Whether hiking a mountain, fly-fishing in a river, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, choosing the right men’s outdoor shirt is crucial. Otherwise you could find yourself dripping in sweat due to a too-heavy top or with a nasty sunburn due to one that doesn’t offer enough coverage.
But, with the plethora of options available in the market, it becomes challenging to decide which one is the best fit for your specific needs.
In this guide article, we’ll guide you through identifying the kinds of outdoor shirts, explore different materials, fits, and technical features, as well as discuss what you should look for when buying one. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of men’s outdoor shirts and be ready to pick the right one for your next great outdoor adventure.
Different Types and Styles of Men’s Outdoor Shirts
Dressing for outdoor adventures calls for careful attention as it can greatly impact your outdoor experience, especially when it comes to selecting a suitable shirt. For each different adventure, there’s a shirt, and understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
For one thing, consider the season for your outdoor activity. An all-season shirt offers versatility, with roll-up sleeves and breathability for warmer weather, yet provides enough coverage for cooler months. A good example of one of these types of shirts is the Men’s L.L.Bean BeanFlex® All-Season Flannel Long-Sleeve Shirt.
On the other hand, a dedicated summer shirt is lightweight and designed for exceptional ventilation. In contrast, winter shirts offer superior warmth and insulation. If you’re after this style, the Men’s Patagonia A/C Button Up Shirt could be a better fit.
Besides the season you’ll be wearing the shirt in, you’ve also got to consider the style. There is a wide range of styles available, with traditional button-ups, for instance, offering more formality, while T-shirts offer ease of movement. Think about how you’ll be using your shirt to help you choose the right style.
Also, remember to look for clothes that are comfortable but provide the coverage and movement you need, such as the Men’s Patagonia Long-Sleeved Lightweight Fjord Flannel Shirt.
Materials Used for Men’s Outdoor Shirts
Navigating the outdoors is an exciting journey, and I believe that the right choice of fabric can make a significant difference in comfort, durability, and performance. In general, you’ll find four different kinds of materials for men’s outdoor shirts:
- Natural materials
- Synthetic materials
- Blended materials
- Eco-friendly materials
Let’s look at each one to help you understand the pros and cons of them.
Natural Materials
Starting with natural materials, cotton is a popular choice due to its lightweight comfort and breathability. However, it’s only ideal in dry, warm climates since it tends to absorb moisture and takes longer to dry. Cotton can be perfect for casual hikes but perhaps not suitable for heavy rainfall areas.
Wool, particularly Merino wool, offers an excellent balance between comfort and functionality. Merino is known for being soft against the skin, offering good insulation, and, most importantly, excellent moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties. It’s ideal for cooler environments or high-intensity activities.
An example of an appropriate Merino wool shirt is the Men’s Pendleton Sir Pendleton Merino Shirt. This top is soft and lightweight but offers all the coverage you need to protect yourself against the elements.
Synthetic Materials
Synthetic materials, in particular polyester and nylon, are extensively used in the construction of outdoor shirts. They are favored because of their durability, quick-drying properties, and resistance to wrinkles and mildew.
An example of a shirt with this type of material includes the Men’s Howler Brothers Stockman Stretch Snapshirt. This particular shirt is made of a mix of nylon, polyester, and spandex to allow breathability and movement.
Blended Materials
Blended materials combine the best of both worlds, offering the comfort of natural fibers with the performance and durability of synthetics. Poly-Cotton is a great example, a blend offering the breathability of cotton and the durability of polyester.
Even wool can be mixed with synthetics, which pairs the warmth and softness of Merino wool with the moisture management and durability of Capilene recycled polyester.
One example of a men’s outdoor shirt made of blended materials is the Men’s Viyella Tattersall Sport Shirt. This shirt is a cotton and Merino blend made of natural materials.
Eco-Friendly Materials
In this era of growing environmental awareness, I’ve noticed outdoor brands emphasizing sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their products. The outdoor industry now designs shirts made from recycled materials or organically grown cotton.
An example of a shirt made of eco-friendly materials includes the Men’s True Grit Daybreak 1/4 Zip Pullover. This is the perfect pick for guys who want to make as little environmental impact as possible.
Different Fits of Men’s Outdoor Shirts
You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again – when it comes to outdoor clothing, fit is vital. Having the right fit can greatly enhance your overall experience, prevent discomfort, and ensure the shirt delivers its intended benefits.
With that said, let’s take a look at a couple of the different fits available for men’s outdoor shirts.
Slim Fit
Slim-fit outdoor shirts are arguably the new kids on the block. Ideal for those with a slender, lean physique, they follow the contours of your body closely, promoting a sleek, streamlined silhouette. While they certainly have a place in the world of outdoor wear, they might not be your first choice if you’re engaging in activities requiring a wide range of motion.
The Men’s SAXX Roast Master Mid-Weight Crew is an example of a slim-fit outdoors shirt.
Regular Fit
As the Goldilocks of outdoor shirts, the regular fit is just right for a majority of outdoor enthusiasts. Regular fit shirts provide a happy medium – they’re not too tight, not too loose, offering a delicate balance between comfort and mobility. It provides just the right amount of room to move without feeling baggy or restrictive.
Relaxed Fit
Finally, we have the relaxed fit, the outdoor shirt that prioritizes comfort above all. These shirts are roomier across all areas, including the chest, waist, and arms, making them ideal for individuals seeking maximum freedom of movement or for those activities where unrestricted movement is key. The Men’s L.L.Bean Chamois Shirt is an example of a shirt with a relaxed fit.
Technical Features of Men’s Outdoor Shirts
In the world of outdoor gear, it’s important to know that not all shirts are created equal. It’s not just about material and fit — the technical features of men’s outdoor shirts are actually what sets them apart and tailor them to our outdoor needs.
Technical features include things like:
- Moisture wicking ability
- UV protection
- Wind and water resistance
- Odor resistance
- Anti-microbial properties
Let me explain each of these features in a bit more detail.
Breathability & Moisture-Wicking Properties
You don’t want to feel like you’re wrapped in plastic, do you? A breathable shirt allows air to circulate, keeping you cool during strenuous activities. Additionally, moisture-wicking is a must for those high-intensity hikes or warmer weather ventures.
Shirts such as the Men’s Fish Hippie Rowe Plaid Performance Shirt are made of moisture-wicking materials that keep you sweat-free and feeling fresh.
UV Protection
The longer we spend time outside, the more we expose ourselves to the harmful UV rays of the sun. Because of this, it’s essential to opt for shirts offering UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). An example of a shirt with this extra feature could be the Men’s Free Fly Bamboo Flex Long Sleeve Henley, which uses UPF 50 material.
Wind and Water Resistance
If you’re planning on braving the elements, a wind-resistant or water-resistant feature is essential. An example of a shirt with wind and water resistance is the Men’s Filson Mackinaw Cruiser Jacket, which can keep you warm and dry in various climates.
Anti-Microbial and Odor-Resistant Properties
Let’s face it: being outdoors means sweating, and with sweat may come unpleasant odors. Treated shirts have antimicrobial properties that minimize those odors. Some materials, such as merino wool, have natural anti-microbial features.
Additional Features
Depending on your activities, other features might come into play as well. For instance, you can look for shirts with ample pockets for extra storage if you’re an avid hiker or camper.
On the other hand, ventilation features come in handy, too. Still other shirts offer features like underarm gussets for extra ventilation or thumb holes to change its function from a regular shirt to a sort of sun hoodie, keeping you covered in multiple ways. The bottom line is that there are plenty of additional features to keep an eye out for as you hunt for the perfect men’s outdoor shirts..
Choosing the Best Men’s Outdoor Shirts for Different Activities
To get the most out of your outdoor time, it’s essential to wear gear specifically designed for activities you engage in. The below table breaks down what types of shirts to look for for different outdoor activities.
| Activity | Type of Shirt |
| Hiking | When hiking, you want a shirt that offers comfort, breathability, and freedom of movement. A good hiking shirt wicks sweat away super effectively and dries in no time. A liberal cut can provide complete freedom of movement, and vented back and roll-up sleeves can dump heat when you need it, making it ideal for summer hikes. |
| Climbing | When it comes to climbing, it’s all about fit, durability, and the need for a little bit of stretch. A stretch-knit, highly durable shirt that moves with you preventing any restriction that may inhibit your climb, can be a good choice. A feature like UPF 50+ sun protection can also shield you from harmful UV rays, which can be amplified high up on those sun-kissed peaks. |
| Fishing | When fly fishing, UV protection, comfort, and quick drying features are essential. Features like small mesh patches on the back for increased ventilation and plenty of pockets for your fishing essentials are ideal shirts. |
| Water Sports | When engaging in winter sports, you’ll need insulation, moisture-wicking properties, and durability. An ideal shirt can deal with all the rigors of your gnarly winter adventures. |
Choose the Right Men’s Outdoor Shirts for Any Activity
Choosing the right outdoor shirt isn’t just about the aesthetic appeal or a popular brand; it’s about a promise to keep you comfortable, fashionable, and protected as you embark upon your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re trekking up a steep mountain, enjoying a tranquil day of fly fishing, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature on a chill hike, a good-quality outdoor shirt is your faithful companion.
Now that you’ve got an idea of what to look for head over to Jesse Brown’s Outdoors and peruse our offerings. There are tons of different styles and fits to choose from, ensuring to help men involved in a wide range of outdoor activities.
And, if you’re not ready to buy just yet, sign up for our newsletter. We’ll send tips and tricks to help you make a purchase later down the line and choose the right shirt when the time comes.