pockets and storage

The Alta Vista has five pockets—two zippered hand pockets, one zippered chest pocket, and two internal drop-in pockets (The North Face website only lists one internal drop-in pocket, but ours have two). The internal drop-in pockets are fairly large and can easily fit any phone. All pockets are easy to access, even if you’re wearing a backpack or harness.

Adjustability 

This jacket is adjustable at the hem, cuffs, and hood. The hem and hood have cinch cords with cordlocks, and the cuffs have hook-and-loop (the generic name for Velcro) adjustability. The cinch cords are easy to use and effective. The hook-and-loop adjustability at the cuffs works just fine, but it can get caught easily on other materials.

Durability 

We have not noticed any major durability issues with this jacket's construction, including the zippers and seams. 

2.5-Layer

The Alta Vista is what the industry calls a "2.5-layer" jacket, meaning that it has a half inner layer rather than a full fabric lining found on 3-layer jackets. The half inner layer is printed directly onto the waterproof membrane, which makes the jacket lighter but less durable over time compared to a 3-layer jacket. The printed half-layer also contributes to the jacket's next-to-skin clamminess (as with all 2.5-layer jackets).

Sustainability and ethics

This jacket uses 100% recycled nylon and a non-PFC DWR finish. The North Face also shares their sustainability goals on their website, which include reducing the use of virgin plastic in packaging, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and keeping more high-value resources in circularity.

Should you buy The North Face Alta Vista Rain Jacket?

Buy if you want a versatile rain jacket for hiking, backpacking, travel, commuting, travel, and everyday use. Buy if you’re looking for a lightweight, packable, budget-friendly rain jacket.

Skip if you want an ultralight rain jacket for backpacking, like the Montbell Versalite or the Outdoor Research Helium. Skip if you are willing to spend more for a higher waterproof rating or more features, like the Arc'teryx Beta SL or the The North Face Terrain Vista 3L Pro.

Where to buy The North Face Alta Vista Rain Jacket

The North Face Alta Vista rain jacket is popular, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

Men's and women's

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership

Men's and women's

Backcountry

Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent

Men's and women's

Advice on where to buy

In general for apparel, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. Trying on shoes is an important way to get the sizing right. With both those retailers, if your funds allow, you can buy two sizes and easily return one. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down. 

Similar rain jackets to consider

The North Face Alta Vista vs. The North Face Terrain Vista 3L Pro

Best for: Hiking, everyday wear
Price: $200-230
Sizes: S-XL (men’s), XS-XL (women’s)
Weight: Not stated
Waterproof material: DryVent 3L shell with non-PFC DWR finish
Waterproof rating: Not stated
Seam Sealed: Yes, fully
Pit zips: No
Pockets: 4 (2 zip hand pockets, 2 zip chest pockets)

The North Face Terrain Vista 3L Pro is a heavier, more waterproof rain jacket than the Alta Vista. This would be a better pick if weight is not a concern, especially for those looking for a rain jacket best suited for everyday use and some hiking.

The North Face Alta Vista vs. Outdoor Research Foray/Aspire

Best for: Commuting, backpacking, hiking
Price: $260
Sizes: XS-XXXL (men's); XS-4X (women's)
PFAS-free: Yes
Weight:  15.3 oz (men's); 13.9 oz (women's)
Waterproof material: AscentShell Dry 3L
Waterproof rating: 28,000 mm
Taped: Yes, fully
Pit zips: Yes
Pockets: 5

The Outdoor Research Foray (men’s) and Aspire (women’s) are our picks for best for commuting for their generous pocket space, storm flaps for extra protection, packability, and extra durability. This is also a more environmentally-friendly option, as it’s the first outdoor technical apparel to be certified as carbon neutral by Climate Impact Partners. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Outdoor Research Foray/Aspire  3L Rain Jacket.

The North Face Alta Vista vs. Outdoor Research Helium UL

Best for: Lightweight hiking and backpacking, just in case, plus size
Price: $225
PFC-free and PFAS-free: Yes
Sizes: S-XXXL (men's), XS-XXL (women's)
Weight: 5.7 oz (men’s) / 5.6 oz (women’s)
Waterproof Material: Toray Dermizax 3D 2.75-layer
Waterproof Rating: 20,000 mm
Pit Zips: No
Pockets: 1 chest pocket (men's); 2 hand pockets, 1 chest pocket (women's)

The Outdoor Research Helium rain jacket weighs about half as much as The North Face Alta Vista and is our pick for best packable lightweight rain jacket. It packs down small into its chest pocket, making it a great option for ultralight backpackers.

The North Face Alta Vista vs. REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket

Best for: Hiking, backpacking, trail to town, travel, occasional commuting
Price: $100
PFC-free and PFAS-free: Yes
Sizes: XS-3X (women's), XS- XXXL Tall (men's)
Weight: 12.5 (men’s), 11.4 (women’s)
Waterproof Material:  HydroWall 2.5L
Waterproof Rating:  + mm/24 hours
Seam Taped: Yes, fully
Breathability Rating: Not stated
Pit Zips: Yes
Pockets: 4

If you’re looking for an even more budget-friendly rain jacket, consider the REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket. It’s only $100 and weighs a couple ounces more than The North Face Alta Vista and serves similar use cases. We also appreciate that the men’s is more size inclusive than The North Face jackets, which is why we named it Best Plus-size Lightweight Rain Jacket.

About the author / Why you should trust us

Becca spends a lot of time outdoors, hiking, running, walking, and traveling and has been writing gear reviews for nearly four years. She grew up in northern Indiana and is no stranger to lake-effect precipitation. Her competitive running background also taught her to get outside, rain or shine, and she does not shy away from wet weather. While she now lives in the relatively dry state of Colorado, she travels frequently to places that are not so dry.

You can find her at her website, Instagram, and her Treeline Review author page.

April 27th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Mountain Biking

Our Verdict

The Smith Optics Forefront 3 is our pick for Best High-Tech Mountain Bike Helmet, and after dozens of days testing it on trails across Colorado’s high country and the southern Utah desert by multiple testers, we think it earns the title. It's a top-notch helmet with a noteworthy style and unbeatable comfort. 

If you value a combination of high-end safety tech paired with a sleek,unique style, you should put the Forefront 3 on your shortlist. With two forms of impact protection (Mips Air Node for rotational forces and Koroyd for direct impacts) it's suitable for a wide variety of trail riding.

We have spent multiple seasons testing every iteration of the Forefront, and while we loved those too, this is a notable upgrade in both form and function. It’s more breathable and better-ventilated than previous versions of the Forefront, but it doesn’t sacrifice any of the safety tech to achieve that. It’s also a lower profile and sleeker looking overall than older Forefront models. 

The tradeoffs are price and ventilation. At $300, it's an investment. And while the venting is notably better than previous Forefronts, the Koroyd structure means it's still not the airiest helmet in its class — something to weigh if you ride often in hot climates like Sedona or Moab.

If you spend your time trail riding and want a helmet that looks good and protects your very good-looking brain, too, we think the Forefront 3 is an excellent option to consider. Plus, it comes in a wide variety of colors, from subtle and earthy to bright and poppy, including one that literally has “flamingo” in the name. Look good, feel good, ride good—and protect that noggin while you’re at it.

For more of our favorite helmets, check out our Best Mountain Bike Helmets guide.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Smith Optics Forefront 3 Helmet Specifications

Price: $300
Virginia Tech Rating: not rated or listed on Virginia Tech site
Rotational Impact Protection: Mips Air Node
Additional Impact Protection: Koroyd
Visor: Yes, adjustable
Vents: 20 fixed vents
Sizing: S-L
Weight: 410g (for a size medium)
Additional Features: BOA fit system, AirEvac ventilation system integrates with Smith Optics eyewear

Comparison table

Best for

• Trail riders who want multiple forms of impact protection

• Mountain bikers who want a stylish helmet that doesn’t sacrifice safety

• Mountain bikers who want a comfortable half shell helmet that has better than average coverage

What we liked

• Multiple forms of impact protection, including Mips and Koroyd

• Among the most comfortable fit systems we've used

• Sleek and low profile design

• Excellent style

• Better venting than previous iterations of the Forefront

What could be better

• Expensive

• Venting is average; if you run hot or ride often in hot weather, you may want a helmet with better airflow 

How we tested

We spent dozens of days testing the Smith Optics Forefront 3 helmet on trails in Colorado and Utah. Our days testing in Colorado were primarily on high country trails around Summit County, and temperatures and conditions varied from warm and sunny late summer conditions to cool and drizzly fall biking weather. In Utah, we encountered warm and dry weather in the desert during the fall. We also spent multiple days testing this helmet on bike commutes to work on cold spring mornings and during warm afternoon rides. 

We also tested this helmet alongside other helmets in our Best Mountain Bike Helmets guide to compare fit, comfort, venting, and overall performance.

Performance in the field

Fit

We found the Smith Optics Forefront 3 to fit true to size. Our tester typically wears a medium in all helmets, and this fit him perfectly in a medium. The BOA fit system is easy to use and adjust, and the soft and flexible materials it’s made of make it particularly comfortable to wear. 

Comfort

The inner harness system on the Forefront 3 is low profile and very comfortable. The BOA in Smith Optics’ Flexible Fit system is very slick, and this is among the most dialed and comfortable fit systems we’ve used.  

Venting

Ventilation on the Forefront 3 helmet is average. It is limited by the Koroyd structures that add impact protection—it’s noticeable but not at all egregious. For most riders in cooler climates, this should not be an issue. 

We spent dozens of days pedaling hard for long periods in this helmet on trails around Colorado and in the high desert of southern Utah in temps up to 80 degrees, and did not have issues. But, if you run particularly hot,live in a very hot climate, or ride often in one (like Sedona or Moab), you may want to consider a helmet with more open venting. It is worth reiterating that the venting in the Forefront 3 is notably better than in previous Forefront models.

Eyewear compatibility

The Forefront 3 worked well with every pair of sunglasses we tested it with. We rode in it most often with the Smith Wildcat sunglasses (our best overall winner in our Best Mountain Bike Sunglasses guide) and found that to be an excellent pairing for all around trail riding. This helmet can also work with goggles, though most folks wearing a half shell helmet will opt for sunglasses for better ventilation and less weight and bulk. Smith's proprietary AirEvac ventilation system is designed to integrate with Smith's goggles and sunglasses, but we found it effective with non-Smith eyewear as well. 

Impact protection

Thankfully, we didn’t experience any major crashes while wearing this helmet, but our tester continues to wear it as his primary helmet. (As a dad who loves to ride hard, having multiple forms of impact protection in one high-coverage half shell helmet brings some reassurance out on the trails.)

Features

Impact protection

The Smith Optics Forefront 3 helmet has multiple forms of impact protection. For rotational impact protection, it uses Mips Air Node. This version of Mips is the lightest they offer and integrates more comfortably with the helmet than other versions of rotational impact protection. Having Mips in the helmet specifically reduces impacts to the brain from rotational impacts, because the inner lining of the helmet (the Mips part) rotates against the shell, instead of your head.

The Forefront 3 also has Koroyd integrated into the helmet for direct impact protection. Whereas Mips protects against rotational impacts, Koroyd helps to lessen and disperse the energy of direct and blunt impacts to the head. Koroyd is the little straw-like honeycomb structure that you see through the helmet vents. The hollow chambers allow for airflow while still adding an extra level of impact protection.

Construction and coverage

The Forefront 3 is constructed with an outer shell and inner foam layer, paired with the Mips and Koroyd for impact protection. The Forefront 3 has more coverage, particularly in the back, than previous versions of the helmet, so your head has more protection overall. It also has the best coverage of any half shell helmet (not full face) in the Smith Optics lineup.

Eyewear compatibility

The Forefront 3 works well with most sunglasses (we tested several options with this helmet, including the Smith Wildcat, Zeal, POC, and others). It can also work with goggles if that’s your preference. There are vent channels that integrate specifically with Smith goggles and eyewear for fog-free lenses, but we found the channels to be helpful no matter which glasses we were wearing.

There are multiple spots on the helmet to store sunglasses, including under the visor and on the back of the helmet. 

Fit system

The Forefront 3 uses the Smith Optics Flexible Fit System, which integrates BOA for micro adjustments. This inner harness is very low profile, lightweight, and comfortable. 

Ventilation

There are 20 fixed vents placed throughout the helmet. Two vents at the top center of the helmet are completely open, while the rest go over the top of the Koroyd impact protection system.

Visor

The Forefront 3 helmet has an adjustable visor attached to the helmet. It can be moved into three different positions as the sun changes positions throughout the day. 

Weight

The Forefront 3 helmet weighs 410 grams in a size medium. It is lighter than previous versions of the Forefront, but it is a little on the heavier side (though far from the heaviest). 

Sustainability 

Smith Optics is working towards zero plastic waste in their packaging. 

Smith Optics Forefront 3 vs. similar mountain bike helmets

The Forefront 3 is one of Smith Optics’ high-end half shell helmets and is comparable to other top-end options we like from other brands, like the POC Kortal Race Mips and Cularis Mips, and the Sweet Protection Bushwhacker 2Vi Mips, which is another high coverage half shell we’ve been testing. Of these helmets, the Smith Forefront 3 is the only option that includes both Mips and Koroyd for impact protection, though all of these helmets have Mips for rotational impact protection. 

Because the Forefront 3 has the Koroyd integrated across almost the entire helmet, it is less breathable than these other options, so if you run hot, you may want to consider one of these options with more open venting (though we didn’t have notable issues overheating in the Forefront 3). The POC Cularis is among the most comfortable and airy in our test, but the shell doesn't have quite as much coverage as others. 

The POC Kortal Race has the highest coverage of any half shell we’ve tested, and that fact does make it a little less compatible with some styles of sunglasses, because of the extra coverage on the temples. 

The Sweet Protection Bushwhacker 2Vi is another very comfortable half shell with very good coverage. In addition to the Mips rotational impact protection, Sweet Protection uses what they call 2Vi in the foam, which is a complex combination of different densities for different impact zones. 

Should you buy the Smith Optics Forefront 3 helmet?

Buy if you’re looking for a high coverage half shell helmet with multiple forms of impact protection, all in a stylish and unique looking package.It’s a great option for mountain bikers who want a fine balance of protection, comfort, and style. It's a strong pick for trail riders who log long days, ride technical terrain, or just want the reassurance of layered impact protection on every ride. The sleek styling and wide color range are a bonus.

Skip if ventilation is your top priority. The Koroyd structure that makes the Forefront 3 so protective also limits airflow compared to more open helmets like the POC Cularis. If you ride primarily in hot climates or you run hot in general, you'll be happier in something airier. The $300 price is also steep; if you want solid protection without the high-tech extras, there are capable half-shells at half the cost.

Where to buy the Smith Optics Forefront 3 helmet

The Smith Optics Forefront 3 helmet is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership

Evo

Pros: 365 day returns, store locations in ski towns for easy last-minute pick-up, may offer rentals if you want to try before you buy, earn 10% back in Rewards

Advice on where to buy

In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. If your funds allow, many people find it is faster to order two sizes and return whichever one didn't fit as well. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.

Similar mountain bike helmets

Smith Optics Forefront 3 vs Smith Optics Forefront 2

MSRP: $250
Virginia Tech Rating: Not rated or listed on Virginia Tech site
Rotational Impact Protection: Mips Air Node
Additional Impact Protection: Koroyd
Visor: Yes, adjustable
Sizing: S-L

The Smith Optics Forefront 2 is the predecessor to the Forefront 3. Both use Mips and Koroyd, but the Forefront 3 is lighter, more breathable, and more comfortable overall than the Forefront 2—and it looks cooler, too.

Smith Optics Forefront 3 vs. POC Kortal Race Mips

MSRP: $300
Virginia Tech Rating: Not rated or listed on Virginia Tech site
Rotational Impact Protection: Mips 
Visor: Yes, adjustable
Sizing: S-L

The POC Kortal Race Mips is the highest coverage traditional half shell helmet we’ve tested. It has more coverage, particularly on the sides and temples, than the Forefront 3. But, we think the Forefront 3 is a little more comfortable overall.

Smith Optics Forefront 3 vs. POC Cularis Mips

MSRP: $260
Virginia Tech Rating: 5 stars (in top 5 rated MTB helmets)
Rotational Impact Protection: Mips Air Node
Visor: Yes, adjustable
Sizing: S-L

The POC Cularis Mips, the best overall winner in our Best Mountain Bike Helmets guide, uses the same Air Node Mips technology as the Forefront 3, which we think is the most comfortable iteration of Mips yet. The Forefront 3 has more coverage than the Cularis, but the Cularis is more breathable. For trail riders who love the downhill, the Forefront 3 may be best, but if you love to pedal then the Cularis may be a better fit.

Smith Optics Forefront 3 vs. Sweet Protection Bushwhacker 2Vi Mips 

MSRP: $250
Virginia Tech Rating: not rated or listed on Virginia Tech site
Rotational Impact Protection: Mips Air Node
Visor: Yes, adjustable
Sizing: S-L

The Sweet Protection Bushwhacker uses both Mips Air Node and Sweet’s proprietary 2Vi technology, which uses different densities of foam in the helmet based on different impact zones. It’s a light and comfortable helmet with good coverage. This is another great option for folks who want a stylish looking helmet that offers excellent protection.

About the author / Why you should trust us

A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held a WFR, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue Certifications and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full time writer and editor in the outdoor space and has been testing and writing about gear for over a decade.

Stasia learned to mountain bike as a kid in Utah, and rekindled her love for the sport after moving to Summit County, Colorado and getting a new (and very much improved from her very old hand-me-down) full suspension bike several years ago. She spends most of her summer days out on the singletrack. Stasia has been testing mountain bike helmets for several years and has learned what to look for in a great one. Thankfully, she has not had to do too much true impact testing—aside from the time she went OTB after just discovering she was pregnant with her first child. Whoops. (Everything was fine and now that kid rides his own tiny bike, also often recklessly.)

April 27th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel

Our verdict

Some people have comfort blankets; we have the Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie. This lightweight insulated merino puffy has become one of those rare pieces of gear we can’t live without. 

It nails the balance a lot of cold weather layers miss: enough warmth to take the edge off, enough breathability for movement, and odor resistance that allows you to wear it again and again. With its athletic fit, it performs just as well as an active midlayer under a shell as it does on its own as an outer layer in milder conditions. 

We’ve worn the Wool Aire for years and tested the updated version this winter on hikes, winter walks, travel days, and under a shell for skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather activities. We love that it barely weighs anything but still makes a real difference once you put it on. It’s incredibly soft and comfortable, layers easily, and moves naturally between active use and everyday wear. 

The main catch is the price, and it won’t replace a warmer insulated jacket when temperatures really drop, but if you value the benefits of merino wool, its warmth, comfort, and breathability are hard to beat.

Bottom line: For anyone looking for a versatile, wear-everywhere insulated layer, the Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie is one of our all-time favorite pieces.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Ibex Women’s Wool Aire Hoodie specifications

• Price: $315

• Weight: 11.4 oz (men’s), 12.3 oz (women’s)

• Insulation: 30% recycled merino wool, 50% virgin merino wool, 20% corn-based PLA fibers for additional strength

• Shell material: 100% nylon (20-denier featherweight)

• Hood: Yes, adjustable 

• Fit: Athletic 

• Zipper: Full-zip

• Pockets: 2 zippered hand pockets; one internal pocket

• Sustainability notes: The face fabric is completely PFC-free, made with Bluesign approved materials, Oeko-Tex-certified dyes, and part recycled/part virgin renewable raw material for insulation

• Care instructions: Machine wash cold; do not use fabric softeners; do not bleach; lay flat to dry; cool iron if needed; do not dry clean

Best for

• Active winter layering for cold-weather outdoor activities 

• Standalone outer layer wear in mild to cool conditions

• Travel, camping, and everyday versatility

• Folks who want a lightweight, do-everything, wear-everywhere insulated jacket

• People who prefer the comfort and performance of merino wool-based insulation

Comparison table

What we liked

• Easy to wear as both a midlayer and a standalone outer layer

• Highly versatile for most outdoor activities, travel, winter layering, and everyday use

• Soft, supple feel that stands out from many insulated jackets

• Excellent temperature regulation and warmth for the weight

• Noticeably more breathable and less clammy than many synthetic midlayers

• Packs down small and goes everywhere with us

• Strong odor resistance for repeat wear and travel

What could be better

• Premium price

• Not the warmest option for deep cold or low-output days

• Less protective in wind and storms than a more substantial standalone puffy

How we tested

We’ve been wearing the Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie for over three years, and we’ve spent this winter testing the updated version released in early 2026. At this point, it’s a piece we’ve worn just about everywhere and for nearly everything: skiing, snowboarding, climbing, hiking, biking, camping, road trips, travel, everyday errands, cool summer nights, and as an all-around winter layer. 

Most of our testing has taken place in the Pacific Northwest, but it’s also one of those jackets we end up packing no matter where we’re headed. We’ve worn it on many cooler summer nights in Alberta and packed it for a trip to Mexico when we wanted a lightweight layer that wouldn’t take up much space.

We’ve worn it as a midlayer under shells in colder temperatures and as an outer layer in milder conditions, using it for everything from slow walks to high-output efforts like steep uphill climbs. More than anything, we’ve come to see it as a true four-season layer rather than a winter-specific piece. Compared to many other puffy midlayers, it’s better at temperature regulation, and feels softer, less bulky, and more all-purpose, which is a big part of why it has become one of our most used grab-and-go layers year round.

Performance in the field

Warmth

The Wool Aire Hoodie hits a sweet spot that can be hard to find in an insulated jacket, and that’s mostly thanks to the blended merino wool insulation. It always seems to match the day and that’s because merino excels at temperature regulation. The crimped fibers both trap heat and manage moisture vapor, so when you start to heat up, you’re kept warm without feeling clammy. It’s a big part of why we generally prefer merino to other synthetic materials, especially next to skin and when your activity requires changing output levels. 

That ability to keep you comfy in such a wide temperature range is a huge part of why we wear the Wool Aire Hoodie in every season. On its own, it’s ideal in cool to cold temps when we’re moving, whether that’s a crisp fall hike, a day of spring cross country skiing, or even a windy summer day when you want a little warmth without feeling overdone. It’s warm enough to take the edge off, but doesn’t feel overly built-up for active use. In colder winter weather, it really shines under a shell, where it adds noticeable warmth without the puffy marshmallow feeling. 

It does have its limits. We wouldn’t reach for it as our only insulated layer for standing around in deep cold, but for active use and layering that adapts to changing conditions, it’s become essential.

Breathability

A big part of why we keep reaching for the Wool Aire is that ability to manage moisture and dump heat before things get swampy. It’s one of merino’s biggest advantages over a lot of synthetic insulations. Many synthetic midlayers we’ve tested start to feel clammy the minute you’re working hard, but the Wool Aire stays far more comfortable. Even on gruelling uphill efforts, its breathability is noticeable, keeping us drier and less prone to that cycle of being overheated then over-chilled that can happen when sweat gets trapped in less breathable layers. 

The Wool Aire doesn’t have pit zips for added ventilation, but we don’t think it needs them. It does a great job at breathability as is, and zippers would only add unnecessary bulk. 

Comfort and Fit

The fit is athletic without feeling restrictive, which is a big reason why the Wool Aire works across so many different activities. It’s snug enough that it easily layers over a base layer and under a shell without feeling bunching or feeling bulky (we wore under it at least four different women’s shells, including the Arc’teryx Beta SV Jacket and the Outdoor Research Aspire 3L Rain Jacket). 

It’s also comfortable enough to wear on its own as an outer layer. The face fabric is exceptionally soft and supple, which stands out from many technical insulated jackets that can feel slick, crinkly, or stiff by comparison. The adjustable hood is comfortable and easy to dial in, and in our very rainy Pacific Northwest testing grounds, we like that it adds coverage without feeling floppy or overbuilt—it stays put when cinched and still allows for good visibility. The range of motion is excellent whether we’re hiking, biking, or layering it for winter sports.

Odor resistance

One of the most underrated things about merino wool is how easy it is to wear again and again without it getting gross. We’ve worn synthetic layers that can start to smell after just a couple of wears, but the Wool Aire does an excellent job of resisting odor buildup, which makes it great for travel, camping, or long stretches when laundry is not happening. 

We’ve worn it for long, sweaty days outside, packed it for trips, and thrown it back on repeatedly without feeling like it needed immediate washing. That alone gives it a real edge as a practical everyday piece. If you value gear that can keep up without demanding constant care, the Wool Aire does just that. 

Versatility 

Versatility is what makes the Wool Aire Hoodie so easy to love. Ibex pitches it for high alpine pursuits, but for us, it’s become a true wear-it-everyday-and-everywhere piece. We use it as a midlayer for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and colder winter days, but we also use it as a standalone jacket for hiking, travel, camping, shoulder-season activities, and cool summer nights. 

It looks and feels less techy than some other insulated layers, and since it has such a lightweight and barely-there feel, it moves naturally from trail to town. It packs small and wears comfortably in a huge range of conditions. It has become an essential go-to anytime we’re packing for a trip and it’s the first jacket we reach for when we’re heading out the door. 

Durability

For such a light jacket, the Wool Aire has held up impressively well. The face fabric is thin and supple, so it doesn’t have the bombproof feel of a burlier insulated piece, but it has proven more durable than its weight suggests. 

The previous version of the Wool Aire feels even more delicate, though even that fabric has remained in good condition after years of wear; it hasn’t torn or snagged despite constant use and plenty of opportunity. The newest version feels no less comfy, just slightly more robust, so we expect the updated Wool Aire to hold up just as well. 

The updated zipper feels sturdier than the previous version and gives us even more confidence in the jacket’s long-term durability; on our older Wool Aire, the front zipper is the first area that’s only now beginning to show wear. We’ve also been impressed with how well it resists looking worn-out. The fabric has remained pill free, even with all the constant rubbing it does against an outer shell. 

That said, this is still a lightweight jacket, not an abrasion-heavy workhorse, so we’re mindful around rough rock and areas where it’d be prone to snagging, but not so much that we feel like we have to treat it with special care. 

Features

Merino wool insulation

The Wool Aire uses a merino-blend insulation made from 30% recycled wool, 50% virgin wool, and 20% corn-based PLA fibers (biobased synthetic material derived from corn sugar for added structure and durability). Compared to down feather or polyester-based synthetic fills used in most insulated jackets, this kind of wool-based insulation is relatively uncommon and is a defining feature of the Wool Aire’s design. 

Lightweight shell fabric

The shell is made from 100% nylon and uses a lightweight 20-denier face fabric, keeping the jacket light, low bulk, and easy to pack. (20-denier means the yarns are very fine, which gives the jacket its supple feel, though it won’t be as durable as a higher-denier fabric.) Lightweight nylon shells are typical in this category, especially in pieces designed to move easily between active outdoor pursuits and everyday use. 

PFC-free DWR finish 

A PFC-free DWR finish helps the face fabric resist light moisture while avoiding fluorinated chemicals. It is now a fairly standard feature in more sustainability-minded outerwear.

Full-zip construction

The jacket uses a full-length front zipper that feels more durable than the zipper on the previous Wool Aire version. It’s low-profile enough that it doesn’t feel bulky when layered over a base layer and under bibs or a shell, but it’s sturdy enough that it doesn’t feel fragile or prone to failing over time.

Adjustable hood

The Wool Aire has an attached hood with a rear cinch cord that lets you adjust the fit around the head. It also has a structured brim to help shed light moisture away from the face and is climbing helmet compatible, which makes it more functional than the basic insulated hoods you’ll find on many puffy jackets.

Zippered hand pockets

Two zippered hand pockets provide secure storage for small essentials without adding bulk, adding to the Wool Aire’s travel and everyday practicality. 

Elastic cuffs

The cuffs are elasticized along the lower half, which helps seal in warmth and keep the sleeves in place without making the wrist opening feel too tight or bulky, while still being easy to layer under gloves or an outer shell.

Adjustable hem

The hem includes an adjustable drawcord that lets you cinch the jacket closer to the body. This is a common feature on insulated outerwear and helps fine-tune fit while sealing out drafts.

Stowable pocket design

The Wool Aire packs down into its own chest pocket, making it easy to toss into a backpack, travel bag, or clip to gear without taking up much space.

Sustainability

Not only is merino wool a renewable natural fiber and biodegradable, but Ibex also emphasizes supply-chain transparency and the use of recognized third-party certifications, like Responsible Wool Standards (RWS), Oeko-Tex, and Bluesign. They also prioritize recycled materials in their garments, and use post-consumer recycled, FSC-certified, and or compostable materials for all of their packaging.

Should you buy the Ibex Women’s Wool Aire Hoodie?

Buy if: 

• You want a versatile insulated jacket that works as both a midlayer and outer layer

• You want one lightweight puffy for active outdoor pursuits, winter layering, travel, and everyday life

• You like layers that feel light, soft, breathable, and easy to move in

• You prefer packable, low-bulk insulation over a traditional puffy

• You like the feel and performance of wool-based insulation

Skip if:

• You need maximum warmth for deep cold or low-output days

• You want something more protective as a standalone storm layer

• You are on a tighter budget or would rather go with synthetic insulation

Where to buy

The Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie is popular, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership

Men's and women's

Ibex

You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from the retailer. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return, such as if there is a defect.

Men's and women's

Advice on where to buy

In general for apparel, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. If your funds allow, many people find it is faster to order two sizes and return whichever one didn't fit as well. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.

Similar midlayers and jackets

Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody

Men's AND Women's

MSRP: $199
Weight: 12.9 oz (men’s), 10.9 oz (women’s)
Insulation type: Fleece
Material: 100% recycled polyester jacquard fleece with hollow-core yarns
Available sizes: XS-XXL

When we tested the best fleece jackets, the R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody came out on top. It has a similar function to the Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie: breathable, versatile, and easy to wear across a wide range of activities. Like the Wool Aire, it works best as an active midlayer that you can also wear casually, but it’s fleece rather than merino wool. It gives a little less weather protection, but it's one of the most breathable fleece jackets we’ve tested at Treeline, and if you’re after something that’s more of a hoody and less of a jacket, it's one of the top options worth considering 

For more info, read our in-depth review of the Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody.

Ridge Merino Cloudripper Fleece 

Men's AND Women's

MSRP: $200
Weight: 16.8 oz (men’s), 12.9 oz (women’s)
Insulation type: Merino wool
Material: Merino wool, polyester, spandex
Available sizes:  S-XXL (men's), XS-XL (women's)

Named our best full-zip midlayer, the Ridge Merino Cloudripper Fleece is the closest in material philosophy to the Wool Aire because it leans on merino wool for breathability, comfort, and odor resistance. Like the Wool Aire, it’s a high performance midlayer for cold weather that fills a similar niche of a wear-it-often and do-everything midlayer, but doesn’t have the same light insulated structure or outer shell-feel as the Wool Aire.

Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody

Men's AND Women's

MSRP: $345
Weight: 9.0 oz (women), 10.5 oz (men)
Shell material: 10D ripstop nylon Netplus
Insulation type: PlumaFill 65g 100% recycled
Available sizes: XS-XXL (men’s), XXS-XL (women’s)

Our best overall synthetic insulated jacket is the Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody, and it’s one of the closest in comparison to the Wool Aire in overall construction. It’s a lightweight, packable insulated layer that works well for travel, shoulder seasons, and general outdoor use. It leans more towards warmth and less towards breathability during movement, but its strong warmth-to-weight ratio, packability, and performance in wet conditions make it a worthwhile contender, even though it sits a little bit more on the puffy side. 

For more info, read our in-depth review of the Patagonia Micro Puff Hoody.

Why you should trust us / About the author

Ebony Roberts has spent the past decade testing outdoor gear and writing about it for publications including The New York Times’ Wirecutter, Outside Magazine, REI Co-op Journal, Forbes Vetted, and The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, along with years of gear coverage at Treeline Review, with guides to the best child hiking carriers, best women’s hiking shoes, and best men’s hiking shoes, among others.  Over that time, she has tested layering pieces across every season in the coastal mountains of British Columbia and beyond, comparing insulated midlayers, shells, rain jackets, winter parkas, and puffies in real-world conditions.

She has also worn the previous version of the Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie for the past three years, giving her a strong point of comparison when testing the updated model this winter. Her goal is always to offer honest, real-world guidance that helps readers choose gear that fits the way they actually get outside.

You can see all of Ebony’s Treeline Review stories on her Treeline author page.

April 27th, 2026 with two new winners and to remove discontinued models
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel

The running shirt comes on every run, which makes it one of the more consequential pieces of gear in a runner's rotation despite rarely getting much attention. It covers the friction points under your arms while swinging, on your back under a pack, and around your waist under a belt. It manages the sweat your core produces and the heat your body generates, and over the course of a run it goes from dry to soaked and ideally back to something close to dry before you're done.

I tested 16 men's running shirts on desert trails, along the Pacific coast, in the eastern Sierra, and on suburban roads over hundreds of miles to find the best options across seasons and conditions. Testing covered the full range from easy recovery jogs to longer efforts where shirts get truly worked, and I wore each shirt across multiple runs before washing to assess real-world odor performance rather than just first-impression comfort.

A good running shirt needs to wick and breathe well across a range of temperatures, resist odor through multiple wears, dry fast enough to avoid that clammy post-run chill, and fit without creating new friction points when your arms are moving. Beyond that, fabric choice matters more than most runners expect: synthetics, merino blends, and bamboo composites all behave differently in heat, cold, and sustained effort.

Top Pick: The Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for a cotton-like feel that hides its technical performance, solid odor resistance through multiple runs thanks to HeiQ Pure anti-stink treatment, 50% recycled polyester construction, a versatile temperature range that covers most conditions, and durability that holds up to the kind of daily use that warrants owning more than one.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Men's running shirts comparison table

* We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.

Interested in running? Check out the Running Gear section:

• Best Men's Trail Running Shoes

• Best Men’s Running Jackets

• Best Men's Running Tights

• Best Men's Running shorts

• Best Running Hydration Vest

The winners

Best overall men's running shirt: Patagonia Cool Daily Shirt

Available sizes: XS - XXXL
Weight: 4.5 oz (M, short sleeve), 6.5 oz (M, long sleeve)
Fit: Standard
Fabric: 100% recycled polyester spun jersey with HeiQ® Pure odor control
Sleeve lengths available: S/S, L/S, Singlet
What we liked: Casual look and feel with a performance for running
What we didn’t like: Won’t be the best for extreme heat or extreme cold, but works in most conditions

The Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily shirt has long-been our winner for best overall running shirt. The 2026 Capilene Cool Daily we tested is even better.

The Capilene Cool Daily keeps the stink at bay, it’s durable, and it’s versatile. We tested the short and long sleeve versions. We like these running shirts so much we think it's worth purchasing multiples of the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily shirt in t-shirt and long sleeve lengths and making these your daily drivers. What we’ve come to find with Patagonia is that the quality is consistently impressive.

The Capilene Cool Daily sits right in the middle of a runner's temperature needs. It won’t be the warmest choice, but it has a home in chillier conditions with proper layering. It won’t be the coolest shirt out there for extreme weather, but it will perform for most of the warmer conditions that most people run in.

• Updates from the last model

  The updated 2026 Capilene fabric is a 100% recycled polyester jersey with wicking finish, upping from previous models, which had 50% recycled polyester and 50% virgin polyester. 
  

  In a rare move, Patagonia is extending sizing to XXXL in the Capilene Cool Daily, meaning that so many runners and hikers who have wanted to wear this shirt can finally do it.

• Fabric

  Patagonia states that the Capilene Cool Trail is their “softest performance knit.” It’s made with a knit that feels like cotton but performs all the wicking and breathing duties we ask of it. 

  The next-to-skin feel offers immediate comfort when putting the shirt on. The underarm gussets and a stretch in the fabric assist with articulation, which can be an asset, especially so in slim-fitting garments, for keeping the arm swing unrestricted while running. The 100% polyester (50% recycled) keeps the shirt light and technical.

• Anti-odor

  Patagonia uses the anti-stink coating from the HeiQ® application. Patagonia uses HeIQ's Pure application, which is a “silver-salt-based” additive that is more environmentally friendly. 

  We wore the long sleeve version of the Capilene Cool Daily for three runs in a row averaging about an hour each in 35°F (with a wind shell) to 55°F temps before washing it. In the smell test there was just a little funk under the arms. It’s no merino wool, like the Ibex Tencel, which had almost no odor (see more below). But we have no problem getting multiple uses out of the Cool Daily.

• Sustainability and Ethical Labor

  It’s widely known that Patagonia creates products with a list of sustainable environmental practices and through ethical labor relationships. The Capilene Cool Daily is no exception. It’s made within the bluesign® system to reduce the environmental impact of working with textiles, with 50% of the shirt made from recycled polyester. The Cool Trail is also made through a relationship with a fair trade factory to support fair labor conditions, including living wages.

• Fabric thickness

  We don’t have much criticism for the Capilene Cool Daily, but we want to shed some light on some minor customer complaints. 

  Some runners find it too thin for casual use regarding how revealing it is. Put plainly: some reviewers find that it’s too see-through. We didn’t notice this, but maybe it’s a matter of getting it in the right light. We haven’t found the shirt overly thin, but it has a finish a little thinner than some of our daily cotton shirts.

• Durability

  What we’ve come to find with Patagonia is that the quality is consistently impressive. In years of testing the previous fabric, we haven't noticed tears, holes, or snags. We've only been testing the newest version for a few months (it was just released) but it looks to be just as solid. 

  We tested the Cool Capilene Daily as a t-shirt and long-sleeve. The long sleeve version is a staple to include in your Cold Weather Running Gear List, but if you love the material and want to extend its use into warmer seasons, consider the short sleeve for summer. It's even available as a sleeveless shirt.

  In addition to sleeve length, the Capilene Cool Daily is available in graphic and solid colors, so you can choose one that best fits your style.

• Many Versions

  We tested the Cool Capilene Daily as a t-shirt and long-sleeve. The long sleeve version is a staple to include in your Cold Weather Running Gear List, but if you love the material and want to extend its use into warmer seasons, consider the short sleeve for summer. It's even available as a sleeveless shirt.

  In addition to sleeve length, the Capilene Cool Daily is available in graphic and solid colors, so you can choose one that best fits your style.

• Our verdict

  The Cool Capilene Daily wicks sweat, dries respectably fast, holds off the stink, looks casual, and ranks among the most comfortable shirts we’ve tested and versatile enough for running in cooler and warmer temperatures.

Interested in running? Check out the Running Gear section:

• How to Crew and Pace an Ultrarunner

• Best Running Socks

• Trail Running Gear List

• Best Running Hats

• Best Recovery Shoes for Runners

• Best Running Sunglasses

Best Long-Sleeve Running Shirt For Men: Ibex Paradox Long Sleeve

Available sizes: S - XXL 
Fit: Slim 
Weight: 5.8 oz (M) 
Fabric: 45% Merino Wool, 45% Tencel, 10% Nylon 
Sleeve lengths available: S/S, L/S
What we liked: Merino, Tencel, nylon blend makes for exceptional temp regulating, cooling, and shirt durability. Extremely comfortable it’s a versatile shirt for use beyond running (casual, skiing)
What we didn’t like: The price comes off as high, but it’s priced standard among its peers, and isn't bad considering it can be used for more than running

The Ibex Paradox Long Sleeve is our winner for Best Long Sleeve Running Shirt. It has all the benefits of a merino running shirts while also addresses the main challenge of merino as a running fabric such as being too warm or being slower to dry. During our testing in the eastern Sierra and southern California, we found that the Ibex Paradox running shirt performs beyond all other merino run shirts we’ve tried. 

Our reviewer doesn’t usually go for merino wool for hot temperatures, as they can run a little warmer than other options in extreme heat. Ibex recognizes merino wool’s shortcomings when used in a running shirt—like how it often droops more than synthetic shirts, is slower to dry, runs warmer in the sun, and can be less durable on thinner knits. The Ibex Paradox addresses these issues by mixing merino with Tencel, making it an excellent choice for a long sleeve running shirt.

• Testing notes

  We tested the long sleeve as a sole layer for running in cool temperatures. We used it as a base layer, layered with fleece and windshells during the fall and winter seasons. The merino wool, Tencel (a soft fiber often made from eucalyptus), and nylon blend on the Ibex Paradox Long Sleeve has us second-guessing our beliefs that merino can’t be a top-performing running shirt fabric when the temperatures rise.

• Fabric

  The merino in the shirt shines in a few ways. One, it’s thin enough to fall into the lightweight shirt category at 150g/m, or 19 microns. Ibex states that the thinnest of merino wool falls into the range of 16-19 microns, as opposed to a medium or “midweight” cold weather shirt. 

  Though it isn’t the fastest drying fabric compared to ultra-thin polyester, it dries quicker than other heavier merino knits. Not only does it keep the shirt breathable and drying faster, but it also retains merino’s claim to fame—its supreme temperature-regulating properties.

• Versatility and anti-odor

  These features lend the Ibex Paradox Long Sleeve shirt a level of versatility to the point that we felt comfortable doing some ski touring wearing it. It kept us cool on the uphill and warm on the downhill after doing the customary layering up. 

  We just kept on wearing it for the rest of the day, which brings us to the anti-stink benefits of merino. It’s arguably the most effective at keeping the smells down, and this shirt does it well.

• Comfort

  Though merino is less scratchy than traditional wool, this shirt has next-to-skin softness thanks to the addition of Tencel fiber. It also avoids any itch factor you might occasionally find wearing merino shirts. Tencel, like cotton, is a natural fabric, but unlike cotton, it has regulating and wicking properties similar to synthetics and merino wool. 

  One place you may have heard about Tencel is the world of bedsheets. There it’s known for its smooth feel, cooling properties on hot nights, and for hot sleepers. The nylon in the “core,” as Ibex notes, helps with the fabric's durability, with nylon having a slight edge over polyester regarding the durability of synthetics. Tencel also reduces droop in fabrics, giving the shirt a sleeker look.

• Value

  We don’t have any complaints about the Ibex Paradox Long Sleeve, but you should consider some factors when dealing with merino. It will almost always be more expensive than synthetic fabrics. Also, as a long sleeve, it will be more expensive than t-shirts and singlets we consider.

• Temperature regulation

  Though we were impressed with the warmer weather performance of the shirt, we haven’t used it in scorching conditions of 90°+. That’s typically where we want an ultra-thin, lightweight synthetic for the best cooling effects possible, given our experiences with merino in the past.

• Durability

  We’ve had small holes develop on full merino shirts, but so far, so good on the Ibex Tencel; maybe the nylon is doing its job there. 

  Customer reviewers find the shirt durable, too—to the point that some customers take it climbing, which is tough on pretty much all gear with the abrasive nature of fabric against rock. 

• Fit

  Customer reviews also find that the Merino Tencel fits on the slim side, and we would agree. Not compression level tight, but a little slimmer than Ibex describes it.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Our main issue with the Ibex Paradox is that it can be difficult to get. Though the long sleeve has been in their line up for years, Ibex is a smaller brand that seems to not always have every item in stock. New colors drop every year, but we recommend getting this shirt early in the season when a drop happens to ensure you are able to find one.

• Our verdict

  The Ibex Paradox Long Sleeve may be a little pricey and probably won’t be your hot-weather running shirt. Still, it will take care of most of your running needs in cooler weather as a moisture-and-temperature-managing, smell-resistant, durable, good-looking, and good-feeling running shirt. We give it two thumbs up.

Best affordable men's running shirt: REI Swiftland

Available sizes: S - XXL + Tall sizes
Fit: Standard
Weight: 3.5 oz (M)
Fabric: 100% Polyester Blue Sign Approved®
Sleeve lengths available: S/S, L/S
What we liked: Great value, on sale periodically, breathes well, Tall sizing
What we didn’t like: No frills build may not be for everyone

The REI Swiftland running t-shirt is our winner for Best Budget Men's Running Shirt. It got a lot going for it as a running shirt: 1) it retails at $45, 2) it’s an REI product that's available year-round, 3) it has all the basic wicking, breathability, comfort, and durability performance traits of a running shirt. As a customer reviewer succinctly put it, it’s a “great, no-nonsense shirt.” We’re confident in giving it our best affordable men’s running shirt title. It also made the cut of our favorite Swiftland running gear.

• Fabric

  REI offers the Swiftland tech fabric in other running garments, but we think the fabric excels in the form of the Swiftland running shirt. The 100% “Swiftex” polyester fabric, REI’s self-proclaimed lightest technical fabric, wicks well, and the breathability is aided by a grid stretch fabric that, when held up to the light, shows smaller and larger perforations designed to let air pass through.

• Temperature regulation

  The shirt is a bit thin, with a pretty open weave, so it’s favorable to temperatures on the warmer side. However, it’s not so thin and airy that we wouldn’t recommend wearing it up mountain peaks in the shoulder season with a wind shell (we did just that). 

• Features

  The REI Swiftland T doesn’t compromise on standard running shirt performance features. One example of this is that it has underarm gussets—a testament to REI’s aim to make this a well-articulating shirt. Underarm gussets aren’t a requirement for a performance running shirt, but can help with articulation when the shirt fabric isn’t the most stretchy or if it fits on the slim side.

• Stretch and durability

  The REI Swiftland has a great balance of stretch and durability. In addition to running with it in the eastern Sierra, we also took it on a 4-hour desert bushwack in southern California, which involved some unavoidable snags. We thought that the thin nature of the shirt would mean an end to its integrity, but surprisingly, it came away with only a single loose thread. We clipped the loose thread with scissors and haven’t had any issues.

• Anti-odor

  There’s no anti-stink application on the Swiftland T, and despite being 100% polyester, it has an acceptable funkiness after prolonged running. This isn’t always the case. Polyester is infamous for broadcasting the smells that result from bacteria from our bodies mixing with this synthetic fiber. To help fight the funk, check out our guide on the Best Sports Detergent.

• Sizing

  Lastly, one of the things we like about this shirt, as is often the case with REI, is that the sizing is pretty inclusive. There is availability in the men’s version ranging from a size S-XXXL + tall sizes, so more people can take advantage of the Swiftland value.

• Sustainability

  Fabrics used in the REI Swiftland are bluesign® certified with an environmental protection approach in mind. It’s also made through a Fair Trade certified™ factory, honoring workers by ensuring they receive a fair living wage. Both these factors make it similar to our best long sleeve running shirt, the Patagonia Capilene Daily (review above).

• What others say

  Reviewers enjoy the Swiftland for running, hiking, gym or workout use, and general outdoor recreation. Some reviewers mentioned that it performed for them in both dry and humid conditions, not sagging or clinging in humid conditions. We’re thrilled to hear that, since our testing happened in primarily dry, mountain-west conditions. The reviews seem to be exclusively related to warm weather use, which makes sense given the thin, breathable build of the shirt. 

• Value

  Our only knock on the price would be its lack of versatility for layering in cold conditions beyond shoulder season use. That’s more of an understandable limitation than a fault.

• Seams

  Lastly, one thing that stood out is that REI doesn’t use flatlock seams on this shirt when most of the shirts on our list did. That said, we nearly forgot that this was the case, as the soft fabric (not at all abrasive) never bothered our skin. We do want to point this out though, as some runners do struggle with chafing, and may need flatlock seams to be a standard feature on their running shirts.

• Our verdict

  Again, the Swiftland has all the basic wicking, breathability, comfort, and durability performance traits of a running shirt. It does not have the all-together absent airy feel or temperature-regulating performance of some of our winners. It doesn't have the anti-stink or regulating properties of the Ibex Paradox. But for many people, these are more features than essentials needed to go for a run. Keep it simple and affordable with the Swiftland T.

Best Men's Running Shirt for Hot Weather: Best REI Co-op Swiftland Grid Running T-shirt

Available sizes: S - XXXL + Tall sizes
Weight: 3.5 oz (M)
Fit: Standard
Fabric: 
Sleeve lengths available: S/S, Tank
What we liked: Comfortable, stretchy, breathable, made of recycled materials
What we didn’t like: More expensive than the standard Swiftland T-shirt

The REI Swiftland Grid shirt has small vent holes that allow great airflow. We ran in 90-degree temperatures in this shirt and didn’t overheat. When you sweat, the fabric doesn’t absorb moisture quickly, either. Rather, it allows your sweat to evaporate off your body. 

With stretchy material and underarm gussets and a slight droptail helm, the Swiftland Grid is made for movement. It has chafe-free seams, which is especially important for hot weather running. It also has reflective elements for running in low light, which is often the coolest time of day to run during hot summer days.  

Simply put, the Swiftland Grid Running T-shirt is comfy, stretchy, and breathable. The recycled, bluesign-approved nylon/spandex grid fabric kept us cool and comfortable through it all.

• How it differs from the Swiftland

  The REI Swiftland Grid running t-shirt is very similar to our top pick for a budget running shirt, the REI Swiftland T-shirt. The standard Swiftland is made of microventilated SwiftTex polyester, but it isn’t made with recycled materials. The Swiftland Grid, on the other hand, is made with a recycled nylon and spandex O²Grid fabric. The Swiftland Grid is stretchier than the standard Swiftland T-shirt. The Swiftland Grid also costs more than the standard Swiftland. 

  We like both the Swiftland and the Swiftland Grid running t-shirts. We like that the Grid version is made from recycled materials and is more breathable. It’s also much stretchier but slightly more expensive. 

• Style

  Both testers liked the style of this shirt. Our men’s tester, Sam, noted his shirt had “a cool sun on it that looks like a tattoo you’d see on an old school beach volleyball player in California,” which won style points for him.

  It is so stretchy that we’re pretty sure someone who normally fits in a men’s Large or Extra Large could fit into a size Small. It would be tight, but the fabric is that stretchy.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  We did find that when it gets wet from a lot of sweat, the fabric clung to our skin more than we wanted. 

• Other sleeve lengths

  This shirt is also available as a tank top. While we didn’t test it, we imagine we’d like it just as much and that could maybe keep you feeling cooler, if less protected from the sun.

• Our verdict

  If you’re looking for the stretchiest shirt that’s made of recycled materials, you should check out the Swiftland Grid T-shirt. 

Best Sleeveless Running Shirt For Men: Rabbit Ice PerF Tank

Available sizes: S - XL
Weight: 4.1 oz (M)
Fit: Standard to slim
Fabric: 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex
Sleeve lengths available: Singlet
What we liked: Superb stretch, fun pattern, doesn’t cling, breathable
What we didn’t like: It’s surprisingly heavy for a singlet. Not for those looking for protection from UV rays

The rabbit Ice Perf Tank, which we’ll refer to as a singlet, has us dreaming of hot weather just for an excuse to wear this shirt. Spending most of our time with it in coastal southern California in the mid to high 70s, we found it fun to wear, with breathable fabric following in line with its naturally breathable design as a singlet. That's what makes the rabbit Ice Perf Tank our winner for best sleeveless running shirt.

Our reviewer often likes to go shirtless when weather conditions are appropriate for something like a singlet. Still, some instances call for modesty, and some marginal sun protection at minimum is good for everyone. Compared to other singlets we’ve tried, the rabbit Ice Perf Tank offers the best stretch, breathability, comfort, and lack of cling, giving it the edge for the best sleeveless running shirt on our list. 

The rabbit Tank is made of rabbit MESH, 95% polyester, and 5% elastane, with a perforated pattern across the shirt. The polyester does the wicking and breathing, and the elastane does the stretching.

• Fabric

  We chalk up the heavier weight of the rabbit Tank compared to some others to the elastane, which is often a heavy fiber and adds weight to all garments it's in. We believe the extra weight is fair trade, though, since the shirt doesn’t cling or sag when sweating, at least not for us. We’d be interested in getting more feedback in the most challenging of sweaty conditions like the humid southeast or eastern woodlands of the US, where sun levels are high, and so is the moisture content in the air.

• Fit and sizing

  This rabbit tank has a  semi-fitted style. We'd describe it as almost tailored, athletic, or even just “fitted,” referring to a slight taper in the midsection. This feature helps keep the shirt from bouncing around. Some runners even find it is helpful to tuck in singlets to keep them still, but we didn’t feel that it was necessary on this one. 

  As far as the tank straps over the shoulders go, they stay put, are no fuss, and don’t require any adjustment. The fabric is soft, even cotton-like. It’s a pleasant fabric! We used it as a daily warm-weather trainer. 

  As far as sizing goes, some customer reviews mention that it runs slim, so it might be worth sizing up if you prefer a looser fit. We did find the fit to be slimmer than the REI shirts and Patagonia running shirts, so keep that in mind.

• Style

  When we pair the Ice Perf Tank with a 3” split style running short, the combo makes our reviewer feel pretty fast. Maybe this is because that’s what track runners wear, and maybe they’re onto something.

• Our verdict

  If singlets are your style, you aren’t looking for a lot of UV coverage, and you want to maximize breathability, the rabbit Ice Perf Tank has a lot going for it. This tank is the sleeveless shirt we’ll keep reaching for at the peak of summer with a thick layer ofsunscreen.

Other men's running shirts we tested

The North Face Sunriser hoodie

Available sizes: XS - XXL
Fit: Standard
Weight: 3 oz (M)
Fabric: Front body and sleeves: 80D 79 g/m² 100% recycled polyester with FlashDry™. Back Upper Yoke: 80D 79 g/m² 100% polyester with FlashDry™
What we liked: Breathes well, dries quickly
What we didn’t like: A little stiff, quick to harbor smells 

We love the detailed specs on The North Face Sunriser and its careful approach to design for a specific use case. It also breathes and wicks pretty well, especially the rear of the shirt, with an open and stretchy knit. It also is a pretty reasonable price for a running shirt. Unfortunately, we found the front to hold more static than other shirts and felt scratchy.

The Sunriser also harbored the most intense smell of the shirts we tested, which can be a problem with some fully polyester garments.

Saucony Stopwatch Singlet

Available sizes: S - XXL
Fit: Standard to slim 
Weight: 3.1 oz (M)
Fabric: 100% Recycled Polyester

The Saucony Stopwatch is one of the most popular running singlets out there. In testing, it was just edged out by the rabbit Welcome to the Gun Show for Best Sleeveless Running Shirt. The Stopwatch has a slightly straighter and more loose cut than the more trim Rabbit shirt, which is neither good nor bad, but is up to a runner's preference.

Some runners like a more trim fit to keep the bounce down, while others like the air circulation of a looser shirt. What we liked more about the rabbit shirt was that it had some stretch and articulation, while the Saucony Stopwatch was pretty static or non-stretch. The women's Saucony Stopwatch was a winner for Best Affordable Running shirt in our Best Women's Running Shirts guide. The Stopwatch will do the job, just not to the level of the Rabbit shirt.

Brooks Distance T-shirt

Available sizes: XS - XXL
Fit: Standard  
Weight: 4.75 oz (L)
Fabric: 50% Cotton, 50% Polyester

The Brooks Distance t-shirt is one of the most comfortable running shirts against the skin in our testing—likely because it’s 50% cotton. We don’t typically recommend cotton for outdoor applications and won’t start here, but that’s not to say that the Brooks Distance doesn’t have a place in running. It’s just limited. If comfort is what you’re after, consider the Ibex Merino Tencel.

Our reviewer only uses cotton blends for short runs from the house in hot weather. The cotton can feel nice at first before proceeding to have an unwanted chilling effect over a long period of time. It also gets heavy with a lot of sweat. While we like the Brooks Distance, we’ve been wearing it more as a comfortable casual shirt than a running shirt.

What to look for in a running shirt

Fabric

Like many technical garments, running shirts are typically made of synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon (and all their branded names). Some runners prefer merino wool for its temperature regulation and odor management (more on that later). You’ll see traces of other fabrics like spandex, rayon, and cotton in running shirts. These are often added for durability or to give a better fit or more style. 

The shirts in our review are mostly polyester, which is the norm for running shirts; they’re typically more affordable and easier to produce than nylon and merino wool. Polyester wicks effectively, dries quickly, and holds its shape. A typical downside of polyester is that it often stinks, though some manufacturers incorporate anti-odor applications that produce varying levels of success.

Fabric weight

Unlike insulated garments that report weight on a per meter or yard basis, running shirts typically advertise the overall weight of the garment using a men’s medium as a consistent baseline for comparison. This weight for t-shirts, non-singlet, or long-sleeve styles usually ranges (with exceptions) from around 2.5oz to 5oz, with 2.5oz shirts being the thinnest.

Thinner shirts are often polyester-based, with excellent airflow, but are not well-suited for cooler temperatures. Thicker shirts are suitable for non-peak summer conditions and tend to be made of merino wool; or, they may simply incorporate extra features such as pockets or heavily reinforced stitching. 

Moisture wicking

Moisture wicking isn’t just a marketing buzzword in the outdoor industry. Standard synthetic fabrics (polyester and nylon) and natural fabrics (merino wool) are all wicking fabrics. Given the same shirt weight, synthetics and natural fibers will function similarly regarding moisture. On a hot day, moisture on the shirt means a much-desired opportunity for cooling.  In cooler conditions, pulling the moisture away from your skin can prevent the body from getting chills from a soaked shirt. In any temperature, pulling sweat away from the body helps prevent chafing.

Fit

Loose, airy shirts can be a dream in hot, dry weather, flapping around and encouraging air circulation. A more trim, next-to-skin shirt can wick moisture from your skin better, helping regulate temperature in a different way. However, with a skin-tight shirt, you’ll have more contact points and friction, potentially increasing your risk of chafing (ouch). 

For some, the shirt's fit is more aesthetic; some people find a more trim or loose shirt more flattering. Though there are minor performance differences, comfort should be your top priority when it comes to fit – whether that means how the fabric feels on your skin or whether you feel comfortable with the style of the shirt. 

When choosing a shirt, you may see “slim fit,” “standard fit,” or occasionally, you’ll see the unfortunately named “athletic fit.” When the term is used, it might refer to a larger cut in the shoulders, with a more tapered cut down into the waist. This fit is opposed to a straight, consistent cut from the shoulders to the waist, like standard or slim cuts.  We can’t understand how the word 'athletic' refers to fit over body composition. It’s an inaccurate term in terms of what constitutes an athletic look because athleticism comes in all body shapes and sizes. 

Our reviewer’s choice is a running shirt that's slightly baggy and long enough to loosely tuck into his running belt or shorts with some minor billowing over the top of the lower garment. One might describe this as a “track practice fit” in the road and track world or an old-school trail running look. 

Range of motion

You don’t want a shirt that restricts the natural movements of your running stride. For more slim-fitting shirts, to get a good range of motion, brands may incorporate some stretchy fabrics like spandex and or add a lot of nylon, which is typically more stretchy than polyester and holds its shape better once unstretched. Range of motion is intuitive, so if it doesn't feel right to you when you try it on, find another shirt. We recommend going with a retailer with easy returns like REI or free shipping on returns like Zappos. 

Flatlock seams

Flatlock seams—or low profile, chafe-friendly seams—are found on most polyester and nylon running shirts, and to a lesser degree, on merino wool running shirts. 

If you look at the inside side construction of one of your typical cotton daily shirts, it probably has a non-flatlock seam. You’ll see a flap where the two pieces of fabric are layered over one another; when sewn, this results in a flap, or seam allowance, measuring around 1cm. 

In contrast, a flatlock stitch avoids that flap by joining two pieces of fabric together without overlapping them. A flatlock stitch is a little more complicated to sew and is done with different equipment, but it’s more comfortable on running or active garments. 

For merino wool, if the shirt doesn’t have a flatlock seam, there’s probably no need to worry. Merino wool is typically softer than nylon and polyester and doesn’t cause as many chafing issues. Also, it’s less likely that the merino shirt or any full merino wool garment will be tight-fitting because it is not the stretchiest of materials and often doesn’t hold its shape well once stretched.

Flatlock seams are especially useful if you're wearing a running hydration pack or running belt, which could potentially bounce or rub to create added friction.

Taped seams

Taped seams, sometimes called ultrasonic seams, are less common on running shirts but can be found on the most low-profile, low-bulk options. Taped seams are precisely that — seams made between two pieces of fabric using heat-applied tape. These seams are low profile, but they also result in a static feel because they don’t stretch. You might run into an issue with the range of motion with these seams or simply find the shirt uncomfortable in its rigidity. 

Underarm gussets

You may be familiar with decorative gussets on shirts at the side of the bottom hem. If not, just know that they’re essentially a small panel of fabric (in this case, put under the arms of a shirt) to aid the range of motion of that area or to add breathability to an area where runners create a lot of heat. 

Sun protection

Most everyone needs to consider sun protection when running. As runners, we are running over reflective surfaces like pavement and snow. Those living at altitude should be especially conscious of the sun, as it’s more intense at 5,000 to 10,000+ feet relative to sea level. 

Shirts with UPF ratings are helpful, but having any fabric between your skin and the sun is typically more effective than applying sunscreen because you cannot sweat it off. That said, more coverage may sometimes mean less breathability. It’s up to you to consider the balance you want to strike. 

Odor control

Of the three main fabrics discussed here, polyester typically stinks more than nylon, with merino wool being the best choice for controlling the funk. The Textile Research Journal ran some tests that indicate that “incomplete removal of odorants during washing, especially from oleophilic polyester fabrics, is a cause for odor build-up in clothing.” 

Our bacteria mixed with the bacteria in some polyester can create an unpleasant scent. Though some polyester shirts turn out especially foul after some wear, this is usually not a big deal for most folks if they use their running shirt only for running and activewear. 

Our reviewer typically doesn’t wash a running shirt after just one run. Call it sustainability rather than laziness, you know. So we have a lot of experience in smelling running shirts. 

Many running shirts come with some anti-odor treatment. Untreated polyester fabrics might result in the shirt smelling early in the activity as the bacteria from our bodies starts mingling with the fabric and holding that smell. That's why we don't recommend running shirts without anti-odor treatment. 

If you see yourself using your shirt to head to the grocery after a run or interacting with others, consider shirts that can help manage treatment. If odor is a primary concern, opt for nylon or merino primary fabric or polyester with a permanent anti-odor application offered by brands such as Patagonia.  

Breathability

If you intend to use your running shirt in consistently hot conditions, especially hot and humid ones, you’ll want to prioritize breathability. Thin polyester will typically breathe the best compared to nylon, merino wool, or blends of those fabrics. Breathability plays a part in dumping heat, transporting water vapor through the shirt, and keeping the shirt relatively dry. 

Neckline

When it comes to neckline, crewneck, scoop neck, and the v-neck is what you can expect (though the latter is rarely found on men’s running shirts). Unless you're after maximum sun protection, the most common neckline will be a relaxed crewneck, high enough for some sun protection but low enough to avoid feeling stuffy. Scoop necks on men’s running shirts are more common on singlets when maximizing breathability. 

Hem length

Besides having enough hem to run well below your running hydration packs, if you’re using one, hem length is largely a matter of coverage, style, and comfort. Consider the hem length if you want your shirt to cover your back and midriff when bending over or raising your arms. Or if you want to tuck your shirt in. 

Thumbholes

Some shirt wrist cuffs incorporate thumbholes. These can help keep your wrists out of the cold by creating a seal along with a glove. The thumb hole can also protect your wrists from the sun. Some downsides to the thumb holes are that they cause your hand to pull at the seam under the arm when the sleeves aren’t long enough. 

Thumbholes also tend to stain the ends of shirts or harbor lots of dirt because the shirt contacts what you touch and can’t be washed as quickly as hands can. Lastly, if you wear a running watch, you’ll need to put your watch on after going through the thumbhole, which can be awkward. 

Consider also that if you rely on heart rate monitoring through the sensor on the underside of your watch, you won’t be able to use that function with the sleeve in the way. You can switch to a heart rate monitor strap, which is typically more accurate anyway, but this will incur an additional expense. 

Fortunately, even if a shirt has thumbholes, if you don’t want to use them, you can simply ignore them without consequences other than a little bit of bunching at the end of your sleeves. 

Hanging loop

Most of us don’t bother using hang loops on our everyday shirts. But on running shirts, it’s more likely to matter. Often, it may be best not to put your technical running shirts in the dryer. Having a hang loop can be helpful to use on a hook so that the wet shirt doesn’t deform on the hanging spot when drying.

Another way to circumvent the dreaded stretch point in a shirt when air drying is to flat dry it on top of a towel. However, using the hanging loop saves space and doesn’t require a towel or drying rack. Another instance where a hang loop might be helpful is if you run at a gym as part of a workout or somewhere where you’re changing clothes and need to temporarily hang your shirt out of the way in a locker.

Buying Advice

What kind of running will you be doing?

Are you running in purely hot and dry conditions? Get the thinnest polyester shirt you can. 

Are you running in the mountains or long runs in variable conditions? Consider something like merino wool, which regulates body temperature better than synthetic fabrics. 

You can use a merino/nylon hybrid if you’re putting the shirt through abrasion on rocks and branches, given nylon’s high tear strength over merino and polyester. 

Are you running in the humid southeast US? Something quick-drying is a good move. 

Will you be running in the dark?

When running in the dark, bright high-vis colors and reflective detailing on your shirt can be helpful. What’s on a shirt is usually not enough, though, and supplementing with reflective hats or even some light reflective vests might be considered depending on the number of cars where you’re running. 

The reputable Gear Aid brand makes a reflective tape for these use cases, with reviews trending positively for the durability and reflective glare of the tape. See our Best Reflective Running Gear guide for more reflective running options.

How much arm coverage do you want?

Singlets will, of course, provide the least amount of coverage but the most amount of airflow. Short sleeve shirts come in varying lengths but still require some sunscreen in high-sun areas. Long sleeves provide the most coverage and can work in hot temperatures if they breathe well and promote good airflow. 

How much neck coverage do you want?

Extra neck coverage can be appealing, but a thin neck gaiter or bandana works well for extra neck coverage if you need it. A lower neck on a shirt allows heat to escape, and you can more easily pull it up to your face to wipe sweat from your brow if desired. 

Do you want a longer torso running shirt or a more cropped style?

Most of us will spring for a running shirt that covers our midriff, but a cropped style can also be breezy and comfortable. For example, you'll see this look in women’s track and road running or runners at hot trail ultras in Western states such as California. It looks pretty fast! 

What features do you want?

The main features of running shirts will be fabric choice, stitching style, and mesh paneling. Everything else is how it fits you. 

How much do you want to spend?

Running shirts aren’t particularly cheap. Since the best running shirts often are designed for specific use case scenarios, you may want more than one shirt: often choosing a summer shirt, shoulder season shirt, and winter shirt. This is one gear item where spending more doesn't necessarily mean getting more versatility.

For example, merino running shirts may not be the best shirt for your hottest runs. Ultra-thin polyester shirts with seam-taped seams may not regulate body temperature well if you’re starting a chilly morning and working through late morning, hot overhead sun. Budget for running shirts, knowing you'll likely want more than one.

Care and maintenance tips for running shirts

Running shirts take a beating. Between sweat, sunscreen, and trail grime, they need regular washing to stay functional. Here are a few things worth knowing.

Wash your running shirts after every one to two runs, depending on conditions and how hard you worked. The longer you wait, the more odor-causing bacteria have time to set in the fabric. This is especially true for polyester shirts, which hold onto smells more stubbornly than merino wool or nylon.

Use cold water and a sports detergent when possible. Standard detergents leave residue in technical fabrics that can reduce breathability and moisture-wicking over time. Fabric softeners are worse — they coat the fibers and actively degrade performance. See our Best Sports Detergent guide for options that actually work on technical fabrics.

Skip the dryer when you can. High heat breaks down synthetic fibers and elastic faster than wear will. Most running shirts dry quickly enough that hanging them is no real inconvenience. If your shirt has a hang loop, use it — hanging from the loop rather than the collar prevents the stretch deformation you'll otherwise see after a few months.

For merino wool shirts like the Ibex Paradox, wash less frequently than you would a synthetic. One of the benefits of merino is that you can get multiple runs out of it before it needs washing. When you do wash it, use cold water on a gentle cycle and always hang dry. High heat will shrink and felt merino, and there's no coming back from that.

Check the care label before the first wash. Not all running shirts are the same, and it's easier to follow the instructions once than to replace a shirt that went through the wrong cycle.

FAQ

• Should running shirts be loose or tight?

  Tight shirts may be more effective at wicking sweat away from your body but can more likely cause chafing. Loose shirts might promote airflow, and only some people like a slim-fitting shirt, visually. Both will perform. 

• What should a running shirt be made of?

  Most importantly, avoid cotton in a running shirt since it soaks up moisture, is slow drying, and is heavy. You're probably on the right track as long as the shirt is synthetic, like polyester or nylon, or the natural fabric merino wool. 

• Is nylon or polyester better for running?

  Nylon is technically more durable than polyester but marginally less breathable. Nylon tends to stink less than polyester, but some brands, like Patagonia, incorporate anti-stink applications into their polyester. Both fibers perform similarly in running, with polyester being the more common fabric, likely because it’s cheaper to produce and can be easier to find recycled material. 

• Why you shouldn't wear cotton when running

  Cotton is the primary natural fiber to avoid for outdoor clothing, at least for high-output activities like running that are likely to induce sweating or in conditions where precipitation is possible. When a cotton shirt gets wet, it usually stays wet. When wet, it’s also heavy, sags, clings to the body, and can have a chilling effect. You may have heard that “cotton kills” in the context of outdoor sports and backcountry activities, primarily referring to cotton making the user cold and potentially hypothermic in extreme cases.

• How do I stop my men's running shirt from smelling permanently?

  Polyester running shirts can develop a permanent odor over time as bacteria bond to the synthetic fibers and resist regular washing. Using a sports-specific detergent, washing promptly after runs, and air drying rather than machine drying all help slow this process. Once a polyester shirt develops a deep-set smell that survives washing, it is difficult to fully reverse, which is one reason merino wool or shirts with a built-in antimicrobial treatment are worth considering from the start.

• Can I run in a regular t-shirt instead of a running shirt?

  A standard cotton t-shirt will work for short, easy runs in mild conditions, but becomes a liability over longer distances or in heat. Cotton absorbs sweat, stays wet, grows heavy, and can cause chafing when soaked. In cold weather, a wet cotton shirt can contribute to a dangerous drop in body temperature. For anything beyond a casual neighborhood jog, a moisture-wicking synthetic or merino shirt makes a meaningful practical difference.

• How do I prevent chafing from my men's running shirt?

  Flatlock seams are the most important structural feature for chafe prevention, as they eliminate the raised fabric flap that standard seams leave against the skin. A good fit matters too: shirts that are too loose bunch and rub, while those that are too tight create constant friction at contact points. Areas under the arms and across the upper back, where a hydration pack or vest makes contact, are the most common trouble spots and worth checking before a long effort. Worst case scenario: slather on some anti-chafing cream.

How we tested

We ran in what amounted to a large pile of running shirts, going through multiple runs with no specific cleaning schedule other than when a shirt smelled ready for the wash. During the time between runs, we inspected stitch lines, looked for snags, permanent stretching, piling, and other imperfections. We weighed them, stretched them, and kept wearing them after sweaty runs. We wore different shirts on the same run to compare differences in the same conditions. 

When we ran in these shirts, we wore them alone or paired them with a wind or rain shell. We also tested each search tucked into a running belt as well as loose to flow with the breeze. Our runs average an hour, with some outings as long as four hours. We tested the running shirts in southern California, the Eastern Sierra mountains, and the humid state of Tennessee. 

About the author / Why you should trust us

Trey French is interested in human-powered, carless travel with the occasional assistance of public transportation or a friendly hitch. From trail outings starting and ending on NYC trains; mountain west multi-sport front door-to-door outings containing trail running, cycling and skiing; to long-distance thru-hikes on trails like the CDT, PCT, and Long Trail–working with variable conditions is a constant in Trey’s outdoor life. 

Based above Bishop, CA, at around 5,000ft, Trey runs in all seasons — for mental health, fitness, and to prepare a base for big mountain adventures once the snow melts in spring. Trey has run the Salida Run Through Time trail marathon, the Grand Canyon double crossing (the “Rim to Rim to Rim”), and many self-made alpine routes in the mountain west.

He keeps his legs under him by shuffling the local foothills most days of the week, and he is kept honest by always seeking out new activities to be bad at.

Around 10,000 miles of combined running and hiking miles inform his approach to gear testing. Running shirts are a part of all of Trey’s activities, not just running. He’s had several running shirts fail him over the years, found that some are poor choices for high elevation cold weather use, and discovered that others work perfectly on adventure mountain runs. As the first defense against the elements, he appreciates the ability of high-performing running shirts to do their job and facilitate the pursuit at hand. 

You can read more of Trey's work at his blog or on his author page.

April 25h, 2026, updated with a new winner for advanced activity tracking, best for large dogs, and best for fast tracking, 3 new models tested, and removed discontinued models
Home > Gear Reviews > Dog Gear

Whether you have a dog who is a talented escape artist or a pup who tags along on mountain adventures like skiing or snowshoeing, the best dog GPS trackers can help you keep tabs on your four-legged friend.

The last thing any dog owner wants is for their dog to get lost in the wilderness or while traveling in an unfamiliar area, and a GPS tracker gives you a little extra peace of mind. I always keep GPS trackers on my two dogs — often off-leash on hikes, walks, camping, and overlanding trips — and between mountain west camping trips, dog shows, and dog sport events they’re usually out and about away from home.

My two dogs, Miso and Dashi, and their Australian Shepherd friend Sansa helped me thoroughly test the top seven dog GPS trackers to find the best picks for daily use and for backcountry dogs, too. During testing, I evaluated how each tracker performs in real-world situations where dogs are off-leash exploring, traveling in cars, walking through varied terrain, and adventuring in places with patchy cell coverage.

In choosing the best GPS dog collars, we focused on key performance factors including location accuracy, reliability of connection, battery life on a single charge, coverage type (cellular or satellite), usability in daily life and outdoor adventures, ease of fit on different collars, and overall feature set that supports peace of mind whether you’re in town or deep in the backcountry.

Top Pick: The Tractive GPS & Health Tracker earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for its long battery life that exceeded expectations in testing, accurate and fast tracking even with varied cellular conditions, easy attachment to multiple collars, and broad coverage using multiple cellular carriers, making it a dependable choice for everyday use and outdoor adventures.

Editor’s note: As of July 26, 2025, Tractive acquired Whistle, and Whistle GPS dog collars stopped being supported by the brand’s companion app in August of 2025. The Whistle Go Explore was a previous “Best GPS collar with advanced activity tracking” winner, and the Whistle Switch was also previously tested for this piece. Both collars have been removed from this guide, as they can no longer be purchased. All existing Whistle users were contacted by Tractive to swap to a Tractive device.

This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. This allows us to create reader-supported objective gear reviews. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison table

The winners

Best overall GPS dog collar: Tractive Dog 6 Smart Dog Tracker

Device cost: $79
Subscription plans: 

• Basic plan: $144 every 2 years, or $108 billed annually

• Premium plan: $120 billed annually, $168 billed every 2 years, $300 billed every 5 years

Battery life: Up to 14 days, but lasted 25 days during testing
Water resistant: Yes, IP68
Weight: 1.59 ounces
What we liked: Long battery life; accurate tracking; fast boundary alerts, easy to put on multiple types of collars; uses multiple cellular carriers for broad range of coverage; updated app experience since last update
What we didn’t like: Doesn’t immediately track walks unless you “start a walk”; doesn’t differentiate between drives and walks; a little bulky for extra small breeds

The Tractive GPS device has the best location accuracy, the fastest connection time, and the longest battery life of the cellular-based dog GPS trackers I tested.

The Tractive GPS dog tracker stood out from the rest of the pack with its amazing battery life. Though the suggested battery life is up to 14 days, my device lasted nearly 30 days on a single charge with daily use. My dog wasn’t in my house the whole time, either. This battery life included three to four daily walks, one to two weekly hikes, and numerous daily drives where my dog was away from the house. Not having to charge the device for nearly a month is impressive, and will ensure you use it often, since you won’t have to remember to charge it frequently.

The previous model won our won our Reader’s Favorite Gear of the Year Award in 2025.

Location accuracy was a standout feature using the Tractive, and connection speeds were super fast, even when the cellular service on my phone was at one or two bars. Tractive uses GPS and LTE tech to connect to multiple cellular networks, and it’s able to connect to whichever network has the most optimal signal based on your location. During my testing, I found that the location data of the Tractive stayed pretty accurate regardless of my phone service quality. Since it can tap into a variety of different cellular networks, it’s safe to say that, with the exception of the Garmin Alpha T20 I tested, the Tractive has the most reliable connection and location data for general use and travel. 

Connecting to the tracker was always smooth and quick, and it was able to kick into live tracking within a few seconds of hitting the button on the app. The live tracking feature is pretty accurate, and I only found it to be off by a couple yards a few times that I tried it. This tracker would definitely help pinpoint your dog if they were really lost. During live tracking, the collar updates info every 2–3 seconds, while in normal mode, it updates your dog’s location every 2–60 minutes, depending on your dog’s activity.

As of April 8, 2026, the Tractive app has been upgraded with health features at the forefront. The home screen shows each pet’s health and status at a glance, and the new health history timeline gives you a visual overview of your pet’s activity. The new advanced scratch monitoring feature also records scratching behavior that can help you and your vet pinpoint skin allergies, stress, and other potential health conditions. 

The device itself is pretty easy to put on different collar types, and though I found it to be a bit bulky, it isn’t that heavy. Small and extra small breeds might find it cumbersome, though. Tractive also offers an XL version of this tracker for dogs over 50 pounds (more on that below), and a new extra-strong adventure version for large dogs is coming in summer 2026.

Though it’s our top pick and strikes a nice balance between affordability and functionality, the Tractive isn’t without flaws. My main issue with this collar is that it doesn’t automatically start a walk when your dog leaves a safe zone. You need to go into the app to manually start a walk if you want the activity tracking to work, which can be hard to remember to do. 

The Tractive also doesn’t differentiate between drives and walks, and the historical map makes it look like your dog has walked everywhere you’ve driven to. The Fi collar differentiates between walks and drives using your phone’s location data. Though it’s not a dealbreaker, it would make the historical map on the Tractive app easier to read if there was a difference between walks and drives. 

The price of the Tractive collar and the attached subscription felt more reasonable than some of the other options on this list. The Dog 6 version of the device costs $79, though is often on sale for less, and there are multiple options for subscriptions, ranging in price from $60 to $120 per year. (Note that this tracker was previously $69). The Premium Plan unlocks international coverage, family sharing, and a few other features, but it’s definitely not necessary to have a good experience using the tracker.

The Tractive Dog GPS is the best pick for dog parents who primarily care about their dog’s location, health tracking features, and fast tracking speeds—if you’re willing to manually start walks to use the activity tracking features. If you travel with your pup a lot, this is a great option for reliable coverage and live tracking that actually works as it’s supposed to. 

Best affordable GPS dog collar: Apple AirTag

Device cost: $29
Subscription plan: N/A
Battery life: Up to a year
Water resistant: Splash-resistant, but not waterproof
Weight: 0.39 ounces without collar attachment
What we liked: Low price point; lightweight; year long battery life; very accurate location when near an iPhone; doesn’t require a subscription
What we didn’t like: No real activity tracking; only truly compatible with iPhones; only works when in range of an iPhone; needs a collar attachment (sold separately); not fully waterproof

The Apple AirTag isn’t exactly a dog GPS tracker, but plenty of people use them to keep track of their dogs. Using an AirTag as a dog GPS requires buying a separate third party attachment to be able to secure it to your dog’s existing collar. There are tons of options out there, but we recommend buying a waterproof one, since the AirTag itself isn’t fully waterproof.

The AirTag is unfortunately only for iPhone users, so if you have an Android phone, opt for a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 or a Tile Mate. 

Apple AirTags work by connecting via a secure Bluetooth signal to compatible Apple devices, then transmitting your tracker’s location to iCloud. The main downside to this tracking option is that your dog would need to be within Bluetooth range (30 feet) of an Apple device for you to see their location. That means if your pup gets lost while on a hike or in a rural area, you’re unlikely to be able to track them using an AirTag. However, if you live in a big city or are in a densely populated environment (say, camping near other people), the AirTag is a good, cheap option for checking on your dog’s location.

The AirTag doesn’t have any advanced activity tracking features like the other options on this list, but the location accuracy is near-perfect when there’s an Apple device nearby. However, as soon as my dog got further than 30 feet away from me on a hike, the accuracy plummeted.

With a low upfront price, no monthly subscription fees, and hundreds of AirTag collar attachments to choose from, this is a decent option to track your dog’s location if you’re on a budget, don’t need activity tracking features, and live in an urban or suburban area. It’s also a good pick for very small dogs (and even cats) who need a lightweight tracker option.

Best GPS dog collar for rural areas: Garmin Alpha T 20 Dog Tracking Collar

Device cost: $300 for collar, $400+ for handheld depending on model
Subscription plan: N/A
Battery life: Up to 68 hours with standard battery pack
Water resistant: Yes, 1ATM (1 atmosphere of pressure at sea level, or roughly up to 10m of water)
Weight: 8.4 ounces with transmitter, antenna, and collar
What we liked: Only collar I tested that works without any cell service; can see dog’s location via the handheld or the app; tells you how many yards away your dog is; hunting dog features
What we didn’t like: Big, bulky collar; collar is expensive; separate handheld device is required and is also expensive; more accurate at further distances

The Garmin Alpha T 20 is the only collar on this list that works using satellite tech, meaning that you don’t have to be in range of cell service for it to work. This is the best option for backcountry camping and backpacking with your dog in areas where there’s no cell service, and it’s one of the only options on this list that doesn’t require a separate monthly subscription fee.

The Garmin Alpha T 20 is meant for hunting dogs, and the design shows. It has tracking alerts for pointing and treeing if you’re actually using it to hunt. It works best at farther distances, for dogs that have big range (i.e., need to run large distances). If you have any of the spaniel breeds, or any of the pointing breeds, this collar is a good way to keep tabs on them in the backcountry while also allowing them to run big. 

The collar requires a separate handheld to work properly, and I tested the collar with the Alpha 10 handheld. The two devices need to be outside to connect to satellite properly (they can’t be connected indoors). I had to do the pairing process twice before it started working, but using them was pretty straightforward after that.

The handheld does a good job telling you the direction your dog is moving in and is pretty accurate at longer distances. At shorter distances though, like if your dog is right next to you, it often says your dog is farther away than they actually are. If my dog, Miso, was standing right next to me, the handheld often said she was five yards away. However, if she was actually five to eight yards away, the handheld was pretty accurate in the distance. 

The collar and handheld also connect to a mobile app you can use if the handheld you chose doesn’t have a map feature. The map interface is great—it gives you eyes on the locations of both the tracker and the collar, and it has trail maps on it. 

The connection speed on the Garmin Alpha T 20 was the fastest of the dog GPS collars I tested. The collar uses a dynamic update rate as the default setting, which uses a 30-second location refresh when the dog is not moving, and a 2.5-second location refresh when the dog is in motion.

The dynamic update rate saves battery life, but you can also set the update rate to 2.5 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 2 minute intervals. Using the dynamic update rate, the collar lasts about 2.5 days, but setting the update rate to 2 minutes will increase the battery life to about three and a half days. Garmin also offers an extended battery pack if you do a lot of overlanding or backpacking with your dog and need extra battery life. 

In terms of downsides, the Alpha T 20 is pretty bulky. Though the product description says the collar is meant to fit small and large dogs, it feels too big and bulky for dogs under 30–40 pounds. It also has a range of nine miles, which is definitely enough for hiking and adventuring in the backcountry, but if your dog gets lost and ends up further than nine miles from the handheld, you won’t be able to track them.

This collar is probably overkill for dogs and people who tend to stick within city limits, but if you do a lot of off-grid living or backcountry activities with your dog, it’d be a great addition to your gear list.

Best GPS collar with advanced activity tracking: Fi Series 3+

Device cost: Free with subscription
Subscription plan: 

• Six months: $99 semi-annually

• One year: $189 annually

• Two years: $339 biennially

• Monthly: $19/month

Battery life: Up to three months, but lasted about 10 weeks in testing
Water resistant: Yes, IP68
Weight: 1.3 ounces without the collar
What we liked: Slim footprint; long battery life; good app interface; included base saves battery; base acts as a wireless charger; built-in light
What we didn’t like: Expensive; less accurate location data than Tractive; app has to constantly be running in the background

The Fi collar was a close runner-up to the Tractive, and is a worthy pick if the Tractive is unavailable or if you want a smaller, lower-profile GPS collar. 

I used the previous generation Fi collar on my dogs for about a year, and though it worked pretty well the majority of the time, I had some qualms with it. Namely: the app has to be constantly running in the background if you want to conserve battery and be notified when your dog is away from you. When the app wasn’t running in the background (like if you accidentally forget to open it), the location data wasn’t always accurate. However, I find the location data is more accurate now than in the previous version of this collar.

Now that I’ve tested the new Fi 3+, I feel like the Fi is a more serious contender as one of the best GPS dog collars. The app is notably less buggy and has faster tracking updates than old versions. The safe zone exit alerts were remarkably accurate, and I love that I can add on multiple people to my dog’s profiles. I know where my dogs are and with whom, as long as that person has their phone with them. When my partner takes my older dog, Miso, out for a run, I can see their progress.

When I was testing the older version of this collar, I found that when my app wasn’t running in the background on my phone, that I rarely got notifications when my dog left or entered my virtual boundaries. Now, even if the included base (which charges your device and acts as a reliable connection source for the collar) is unplugged and the app isn’t running on my phone, I still get pretty accurate activity stats. 

I found that the Fi 3+ version with the base sends faster alerts when your dog leaves their safe zone than its Fi Mini counterpart. If you go for a walk without your phone on you, the data is definitely less accurate, but still fairly reliable. The best part of the Fi though, is that it automatically tracks walks, drives, and more without you having to start anything in the app. 

This collar runs on the AT&T cellular network, so the reliability may depend on how good the service is in the area you’re in. However, as someone who has AT&T as a cell carrier, my phone service doesn’t work well in my neighborhood, but I haven’t had issues with slow connection to the collar, even when I’m away from my home’s WiFi network. I do wish it utilized multiple cellular networks for more coverage and reliability. 

The Fi collar has slightly more activity tracking features than the Tractive (like steps, a rest tracker, and a strain score), and I like that it tracks walks automatically without having to start a walk in the app. It’s also really good at differentiating between car rides and walks/activity, and gives you a map showing where your dog drove from and to. 

However, the Fi is more expensive than the Tractive and I found the location data to be slightly less accurate. The connection speed to the collar is also slightly slower than with the Tractive.

The collar the device comes with is adequate, though it doesn’t stay adjusted very well if you need to tighten it. I opted to buy the Atlas Pet Co Fi Snap adapter so I could put my Fi on a different collar. There are plenty of dog collar brands that sell Fi-compatible collars now too, so there are options, but it adds an extra cost.

Best GPS dog collar for large dogs: Tractive Dog 6 XL Smart Tracker

Device cost: $89
Subscription plans: 

• Basic plan: $144 every 2 years, or $108 billed annually

• Premium plan: $120 billed annually, $168 billed every 2 years, $300 billed every 5 years

Battery life: Up to 30 days, but lasted about 35 days in testing
Water resistant: Yes, IP68
Weight: 2.82 oz
What we liked: Extra-long battery life; accurate tracking; fast boundary alerts, easy to put on multiple types of collars; uses multiple cellular carriers for broad range of coverage; updated Tractive app experience since last update
What we didn’t like: Doesn’t immediately track walks unless you “start a walk”; doesn’t differentiate between drives and walks; big and bulky

If you have a large dog who’s hard on their gear, the Tractive Dog 6 XL is a new dog GPS device with a seriously long battery life. The Dog 6 XL is bigger and bulkier than the normal Tractive Dog 6, but it’s not excessively heavy, and sits well on larger, thick collars. Tractive says that it’s more lightweight than the previous XL model.

The experience of using the Dog 6 XL is similar to the Tractive Dog 6: the app experience, location accuracy, and features are all the same, including the new features added as of April 8, 2026 (advanced scratch monitoring, AI health summaries, and a new health screen experience in the app).

The Tractive XL device is a bit bulky/heavy for dogs under 50 pounds. 

Size comparison of the Tractive Dog 6 XL and the Dog 6.

Black dog wearing the Tractive XL device.

The biggest differences between the two Tractive devices are the size and battery life. The Dog 6 XL is about 25% larger than the Dog 6, and weighs 2.82 oz compared to the Dog 6’s 1.59 oz (both including the rubber collar attachment strap). The overall design of the tracker is largely the same, but the Dog 6 XL’s battery life is double what you’ll get with the Dog 6, making it ideal for large adventure dogs and their humans. You’ll rarely have to charge this collar if you stay within cell service and close to home most of the time, but even if you’re using it in the most battery-intensive way, you’ll have multiple weeks of battery life.

Best GPS collar for small dogs: Fi Mini

Device cost: Free with subscription
Subscription plan: 

• Six months: $99 semi-annually

• One year: $189 annually

• Two years: $339 biennially

• Monthly: $19/month

Battery life: Up to six weeks, and lasted about 6 weeks during testing
Water resistant: Yes, IP68
Weight: 0.5 oz.
What we liked: Small device; long battery life; good app interface; device fits on many collar types
What we didn’t like: Expensive; slightly slower alerts than the Fi 3+; app has to constantly be running in the background; doesn’t come with the Fi base; shorter battery life than the 3+

The Fi Mini has many of the great attributes of the Fi 3+, in an even smaller package. The Fi Mini is designed for small dogs, and can be attached to any collar without having to buy a separate attachment, unlike the 3+. It comes with two attachments to add it to your dog’s collar: a strap attachment, and a soft case attachment.

Black dog with white markings wearing the Fi mini

The Fi mini comes with two rubber attachment options for keeping it on your dog’s collar. The case style is more secure. 

The case simply slides onto your dog’s collar, and you can slide the device right in.

Though the device didn’t fall out of the strap during testing, active dogs and dogs who travel a lot would do better using the soft case attachment, as it’s more secure. 

The Fi Mini is a great option to get all the Fi advanced tracking data and user-friendly app experience in a lightweight package (and without the less-than-perfect Fi 3+ collar). The experience using this device is largely the same as the Fi 3+, with a few minor differences. The Fi Mini runs on the Verizon cell network instead of AT&T. That means, the connection speed and reliability may vary a bit from the Fi 3+. 

I noticed that I’d get safe zone exit alerts significantly later on the Fi Mini than the Fi 3+. I think this was largely due to the lack of a home base though, and not because of the Verizon vs. AT&T coverage. When I connected the Mini to the home base, I found increased battery life and faster safe zone alerts. The Mini doesn’t come with a home base though, and the home base can’t charge the Mini. 

Overall, if you want the Fi experience in a small package that’s compatible with any collar, the Fi Mini is a worthy investment.

Best GPS dog collar for fast location updates: Garmin Alpha LTE

Device cost: $300
Subscription plan: $4.99 per month
Battery life: Between 11 and 75 hours
Water resistant: 1 ATM
Weight: 1.8 oz.
What we liked: Fits onto one-inch prong and hole collars; can be paired with other Garmin GPS collars and handheld devices; super fast tracking updates; GPS and Galileo sensors; built-in beacon light
What we didn’t like: Battery life isn’t great; bulky for very small dogs, but way less bulky than the Alpha T 20; requires separate small clip-on piece for charging; doesn’t have health/other activity tracking features; doesn’t fit on plastic buckle collars

The Garmin Alpha LTE is the middle ground between the cost-effective, versatile Tractive and Fi collars and the bulky but highly accurate Garmin Alpha T20. The Garmin Alpha LTE is for dog owners who frequently go on short, but decently remote outings. Think: a day of skijoring with your dog in the mountains, one to two night backcountry backpacking or car camping trips, and hunting trips, and frequent day hikes.

The Garmin Alpha T20 is highly accurate for remote adventures, but it’s also big, bulky, and expensive since it requires the use of an additional Garmin handheld device. The Alpha LTE utilizes LTE cell service on both the AT&T and T-Mobile networks, and doesn’t require a separate handheld device since it pairs with your smartphone. It also features a Galileo sensor, so it works in Europe. This tracker primarily connects with the Garmin Alpha app on your phone to track your dog, but you can also connect it to a Garmin handheld device, like the Alpha 10.

This tracker has really fast location updates, and can be set to update your dog’s location every 10 seconds, using dynamic tracking (i.e., varies based on your dog’s activity), or every two minutes. It can also be paired to an existing Garmin satellite collar to extend the battery life and increase coverage. 

For comparison, Fi collars update location about every 5 minutes, and Tractive collars update between every 2–60 minutes depending on how active your dog is. These collars can be put into lost dog modes or live tracking modes to get info faster, but they don’t default to these speeds.

That means, if you have a wide-ranging dog that runs big (German Shorthaired Pointers, Weimaraners, Viszlas, Springers, Brittanys), this collar will help you keep tabs on them every 10 seconds, assuming it has access to one or both of the LTE networks it runs on. Since it runs on two networks, it has more coverage than other dog GPS collars that only use one, though the Tractive still wins out in LTE reliability. This collar also doesn’t have a range, so your dog could be extremely far from you (in different states, even) and you’d still be able to see their location. 

However, the fast connection speed does mean that the battery life drains quickly. If you keep it on the location updates every 10 seconds, the collar only lasts about 10–11 hours. If you swap it to update every 2 minutes, the battery life extends to 45 hours.

If you have this option paired with a Garmin satellite collar, it can extend the life up to 75 hours, but using both at once feels like overkill, unless you have an extremely serious hunting dog. It doesn’t fit on normal plastic buckle collars, which is arguably the most common type of collar closure, as the thin attachment points require prong and hole collars.

Other GPS dog collars we tested

Fi Series 3

Device cost: Free with subscription
Subscription plan: 

• Six months: $99 semi-annually

• One year: $189 annually

• Two years: $339 biennially

• Monthly: $19/month

Battery life: Up to three months, but lasted about 3 weeks in testing
Water resistant: Yes, IP68
Weight: 1.3 ounces without the collar
What we liked: Slim footprint; long battery life; good app interface; included base saves battery; base acts as a wireless charger
What we didn’t like: Expensive; less accurate location data than Tractive; app has to constantly be running in the background

The Fi collar was a close runner-up to the Tractive, and is a worthy pick if the Tractive is unavailable or if your dog is very small and needs a smaller, lower-profile GPS collar. 

I’ve used the Fi on my dogs for about a year now, and though it works pretty well the majority of the time, I have some qualms with it. Namely: the app has to be constantly running in the background if you want to conserve battery and be notified when your dog is away from you. When the app isn’t running in the background (like if you accidentally forget to open it), the location data is very inaccurate. I found that when my app wasn’t running on my phone in the background that I rarely got notifications when my dog left or entered my virtual boundaries.

The Fi collar has slightly more activity tracking features than the Tractive (like steps, a rest tracker, and a strain score), and I like that it tracks walks automatically without having to start a walk in the app. However, it’s more expensive than the Tractive and I found the location data to be slightly less accurate. The connection speed to the collar is also slightly slower than with the Tractive.

The collar the device comes with is adequate, though it doesn’t stay adjusted very well if you need to tighten it. I opted to buy the Atlas Pet Co Fi Snap adapter so I could put my Fi on a different collar. There are plenty of dog collar brands that sell Fi-compatible collars now, so there are plenty of options, but it adds an extra cost.

Petcube GPS Tracker

Device cost: $53
Subscription plan: 

• Basic plan: $120 for 2 years, $84 for 1 year, $12 monthly

• Premium plan: $300 for 5 years, $144 for 2 years, $96 yearly

Battery life: Up to 30 days in power save mode, lasted 12 days in testing
Water resistant: Yes, IP67
Weight: 1.02 ounces
What we liked: Lowest price of subscription-based trackers
What we didn’t like: Hard to put on buckle collars; app interface isn’t the best; doesn’t usually send push notification when leaving virtual boundaries; inaccurate walk location data

The Petcube dog GPS tracker, though the cheapest of the bunch, was also the most inaccurate location-wise. On a hike, it marked some points along the route, but some in totally random locations far from where we were hiking as well. It also didn’t offer a line going through the dots to show the exact route we walked. These random dots tended to happen when the cell service wasn’t very strong. The collar also didn’t register hikes and walks as active minutes if you don’t click “start a walk,” which can be frustrating for anyone wanting a collar to also track their dog’s activity.

In terms of setup, the Petcube tracker’s interface could use some work. Some helpful features (like starting a walk) don’t show up on the first screen of the app when you open it, and navigating the app feels a little circuitous. You have to tap the map, swipe up on the bottom toolbar, then you can start a walk, turn the collar’s attached light on or off, and start live tracking. It’s also a bit hard to get the silicone case the device sits in on a normal buckle collar, as the attachment straps need to be stretched over the buckle.

For folks on a tight budget, this tracker is slightly better than using an AirTag as a GPS dog collar, especially if you want to be able to track your dog’s activity. However, we think that paying a bit more (either upfront or monthly) for a different collar is worth it to get more location accuracy and faster connection times.

Whistle Switch

Device cost: $149
Subscription plan: $99 per year
Battery life: Up to 15 days per battery, but lasted 7 in testing
Water resistant: IPX8
Weight: 2.86 ounces for S/M size
What we liked: Good for small dogs; two batteries included
What we didn’t like: Had worse location accuracy and connection time than the Go Explore 2.0, even though they’re on the same subscription; connected to a collar, so you can’t use your own collar; one of the batteries didn’t work during setup

Oddly, the Whistle Switch was much less reliable than the Whistle Go Explore 2.0 that I tested, even though they both run on the same service and same subscription. The Whistle devices only use AT&T cellular service, unlike Tractive which taps into multiple cellular networks. Essentially, how well the Whistle devices work depends specifically on how good the AT&T service is in your area.

The AT&T service in my area is notoriously unreliable, so I was surprised the Go Explore 2.0 worked as well as it did. The Whistle Switch, in comparison, was less reliable. Even when taking my dogs out at the same time with one of them wearing each Whistle device, the Switch rarely sent boundary alerts and was usually a bit off in location data. If the AT&T service is good in your area, you may not have these issues.

Why your dog needs a GPS collar

There are a number of reasons you might want a GPS collar for your dog. The first, of course, is safety. Some dogs (and breeds) are prone to wide ranges while hiking. Dogs bred for hunting, like German Shorthaired Pointers, Vizslas, and Brittanys, need ample exercise and time to run off leash at high speed. When off-leash hiking, this means that you may not always be able to see your dog as they explore. A GPS collar can keep an eye on your bird dog’s adventures, even if they’re not directly visible to you. 

Even if your dog doesn’t have a wide range, GPS collars can offer owners the peace of mind of knowing where your dog is 100% of the time. If you have a dog walker come by to walk your dog while you’re away at work, you can see when your dog leaves the house, where they go, and when they return. In the event your dog ever escapes the house/yard or gets lost, a GPS collar can also make finding them easier, with features like live tracking, collar lights and sounds, and more.

Looking for good options for when your dog is on leash? Check out our Best Dog Leashes guide for our top picks and buying advice.

Lastly, GPS collars often act as fitness and health trackers for dogs. It’s fun to know how many steps your dog takes per day, but a GPS collar is also helpful if your dog needs to lose or gain weight, or if they’re recovering from an injury and are on activity restrictions. Data from GPS collars can be shared with your vet to keep track of your dog’s health. Some GPS collars also have additional features like tracking licking and scratching, which can be early symptoms of health issues, though I feel like many of these features are superfluous. 

I don’t think dogs need to wear GPS collars all day, every day. In fact, I don’t think dogs should even wear collars all day every day. If your dog wears a collar 24/7, it can cause a number of issues. On long-haired dogs, collars can cause matting or hair breakage. Collars—especially those with extra attachments on them like tags or GPS devices—can also be a hazard for dogs who are left alone, since they can get stuck on things and cause strangulation or other injuries.

I have a friend who had two of her dogs together (both wearing collars with GPS trackers on them) while she was away from the house. The two dogs were playing, and one dog’s canine tooth got stuck on the other dog’s collar. The canine tooth got pulled clean out. 

If you’re going to use a GPS collar, use it strategically, and don’t leave it on your dog all day. If you’re buying a GPS collar because your dog often escapes the house or yard, try implementing better management like crating your dog or not leaving them unattended if possible. The best use of a GPS collar is while traveling, while out for walks or hikes, and or exploring the outdoors. A GPS collar can help you find your dog in case your dog gets spooked and takes off, but it shouldn’t be used in place of proper training and management. 

What to look for in dog GPS collars

Battery life

Typical battery life spans from a few days up to a few months on most dog GPS collars. Many collars claim to last up to three months, but that’s usually only if your dog stays within range of your home’s WiFi. 

Most of the trackers we tested lasted about two weeks on a single charge, give or take a few days, and this is a good battery life benchmark to look for. The Garmin Alpha T 20 only lasted about three days on a single charge when in continuous use since the satellite communication drains the battery faster, and the Apple AirTag didn’t die during testing, since the battery is expected to last about a year. 

Tracking range

For most GPS dog collars, there isn’t a limited range since many of them work off of cellular service. As long as there is cellular service in the area, many dog GPS collars will be able to track your dog, regardless of how far you are or how far your home WiFi is. There are a few exceptions though—the “sound” and “find” features on the AirTag only work within Bluetooth range, and the Garmin Alpha T 20 has a range of nine miles, since it works on satellite instead of cellular service.

GPS accuracy

Probably the most important feature of a dog GPS collar is how accurate the tracking capabilities are. If buying a device that works based off a cellular provider’s LTE network, check that provider’s service in your area. For example, the Fi and Whistle devices work using AT&T’s LTE-M cellular network, but AT&T’s service is notoriously bad in the area I live in. 

Trackers that use GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System) and Galileo GPS services and can connect to multiple carriers’ networks (like Tractive) will be more reliable, since they can switch between carriers based on which has the best service. Satellite devices will be the most reliable, especially in rural or backcountry areas since they don’t require cellular LTE service to work.

Subscription requirements and costs

Many GPS collars require a separate subscription because they act as a separate device with its own LTE service. It’s like buying a smartwatch and paying your phone provider a monthly fee to add cellular service to it, so you can use it without your phone being nearby. Again, consider the cell coverage in your area before committing to a dog GPS collar that requires a subscription. If the AT&T service is bad in your area, opting for a collar that uses a different cellular provider will be more worth the money. 

Dog GPS collar subscriptions range from $60 to $200 per year, and often have options for monthly, yearly, or multi-yearly plans. Satellite collars like the Garmin Alpha T 20 and Bluetooth trackers like the Apple AirTag don’t require monthly subscriptions. 

Durability and weather resistance

If you want your dog to be able to swim in their GPS collar, opt for a pick with a IP68, IPX8, IP67, or 1ATM waterproof rating. IP68 collars are dust and water-resistant and can be submerged up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes. IPX8-rated collars have similar water-resistant qualities as IP68 devices, but lack the dust resistance. GPS devices rated IP67 can be submerged up to one meter for up to 30 minutes, and 1ATM devices can be submerged up to 10 meters. 

Size and fit for different breeds

Some GPS collars use bulky devices that would be too big for toy breeds. Opt for a low-profile device like the Fi Collar, the Whistle Switch, or an AirTag if you have an extra small breed. 

Note that GPS collars that come with a collar attached can’t be customized as much. Some devices can be attached to different collars, but some only work on flat buckle collars. If you need a specific type of collar, like a rolled collar for long-haired breeds, opt for a dog GPS that can be attached to any kind of collar, like the Tractive or the Whistle Go Explore 2.0. The Fi collar can also be used on different collars than the one it comes with, but you’ll need to purchase a Fi-compatible collar or a separate Fi attachment, like the Atlas Pet Company Fi Snap.

Geofencing and boundary alerts

Apps that let you set “safe zones” will notify you when your dog leaves the boundary. This is helpful for dogs who like to escape their yards, or for checking in on your dogs’ location if you have a dog walker who comes while you’re away. The devices that have boundary alerts (Fi, Tractive, Whistle, and Petcube) offer alerts when your dog exits and enters your boundaries, but some work better than others. I found the Whistle and the Tractive devices to be most consistent in the geofencing department. 

Real-time tracking capabilities

Real-time tracking is the one feature on a dog GPS collar that you hope you never have to use, but is wildly helpful to have if your pet ever gets lost. Most trackers will update your dog’s location every few minutes up to every hour depending on the tracker. This slower data refresh is fine if you’re with your dog, but if your dog gets lost, you’ll need faster location info. Trackers with live tracking functions do just that: they’ll refresh your pet’s location every few seconds so you can get a real-time look at where your dog is. This function usually drains the battery of the trackers quicker, but it gives extremely accurate location data. 

Multi-pet tracking support

Most of the options we tested support multi-pet tracking, although you’ll sometimes have to toggle between two different pet profiles. Some apps, like Whistle, offer a map where you can see both of your pets’ locations at once. 

Activity and health monitoring features

Activity and health monitoring are extras, but if your dog is on a weight loss journey or if they are on vet-recommended exercise restriction, activity tracking can be helpful. Health features like sleep tracking and scratch alerts require your dog to wear their collar pretty much 24/7, which can be a safety hazard.

How to set up and use a GPS dog collar

• Charge your collar before setup: Many collars require a full charge before activation, so make sure to plug in your device before trying to use it. 

• Plan for about 30 minutes of setup time: If you’re using a dog GPS collar for the first time, plan on about 30 minutes to set it up before using it. Don’t plan on quickly setting it up right before you’re about to leave the house with your dog. I found that at least a few of the GPS collars I tested had some minor glitches with the setup process that made it take longer than expected.

• Download the companion app, if applicable: Most of the collars I tested have a companion app, so you’ll need to download it onto your phone to get full access to all of the collar’s features.

• Pair your collar: After you’ve downloaded and booted up the companion apps, you’ll need to sync the device to your phone via Bluetooth.

• Input your dog’s info: Most apps will require you to make a profile for your dog with  their name, age, weight, and photo.

• Sign up for a subscription: Most of the GPS collars on this list (except the AirTag and the Garmin model) require subscriptions since they act as standalone cellular devices. You’ll need to sign up for a subscription before you can track your dog, and most brands offer yearly and monthly subscription options, and some also offer premium and standard tiers of their subscriptions.

• Set virtual boundaries: Once you’ve signed up for a subscription, you can set your dog’s safe zones. Setting these boundaries will push an alert to your phone when your dog exits or enters the zone, so you’ll know if your dog is out for a walk with their dog walker or if they’ve escaped your yard. 

• Start tracking: Put the collar on your dog, or if it’s an attachment, add the attachment to your dog’s existing collar. Start a walk or just head out with your dog to start tracking their location and activity.

The exceptions to these steps are the Apple AirTag and the Garmin Alpha T 20. The AirTag can simply be paired to your iPhone through the FindMy app, while the Garmin Alpha T 20 requires a longer setup process since it needs to be paired via satellite to a separate handheld.

Care and maintenance of GPS dog collars

While dog GPS collars haven’t been around long enough to deem any one future-proofed, there are a few ways you can keep your dog’s device in tip top shape for years to come:

1. Keep it clean: Periodically wipe down your dog GPS device to get rid of any mud, dust, or debris. 

2. Keep it dry: If your dog is out in the mud or rain or goes for a swim, make sure to let your GPS collar dry before plugging it in to charge. Charging it while wet can damage the battery. 

3. Keep it updated: Make sure you have the latest version of your collar’s companion app, and that you stay on top of software updates. Brands sometimes push new features in their software updates, so in addition to bug fixes, you’ll have the latest tech by updating your device regularly.

4. Keep it charged: You won’t be able to find your dog using a GPS collar if it isn’t charged, so make sure your dog always goes out with a good amount of battery life on their collar. Most collars will give you the exact battery percentage they’re at in their companion apps.

FAQ

• How do GPS dog collars work?

  LTE GPS dog collars track your dog’s location by connecting to satellites, then transmitting location data through LTE cell networks to an app on your phone. These types of collars require cell service to work. Satellite/radio dog collars similarly connect to GPS satellites, but then transmit the location data to a paired handheld (like in the case of the Garmin Alpha T20) to tell you where your dog is. These types of collars don’t require cell service to work.

• Do GPS dog collars require a subscription?

  Most GPS collars that run on LTE service require a monthly subscription (just like a smartwatch or a smartphone that uses cell service) that ranges from $5 to $20 per month. There are also satellite/radio options and bluetooth tracking options that don’t require a subscription, though they each have their pros and cons.

• How accurate are GPS dog collars?

  GPS dog collars can be very accurate depending on which one you get and your service quality. Many GPS dog collars can track your dog to within a few feet of their actual location. The accuracy may degrade if you have an LTE device with a poor cellular connection, or if you have a collar that uses satellite and you’re in very rocky/mountainous canyons or terrain. 

• What is the difference between a GPS dog collar and a Bluetooth tracker?

  GPS dog collars are typically more accurate and reliable than Bluetooth trackers, while Bluetooth trackers are more affordable and have very long battery lives. A dog GPS collar typically has its own cellular service plan and can connect to cell towers or GPS satellites to give you an accurate location. Bluetooth trackers have a more limited range, as most require them to be in Bluetooth distance of your phone (or in the case of AirTags, Bluetooth distance of any iPhone).

• How long does the battery last on a GPS dog collar?

  The battery life on a GPS dog collar lasts anywhere from 12 hours to multiple months depending on the type of collar you get and how you use it. Dogs who are very active and spend a lot of time in low-cell service areas may run through the battery life on their GPS collar faster than a dog who stays close to home. 

• Can I use a GPS dog collar without cell service?

  You may be able to use a GPS dog collar if you don’t have cell service. LTE-based collars utilize different cell networks (ie: Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T). If you have a GPS collar that uses a different network than your cell phone, you may have differences in service, so your collar may work even if your phone doesn’t have service. There are also satellite/radio options like the Garmin Alpha T20 that are designed to work regardless of cell service.

• Are GPS dog collars waterproof?

  Yes, most GPS dog collars are either waterproof or water resistant. IP68, IP67, and 1 ATM are the most common waterproof ratings on GPS dog collars, though some options are only splash-proof, not completely waterproof, so those may not be suitable for swimming.

• Are GPS dog collars safe for dogs?

  Yes, GPS dog collars are safe for dogs. Being able to monitor your dog’s location can help you get them home faster if they get lost. Radio transmission from GPS dog collars is minimal, but ensure your dog’s GPS collar is well-fitted to prevent any rubbing or chafing.

• How far can a GPS dog collar track?

  Most LTE GPS trackers don’t have a range, so you could theoretically track your dog from miles or even states away. Satellite/radio GPS collars usually can usually track dogs several miles away. For example, the Garmin Alpha T20 has a maximum range of 9 miles, though the actual distance may be shorter based on the terrain you and your dog are in.

• Can I track multiple dogs with one app?

  Yes, most GPS dog collars allow you to track multiple dogs with one app, so long as you have one collar for each dog. Apps like Fi and Tractive allow you to easily toggle between dogs to view their activity, location, and more. 

• Do GPS dog collars work internationally?

  Some GPS dog collars work internationally. The Fi Series 3+ works in the US, Canada, and Mexico, while Tractive works in over 175 countries if you’re subscribed to the premium plan. The Garmin Alpha LTE works in the US, Canada, Mexico, and several countries in Europe.

How we researched and tested

I did in-depth research on top rated dog GPS collars by looking at other review sites along with Amazon and other retailer reviews. I tested seven of the most popular dog GPS collar options, and evaluated them against the following criteria:

• Ease of use: I evaluated how easy each collar was to set up, how intuitive the companion apps are (if applicable), and how the day-to-day use was. 

• Location accuracy: I took my dogs on walks in my neighborhood, on local trails, and in areas with little to no cell service to determine how accurate the GPS location on each collar was. I also took my dogs on drives while they were wearing the collars to see how the location held up over longer distances. 

• Connection speed: I checked how long each collar took to connect to the respective app in different locations, both via normal tracking and live tracking, if offered. 

• Battery life: I charged each device and used it daily until it died. Some collars lost battery much quicker than advertised, while some stood out with extra long battery life between charges. 

• Activity tracking: Some collars offered additional activity tracking beyond justyour dog’s location. For the collars that offered this, I noted whether they showed distances for each walk, or just gave an overall activity score. I also tracked some of these walks myself via my phone, and checked how accurate the collars were in comparison to my phone’s GPS and distance data. I preferred the collars that created an accurate map of where your dog went on a walk, as opposed to the ones that just dropped location points along the route. 

• Escape alerts: For the collars that offered it, I set up geofence safe zones, making sure the zone was roughly the same across devices. I practiced taking my dogs out of the zones and bringing them back into them, with and without my phone on me. I noted which collars pushed a notification the fastest, whether my dogs were leaving or entering the safe zone.

• Live tracking: I used the live tracking feature on the collars that offered it in multiple locations, and checked how accurate it was by comparing it to the location on other collars (my dogs wore multiple GPS collars at a time for most of this testing). I also noted that using live tracking seemed to kill the battery life faster of every collar I tested. 

• Build quality and design: I evaluated how durable the devices (and collars, if applicable) were by letting my dogs wear them during mountain hikes and park play sessions. I noted devices that were overly bulky, heavy, or uncomfortable for the dogs.

• Waterproofness: I ranked the manufacturer’s waterproof ratings, and subjected each GPS device to light splashes to make sure they could hold up to wear in wet conditions. Nearly every collar had a different water-resistance rating. IPX7 devices are rated for submersion up to one meter for up to 30 minutes. IP67 is the same, but adds on a dust resistance. IPX8 devices can be submerged over a depth of one meter but the exact depth is up to the manufacturer. IP68 devices are the same as IPX8 devices, but they tack on dust proofing. 1ATM devices can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 10 meters. If your dog regularly goes swimming, you’d be best off with a collar rated IPX8 or IP68. 

• Subscription: I evaluated all tiers of each GPS collar subscription service to determine which ones were the most cost effective and which ones felt most worth the money.

• Extra features: I noted collars that had additional features like health tracking, radar to find a misplaced collar, and multi-owner sharing.

• Price: I weighed the price of the device itself and the quality of the subscription (if applicable) together to find the dog GPS trackers that were most worth their respective cost.

I tested all of the collars on my two dogs and their group of dog friends. I tested the collars on neighborhood walks, park outings, drives, on local trails, and in more remote hiking areas with poor cell service to get a well-rounded idea of how well each device works.

For part of the testing, I put multiple devices on the same dog to compare how well the location and activity tracking worked in the same area, on the same dog, at the same time. This allowed me to create a controlled test, although my dogs looked a bit odd wearing three to four different collars each on hikes. 

If you’re interested in taking your pups on hikes, check out our Hiking with Dogs 101 gear list.

About the author / Why you should trust us

I’ve written and edited numerous pet and lifestyle product reviews for sites like CNN Underscored, Whole Dog Journal, and more. I was formerly the shopping editor at Mashable, covering tech and lifestyle products before leaving to pursue my incredibly niche passion of dog product testing. I have a journalism degree from NYU, and have been involved in commerce writing since I graduated in 2020. 

I’m also a dog trainer, dog show exhibitor, dog sport competitor, and I’ve worked as kennel help and as a dog show assistant in the past. I teach both behavioral lessons and sport classes, and I compete in AKC conformation, rally, agility, barn hunt, and herding with my two dogs. I basically spend all of my waking hours with either my own dogs or my client dogs. 

I’m also an avid hiker, overlander, and camper, and where I go, my dogs go. From boondocking in Moab to enjoying the extensive trail system in Boulder where I live, my two dogs are always with me, and they’re usually off leash. Though they’re both well-trained, being off leash inherently poses some risks. I’m a bit of an anxious dog parent, and I’ve used GPS trackers on both of my dogs for years now on all our travels, just in case one of them ever gets lost.

April 24th, 2026, updated with three new winners, and seven new models tested
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel > Women’s

Good women's hiking underwear should stay in place, neither stretch with repetitive movement nor need embarrassing mid-day adjustments. Hiking underwear shouldn't give you a wedgie. It should be anti-chafing, quick-dry so you can hand wash it in a sink and air dry on a line from your tent or hostel bed, and moisture-wicking so you stay comfortable on the move. It should fit well on bodies of different shapes and sizes, and it should be stylish enough that you feel secure and confident taking on a new trail, exercise class, or travel destination.

To test women's hiking underwear, I hiked the 800-mile Arizona Trail, the Trans Catalina Trail, parts of the Pacific Crest Trail, and wore each pair on local day hikes, logging 75 miles per pair to allow adequate time to check for awkward rubbing, fit and comfort, odor, and how well the undies stayed in place. While I've been wearing exclusively hiking underwear for the past two decades, I've been systematically testing it since 2016 with my Travel Underwear guide for New York Times/Wirecutter. Over the past ten years I've tested more than 50 pairs of underwear, and this is my most authoritative guide to women's hiking and travel underwear, informed by thousands of miles and a lot of both good and bad underwear along the way.

What separates genuinely good hiking underwear from the rest comes down to things that are hard to assess without actual miles: whether the waistband rolls under a backpack's hip belt, whether the cut stays put on steep climbs, how well the fabric handles humidity and repeated handwashing, and whether it transitions comfortably from trail to town. Oh yeah, and the odor test.

Top Pick: The Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini earns our Best Overall award and won our Reader's Favorite Gear of the Year Award in 2025. It stood out for its no-wedgie guarantee (the Stay in Place Promise) that it actually delivers on, a waistband that never rolled or chafed across hundreds of miles, buttery Micromodal fabric that stayed remarkably odor-free, and versatility that makes it as comfortable for everyday wear as it is on trail.

Looking for more women’s underwear suggestions? See our Best Sports Bras for Hiking

We write mission-driven gear reviews. To find the best gear, we combine expert reviews, everyday user opinions, and rigorous independent trail testing—never native ads or sponsored posts. We are 100% reader-supported and may make a small commission from some qualifying affiliate links. Learn more.

Women’s hiking underwear comparison table

The winners

Best overall underwear: Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini

Fabric: 88% Micromodal 12% Lycra
Available styles: bikini, thong
Odor control tech: natural material is anti-microbial
Available sizes: S-XL (runs small)
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: no wedgies, very soft material, trail-to-town comfort, versatility, made in USA by woman-owned brand
What we didn’t like: slower to dry than synthetics, limited colors and sizing, sizing runs small

The best overall women's hiking underwear are the Paradis Natural Fiber Bikini. The best hiking underwear is the pair that feels like you're wearing nothing at all while also feeling secure and like things aren't going to move. The Paradis Natural Fiber Bikini is remarkable in its forgettable-ness. The soft-but-thick waistband doesn't roll. It doesn't rub or chafe. We also chose them as best overall because they are a great option for a versatile hiking underwear that transition from trail-to-town and everything in between. 

The Paradis Sport underwear are the only pair we tested that come with a No Wedgie guarantee (this is also true for our best synthetic winner, the Paradis Seamless). With buttery soft fabric, they work as well for everyday life as they do for hiking and backpacking. Best yet, they're made by a woman-owned brand.

This brand only makes underwear and their attention to detail is evident. We were initially hesitant to award two top prizes to a relatively new and small brand, but everyday that was Paradis Sport testing day was the best day. And if we're being honest with ourselves, if we were forced to choose only one pair of undies to wear for both hiking and everyday, these would be them. These are great underwear for hiking and to use as everyday underwear and for that versatility, we award them best overall women’s underwear. Paradis underwear won our Reader’s Favorite Gear of the Year Award in 2025.

• Anti-chafe, anti-rub

  The Paradis has a wide waistband that prevents rolling. The waistband is more reminiscent of what you'd find on yoga pants than the thin or thick elastic of many other pairs of underwear we tested (think Calvin Klein of the 90s). It never chafed, rolled, creeped, or created a wedgie. It always stayed in place, regardless of the speed of the hike or the steepness of the climb. It felt secure climbing over blowdowns and in cool and hot temperatures.

  The Paradis Natural Fiber underwear uses a special seam called Merrow Activeseam that is a stitch that doesn't rub or chafe. This seam is not as wide as the better known flatlock seam found in most of the other anti-chafe underwear we tested. We didn't notice a huge difference in feel between the flatlock (which is a good thing–they both work). It looks more elegant, though. 

• Cut and Design

  The cut, coverage, and ride on the Paradis Sport is ideal for movement. They feel hugged-in and secure. In addition to hikers, their athletes include skiers, equestrians, runners, climbers, cyclists, mountaineers, and pro soccer, tennis, and rugby players. Many of these sports are even more demanding than hiking in terms of the need for mobility and staying in place.

  Compared to other underwear we tested, they have more coverage, but they don't look frumpy or even look like they offer much more coverage. It's only when you put it on that you feel the difference. When you compare it to other pairs, you can sense where all the other underwear let your body hang loose. 

  The Paradis Sport also has no annoying tags that require cutting off, as we experienced with other undies. 

  The front panel is double-layered, which is different than most pairs we tested. The fabric is thin so it adds some more modesty. Modal is known for its breathability and as a summer fabric, so we didn’t notice any overheating even in the double-fabric area.

• Fabric

  The Paradis Sport Natural Fiber is made of a Superfine Micro-modal, which is derived from beech trees. Modal is a type of rayon that is known for its breathability and keeping its strength while wet, so comes with extra durability.

  Normally, we'd expect such soft fabric to get loose after a while, but that never seemed to happen. Although the brand doesn’t claim it, this fabric didn’t get stinky like the synthetic underwear we tested. According to How Stuff Works, modal is effective at minimizing odor and our testing backs that up.

  In our side-by-side tests, the fabric was effective at wicking moisture when we were sweating. In fact, modal is known for absorbing large amounts of water.

  However, it is not as fast at quickly drying. This is important to know if you plan to handwash it for travel or while backpacking or are hiking somewhere humid.

  It’s worth noting that some hikers specifically avoid Modal because it absorbs moisture so well that it could potentially feel chilly if weather turns cold and wet. If this is a concern, we recommend the similar synthetic Paradis Sport Seamless.

  If you want a more active pair of underwear for running or hikes with a lot of up and down or blowdowns, we like the hugged-in feel of the Seamless, too. For shorter hikes in good weather conditions, though, we found the Natural Fiber to be more comfortable.

  One thing to know is that these underwear are not designed to be used with hiking leggings or yoga pants. It does not pretend to be seamless. Paradis Sport recommends their Seamless line (our overall winner for best synthetic underwear) or the thong version of the Natural Fiber underwear if you are concerned about visible panty line. However, for my body, these briefs were less noticeable under hiking tights than most of the pairs I tested, including the Seamless line.

• Our Verdict

  Paradis is a small and relatively new woman-owned company based in Lakeville, CT. It's impressive that in just a few short years, they've designed and manufactured a product in the USA that outperforms the large brands owned by multinational corporations that have existed for decades. Despite being a small brand, they're members of 1% for the Planet. We also liked their minimal packaging by EcoEnclose and that rare among any outdoor brand, they have a take-back program to upcycle your old undies (shredded into insulation). They're on the more expensive end of underwear we tested, and yet we think it's worth it for what you get, especially knowing the ethics and sustainability behind the brand.

  We're keeping an eye on this brand and are looking forward to seeing their line expand and new products become available. We hope this brand expands their sizing to include more types of bodies and shapes as we think every outdoors person could really benefit from their wedgie-free design.

Best merino hiking underwear for women: Branwyn Essential

Fabric: GLDNspun 81% extra fine Merino wool, 12% nylon, and 7% Spandex
Available styles: bikini, hipster, thong
Odor control tech: merino is naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-XXL
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: fit, no chafe, stays in place, very soft material, quick dry, woman-owned brand
What we didn’t like: price, sizing limited to XXL

After testing half a dozen wool underwear, the Branwyn Essentials is the best women's wool underwear on the market right now.

With fit that covers the behind and doesn't ride up, these underwear stay in place almost as well as our overall winners. One leg up the Branwyn Essentials has over other underwear we tested is the merino wool is naturally antibacterial, which keeps odors at bay. We've backpacked multiple days wearing the same pair of Branwyn (note: doctors do not recommend doing this) and it's stayed notably odor-free compared to synthetic underwear. Merino stays warm when wet, and that was something I've appreciated on many winter hikes.

Beyond fit, Branwyn's merino meets the highest standards for ethical wool, holding ZQ certification, OEKO-TEX 100 certification, and RWS certification. This means it works to improve the welfare of sheep, the land they graze on, and people. Branwyn underwear won our Reader’s Favorite Gear of the Year Award in 2025.

The Branwyn Essentials hiking underwear are naturally anti-microbial, dry quickly, and are great at moisture wicking.

Full coverage on the behind ensure the Branwyn Essential hiking underwear stays up and doesn’t roll or create wedgies.

The Branwyn Essentials hiking underwear are the best merino wool hiking underwear for women.

• Fit and comfort

  Branwyn understands that hiking and active underwear needs to stay in place. And the result is something that still looks attractive. A problem we've noticed with wool underwear in the past few years is that they've been skimping on the fabric. Maybe the price of wool has gone up. Maybe it's a fashion statement. But whatever it is, the result is a pair of underwear that bunches in the back. That isn't the case with Branwyn, which is a women-owned brand that is one of the fastest growing in the country. Until recently, underwear was the only thing Branwyn made and they've had time to hone in on fit and perfect it.  

• Elastic and seam-free construction

  In the past, we've awarded the best wool award to bigger companies known for their wool. But they can't beat Branwyn's waistband, which is almost twice as wide to stay up better. The waistband is also sewn into the fabric to reduce chafing or roll-over.

  Plus, Branwyn prints their tag instead of sewing it in. Going seamless and avoiding a prickly tag reduces the chances of chafing. 

  The elastic on the Branwyn has a fair amount of stretch that snaps back into place without pinching. It feels more like what you'd find on yoga pants or comfier hiking tights. The result is something comfortable that stays in place without moving. Merino underwear can sometimes stretch out and lose its shape after a full day of use (it snaps back after a wash), but the Branwyn kept its shape as well as the synthetic underwear we tested.

• Merino wool and materials

  The wool material is thin, soft, and smooth against the skin, and dries incredibly quickly for merino. It is also regenerative and sustainable. (which also means it is free of BPA, PFAs, and toxic forever chemicals). Merino is great at moisture wicking, so I rarely feel swampy in any brand's merino undies. But merino doesn't dry out as quickly as synthetic material, and that's one reason I prefer synthetic underwear for humid conditions. 

  Similar blends of wool and elastic can be found in their Essential Bralette, which has won awards in our Best Hiking Sports Bras guide and is featured in our Gift Guide for Backpackers.

• Designs and colors

  Like the bigger brands, Branwyn offers different cuts–from hipster to bikini to thong. It's available in five colors, mostly skin-colored. We test the hipster, which has become our go-to wool underwear. 

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Our biggest wish for the Branwyn Essentials underwear is that it was available in more sizes. Currently, it goes from XS to XXL.

• Our verdict

  The Branwyn Essentials merino underwear is the best pair of women's hiking underwear out there. It stays in place, is naturally odor-resistant, and doesn't stretch out even after days of use (we know you aren't supposed to do that). It's super soft, great at moisture-wicking, and from a brand focused on sustainability. Unlike a lot of other merino underwear brands, the fit and comfort on the Branwyn Essential have been perfected.

Best synthetic women’s underwear for hiking: Paradis Sport Seamless Bikini

Fabric: 94% Nylon 6% Spandex
Available styles: bikini, thong
Odor control tech: none stated
Available sizes: S-XL (runs small)
Quick dry? Fairly fast
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: Stays in place, never wedgies, doesn’t ride up, feels secure, no rubbing or chafing
What we didn’t like: Thicker than other fabrics, can retain odor

The Paradis Sport Seamless underwear are the best synthetic women's hiking underwear I've ever worn. The Paradis are a more technical pair of underwear than others we tested and that isn't a bad thing. These are designed for performance and for athletes and it shows in the details of their construction and design.

With the Paradis Sport, I always felt held in and always felt secure–which is remarkable for any pair of athletic underwear. The Paradis Sport underwear are the only pair we tested that come with a Stay in Place guarantee (this is also true for our overall winner, the Paradis Natural Fiber). Best yet, they're made by a woman-owned brand.

• Fabric, Fit, and Performance

  The Paradis Sport Seamless remind me of the Patagonia Active Briefs from the old days—they stay in place and have a waistband that never digs in or rolls yet stays up.

  The cut, coverage, and ride on the Paradis Sport is ideal for movement. In addition to hikers, their athletes include skiers, equestrians, runners, climbers, cyclists, mountaineers, and pro soccer, tennis, and rugby players. Many of these sports are even more demanding than hiking in terms of the need for mobility and also for the fabric to bounce back to keep its original shape.

  We found that in testing, the fabric of most hiking underwear loses its shape and moves over the course of the day, resulting in a wedgie after a few hours. That's not the case with Paradis Seamless. The brand even has a no wedgie guarantee–the only underwear brand we've ever seen do this.

  We almost chose the Paradis Sport as the best women's hiking underwear overall but decided we liked the buttery soft Natural Fiber version better for its trail to town feel. The Paradis Seamless feel technical and in many situations, that is exactly what you want. 

• Waistband

  The wide waistband is made of a knitted elastic to minimize rubbing. This reminds me of a feature the old Smartwool underwear used to have and is similar to what Patagonia used to use. This knitted design in a wide waistband has a feel similar to yoga pants so the waistband doesn't dig in.

  The fabric on the Paradis Sport is thicker than almost all the underwear I tested. Normally, this would bother me but instead made me feel secure as a superhero. Paradis recommends wearing the Seamless over the Natural Fiber version if you're trying to avoid Visible Panty Line when wearing hiking tights.

• Sizes and styles

  One thing to note is the sizing tops out at XL. It's a newer brand, so doesn't have quite the variety of cuts and styles of bigger brands, either. We hope that as the brand grows, more options will be available for outdoors folks of different sizes. 

  The Paradis Sport is also available as a thong for those who prefer to hike in that style. If you aren't sure, see our section below on what type of underwear should I use for hiking?

• Odor Resistance

  Perhaps this is an unfair test, but after three days straight of wearing this underwear on the Arizona Trail, they held an odor. This is similar to all synthetic underwear we tested, but worth noting if you have plans for backpacking with these undies (or not changing them frequently).

• Our verdict

  Paradis is a small and relatively new woman-owned company based in Missoula, MT. It's impressive that in just a few short years, they've designed and manufactured a product in the USA that outperforms the large brands owned by multinational corporations that have existed for decades. Despite being a small brand, they're members of 1% for the Planet. We also liked their minimal packaging by EcoEnclose and that rare among any outdoor brand, they have a take-back program to upcycle your old undies (shredded into insulation).

  We're keeping an eye on this brand and are looking forward to seeing their line expand and new products become available. We hope this brand expands their sizing to include more types of bodies and shapes as we think every outdoors person could really benefit from their wedgie-free design.

Best affordable hiking underwear for women: Ex Officio Give N Go II

Fabric: 91% Polyester/9% Elastane Mesh
Available styles: bikini, hipster, thong, full cut brief
Odor control tech: HEiQ anti-odor treatment
Available sizes: XS-3X
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: Breathes well, among the fastest to dry, variety of cuts and colors, value for the price, widely available
What we didn’t like: Doesn't keep shape, retains odor over time, prone to snagging that can impact durability

The Ex Officio Give N Go II is our winner for best affordable women's hiking and travel underwear. I used the Give N Go on more than 10,000 miles of backpacking long distance trails including the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail. I've also worn the Ex Officio Give N Go while traveling, washing them out while hostel hopping in Europe, Central America, Southeast Asia, and the U.S. and Canada. Ex Officio underwear won our Reader’s Favorite Gear of the Year Award in 2025.

They're among the best underwear at being quick dry, reasonably stylish, and come in a variety of fun colors and cuts. They stay up well, have minimal wedging, and are seamless to reduce chafe. They're less expensive than other hiking underwear and travel underwear and are often found as a two-pack on sale.

• Fit and Fabric

  The Give N Go has some of the best options in colors, cuts, and waistlines of any underwear we tested. Some models, like the full coverage, are available in sizing up to 3X.

  We found the mesh fabric works the best in hot climates and especially warm, humid destinations. In our side-by-side tests, it truly is among the fastest to dry taking around 15 minutes on a 70F day. The quick dry is a big benefit for travel and it breathes well. 

• Shape and Odor Resistance

  The Give N Go doesn't keep its shape as well as other synthetic underwear, most notably the Paradis Sport. That's one reason we recommend them more for travel and day hiking vs. a longer backpacking trip (despite our many long trips with them). They will start sagging after a while and if you get a lot of miles in, that sag doesn't seem to bounce back even after a wash. That's usually when I decide to retire my Give N Gos. That, or the odor can get so bad after months of wearing the same two pairs that even a washing doesn't seem to help. 

  I recommend using a good sports detergent to wash this underwear, like the ones we recommend in our Best Sports Detergent guide. 

  Though I generally prefer the Give N Go Sport over the standard Give N Go II for its softer fabric and better breathability, the sport mesh can be prone to snagging and I've developed holes on a few pairs that way. 

• Value

  Although the Give N Go II is more expensive than some big box store underwear options, it's almost always on sale, especially if you aren't too picky about color. Even when it isn't on sale, it is still only about half the price of some of the pairs we considered while delivering almost equivalent performance. 

• Our verdict

  The Give N Go II are available in a wide variety of colors and cuts–from full coverage to thong and everything in between. They also have a good variety of colors and sizes and sell matching bralettes. These are a great option for times when you need fast drying underwear and a quality pair that will last.

Best Plus Size: Duluth Trading Company Dry on the Fly

Fabric: 85% polyester/15% cotton
Available styles: briefs
Odor control tech: odor treatment
Available sizes: S-XL, 1X-3X
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: true to size, sizing options
What we didn't like: limited colors

After testing different pairs of hiking underwear available in plus sizes, Treeline Review writer Gabi Reyes-Acosta found the Duluth Trading Company Dry on the Fly to be the best hiking underwear in plus sizes.

“These are even better than the Duluth Trading Company Buck Naked (a former winner) for folks looking for underwear that is sweat-wicking, breathable, and fits well,” says Gabi.

This part of the review is written by Gabi in their own words. You can read more in Gabi's guide to Plus Size Outdoor Apparel.

• Sizing

  The Dry on the Fly briefs go up to a 3X (hopefully Duluth starts carrying higher sizes than just a 3!) and they fit true to size. 

  There are very few options for technical plus size underwear, especially above a 3X. The Duluth Dry on the Fly underwear fit generously, and could potentially fit someone who typically wears a 4X. 

  I used to swear by my pair of ExOfficio Give-N-Go (review above) for hiking and backpacking which goes up to a 3X in the full cut brief, but I noticed they run small. The Duluth Dry on the Fly fits true to size.

• Material

  Unlike the similar Duluth Buck Naked underwear, there is a higher percentage of cotton in the Dry on the Fly underwear, making them even better at wicking sweat and remaining breathable while I’m moving and exerting myself. While I normally don't recommend cotton in hiking underwear, the percentage is minimal and the fit is so much better than the alternatives, it is worth it.

• Cuts and color options

  They also come in colors and prints that Duluth often updates and rotates out, making the line of underwear feel dynamic and plus size customers feel seen, as so often clothes for us are not made with cute prints and colors.

• Fit and movement

  The fit of the Dry on the Fly pair, although generous, doesn’t feel baggy or saggy after a day of moving. I haven’t found them to bunch in uncomfortable spots, need to be pulled up, and the waistband is smooth and sits comfortably against my skin. I don’t tend to be someone who sweats a lot, but when I do the Duluth underwear keeps me dry. There’s not a wedgie in sight with the Dry on the Fly, as it should be.

Best women’s underwear for hiking in hot weather: REI Co-op Active Bikini

Fabric: 86% polyester/14% spandex mesh
Available styles: bikini, hipster, brief, thong
Odor control tech: None stated
Available sizes: XS-3X
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: Dries the fastest of all the pairs we tested, sizes available, color options, very breathable, lightest weight of the pairs we tested, most minimal packaging of any underwear we tested, price
What we didn’t like: Doesn't always stay up, wedgies

The REI Co-op Active underwear are the best women's hiking underwear for hot conditions. I tested both the hipster version and the bikini version on 100 miles of the hottest sections of the 800-mile long Arizona Trail during a record-breaking heat wave near Phoenix hiking through multiple days of 100+F degrees. I had a lot of problems those days, but my underwear wasn't one of them. The REI Co-op Active is also the lightest underwear I tested, making it ideal to throw in a pack for travel or backpacking as a just-in-case pair. 

The REI Co-op Active aerates well and is hands-down the fastest drying underwear I've tested. That's another reason it is my top-choice underwear for hot yoga classes. Despite its flaws (more on that below), I keep reaching for this pair for hot days or when headed to humid climates.

It's affordable, available in many colors, and is available from XS to 3X, the best of any pair we tested. It's also available as bikini, hipster, and thong, so you can find the cut that works best for your body.

Front coverage on the REI Coop Active underwear.

We liked the minimal packaging on the REI Coop Active underwear, the best of any underwear we tested.

Back coverage on the REI Coop Active underwear.

• Fabric

  The REI Active Mesh fabric is thin and dries within minutes on a warm day. It wicks away sweat and keeps me feeling dry even in hot yoga. The rest of my body feels swampy but oddly my underpants don't. 

  In comparison, the most similar pair, the Give N Go mesh, use a thicker fabric. I wear those during hot yoga, too, but the REI Active are my preference because they don't roll as much during movement when I'm that sweaty. 

  The REI Active fabric comes with an anti-odor treatment that works surprisingly well, especially given that these underwear are the ones that I take to the most bacterial-inducing conditions–the 108F, 40% humidity of my hot yoga classes.

• Styles and Cut

  The REI Active underwear is available in multiple colors, cuts, and sizes from XS to 3X. Of their models, my favorite that I tested was the Active Bikini, but it's also offered in hipster, thong, and briefs. 

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  A big caveat with the REI Active underwear: If you have problems with other models of underwear staying up, the REI Active Bikini isn't going to do you any favors. I'm not going to lie–this one gave me a wedgie after I wore it backpacking three days straight. 

  But while wedgies are normally a dealbreaker for any underwear I test, the mesh fabric on this underwear is bar none. I keep reaching for these underwear if I know it'll be hot because I think in those conditions, this is the best option out there.

• Our verdict

  If it is going to be hot and you need something that dries quickly and won't feel swampy, the REI Active underwear are the pair to wear.

Best women's boyshort hiking underwear: Branwyn Seamless Merino Wool Boyshort

Fabric: 84% merino wool, 12% recycled nylon, 4% spandex
Available styles: Thong, Hipster, Boyshort
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-XL
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: Super soft material, legs stay in place, waistband stays in place
What we didn't like: price, sizing limited to XXL

Treeline Readers asked that we tested boyshort style underwear and we put the miles in to find our favorite. Although there were some close contenders, the Branwyn Seamless Merino Boyshort was our favorite. If possible, the buttery-soft fabric on the Branwyn Boyshort felt even softer than on their brief and bikini models. The natural anti-microbial features of the merino wool delivered on keeping odors down. It wicked moisture away well and dried relatively quickly for merino.

But where the Branwyn Boyshort really excelled was at staying in place. Boy shorts, but the very nature of the cut, have a tendency to ride up. With a little bit more elastic than other boy shorts, the Branwyn underwear don't roll or bunch at the leg holes.

Close up of the waistband on the Branwyn Seamless Merino Boyshort.

Front of the Branwyn Seamless Merino Boyshort

Back of the Branwyn Seamless Merino Boyshort

• No bunch legs on a boy short

  As mentioned above, boy shorts, by the very nature of their cut, tend to roll at the legs more than underwear that has a higher cut. That's not the case with the Branwyn boy short. These stay in place, which is nothing short of a miracle.

• Boyshort leg length

  With most boy shorts, some of our testers say "you need skinny stick legs" to get them to work. My legs do not fit that definition, but with the Branwyn Boy short, they still don't roll or ride up.

  While the "legs" aren't long enough to prevent inner thigh chafing (we recommend a boxer-brief style short for that kind of coverage), they added just the modesty needed for trailhead parking lot wardrobe changes and lake swimming when we didn't backpack in an actual swim suit.

• Buttery soft, high-quality merino

  As with the Branwyn Essential underwear, Branwyn Boy short merino meets the highest standards for ethical wool, holding ZQ certification, OEKO-TEX 100 certification, and RWS certification. This means it works to improve the welfare of sheep, the land they graze on, and people. 

  The merino wool on these boy shorts are just as soft as the Essential line. It does just as good of a job wicking moisture and keeping odors at bay. Both of those features are arguably more important on a boy short than a bikini because more underwear fabric is directly against the skin. 

• Our verdict

  The cut of a boy short makes comes with some unique challenges in the stay-in-place department. The Branwyn Essential Boyshort does the best job of moving with you as you hike, walk, and travel with all the benefits of a buttery soft merino wool.

Best women's boxer brief underwear: Minus33 Woolverino Microweight Boxer Briefs

Fabric: 84% merino wool, 12% recycled nylon, 4% spandex
Available styles: bikini, boyshort, boxer brief, thong
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-2X
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes
What we liked: best long length legs prevent thigh chafing while being lighter weight and more breathable than biker shorts or compression shorts
What we didn't like: Elastic waistband rolls 

The Minus33 Woolverino Microweight Boxer Briefs were the only pair of women's underwear we tested that have longer legs. We wish more brands took the lead from Minus33 and realized there are a lot of hikers who want women's underwear with longer legs. Boxer-brief style underwear are great to prevent inner thigh chafing for hikers and backpackers wearing hiking skirts or hiking dresses.

Even with the longer leg length and the extra amount of merino wool required for that length, the Minus33 Boxer Briefs are more affordable than other wool underwear we've tested. It has high-quality, responsibly certified wool with the same naturally anti-bacterial benefits of wool that keep odor down. The Minus33 women's Boxer Briefs are an excellent option if you've been struggling with leg chafing and want underwear that can help.

• Prevents thigh chafing

  For hikers that struggle with inner thigh chafe when wearing hiking skirts or hiking dresses or trail running shorts, a longer inseam underwear can work wonders. While turning to anti-chafing cream is always a workable solution, we've found boxer-brief style underwear can prevent the need for chafing cream. 

  Many hikers turn to compression style shorts to prevent chafing, but they are often made of thicker and hotter material. These underwear are made of a lightweight 145 g/m2 jersey knit that is significantly thinner than biker shorts.

• Longer inseam

  The Minus Woolverino Boxer Briefs have a reported 5" inseam (but that is the same inseam listed for the Boy short so we think their website has an error). For me, the inseam came to mid thigh, which felt a lot longer than 5", especially since I have longer thighs. On measurement, we think the length is 10". That mid thigh length was perfect for covering up all the parts of the thigh that can chafe during hiking. Though everyone's gait and body is different, these underwear have a lot of coverage.

• Responsibly certified merino wool

  The Minus33 Woolverino Boxer Briefs have all the benefits of merino wool (naturally anti-microbial and odor-resistant) and moisture wicking. They're made of Responsible Wool Standard® (RWS) Certified and OEKO-TEX 100 certified wool, similar to that used by Branwyn and other more expensive wool brands. It is also Woolmark certified. The wool is a lightweight 145 g/m2 jersey knit made of 17.5 micron ultrafine merino wool that is soft on the skin, but not necessarily the softest of all the merino underwear.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Like the Minus33 Microweight Bikini, we found the 1-inch woven sport elastic waistband to be less comfortable than sewn-in waistbands found on other underwear we tested. 

• Our verdict

  The Minus33 Woolverino Women's Boxer Brief fills a much-needed niche in women's hiking underwear with a full-coverage 10" inseam. This helps prevent thigh chafing with a lightweight, breathable, wicking, and odor-resistant material unlike most options hikers have to prevent chafing.

Other women’s hiking underwear we tested

Paradis Natural Fiber Boyshort

Fabric: 88% Micromodal 12% Lycra
Available styles: bikini, thong, boyshort
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: S-XL
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

The Paradis Natural Fiber Boyshort nearly won our best boyshort category. This is no surprise given that their bikini cut won our Best Overall Women's Hiking Underwear award. It's the same super soft material with a waistband so good at staying up, you write your friends about it (this literally happens among Treeline writers).

The cut on the Paradis boy shorts is flattering, a lot more so than boy shorts we've tested over the years. Ultimately, we found the legs on the Natural Fiber Boyshort to ride up more than the Branwyn boy shorts, at least on our testers' legs. 

While Paradis offers five colors, we had issues with the black pair we tested. We opt for black underwear for times of the month (or the types of activities) where we are likely to stain underwear. The black pair has white stitching, which does stain. 

Ridge Merino Boy Short

Fabric: 84% merino wool, 12% recycled nylon, 4% spandex
Available styles: thong, hipster
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-XL
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

The Ridge Merino Boy Short was another strong contender for best boy short. We're big fans of the small wool brand Ridge Merino. The Ridge Merino boy short is an affordable merino wool option and has an entirely different fit than the other boy shorts we tested. The legs are a little shorter. They're almost more like a hipster fit than a boy short. As much as we liked the Ridge Merino, the waistband elastic isn't as robust or comfortable as other boy shorts we tested. If you are looking for a shorter boy short and want an affordable merino, the Ridge Merino Boy Short is an excellent choice.

Paka Essential

Fabric: 46% Tencel | 32% Organic Pima Cotton | 14% Royal Alpaca | 8% BPA-Free Spandex
Available styles: boyshort, midrise, bikini
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-XXL
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

We're big fans of Paka, an alpaca wool brand focused on positively impacting the planet, farmers, and animals. The Paka Midrise and Paka Bikini were both a super soft option that fits just right. These underwear don't roll up, don't wedgie, and stay in place. The midrise is a little shorter than a hipster cut and the newer bikini version is a more modern cut that isn't quite as high-cut as the Icebreaker Siren or the Minus33 bikini, but shows more than the the Paradis or Branwyn. Both the midrise and the bikini look and fit well.

The only mark working against the Paka Essentials is the longer dry time. In addition to 14% super soft Royal Alpaca, it's made with 32% organic Pima cotton and 46% Tencel. Neither cotton nor Tencel are materials known for fast dry times. In our testing, the Paka underwear was the last to dry. 

These are incredibly comfortable and well-fitting underwear for everyday (we wear them at least once a week!), but due to the slower dry time, are not our first choice for hiking underwear.

Smartwool Merino Bikini 

Fabric: 88% merino wool/12% nylon
Available styles: bikini
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-XL (runs big)
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

The Smartwool Merino bikini was our former winner for best wool underwear. We liked that as a bigger brand, they were able to offer many colors and even different cuts–from highwaist to thong to boyshort. They also were available up to size 3X, which we appreciated. Due to the natural antibacterial features of merino, it doesn't smell even after days of use. 

Over the years, I've tested many iterations of Smartwool underwear. While they've always performed well, the newest version is made of a thinner, softer fabric that feels smoother against the skin and dries incredibly quickly for merino. It has a more casual look that doesn't scream “for outdoors use only!” Yet it still feels just as stay-put, moisture-wicking, and odor-free as previous iterations.

Smartwool also uses ZQ-certfied, ethicially-sourced wool.

Ultimately, the Smartwool does not fit as well as the Branwyn Essential underwear. Although we had no problems with the waistband rolling, it isn't as thick as earlier iterations. This could be a problem for folks who have consistently had a hard time keeping their undies up. Additionally, the men's Smartwool Merino Bikini has a fabric sewn over the elastic to minimize chafing. For some reason they left off that feature in the women's version. 

On thru-hikes of the pacific Northwest Trail and a winter thru-hike of the Trans Catalina Trail during a record-breaking storm, even though I was soaked through to my underpants (to be clear–from rain and snow!), the Smartwool stayed in place, didn't chafe, and didn't roll up. Merino stays warm when wet, and that was something I've appreciated on many hikes.

The Smartwool unfortunately comes with tags that require cutting off before use, which has been a problem for me with outdoor apparel. We recommend patiently removing the tag by cutting just the stitches out. 

One ding against the Smartwool is that many hikers and travelers find that merino in general is not their underwear fabric of choice for hot or humid days. Merino is great at moisture wicking, so I rarely feel swampy in any brand's merino undies. But merino doesn't dry out as quickly as synthetic material, and that's one reason I prefer synthetic underwear for humid conditions.

Ridge Merino Hipster Brief Underwear

Fabric: 84% merino wool, 12% recycled nylon, 4% spandex
Available styles: Thong, Hipster, Boyshort
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-XL
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

We're big fans of the small wool brand Ridge Merino. The Ridge Merino hipster is an affordable merino wool option that fits similarly to the Smartwool Merino. We think if you're considering the Smartwool Merino bikini, you'd be well served by saving some money and going with the Ridge instead.

As much as we liked the Ridge Merino, the waistband elastic isn't as robust as on the Branwyn. The result is that it doesn't stay in place quite as well. Still, if you know you want the naturally antibacterial and anti-odor benefits of wool, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better deal.

Minus33 Woolverino Microweight Bikini

Fabric: 84% merino wool, 12% recycled nylon, 4% spandex
Available styles: Bikini, Boyshort, Boxer Brief
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS-2X
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

The Minus33 Woolverino Microlight Bikini is made of the same lightweight, merino fabric we like in the Minus33 Woolverino base layer, which is a winner in our Best Base layers guide. It's also more affordable than other wool underwear that we've tested with the same naturally anti-bacterial benefits of wool that keep odor down.

Ultimately, we found the 1-inch woven sport elastic waistband to be less comfortable than sewn-in waistbands found on other underwear we tested. The bikini cut was also higher than on other underwear, so that is a personal preference to keep in mind if considering this pair. 

We like that this underwear is available up to 2X, which is better than other underwear brands we considered. The brand is also transparent about their wool source and knit. The Core Spun technology means that it will be more durable than merino alone. Minus33 is  the only brand that explicitly has temperature recommendations for when it is best to wear this underwear (30°F and up while active, 60°F and up while inactive).

Smartwool Intraknit Bikini

Fabric: 39% merino wool/39% TENCEL lyocell/15% nylon/7% elastane
Available styles: XS - XL
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS - XL
Quick dry? Fairly fast
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

We tested the Smartwool Intraknit Bikini on cool hiking and backpacking trips in December, January, and February from snowy peakbagging to a February section of the Pacific Crest Trail. They're the thickest underwear we tested, and are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. 

We love the idea behind the knit design, which is totally seamless. However, the thicker fabric can cause the waistband and leg holes to roll on these underwear, which didn't happen on the thinner Smartwool Merino Bikini. Still, if you're spending time in colder climates, the Intraknit is a good option to keep your behind warm.

REI Co-Op Merino

Fabric: 48% merino wool/32% TENCEL lyocell/15% nylon/5% LYCRA spandex
Available styles: hipster, thong, bikini
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS, S
Quick dry? Fairly fast
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

We liked that the REI Active Hipster Merino has a soft fabric, minimal odor, and lots of coverage in the behind. We tried it in both the bikini and hipster variety (they also sell it as a thong). 

However, the waistband is thick and rolls and digs into our hip bone. It's available in a good variety of colors with sizing from XS to 3X. The REI Merino line includes thong, hipster, and bikini cuts. If you like underwear with thick (like 1" thick) waistbands and have trouble finding pairs that stay up, this could be a solution. However, it wasn't the most comfortable pair we tested.

Icebreaker Siren

Fabric: 83% merino wool/12% nylon/5% Lycra spandex
Available styles: bikini, hipkini, thong
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS - XL
Quick dry? Fairly fast
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

The Icebreaker Siren is one of the top-rated hiking underwear. It's a merino underwear with a higher cut bikini and less coverage than most of the other underwear we tested. Ultimately, the cut caused it to roll up in the behind. We liked the soft fabric, which breathes, wicks away sweat and is naturally antimicrobial. However, due to the minimal cut, this underwear tended to bunch more than other merino underwear we tested. Sizing also runs small and tops out at XL. We liked the soft Icebreaker merino and Icebreaker's commitment to sustainability. We just wish these underwear stayed in place better.

Ibex Natural Bikini

Fabric: Merino wool, elastane, nylon
Available styles: Brief
Odor control tech: naturally anti-microbial
Available sizes: XS - XXL
Quick dry? Fairly fast
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

When I've written about hiking and travel underwear in the past, the Ibex Bikini was my upgrade winner–the choice I would recommend if cost were not an issue. When the brand went out of business, I purchased every pair I could find and wore them for 5 years until they developed holes. The newest iteration doesn't feel nearly as secure. It has a thinner waistband and looser fabric. We like Ibex's commitment to sustainability and responsible animal husbandry. We wish it fit like the previous pair.

Ex Officio Give n Go Sport

Fabric: 90% Nylon(66)/10% Elastane
Available styles: Hipster
Odor control tech: None stated
Available sizes: XS - XL
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

Though I generally prefer the Give N Go Sport over the standard Give N Go II for its softer fabric and better breathability, the mesh can be prone to snagging and I've developed holes on a few pairs that way. They're still great underwear, especially for travel and any time when you are handwashing and line drying your undies. We just find the original Give n Go II to last longer.

Duluth Trading Company Buck Naked Underwear

Fabric: 93% nylon/7% spandex
Available styles: briefs, boxer briefs
Odor control tech: odor treatment
Available sizes: XS-XL, 1X-3X
Quick dry? Yes
Anti-chafe (seamless or flatlock seams): Yes

Treeline Review writer Gabi Reyes-Acosta says:

“In my first write up for Treeline on plus size outdoor clothes, I highlighted the Duluth Trading Co. Buck Naked Underwear. In the few years since that initial writeup, I have added the Duluth Dry on the Fly underwear, and find those to be even better for folks looking for underwear that is sweat wicking, breathable, and fits well.”

Still, there’s a lot to like about the Duluth Buck Naked. They don’t chafe at the top seam or inner thighs, nor do they roll down under my leggings."They contain zero cotton, and the nylon and spandex fabric make them perfect for moving and sweating. During a backpacking trip in Mokelumne Wilderness, Gabi wore them and was able to rinse and dry them in just a few hours; pulling them back on, they felt fresh and ready to go. 

They come in a few different color and pattern options, which are rare in moisture-wicking underwear and even rarer for plus-size athletic underwear. They’re also a good price. They are now available from 1-3X, matching the best sizing we've seen in outdoors underwear. Gabi says, "These seem true to size—I’m generally a 2XL in clothes, and these fit me well."

Why do you need specialized hiking underwear

Hiking often means sweating, walking in the rain, fording rivers, and swimming in lakes for fun. This means getting wet. Hiking underwear differs from home underwear because it is often made of a material that offers superb moisture management. This means that sweat, water, (or if we're being honest, pee) that ends up near the undies will get wicked up, dispersed across the surface area of the underwear, and dry quickly so you'll feel more comfortable.

Those quick-drying properties come in handy when you're handwashing your hiking underwear in camp on overnight trips or at hostels if you're using them as travel underwear. It's also handy to have quick-drying underwear when doubling your hiking underwear as swimwear. 

While I hope all your underwear is comfortable, it's especially important to have comfort and support in hiking underwear. When you're hiking, your legs are making a repetitive motion. That means any uneven seams or rolling or digging-in waistbands are going to have more opportunities to rub. Ultimately, this can lead to hot spots, chafing, and can even draw blood. It sounds extreme but believe me–I've been there. That's why having comfortable hiking underwear is non-negotiable.

Hiking underwear is more breathable than some regular underwear. Back to that repetitive motion–if the heat generated from movement doesn't have a place to escape, it's going to get in the way of you wanting to do more miles. Breathable underwear also makes it more quick-drying and less likely to keep odor. Which brings me to my last point: hiking underwear is often treated with an anti-odor spray or weave. 

Which gets to one of the reasons why humans wear underwear to begin with: Underwear keeps your outer garments cleaner and you smelling better, since it's easier to wash underwear than pants.

Women’s hiking underwear styles

Just like your home underwear, hiking underwear is available in different cuts. Choose what is best for your body shape and style, movement, and what makes you feel confident outside. 

Briefs

Briefs have a higher riser and ride at the belly button or just below, run along the pelvis to the crotch, and fully cover the butt in the back. These are some of the highest coverage underwear styles out there.

Boyshorts

Boyshorts are designed to look similar to men's boxer briefs, but are lower cut. They cover the hip, similar to a hipster. 

Bikini cut

Bikini cut underwear rides at your hips. It has a full covered back but less coverage on the sides.

Thongs

Thongs are designed without coverage on the behind with fabric. They are preferred by some hikers who do not want to feel fabric rolling up on their backsides.

Hipster

Hipsters ride lower than other styles, usually several inches below the belly button. The waistband is at the hips.

Mid-rise and high-rise

Mid-rise underwear rides at the belly button and high-rise is the belly button or higher. 

Compression shorts

Compression shorts are designed to be worn alone as underwear. Although this story doesn't cover compression shorts, you can read about compression shorts in our Best Women's Running Shorts guide or Best Women's Mountain Bike Shorts guide.

Mesh or ventilated styles

Some underwear markets itself specifically as "mesh" or "ventilated," but I would argue that almost all of the synthetic underwear for hiking we tested is made of a mesh-like fabric designed for ventilation. This doesn't refer to the cut or design so much as the fabric.

What to look for in women’s hiking underwear

Comfort and fit

First and foremost, this means no wedgies. It means it doesn’t ride up or down (on all kinds of bodies). It has a pliable elastic waistband that stays up but isn’t restricting. Leg holes are correct size (not too big or constricting). It fits snugly without impacting your ability to move freely. Many women’s backpacking backpacks are designed to ride above or below where your underwear waistband is to avoid chafing or wedgies.

High rise or low inseam hiking underwear exists, but when hiking, you've got to think about movement. We found that overwhelmingly the best underwear for hiking is designed to ride on the waist and extends to the bottom of the crotch.

Moisture-wicking fabric

Good hiking underwear dries quickly. This helps manage sweat so you spend less time feeling like you're walking in a diaper. This also makes it far easier to handwash your underwear in camp each night so that you can have a clean pair of underwear for the next day. 

Seamless design

Dedicated hiking underwear tends to have flatlock seams and strategic seam placement, making it less likely your undies will rub in sensitive areas. 

No Tags

It's not always avoidable, but many pairs of underwear from bigger brands have a sewn-in tag. These require cutting off before use, which has been a problem for me with outdoor apparel. Once, I cut so close that I made a hole in a brand new bra. Another time, I cut too far from the edge of some underwear and felt the sharp edges of the tag dig into me for weeks. We recommend patiently removing the tag by cutting just the stitches out. 

Breathability

All hiking underwear is made of breathable materials–from natural materials like wool to mesh synthetic material meant to allow for the exchange of heat and moisture. 

Quick-drying

Hiking underwear should be quick drying so you can hand wash them in camp on overnight trips or at hostels if you're using them as travel underwear. It's also handy to have quick-drying underwear when doubling your hiking underwear as swimwear or when hiking in a rainstorm. 

Odor-resistance

Hiking underwear often has an anti-odor treatment. Merino is naturally resistant to bacteria, so that keeps odor in check. Synthetic materials may have a silver treatment woven into the fabric or another anti-odor technology sprayed onto the fabric. Treatments on synthetic materials wash out after 25 washing or so. 

Durability

Hiking is an activity with repetitive motion so if there's a weak spot on your underwear, that is likely to go. Dedicated hiking underwear is more expensive than most home underwear, so we tested to see what holds up to repeated use. 

Versatility

I've been wearing exclusively hiking and travel underwear for the past two decades. The moisture management and odor control can't be beat, and since I lead an active lifestyle where I'll spend part of the day working and the other part hiking, it's nice to not have to change underwear every time I decide to go outside. What this means for hiking underwear, though, is that it must be versatile. No big elastic bands with the name of an outdoor brand. Preferably, I want thin hiking underwear that won't have a visible panty line with leggings. 

Sun protection

Hear me out on this–the last place you want a sunburn is down there. There's a lot of sensitive skin. And if you are like me and hike in a skirt or some shorty shorts, it increases the possibility of sunburn in places you don't want. Plus, UPF-rated material means you can double your hiking underwear as a swimsuit when you hike to a lake. 

Easy care

Most hiking underwear is made of technical materials that do best if left to hang dry. Some materials, like wool, may even have some shrinkage if put in a dryer. Synthetic materials may melt at high heat in the dryer. No one wants to spend a ton of time washing underwear, so I gave preference to pairs with easy care. 

Anti-chafing features

We prefer underwear with flatlock seams that minimize rubbing. Poorly-placed seams can lead to chafing or feelings of scratchiness in sensitive areas. That's a dealbreaker. 

Elasticity and movement

Hiking underwear should stretch to expand and contract as you move. It doesn’t lose its shape (becoming loose as it expands without contracting leading to drift). It doesn’t feel stiff and constricting (no expansion). Fabric stays in place.

Sizing and body type

We looked for underwear with pliable elastic waistbands that stayed up without feeling restrictive. If it rolls over or constricts, it may be the wrong size or style for your body type. 

Value

Hiking underwear ranges in price from $20 for inexpensive synthetic to $50 for a wool pair. 

Sustainability and ethical treatment

We appreciate when brands make strides towards using more eco-friendly materials and have fair trade sewing practices. Examples are underwear made from materials like nylon made from recycled bottles or merino wool that is compostable after use (not as common as you'd think). We make a note of brands that are making efforts to use more sustainable materials and that have fair trade sewing certification. 

How to choose hiking underwear

What style of underwear do you prefer?

A good rule of thumb is to wear the same style of underwear for hiking as you do for daily use. If that style works for your home underwear, make sure it also feels comfortable with your hiking pants or hiking leggings. We would recommend staying away from underwear with extra compression like control briefs or anything meant to slim or hold the body in. 

How much do you want to spend?

Hiking underwear is more expensive than regular underwear because it is made of technical materials. Women's hiking underwear ranges from $20 to $40. 

What's your activity level?

If you're going on shorter hikes, you may be able to get away with home underwear without feeling too much discomfort or chafing. The longer your hike, the more you'll want a technical pair of hiking underwear. If you're on a multi-day trip or are traveling and walking around all day, you'll also want a pair of underwear designed for more active use. 

What will the weather be like?

I like wool underwear for cooler weather. I often like synthetic hiking underwear for warmer days because it dries more quickly. If it's raining and I'm likely to get soaked through to my undies, I usually opt for synthetic underwear.

How to care for hiking underwear

Start by reading the instructions. Some merino underwear can't go in the dryer. Others can be tumble dried. In general, whether merino or synthetic, I try to line dry my hiking underwear. Some synthetic underwear can melt at high heat. 

Most hiking underwear can be cleaned with normal detergent. However, when I've been out a couple days or a had a particularly hard workout, I use a Sport Detergent or a booster to reduce the chance that odors will linger after a wash. So far, it's worked out really well!

As with any outdoor apparel, check for holes and repair them while you can. You'll want to use a needle and thread and hope that your knots are good enough that it doesn't cause rubbing. Underwear is definitely one of those "stitch in time" things where if you catch it early, you can prevent having to retire your underwear early.

FAQ

• How do I prevent chafing during hikes?

  Choosing a good pair of hiking underwear is your first line of defense against chafing. Monitor for any rubbing and stop immediately after you notice. Apply an anti-chafing cream of your choice, like Bodyglide, Chamois Butt’r. If that area keeps getting chafing, as is common in the inner thighs, figure out a way to cover it up with a smooth and slick material. For example, many hikers will wear a pair of bike shorts under a hiking skirt to reduce chafing. 

• What materials are best for hiking underwear?

  Merino wool and synthetic polyester are best. Cotton takes a long time to dry, so you'll want to avoid it for hiking. 

• Can I wear regular underwear for hiking?

  Sure! Don't let underwear be the thing that stops you from going on a hike. However, the more hikes you go on, the more you may want to invest in a dedicated pair that is moisture wicking, breathable, and quick drying. 

  You may also notice features about your home underwear that become annoying when wearing them for movement all day. For example, while sitting at the office, a rolling waistband may be a minor inconvenience, but can feel like the end of the world on a hike. Use your training hikes in home underwear to point you towards the features you want the most from hiking underwear, and then use this guide to choose what meets those needs.

• Can I use hiking underwear for activities other than hiking?

  Heck yes. I've been wearing hiking and travel underwear exclusively since I was a teen. Still, you'll want to tailor it for your activity. For example, I wear a wool pair of hiking underwear for snow sports. I wear a synthetic pair of hiking underwear for hot yoga. If I'm dressing up, I'll opt for a thinner pair of hiking underwear. 

• What's the difference between moisture-wicking and quick-drying underwear?

  Moisture-wicking refers to the material's ability to absorb sweat away from your skin. When sweat is left against the skin, it can make you feel clammy and cold from evaporative cooling. 

  Quick-drying refers to the underwear's ability to take that moisture and spread it out over the surface area of the material so that water molecules have more opportunities to evaporate. 

• How many pairs of underwear do you need for hiking?

  The amount of underwear you need for hiking depends on the hiker, what you're doing, and the length of the trip.

  For travel: My hero Rick Steves recommends that travelers headed on multi-week European hostel-hopping adventures carry 5 pairs of underwear. I've followed his advice and hand washed my undies daily in the sink. 

  For day hiking: If you day hike once a week, you'll be fine owning one pair of hiking underwear. 

  For backpacking: Many hikers will carry 1-2 pairs (in addition to the one they are wearing). You can hand wash your underwear in camp and dry it during the day by attaching it to the outside of your backpacking pack. Just be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles while washing underwear—don't do it directly in the water source and use your biodegradable soap at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, creeks, and ponds.

How we researched and tested

I've been testing hiking underwear since 2016 for various publications and have tested more than 50 pairs over the past 9 years. 

For this story, I tested each pair of underwear for 75 miles, at minimum. I tested on day hikes, backpacking trips, and thru-hikes as well as everyday activities including yoga, walking, travel, and a lot of sitting at a computer.

For this particular guide, I tested underwear side-by-side during thru-hikes of the Arizona Trail and Trans Catalina Trail. I also backpacked along the Continental Divide Trail in Montana, and day-hiked on numerous trails in Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, and California.

About the author / Why you should trust us

Liz Thomas is an award-winning Los Angeles-based writer and Editor-in-Chief of Treeline Review. A former Fastest Known Time (FKT) record holder on the Appalachian Trail, Liz came to Treeline Review from New York Times/Wirecutter, the New York Times’ product review site, where she was a staff writer on the outdoor team.

She was a guest editor at Backpacker Magazine, where she is currently the columnist of “Ask a Thru-hiker” and instructor of their online class, Thru-hiking 101.

Her first book is Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-hike. The book was the recipient of the National Outdoor Book Award for Best Instructional Book, and was deemed by judges as destined to become the “Bible of the Sport.”

She represented the sport of hiking at President Obama’s Great American Outdoors Initiative.

Liz’s keynote speaking engagements have included colleges and universities including Yale and MIT and on Capitol Hill, the Trust for Public Land, American Hiking Society, and BikeTexas.

You can read more about Liz at her website or on her wikipedia page. All her Treeline Review articles are on her author page.

April 24th, 2026 updated with a new model, to remove discontinued models
Home > Gear Reviews > Hiking

The best sun hat is the one that stays on your head instead of ending up in your pack two miles in because it's too hot, too floppy, or too annoying to deal with. Full brim coverage protects your face, ears, and neck from UV radiation in a way that sunscreen alone can't sustain over a full day, but a hat that doesn't fit well, kills ventilation, or catches every gust of wind is one you won't wear.

We spent 20 hours researching and three years testing 20 of the most popular sun hats side-by-side on day hikes and backpacking trips, at high altitude in Colorado and the Sierra Nevada, at the beach in Southern California, and on desert hikes in Arizona and New Mexico. We tested packability, ventilation, how well each hat stayed put in wind, how it fit under or over a sun shirt hood, and whether the brim was wide enough to actually shade the neck without bumping against a pack's top pocket on the trail.

What separates a good sun hat from one that stays in the pack comes down to a few things: brim width versus packability, how well the design handles wind without requiring constant readjustment, how comfortable the fit is over hours of sweating, and how much coverage it actually provides for the neck and ears.

Top Pick: The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for its combination of lightweight packability at under 3 ounces, UPF 50 protection, a 3.25-inch brim that folds flat, an adjustable chinstrap that holds it in wind, a tucked neck flap option for extra coverage, and the versatility to wear it three different ways depending on conditions.

Need more ventilation? See our Best Running Hats guide

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison Table for the Best Sun hats

Best Sun Hat Winners

Best Overall Sun Hat: Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat

WEIGHT: 2.6 oz.
UPF RATING: UPF 50 protection fabric
BRIM: 3¼"
COLORS: 9 available
SIZES: small, small-medium, medium, medium-large, large, extra-large, kids' sizes
HAT STYLE: Foldable 
BEST FOR: All-day adventurers and ultralight backpackers
WHAT WE LIKED: lightweight and breathable, sun coverage, compact, dries quickly, adjustable and fits many size heads, windproof, functionality and versatility, lots of color options
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: not the most stylish, must be hand-washed

After years of hiking and backpacking on sunny trails, we believe that the best sun hat for outdoorsy people is the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat. It is an incomparable sun hat for cost, coverage, and functionality, which is why it is much-heralded and a bestseller at REI and other outdoor retailers. 

Even if it’s not winning any beauty contests, we like that it is lightweight, dries quickly, folds down to a compact size, and can be worn three different ways. The Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat is a popular prodigy with plenty of features.

The Ultra Adventure Hat can be a look, or three. With many excellent features, this is the hat of choice for active people. Photo by Sonja Lind.

This hidden pocket in the hatband sparked my curiosity. The Adventure Hat can fit anything from a rolled-up paper note to a tube of chapstick. Photo by Sonja Lind.

The Adventure Hat will shade your face on the sunniest morning, even with a popped-up brim.

• Features

  At less than 3 ounces, the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure hat  one of our lightest options. We liked that it was adjustable to work for multiple size heads. The strap and buckle system adjusts the hatband and we were able to have testers with small and larger heads test the same hat.

  We also liked that you can tuck the neck flap into the hatband. We tested this hat on day hikes and on backpacking trips. We found it particularly backpacker-friendly. It won’t bump against your top pocket of taller backpacks like happened with many of the other brimmed hats we tested.

  Another nice feature on the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat is the adjustable fabric chinstrap with toggle. This keeps the hat from blowing away in the wind.

  It also features reflective strips for night adventures.

  The Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat can be folded flat and small and is the most packable sun hat we tested.

• Options

  The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure hat is available in 7 sizes and also in kids' sizes. At least three looks: popped-up brim, popped down-brim, and tucked in cape.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat is not the most stylish sun hat we considered. And while we liked the sunglasses pocket, it's difficult for some models of sunglasses to stay in the hatband, as advertised.

  We've also found at least in the grey color that the fabric shows sweat stains quickly. And it can only be hand-washed. We've actually run it through the washing machine and found it wrinkles the brim of the hat, so we recommend actually following that hand-wash instruction seriously.

• Our verdict

  When it comes to a sun hat that you'll wear in your head instead of just carry in your pack, the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure hat is the clear winner. It performs the best in wind and in heat. This is one of the most highly-rated hats with over 95% of customers giving it 5 stars on retail websites. It's also among the most ultralight sun hats out there.

Curious about Sun Protection? See our Sun Protection & Hydration page:

• Best Sunscreen for Your Body

• Best Electrolyte Powders

• Best Running Sunglasses

• Best Running Hydration Vests

• Best Water Bottles for Hiking

Best Wide Brim Sun Hat: Kavu Chillba

WEIGHT: 4.9 oz.
UPF RATING: None stated, although the foam insulation is ¼" thick
SIZES AVAILABLE: one size fits most (20.5" to 25.5" head circumference), adjustable
COLORS AVAILABLE: more than 20
HAT STYLE: conical
BRIM: 4" (approximate)
BEST FOR: Watersports aficionados and day hikers
WHAT WE LIKED: widest brim of any hat, insulates out heat the best of any hat we tested, fashion statement, lots of color options, ventilation
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: not very packable, can get pushed around in the wind

If you're looking for a colorful, well-ventilated sun hat for sunny days out, the Kavu Chillba is our winner for best coverage sun hat. 

Designed for angling and other water sports, it has the largest wide brim of any of the sun hats we considered. It's also constructed in the USA. The Chillba has sun coverage that day hikers will love, excellent ventilation, and is made of insulating material that will keep your head cool on hot summer days.

The Kavu Chillba will get you lots of compliments from other hikers on trail. We've lent the Kavu Chillba to other hikers and they've liked it so much that they picked one up themselves.

The Kavu Chillba does an excellent job covering up your ears and half of your face and neck. You'll still need sunscreen, but this large brim provides admirable shade. Photo by Sonja Lind.

There's no hiding when you wear the Kavu Chillba; this unique hat will get you noticed. Photo by Sonja Lind.

The Chillba is one of the most well-ventilated hats on this list due to its adjustable mesh cap.

• Features

  The Kavu Chillba is playful and fun--it is sure to get compliments from other hikers. Yet, it has a wide brim with 360-degree sun coverage. It is available in over 20 patterns and colors, too.

  We also appreciate how it keeps out the heat. Only a light mesh cap sits on your head, so it's strongly ventilated. It is also made of insulating foam material that keeps your head feeling cool. 

  In our side-by-side temperature test (see more below), we measured how hot a head gets over many hours of wearing a sun hat. The Kavu Chillba kept the heads the coolest of all the sun hats we tested.

  It has an adjustable chinstrap with toggle and fit heads of many sizes. One size fits all, with an adjustable mesh cap.

  Designed for boaters, it is made of foam so that it can float on water.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  The Kavu Chillba was the heaviest hat on the list at just under 5 ounces. 

  It also isn't the most packable in a backpack. Though, we actually see that as a benefit. It is so inconvenient to stash away in a pack that it was easier to wear than to stow away. Since the goal of a sun hat is to wear it, that played in this hat's favor.

  However, when you're back at home, we found it won't store easily in a drawer or box as other hats; it's best to hang it on a wall.

  In testing, we found that the Chillba doesn't hold up well against strong winds, like any conical hat. While the chin strap will keep it on your end and prevent it from blowing away, it will get blown around.

  Like any 360-degree hat, it lifts up against tall backpacking backpacks.

  Like many other sun hats, it can only be hand-washed. 

  Lastly, we also felt at times like this design has a similar look to a costume. Our editor in chief, Liz Thomas, who identifies as Asian American, had at least one "racist remark" made towards her due to its resemblance to an Asian conical hat. Still, she says she gets compliments on almost every hike she takes with it because of its playful design. She wears the hat often because of excellent ventilation and insulation against the heat.

• Our verdict

  If you have the space to store this hat at home and don't mind the multiple comments you'll receive wearing it, the Chillba is an excellent hat for keeping you shaded and ventilated.

Best Stylish Sun Hat - Men's: Tilly LTM6 Airflo Hat

WEIGHT: 3.1 oz.
BRIM: 3.5"
UPF RATING: UPF 50+
HAT STYLE: Classic, Brimmed, Indiana Jones
COLORS: 9 (Tilley website has the most options)
SIZES: 6 ⅞, 7, 7 ⅛, 7 ¼, 7 ⅜, 7 ½, 5 ⅝, 7 ¾, 7 ⅞, 8, 8+ (Tilley website has the most options)
BEST FOR: Day hikers, anglers, and boaters
WHAT WE LIKED: looks good on trail or in town, style makes you want to wear this instead of carry it, lifetime warranty
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: price, doesn't come with a chin strap (but has compatibility)

The author wearing the Tilley AirFlo on a hike in Southern California. Photo by Monica Singleton

Hiker on trail in a Tilly sun hat

The mesh lining of the crown provides ventilation similar to that of a visor. Photos by Sonja Lind.

Hiker on trail in the Tilly sun hat

The AirFlo maintains its shape, particularly in the crown made with a foam insert. Photos by Sonja Lind.

The secret pocket is an excellent place to tuck away any identification or credit cards.

There is a secret pocket in the hat's crown, which secures with Velcro.

• Features

  The Tilley LTM6 Air Flo hat is a classic, wide-brimmed sun hat with 360-degree coverage. While we give it the award for best stylish men's sun hat, we think this hat looks great on everyone. You feel like Indiana Jones when you wear this hat. It works just as well on trail as it does around town, while traveling, or at a coffee shop in a mountain town. 

  This is a hat that is built to last and meant to stay stylish for a lifetime. It comes with a lifetime warranty because they really want you to keep this hat forever. This lifetime guarantee will repair or replace any hat due to wear and tear. Yes, really for life!

  The Tilley LTm6 Air Flo is well-ventilated with a mesh crown. It even has a secret pocket in the crown.

  For newer models, it is sustainable, with recycled bluesign® fabric. It's also water-repellent for hiking on rainy days and UPF 50+.

  Unlike nearly every other sun hat we tested, it is machine washable!

• Fit and sizing

  Unlike most sun hats we tested, Tilley uses true hat sizing instead of having adjustable features. In our testing, we found this sun hat to be the best for options for hikers of large heads with sizes up to XXXL.

  There are very specific sizing options down to the 1/8th" of head circumference. 

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  The Tilley AirFlo is the most expensive hat we considered. However, it's $99 price hasn't gone up in recent years, even as we've seen other outdoor gear go up in price due to inflation.

  It also fits snugly, so you need to size up.

  Like all full-brimmed, 360-degree sun hats we tested, it lifts up against tall backpacks.

  We also found that the foam insert in the crown needs to be removed before washing the hat.

  On windy days, we wish this hat had a chin strap (though you can loop your strap through the grommets).

• Our verdict

  This Tilley AirFlo is an excellent hat with a classic design. We also love that it can be machine-washed. We appreciate the high-quality craftsmanship of this hat and that it comes with a mission dedicated to buying less stuff, something dear to our hearts.

Most Stylish Sun Hat - Women's: Sunday Afternoons Sunset Hat

WEIGHT: 2.0 oz
BRIM: 2"
UPF RATING: 50
COLORS: 3
SIZES: M, L
HAT STYLE: brimmed
BEST FOR: travel, hiking, casual wear
WHAT WE LIKED: stylish, well ventilated, works in a variety of settings
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: not the most compact

The best sun hat is the one that you'll actually wear. The sun hat with the best sun protection is the one that you wear on your head instead of be too embarrassed and keeping it stashed away in your pack. The Sunday Afternoons Sunset hat is a sun hat that looks so good, you'll want to wear it.

The Sunday Afternoons Sunset Hat is our winner for most stylish women's sun hat for hiking and it is so well-loved that it's a bestseller at multiple outdoor retailers. That's for good reasons: it's durable, well-stitched, and unquestionably attractive. Yes, there are other stylish sun hats that are more fashion-oriented than hiking oriented. But we think as far as hats that ventilate, protect you from the sun, and won't blow away in the wind, you'll be hard pressed to find a better looking hat than the Sunset Hat.

With a floppy and bendable brim, the Sunday Afternoons Sunset hat (left) provides plenty of protection.

The Sunday Afternoons Sunset hat looks stylish enough to wear on a popular Southern California hiking trail paired with a skirt.

Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas on a Southern California hike wearing the Sunday Afternoons Sunset hat.

• Features

  The Sunday Afternoons Sunset Hat comes is durable, well-stitched, and designed to be worn for years. It comes in neutral colors, so it matches everything. 

  From a functional standpoint, it has a large brim with 360-degree coverage with plentiful shading. 

  It has a fashionable chin-strap and in testing, is wind-resistant, water-repellent. As with all Sunday Afternoons hats, it has a UPF 50+ coverage. 

  For a hat of this shape, we were pleasantly surprised how well it folds down and can be compacted. The material is quite pliable even though it looks like a straw hat that can't be folded. 

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Although we didn't have any issues with sizing, after analyzing dozens of 1-4 star reviews, we found the only issue people seem to have with this hat is that it runs large. Keep that in mind as you are purchasing and consider trying it on in person. 

• Our Verdict

  The Sunday Afternoons Sunset hat is designed for hiking and also looking good in any sort of activity outdoors, from walking around town to picnics and outdoor get-togethers. We think day hikers and backpackers will also appreciate the classic design.

Best Cap-Style Sun Hat: Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap

WEIGHT: 2.5 oz
UPF RATING: 50 UPF
COLORS: 7
SIZES: One size fits most, adjustable
HAT STYLE: Baseball cap
BEST FOR: Thru-hikers
WHAT WE LIKED: versatility, sun coverage, breathability
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: style

The Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap is a favorite among ultralight backpackers looking for a mesh ventilated baseball cap hat that also converts to a hat with a neck skirt. It has among the best sun coverage of any hat we tested while also being the most lightweight (2.8 oz). 

We’ve thru-hiked the 800-mile Arizona Trail wearing the Sun Runner. It’s a lightweight, functional, packable hat with convenient features, like a drawstring to keep it on your head in the wind.

Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas in the OR Sun Runner Cap on a high-altitude hike in Colorado. Photo by John Carr.

Man hiking in the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap

Hiker hiking amidst purple and yellow wildflowers wearing the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap

Rear-side view of main wearing Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap

Hiking at sunset in the desert wearing the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap

• Features

  On the OR Sun Runner Cap, the neck skirt attaches to the baseball cap, so you can add it when you need neck protection and remove it when you don’t. This versatility makes it a classic hat for thru-hikers, who will find the need to adjust their hat from day-to-day or even hour-to-hour.

  The newest version has even more ventilation along the side. The sun cape has a drawstring to prevent the hat from blowing away and also to ensure neck coverage. The cape is 10.75 inches long, offering the most neck protection of any hat we tested.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  The OR Sun Runner is among the least stylish of the sun hats we tested. It has a big "OR" logo right in the middle and that doesn't seem to help with the look.

• Our verdict

  The Sun Runner is a good option if your main goal is to carry lightweight functional gear and style matters less to you. It's lightweight, breathable, and has a removable skirt for neck sun protection.

Best Bucket Hat: Sunday Afternoons Solar Bucket Hat

WEIGHT: 2.5 oz
BRIM: 2.25"
UPF RATING: 50
COLORS: 4|
SIZES: M, L, XL
HAT STYLE: bucket
BEST FOR: windy days, hiking, backpacking
WHAT WE LIKED: Vents well, the fit, easily adjustable
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: bucket hat style doesn't work well with hoods or ponytails

The Sunday Afternoons Solar Bucket hat is a favorite in our Best Running Hats guide, so we decided it was worth trying as a hiking sun hat, too. Compared to the more traditionally “ball cap” style running cap, the bucket hat style provides more sun protection and is more akin to what you’ll see on a river trip, a sunny day hike, and other non-running outings.

The Sunday Afternoons Solar Bucket incorporates lightweight, breathable, high-performing materials, resulting in a bucket we enjoy wearing all day long.

• Features

  The Sunday Afternoons Solar Bucket hat uses UPF 50 fabric for the top and brim fabrics and vents well through the sides of the crown part of the hat. What is interesting is that this bucket hat, unlike others we tested, actually has a construction similar to a running hat. This results in superior ventilation.

  The hat is easily adjusted using a barrel lock and elastic shock cord in the rear and is single-handed adjustable.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Being a bucket hat, it’s not going to be the best hat to wear in conjunction with a hooded jacket like a rain jacket or wind shell, or a base layer like a sun hoody. You’ll either have to pull the hood over the hat and crush the rear brim, which is awkward at worst, or place the hat over the hood on your head, also just awkward. This is a design issue with most of the sun hats we tested, so we can’t fault the Sunday Afternoon Solar Bucket hat for it. 

  The brim on the Solar Bucket is in the middle to small side at 2.25”, relative to some other bucket hats, so you may find that it allows for more clearance in the back when compared to other buckets. This can be handy for hikers wearing taller backpacking backpacks. Note that hikers who wear their hair in a ponytail will also find that bucket hats allow for only a low ponytail since there’s no hole.

• Our verdict

  Though it is in our running hat guide, the Sunday Afternoons Solar Bucket is a great choice for hikers, too. It has 360-degree brim coverage, is lightweight, and has enough ventilation for runner building up some sweat.

Best Budget Sun Hat: REI Sahara Bucket Hat

WEIGHT: not stated
BRIM: 2.5"
UPF RATING: 50
COLORS: 3
SIZES: S/M L/XL
HAT STYLE: bucket
WHAT WE LIKED: quality for the price, style, adjustable fit seems to work for everyone
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: could ventilate better on 90F+ days

If you want the quality and style of other sun hats with about ¾ of the price, we were impressed with the REI Sahara Bucket Hat. One of REI's most popular hats, it was nearly indistinguishable in quality from other sun hats we tested. This sun hat proved to be packable and quick drying on a 200-mile backpacking trip across New Mexico. 

The REI Sahara Bucket Hat keeps its shape even when compressed in a pack and has a downward sloping brim that doesn't impact visibility but does keep sun out of your eyes. It has UPF 50+. It has all the features we want a sun hat and comes in a wide range of sizes, too.

• Features

  On a 9-day backpacking trip in New Mexico, the REI Sahara Bucket hat proved impressively windproof. Even when our testers were getting knocked down by the wind, the hat stayed put. It features a chin strap and also a brim strap for adjustability. That doesn't just mean more comfort. It means a hat that stays on your head in the wind.

  The REI Sahara Bucket hat seems to fit most hikers very well. The adjustability worked on all our testers and even customer reviews were glowing about the sizing. From people with bigger heads to smaller headed hikers, everyone seemed to be happy with this hat. 

  The REI Sahara Bucket hat is the highest rated REI brand hat. It is also the second most popular REI Co-op brand hat (after the REI Vented Trail Smith hat, which runs $15 more).

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  The REI Sahara Bucket hat could use more ventilation. While its coverage is great it would not be our top choice for days over 90F degrees.

Best Visor: San Diego Hat Company Large Brim Visor

WEIGHT: 4.8 oz. 
BRIM: 4"
UPF RATING: UPF 50+
COLORS: 33 colors
SIZES: Adjustable
HAT STYLE: Visor
BEST FOR: Hikers, globetrotters, and beachgoers
WHAT WE LIKED: ventilation, compact and packable, wide brim, colorful, affordable
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE: weight, no chinstrap, some hikers found it too floppy

We spent a long time researching to find a visor with a wide brim that folds down for easy storage while hiking and backpacking.

If you're looking for a no-fuss visor that is colorful, affordable, and can be packed away easily, the San Diego Hat Company Signature Large Brim Visor is our choice for the trail – or beach.

Ventilation is one of the reasons you may want a visor, as most hats can trap heat at the top of your head, especially on a hot summer day. The San Diego Hat Company Visor is a packable hat designed for fashion but held up backpacking the John Muir Trail as well as it does for everyday use. 

• Features

  The San Diego Hat Company visor fits most head sizes with a Velcro cloth fastener. It's available in 33 color choices and patterns, including bright hues. We also found it quite affordable for under $40. Like the best sun hats we tested, it has UPF 50+ protection.

  When backpacking with a taller backpacking pack, we were pleasantly surprised to find the floppy hat fabric won’t bump against your top pocket.

  As far as performance in the field goes, we found the visor design allows for ventilation at the top of your head. The San Diego Hat Company visor also has one of the widest and best coverage brims available as a visor. Many visors out there have brims that are only 1" long. The brim on the San Diego Hat Company visor rivals some of the best traditional sun hats at 4".

  As far as practicality goes, this visor can be folded and stuffed away without losing its shape, making it one of the best options for a packable sun hat.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Despite this visor not having fabric on top of the head, at 4.8 ounces, it is one of the heavier hats on this list. It also doesn't have a chin strap, so you'll need to watch it on windier days.

  Some testers found it to be too floppy. Part of their issue was with the floppy style, but others found it annoying to have the brim so close to their face.

  Washing the San Diego Hat Company visor can be a challenge because of the woven material it is made from. It can only be spot-cleaned.

  We also found you can't easily hang it from a backpack (it unravels).

• Our verdict

  We think this stylish straw visor deserves a space in the outdoor community because it's so easy to roll it up and pack into your pack and has some of the best sun coverage available from a visor. While it isn't typical outdoors gear, there are over 1,800 5-star Amazon reviews and over 240 5-star customer reviews for the San Diego Hat Company visor. This is the ideal sun hat for those looking for a foldable, affordable, fun and bright visor.

Other Sunhats We Considered

I'd also like to mention a few great hats that didn't make the top of the list but are no less important than a sun hat.

Filson Summer Packer

WEIGHT: 4 oz.
BRIM: 3.5"
UPF RATING: UPF 50+
COLORS: 2
SIZES: S, M, L, XL, 2XL (Filson website has the most options)
HAT STYLE: Bucket hat
BEST FOR: Day hikers and anglers

The Filson Summer Packer was our former winner for Best Stylish hat. We still like how it looks. However, a recent update has changed the sizing and material from the original model that we tested. Customer reviews have become quite negative. Additionally, the price went up and it is no longer Made in the US.

Anyone can wear this hat (like Byron here), making the Summer Packer as unisex as it is classic. Photo by Sonja Lind.

With a classic look and strong stitching, the Summer Packer is a hat you'll reach for often. Photos by Sonja Lind.

The Filson Summer Packer is stylish whether in the mountains or on the city streets.

Outdoor Research SUNbriolet

BRIM: 3"
UPF RATING: UPF 50+
COLORS: 8
SIZES: M, L, XL
HAT STYLE: brimmed

The Outdoor Research Sunbriolet is a popular sun hat that we considered for this guide. This bucket hat has a similar look to the outdoor Research Field Hat. Comparing the two, we preferred the foldable neck brim in the Field Hat. However, if you can't find the Field Hat or don't like the bright orange neck protection, the Sunbriolet is an excellent alternate choice.

Peter Grimm Shoal Hat

BRIM: 6.5"
UPF RATING: UPF 50
COLORS: Straw
SIZES: One size fits most
HAT STYLE: straw

I've hiked all over sunny California wearing a classic straw hat, which has prevented many sunburns. You may have seen a large-brimmed straw hat on a farmworker or lifeguard. It's airy and sustainable (straw is carbon neutral).

However, the main issue with a straw hat is that it wears down more rapidly than fabric, especially when folded. Also, it is cumbersome, weighing just under 5 ounces, which may not be a good choice for backpackers. We've also noticed that wearing a straw hat can be an issue when hiking in windy areas or at the beach, as the wide brim easily traps wind.

Patagonia Duckbill TRUCKER HAT

WEIGHT: 2.3 oz and 4.9 oz with crown and back panels
UPF RATING: Not stated
COLORS: 5
SIZES: One size fits most, adjustable
HAT STYLE: Straw

A trucker hat is a popular sun hat for runners because they offer no-fuss sun protection. However, the main downside is that it doesn't offer ear or neck protection. A baseball cap can work in a pinch, but it isn't the best solution to protect the sensitive skin on your face, ears, and neck from harmful UV rays.

One of the best options we found is by Patagonia, which makes a colorful duckbill hat with an extra-long brim for those who prefer this style. It's Fair Trade Sewn certified and made of 100% recycled plastic from old fishnets. It even has a glare-reducing underbill. It has the option to remove the back panels and crown for more ventilation on runs. You can put them back for the classic trucker hat look when not running. However, if you're outdoors for more than an hour, you'll prefer the ear and neck protection other hats provide.

Why You Need a Hiking Sun Hat (and How It Compares to Other Options)

Sun hats help protect your face and neck from harmful UV rays.

If you're looking for a hat with a colorful neck cape, the OR x Dovetail Field Hat is your choice. Photo by Morgan Morillo.

The cape tucks nicely into an elastic brim.

The cape is the longest of any of the sun hats we tested.

Hiking sun hats are essential gear for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're a hiker, backpacker, paddler, walker, or rafter, if you aren't wearing a helmet, you need the protection of a sun hat. Sun hats are an essential part of any outdoorsy gear, as they reduce your exposure to UV rays.

According to the EPA, you can be sun burned by UV radiation. Many of these hats are also made with UPF fabric to protect against the two types of UV radiation: UVA rays and UVB rays. In particular, many of these sun hats have brims that will cover some or much of your neck, reducing unexpected sunburns. Many are made of fabrics that offer additional UV protection.

While sunscreen is important and is absolutely something you should use daily, it isn't enough. Sunscreen needs frequent reapplication and can wash away with sweat. According to dermatologists, protective clothing like a quality sun hat provides more consistent defense against harmful UV radiation than sunscreen alone. One medical study indicated that wearing protective clothing like a hat “may be more effective than sunscreen” for preventing sunburns.

Unlike regular caps that leave your ears and neck exposed, hiking sun hats provide 360-degree coverage. Baseball caps might be lightweight, but they offer minimal protection for your neck and ears—areas particularly vulnerable to sunburn during long treks.

For maximum sun protection, the American Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing a UV protection sun hat, wearing sunglasses, covering up with sun protective clothing with a UPF fabric rating, and wearing sunscreen underneath your clothing.

Sun hats designed specifically for hiking offer advantages over casual beach hats or fashion headwear:

• They're made with moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool

• Many feature mesh panels for better airflow while maintaining sun protection

• They're designed to be compatible with backpack straps

• Most include secure chin straps to keep them on in windy conditions

• They're typically more durable and packable than fashion-oriented alternatives

At high elevations, UV exposure increases by approximately 4-5% for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, making sun protection even more critical for mountain hikers. A quality sun hat not only prevents painful sunburns but also reduces your risk of skin damage and lowers your chances of developing skin cancer with regular use.

FAQ

• What brim width do I need in a hiking sun hat?

  A brim of at least 3 inches provides meaningful protection for the face, ears, and neck. Shorter brims under 2.5 inches leave ears and the sides of the face exposed, making them closer in function to a baseball cap than a true sun hat. If neck protection is a priority, look for hats with a neck cape or a brim of 3.5 inches or more combined with 360-degree coverage.

• Is a sun hat or sunscreen more effective for hiking?

  Both are necessary, but a hat provides more consistent protection than sunscreen alone. Sunscreen requires reapplication every two hours, washes off with sweat, and is often applied too thinly to reach its rated SPF. Medical research suggests UPF-rated clothing may be more effective at preventing sunburn than sunscreen under real-world conditions. The most effective approach is using both together.

• Can I wear a hiking sun hat with a backpack?

  Most full-brimmed sun hats will press against the top compartment of a tall backpacking pack, which can be annoying on long days. Packable and foldable styles handle this better than structured hats with stiff brims. Baseball-cap styles and neck cape designs generally work best with backpacks, as their lower profile clears the back panel more easily.

• What is the difference between a hiking sun hat and a regular hat?

  Hiking sun hats are built specifically for long days of sustained sun exposure and physical exertion. They typically feature UPF-rated fabric, moisture-wicking materials, chin straps to stay on in wind, packable construction for easy stowing, and 360-degree brim coverage that casual hats skip. A regular fashion hat may have no UPF rating and little to no chin strap security, making it far less practical on exposed terrain.

• How do I keep a hiking sun hat from blowing off in the wind?

  A hat with an adjustable chin strap or drawstring toggle is the most reliable solution. Hats without chin straps rely entirely on fit to stay in place, which is rarely sufficient on windy ridges or open desert terrain. If your hat did not come with a chin strap, some models like the Tilley have grommets that accept a separate strap purchased independently.

• Does UV exposure really increase at higher altitude when hiking?

  Yes. UV radiation increases by roughly 4 to 5 percent for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. A hiker at 10,000 feet is exposed to significantly more UV radiation than someone at sea level, even on a partly cloudy day. Clouds block heat but do not reliably block UV rays, so sun protection remains important regardless of cloud cover or temperature at altitude.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hiking Sun Hat for You

Activity Type

Match your hat to your primary activity (aka, the outdoor activity you do the most). Backpackers might prioritize ultralight, packable options like the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat. Day hikers can opt for something more stylish like the Tilley AirFlo or Sunday Afternoons Sunset Hat. Rafters and kayakers Water sports should look for hats that float, like the Kavu Chillba.

Climate Conditions

For hot, humid environments, look for a sun hat with ventilation. Mesh panels are your friend. In windy conditions, choose a hat with a secure chin strap. For desert hiking, maximum coverage is essential. Look for neck capes or extra-wide brims worth the additional weight. That's why you'll see the OR Sun Runner hat on PCT thru-hikers starting in the desert. Some hikers also wear a hat in conjunction with a hiking umbrella, like one from our Best Hiking Umbrellas guide, for additional sun protection and wind protection.

Your Face Shape

We know sun hats for hiking aren't going to be as stylish as fashion hats, but that doesn't mean you have to settle for something that doesn't look good. 

Your face shape can influence which hat styles look best on you:

• Round faces benefit from angular brims like the Filson Summer Packer

• Oval faces can wear most styles successfully

• Square faces often look good in rounded bucket hats

• Long faces may want wider brims to balance proportions

Hat Sizing 

Many hiking sun hats use simple S/M/L sizing, but some like the Tilley Airflo offer precise measurements. Measure your head circumference at the widest point about 1" above your eyebrows for the most accurate fit.

Glasses Compatibility 

If you wear sunglasses or prescription eyewear, check whether the hat's brim interferes with your glasses. Higher crowns and flexible brims often work better for eyeglass wearers.

Color Choice 

While darker colors may look cleaner longer, lighter colors reflect heat better. Consider visibility when hiking in hunting areas—bright colors like the orange increase your visibility to others.

Care Requirements 

If you're hard on gear or sweat heavily, machine-washable options like the Tilley Airflo may be worth the investment. Hand-wash-only hats require more maintenance but often dry faster after rain or river crossings.

Remember: the best sun hat is the one you'll actually wear consistently. If style is a primary concern, the Filson Summer Packer offers both protection and aesthetics. If function is more important than fashion, the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat provides unbeatable coverage and features.

what to look for in a hiking sun hat

When you’re looking for a sun hat, there are a few considerations listed below:

Price

Most hats in this review cost less than $50, though you may pay up to $100 for a sun hat. 

Brim

A wide brim hat of at least 3 inches is critical to providing UV protection for your entire face. A floppy hat may not offer the same sun protection as a hat with a firmer brim.

Ear and Neck Coverage

You should also consider how much the neck is covered. A wide brim may work, but so can a neck cape. A good sun hat will provide 360-degree protection, which is the main benefit of a sun hat over a baseball cap.

Weight

Hats differ by only a couple of ounces; our lightest hat is only two ounces, and our heaviest is 4.9 ounces. But if you're an ounce-counting backpacker, this can be a critical feature.

Sun Protection

Some hats have an ultraviolet protection factor – “UPF” fabric – for extra sun protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends fabrics of UPF protection of 50 or more, which protects for 98% of harmful rays.

Material

Materials make a difference in the breathability of the hat. For instance, a straw hat is probably the most breathable summer hat but can wear down more quickly than fabric. And synthetic materials like polyester or nylon are often durable, moisture-wicking, and abrasion-resistant but may be less breathable. 

Ventilation and breathability

You're less likely to wear a hat if it traps heat on your head and feels too hot on a summer day. Many hats are made of breathable fabrics or mesh that will allow moisture from sweat and some heat to escape but will not allow sun rays through.

Compactness and Packable

If you’re looking for a hat you can fold in your hand, this will limit your choices. 

Water Usage

Some hats are designed with durable water repellent or “DWR” fabric, and most brims are designed with foam to float in the water.

Drawstring

If you're looking for a beach hat or a sun hat to wear while hiking somewhere windy, a drawstring is essential to prevent your hat from blowing away.

Storage

While storage is essential for many clothing items, it is arguably less critical in hats. However, if you're looking for a hat that will allow you to neatly tuck in a pair of sunglasses (or even hidden credit cards), you may need storage.  

Style

We’ll be the first to admit that many sun protection hats sacrifice style for function. But if you're looking for a bright color or pattern, several of these hats will tick the box.

Care and maintenance

There are a few good tips for taking care of and maintaining your hat. First, you should wash your hat to avoid salty sweat stains. Most hat makers recommend spot-cleaning by hand-washing the hat. Use cool water, a soft brush, and soap, if necessary. 

It is not recommended to machine-wash your hat unless the manufacturer recommends that. If you machine wash it, remove any stiff components like foam inserts. When you dry the hat, be sure to reshape it.

How We Researched and Tested

We spent 20 hours researching the most popular sun hats. Then we spent 3 years testing the best sun hats on hikes, backpacking trips, on the water, and at beach days. 

We wore the sun hats in sunny southern California on hikes from one hour long to multiple weeks-long backpacking trips in the Sierra. Additionally, other Treeline Review writers tested on backpacking trips and thru-hikes in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado.

I also measured the brim of each hat using a tape measure (left) and weighed each hat on a kitchen scale (right). In particular, the weight and brim measurements differed, sometimes widely, across websites, so this was an essential step in reviewing each hat.

We tested how well sun hats keep your head cool by using honeydew melons to simulate heads

We tested the internal temperature of each honeydew melon every hour. Here, you can see a thermometer poking out of the middle melon's head

We tested the internal temperature of every melon every hour all day long until dark.

We had fun testing how well sun hats insulate against the heat of the day.

Lastly, Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas tested how well each sun hat insulates heads from the heat. She purchased more than a dozen honeydew melons and placed them in a sunny spot in her backyard. Then she put a sun hat on each melon. Each hour, she used a thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the "head." We ran these tests all day until dark.

About The Author / Why You Should Trust Us

As a resident of Southern California since 2006, I have hiked and camped in the mountains for over ten years. I’ve summited Tumugaya (otherwise known as Mt. Whitney), backpacked the Grand Canyon, and section-hiked the Nüümü Poyo (known as the John Muir Trail). I have explored the wilderness of California and Texas while wearing hiking pants. I’ve also hiked in South Korea, Italy, Norway, Canada, and Guatemala (volcano hikes are a must-do). I’ve been grateful to wear pants, particularly in colder settings like high elevation campsites, where I wore pants over a wool base layer as a layered alternative to winter hiking pants.

I am also an educator who enjoys sharing the outdoors with those new to it. For instance, I’ve led group hikes and camping trips; in 2021, I was contracted by LA County Parks to teach a “How and Where to Hike in LA” workshop.

You can learn more about Sonja on her website or read all of Sonja’s Treeline Review stories on her author page.

Sources We Used 

How to Choose Sun-Protection (UPF) Clothing

American Cancer Society: Spend Time Outside and Stay Safe

American Cancer Society: How to Protect Myself from UV Rays

Environmental Protection Agency: Ultraviolet Light (UV) Radiation and Sun Exposure

April 23rd, 2026, updated with a new bucket hat winner, to remove discontinued products, with a new what to look for section
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel

I'm a runner who lives at 7,000 feet in the high country of Colorado, where conditions can change fast enough that you're adding, adjusting, and stuffing a hat all on the same run. I also don't have much hair, which makes me particularly critical about sun protection and fit. My benchmark for a good running hat: it should be so comfortable that I have to periodically check if it's still on my head, it should keep salty sweat out of my eyes, dry quickly, and adjust easily on the fly.

To find the best running hats, we spent hours researching more than 28 top-rated options, narrowed to the 14 most promising, and tested each one across everything from short pavement runs to all-day mountain efforts. Our main tester has logged over 1,000 miles in running hats on long-distance trails, plus a year of daily trail running, and has worn out enough hats to know what actually holds up.

A running hat does a specific job: shield your face, manage sweat, and stay out of the way while you move. What separates the best from the rest is how well the fabric wicks without trapping heat, whether the fit works across a range of head sizes and hair volumes, how the brim holds its shape after repeated soaking, and whether the hat is actually comfortable enough to forget you're wearing it.

Top Pick: The Ciele Athletics GOCap earns our Best Overall award. No other hat we tested scored as consistently across breathability, moisture wicking, sun protection, packability, and fit for a wide range of head sizes. Our tester wore his for more than a year of daily trail running and 1,000 miles on a long-distance trail before finally retiring it, and only because someone gifted him a new one.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Running hats comparison table

Interested in running? Check out the Running Gear section:

• Best Trail Running Shoes (men’s and women’s)

• How to Crew and Pace an Ultrarunner

• Best Running Socks

• Trail Running Gear List

• Best Running Hydration Vests

The winners

Best overall running hat: Ciele GOCap

Material: 100% recycled polyester
Adjustability: Yes
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent
Fit: Average
Brim: 2.5"
Color options: Y (many)
Sizes: One size fits most
UPF rating: 40+
What we liked: Luxury feel, optimal fit for most, breathability, structure, packability, and aesthetic 
What we didn't like: Price runs higher than most, but has a lifetime warranty, and is a premium hat. 

After many miles of running and testing more than 14 hats, the Ciele Athletics GOCap is the overall winner for the best running hat. Ciele is a Montreal, Canada-based company and is a running hat company first. The GOCap is the original cap from their now extensive lineup of running hat styles.

Just from picking up a Ciele GOCap, the quality and feeling of holding a premium product are evident in its fabrics. Ciele is known for its branded polyester Cool Wick, which focuses on sweat-wicking. They seem to have figured out everything to make the best running hats, from fabric breathability, durability, and overall hat performance.

The author on the trails in the Ciele Go Cap.

The three variations of the same GOCap design that we tested, with the middle one recovering from being sweat through. We love that you can alternate between hat material construction and keep the same fit and general feel. The two on the left are the exact same with different patterns. The one on the right has a denser foam front panel with a mesh body. Photo by Trey French

The Ciele GOCap, Run Mountains edition. Ciele offers many colors and pattern combinations, so you can tailor the look to your style. Photo by Trey French

• Fit and Design

  Compared to other O/S hats (one size), it seems to have the fit figured out for a wide range of head sizes and hair volumes, too. 

  The GOCap isn’t the lightest or heaviest hat on the list at 56 grams (weights vary from one GOCap style to the next), but somewhere in the middle. It's middle of the range for the brim size and firmness, too, measuring 2.5” x 7.25”.

• Balance of Features

  This running cap strikes a balance of pliability and stiffness, sun protection, and is compact enough to stash away when not needed. The mesh on the side of the hat is slightly more dense than the fabric on the top, lending it some tear resistance when catching branches on the trail but retaining an optimal balance of breathability and sun protection up top.

• Sun Protection

  The front, sides, and rear panels sport a UPF 40+ protection, with the top being unrated. 

• How we Tested

  The GOCap is our reviewer’s go-to for pavement, dirt roads, the local foothill singletrack, and mountain trails, as it’s cool enough for pavement and cinches down securely for windy peaks at 14k feet. We’ve even used this hat on 1,000 miles of a long-distance hiking trail in the past, plus a year of trail running before retiring it. 

  Rather than retire it because it was falling apart (it wasn’t), we did so because someone gifted our reviewer a new one!

• Easy Washing

  Regarding durability when it comes to hat care, one other aspect that we like about the Ciele GOCap is that Ciele says that we can machine wash them. We still like to put them in a small laundry bag to protect the plastic rear snaps, but we haven’t had any issues from front loading washing machines. We can also get a thorough wash in with regular hand washes in the shower or sink. See our section on Care below for more details on washing running hats.

• Sizing

  Any complaints that we have are minor. If you want a full open mesh crown, check out one like the Ciele FSTCap SC, or similar.

• Value

  Ciele hats do tend to be on the costly side, at around $45-55 for most. We find their durability, comfort, and Cool Wick tech to be enough to justify it if it’s in your budget. Plus, they have a lifetime warranty on their hats.

• The Bottom Line

  Despite any minor flaws, we still feel strongly that the Ciele GOCap and all the variations of it will suit most runners in most conditions. There aren’t a lot of written reviews out there for the GOCap, potentially because there are so many different types out there (each color gets a different name). 

  But we found that many video reviewers found it to be the hat they reached for the most. They’re a favorite at our local running store, and every runner in our reviewer’s town seems to have one.

Interested in running? Check out the Running Gear section:

• Best Men's Running Tights and Best Women’s Winter Running Tights

• Best (and Brightest) Headlamps

• Best Sports Detergent

• Best Men's Trail Running Shorts and Best Women's Trail Running Shorts

• Best Electrolyte Powder

Best affordable running hat: RNNR Distance Hat

Material: 100% Polyester (we think) 
Adjustability: Y
Breathability / Ventilation: Good to excellent 
Fit: Average
Brim: 2.5"
Color options: Y (several)
Sizes: 56cm (S) and 58cm (Standard)
UPF rating: 40
What we liked: Solid 5-panel construction, breathable side mesh, UPF 40+, comfortable, wicking polyester band and crown, great value
What we didn't like: Runs slightly warmer than our top pick

The rnnr Distance Hat is one of the best running hats out there, and at its price, it is our winner for a budget best running hat. We love the founder, Kate’s, rnnr story. Even though she’s a lifetime runner and former Track and XC coach, she takes a less serious approach to running and racing. “We don’t run for time. We run for a good time!”

Even though Kate focuses on running as a less serious activity than some companies, rnnr doesn’t skimp on quality and provides excellent running hats at a fair value. 

The rnnr Distance Perennial pattern, Sasha’s favorite hat. Pictured here is the typical nylon strap and plastic buckle closure to make adjustments for higher volume hair. Photo by Trey French

The rnnr Distance hat was the most fun hat of the bunch. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour

Sasha running in the rnnr Distance hat Perennial. Photo by Trey French

• Value

  We couldn’t help but compare the Distance Hat to the Ciele GOCap, given so many similarities. Still, given the average $10+ difference between something like the rnnr Distance hat, and the Ciele selections, the Distance Hat is worth considering if you have a capped budget on your running kit (pun intended), and want some quality headgear. A better reason? You like the message of a fun-first approach to running.

• Design and Features

  The Distance Hat weighs 61 grams with a 2.5” x 7” brim, a nice balance of weight, and coverage. rnnr uses their branded SPDwick fabric to highlight their focus on creating a hot weather hat that wicks and breathes well, with a large side mesh hole construction to keep the evaporative cooling going.

• Comfort

  Our reviewer found this running cap one of the most comfortable hats we tested. Our reviewer's partner saw the “Take it Easy” lettering on the Distance Perennial design, put it on, and never took it off. We haven’t seen it to this day. We can’t blame them. Luckily, the reviewer still had another rnnr Distance hat for testing. The hat really is that comfortable. 

  After multi-year testing, the rnnr Distance lasts.

• Breathability

  There’s not a lot to dislike about the Distance hat, but we do find it to run marginally hotter than the Ciele GOCap. It has a clearly thicker fabric on the top of the hat. But we also find that the mesh helps offset the decreased breathability up top.

• Sun Coverage

  The rnnr Distance has a large mesh hole design on the sides. Some users may also prefer something with more coverage —especially if they don’t have any natural sun-blocking barriers there (such as hair!). Our reviewer doesn’t have much natural coverage, so typically reaches for a hat with more comprehensive UPF protection than the Distance hat can offer.

• Our verdict

  In the end, if you like the aesthetic, 5-panel style, and want a durable, comfortable, fun hat at a good value, we suggest giving the rnnr Distance hat a try.

Best running trucker hat: Patagonia Duckbill Trucker 

Material: Body: 100% Recycled Nylon. Mesh: 100% Recycled Polyester 
Adjustability: Rear strap and plastic buckle
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent 
Fit: Average to Small
Brim: 3"
Color options: Y
Sizes: O/S
UPF rating: n/a
What we liked: It’s packable and breathable for a trucker style. Rear strap is easy to adjust on the fly 
What we didn't like: Some users found it too small. 

Among endless trucker hat options out there, the Patagonia Duckbill Trucker hat stands out for its packability, breathability, and ease of adjustment—not to mention its sustainability. Style-wise, it sports the typical big brim and the tall front panel found on trucker hats. It works just as well with the bill facing up front or back. It also has some thoughtful features for runners, like a sleeve for holding down the adjustable strap to keep it from flying around when loosened up.

Typical of Patagonia, the bulk of the hat is made from recycled fabrics, and the DWR Patagonia uses on the brim and front panel of the hat is PFC (polyfluorinated chemicals) free, so you can rest assured that you’re taking a sustainable approach to your headwear with this hat.

The Patagonia Duckbill Trucker provides excellent coverage, breathability, and is packable for a Trucker style. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour

A typical static nylon strap and plastic buckle closure adjustable system in the back. This one tucks into a strap “garage” on the right side of the photo, but also has a small sleeve in case you need to loosen the cap with the strap otherwise hanging out. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour 

Characteristic of many trucker hats, they’ve got a big bill for good sun coverage! Photo by Sasha Hashemipour

• Adjustability

  Compared to some other hats in our line-up, the rear nylon adjustable strap is easier to adjust without removing the hat, but otherwise stays in place. Rather than having to tuck the nylon strap into a sleeve into the body of the hat, there’s a small movable sleeve on the nylon strap that you can tuck the nylon strap into to keep the flap down. 

• Comfort

  Similar to the rnnr hats we tested, the left-hand side of the rear of the hat strap is elastic where it meets the hat body. We love this stretchy material for a comfortable fit. 

• Performance In Wind

  Like other trucker hats, the brim on this one is long and wide at 3” x 7”. On out and back runs, when turning towards wind gusts, we found it easy enough to cinch the hat down to prevent the wind from ripping it off, given the big windsail over our eyes. 

• Packability

  Being that it’s a trucker hat, similar to a high volume bucket hat, it’s not going to be the most packable hat choice. That said, compared to other truckers, the brim is a little less stiff and overall more packable. 

• Sizing

  It's worth noting that some user reviewers found the hat to fit on the small side, and found it ran up their head during runs. We didn’t experience this, so we can’t speak to this problem. In response to a customer complaint in a review, Patagonia states that the circumference of this hat measures 22.83”. Now that’s exact!

• Design

  Lastly, the message on the front of the hat that we tested, “Unpave the Roads,” is definitely aimed at trail runners. Still, Patagonia also makes this hat available in other colors without the design.

• Our verdict

  Sizing complaints considered, we still feel confident in recommending this trucker hat for your running and general outdoor activity.

Best running bucket hat: Sunday Afternnons Solar Bucket

Material: 100% Polyester
Adjustability: Single hand barrel adjuster
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent 
Fit: Average
Brim: Bucket 3” 
Color options: Yes 
Sizes: M/L/XL
UPF rating: 50+
What we liked: Vents well, the fit, easily adjustable 
What we didn't like: Bucket hat style not for everyone  

The Sunday Afternoons Solar Bucket incorporates lightweight, breathable, high-performing materials, resulting in a bucket we enjoy wearing all day long. As more professional runners start integrating the bucket hat style, there are more options for runners who want a bucket style running hat. 

Of the bucket hats, the Sunday Afternoon Solar Bucket gets out top rating for breathability and secureness in the wind. It comes backed with Sunday Afternoon's reputation in the sun hats world.

The author running in the Sunday Afternoons Vaporlit Tempo bucket hat. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour

The Vaporlite Tempo was the only hat to incorporate a sunglasses garage. We found it difficult to find the holes, and it doesn’t work well with large frame sunglasses like these from Tifosi, at least not oriented right side up. Photo by Sasha Hashemipour

The Vaporlite Tempo shown here with its easily adjustable chin strap to keep things secure. It was intuitive, stayed put, and the excess cord didn’t swing into our face! Photo by Sasha Hashemipour

• Bucket hat trend with runners

  Compared to the more traditionally “ball cap” style running cap, the bucket hat style provides more sun protection and is more akin to what you’ll see on a river trip, a sunny day hike, and other non-running outings. We’ve seen more pro runners choose bucket hats in the last few years, especially for sunny race days and training runs.

  Take Jim Walmsley, for example, who ran under 15 hours to his 3rd consecutive win at the infamously hot Western States 100-mile run from Olympic Valley to Auburn, California, wearing a bucket hat. Our reviewer admittedly couldn’t resist picking one up soon after the race. 

• Material

  The Solar Bucket uses UPF 50 fabric for the top and brim fabrics and vents well through the sides of the crown part of the hat, with a construction similar to the Ciele GoCap.

• Adjustability and Windproofness

  The hat is easily adjusted using a barrel lock and elastic shock cord in the rear. Single-hand adjustable! We also found that cinching the hat securely on the chin is really intuitive and simple to tighten and loosen, requiring that you simply pull your hands away from the other below the plastic piece to tighten (plastic piece towards the chin), and above the plastic piece to loosen (plastic piece away from chin).

  Moreover, though the cord below our chin bounced around while running, it seems to always bounce out of the way, rather than slapping us in the face. Best of all, we enjoyed having a hassle-free way to cinch the hat down tight to keep it on our heads during windy days. Since bucket hats aren’t the most aerodynamic, the cinch cord came handy during gusts.

• Compatibility with Hoods and Ponytails

  Being it’s a bucket, it’s not going to be the best hat to wear in conjunction with a hooded jacket like a rain jacket or wind shell, or a base layer like a sun hoody. You’ll either have to pull the hood over the hat and crush the rear brim, which is awkward at worst, or place the hat over the hood on your head, also just awkward. This is a design issue with all bucket hats though, so we can’t fault the Solar Bucket for it. 

  Note that users who wear their hair in a ponytail will also find that bucket hats allow for only a low ponytail since there’s no hole.

• Brim and sun protection

  The brim on the Sunday Afternoons Bucket Hall offers among the most protection of any hat with 3". This is an improvement on Sunday Afternoon's Tempo Bucket hat, our previous winner, which was only 2". This also means that the brim is similar to most other bucket hats.

• Our verdict

  Despite the inherent drawbacks of bucket hats, we’ve found the Sunday Afternoons Solar Bucket to shine among its competitors. With our experience with the hat and the Sunday Afternoon brand's good reputation in the hiking world (it's the overall winner in our Best Sun Hats for Hiking guide), we think it can hold a place in your running kit, too, especially for outings on high sun, hot days.

Best lightweight running hat: Janji AFO Hyperlight Cap 

Material: 88% recycled polyester, 12% elastane
Adjustability: Y, rear bungee 
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent 
Fit: Average
Brim: 2 ⅜”
Color options: Y
Sizes: O/S
UPF rating: 25
What we liked: Minimal packed size, no frills, comfortable
What we didn't like: Not widest coverage, but fits the lightweight construction 

There are many great lightweight hats out there, but after testing, we think the Janji AFO Hyperlight is the best lightweight cap for running. Compared to our other lightweight hats like the Patagonia Duckbill and Brooks Lightweight packable hat, the Janji AFO Hyperlite had the best balance of weight, brim stiffness, and adjustability. It also is the most comfortable and has that “barely there” feel.

• Weight

  Weighing 28 grams (our scale), this one-ounce lightweight cap is barely felt in your pocket, waist belt, or running vest when not used. When on your head, the brim is big enough to provide coverage from the sun, stiff enough not to droop when soaked with sweat or rain, and small enough that it doesn’t catch wind gusts.

• Windproofness

  When the wind is ripping, the rear bungee and plastic barrel lock type closure excel in adjustability to tighten and secure the hat while keeping a low profile back there.

• Reflective Detailing

  Similar to tights from Janji that we’ve tested for our Best Running Tights guide, Janji incorporates reflective detailing on the rear of the hat with a logo. The elastic cord in the rear integrates reflective material, so even when wearing their muted black color AFO hat, you can still remain seen/visible before the sun makes an appearance. You can read more about other reflective running apparel in our guide on Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark.

• Fit and Comfort

  We don’t really have any complaints about the Janji AFO Hyperlite hat, and reviewers don’t have many negative things to say either, with one reviewer mentioning that it wasn’t quite big enough for their head. Most users find the fit comfortable, and this running cap excels in high winds regarding security.

• Multi-use

  Other users note that they’ve used this lightweight cap for general outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, climbing, and casual use, too. We find it to have some aesthetic resemblance to a traditional cycling cap, with a larger brim, and generally find it flattering to wear.

• Our verdict

  If you’re looking for a do-it-all hat or a lightweight, minimal hat specifically with a bungee rear closure as an alternative to the more common nylon strap found on running hats, the Janji AFO Hyperlite is an excellent choice.

Best for road running: HOKA Run Hat

Material: 97% polyester, 3% elastane
Adjustability: Rear nylon strap
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent
Fit: Average
Brim: 2.5”
Color options: Y
Sizes: O/S
UPF rating: n/a
What we liked: ultra-comfortable, breathable, packable, and uses an elastic cord to quickly tighten or loosen when adjusting the fit, stylish
What we didn't like: not the most high-vis or reflective hat out there

We aren’t often impressed enough with a hat to tell anyone about it, but the Hoka Run Hat is worth talking about. It's the updated version of the HOKA Performance Hat that we have long sworn by. This is by far the best road running hat we’ve ever worn. It’s ultra-comfortable, breathable, packable, and uses an elastic cord to quickly tighten or loosen when adjusting the fit. 

We love the Hoka Run Hat for windy conditions, like running along lake shore bike paths, in urban wind tunnels, and when running next to cars that don't slow down. The elastic shock cord and toggle on a five panel hat seems so simple, we wish someone had thought of this sooner.

• High Vis and Reflectivity for Running on Roads

  It's got high-vis neon-yellow webbing with reflective ticking, so cars can better see you from behind. This is true whichever color of hat you choose. 

  There are higher-vis and higher reflectivity hats out there, like the ProViz hat that we recommend in our Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide. 

  But it's not as adjustable or as stylish as the HOKA Run Hat. That's one reason why we think the HOKA Run Hat is a better option for most road running conditions, whether you're running in the day or lower light conditions. 

• Great in wind and gusts from cars

  At its core, this is a simple 5-panel hat. But, it has multiple kinds of stretch built in, which is great for runners, especially those who encounter gusts. 

  The shock cord easily tightens, but stretches enough to not hurt when you need to cinch it securely onto your head. This means that when running in high winds, you don’t have to wear this hat uncomfortably tight to keep it from blowing away.

• Breathable and comfortable

  It’s constructed with a very breathable polyester with 3% elastane. This elastane in the body material, combined with the already mentioned elastic shock cord, makes this hat one of the most comfortable we’ve ever worn. 

• Our verdict

  The HOKA Run Hat has everything else you’d want in a running hat–vent holes along both sides, packs flat, and the bill flips up to expand your field of vision. Plus, it looks sleek. So if you go from road running to dinner or a store, you'll still look good.

Other running hats we tested

Brooks Lightweight Packable Hat 

Material: 100% Recycled Polyester Ripstop
Adjustability: None 
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent 
Fit: Average to small
Brim: 2 ⅜”
Color options: Y
Sizes: One size fits most
UPF rating: 50+
What we liked: Minimal, breathable fabric, looks good, exceptional comfort for right head size
What we didn't like: Runs small, non-adjustable, no ponytail hole

At a gossamer 18 grams, a not too minimal brim size of 2 ⅜” x 7”, and a pocket that the hat can be stowed into, the Brooks Lightweight Packable Hat is a good “why not bring it” minimal hat. We didn’t give it a category winner because it tends to run too small for many users, is non-adjustable, has no ponytail hole, and we couldn’t find the material specs for this lightweight cap anywhere.

RNNR Pacer Hat (Party Pace & Era White) 

Material: Not stated
Adjustability: Rear nylon strap 
Breathability / Ventilation: Good 
Fit: Average 
Brim:  2.25”
Color options: Y
Sizes: 56cm, 58cm 
UPF rating: 40+
What we liked: Looks great, cool message, UPF 40+ protection
What we didn't like: No materials specs, fabric a little scratchy 

The rnnr Party pace and rnnr Era White are two visual styles of the same hat. Both Hats are five-panel, low profile, with laser-cut perforations all over except the front panel and brim. 

The perforated 4 panels almost feel like stiff nylon, though we can’t be sure. The rnnr Party Pace and rnnr Era White fit our heads well, but with the non-stretch fabric, it might not suit everyone. 

The breathability was average, neither warm nor cold. We don’t have any major complaints with the Pacer hat, though it didn’t stand out as a category winner. Our reviewer is going to wear the Party Pace hat the next time he paces someone in a race!

Related: How to Crew and Pace an Ultrarunner

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Material: Front panel: 100% recycled nylon, Mesh: 100% recycled polyester (recycled fish nets), Brim: 100% recycled nylon 
Adjustability: Rear nylon strap 
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent
Fit: Average
Brim: 2.5”
Color options: Y
Sizes: One size fits most
UPF rating: n/a
What we liked: Beautiful fit, minimal branding, comfortable, recycled fishnet mesh
What we didn't like: Not quite as much coverage as our lightweight/minimal hat winner. Brim is too floppy for some users

We really like this classic Patagonia Duckbill Cap. We didn’t give it a category winner just because it was in the same class as the Janji AFO, and we preferred the coverage, fit, and rear closure of the Janji more. If you want to stick with the Patagonia brand for its eco-consciousness and are after a minimal hat with little structure, take a chance with the classic Duckbill design.

Skida Packable Run Cap

Material: 100% Polyester
Adjustability: Nylon clasp and stretch
Breathability / Ventilation: Excellent
Fit: Average
Brim: 2.5"
Color options: Y
Sizes: O/S
UPF rating: 50+

We're currently testing the Skida Packable Run Cap. We're big fans of Skida's winter headwear and you'll find it in our Cold Weather Running Gear List. An older version of their summer running hat was in our Trail Running Gear List.

This new version comes in nine colors and unlike most running hats, is available not only in colors but in hand-designed patterns. We often find and like artist-designed trucker hats in mountain town gear shops. The Skida Packable Run Cap takes that idea and puts it in a more technical hat with a better fit and more breathability. We're currently testing and will report back on how it performs.