Men's Hiking Shirts

Polyester, cotton or blend: which fabric for hiking

The fabric determines how the shirt behaves on the trail. The lightweight polyester dries in just a few hours and is light in the bag: it's the basis for travel shirts like the VAUDE Neshan or the Maier Sports Mats. The polyester and cotton blend from Craghoppers Kiwi, made of around two-thirds synthetic material, keeps the soft feel of cotton while drying much faster than a city shirt. Pure cotton, on the other hand, is comfortable in dry weather but retains sweat and cools the back during breaks: it's best reserved for leisurely days. Back vents and sleeve tabs complement these fabrics when the heat rises.

UPF and mosquito repellent treatment: how it protects

A UV-protection shirt has a UPF rating measured in a lab. In Europe, the EN 13758-2 standard reserves the UPF 40+ label for fabrics that let through less than one-fortieth of ultraviolet rays; the Kathmandu Sun Breaker and Craghoppers Kiwi even claim a UPF 50+. This protection mainly comes from the fabric density, and it doesn't wash out. The insect-repellent shirts from Regatta, like the Travel Light, are treated with a repellent that is fixed to the fibers, deterring mosquitoes and ticks upon contact with the fabric; its effectiveness weakens with washing. In malaria or Lyme disease areas, it complements skin repellent without replacing it.

Flannel, over-shirt, and padded shirt for autumn

As mornings get cooler, the shirt becomes a warm layer. Flannel is a type of cotton that is brushed on one or two sides, with raised fibers that trap air: good examples include the Helly Hansen organic cotton from the Norwegian brand founded in 1877, or the checked models from CMP and Avignon. The over-shirt adidas Terrex Myshelter, made from Wind.rdy fabric, blocks the wind like a lightweight jacket while keeping the cut of a shirt. The padded shirt Whistler Tauron takes it further, with filling stitched between two fabrics: it is worn open when leaving the hut, then removed during the ascent.

The rest of men's textiles

The men's textile range continues with t-shirts, baselayers, sweatshirts and fleeces, windbreakers and jackets, parkas and down jackets, trousers, shorts, socks, on the men's textile page.

Good deals and new arrivals

The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, the deals highlight discounted items, and the clearance features end-of-line products. The items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and sent out within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need long sleeves for hiking in summer?

In strong sunlight, yes: lightweight long sleeves protect the arms without needing to reapply sunscreen and limit scratches from bushes. Rolled up and secured with their tabs, they allow for breathability when shade returns.

What size hiking shirt should you choose?

Take your usual size if wearing it alone, one size up if it needs to cover a thin fleece. Make sure that when lifting your arms, the buttons don’t pull and that the hem doesn’t ride up under the waistband of the bag.

How long does an insect repellent treatment last?

It is designed to withstand a limited number of washes, as specified on the manufacturer's label. Beyond that, the shirt continues to cover the skin but won't repel mosquitoes anymore: a skin repellent then becomes essential.

How to avoid odors on a synthetic shirt while traveling?

Polyester retains odors more than cotton. Rinse it in clear water with a little soap in the evening, dry it on a hanger, and for long hikes, alternate with a second shirt.

What pockets are useful on a travel shirt?

Zipped or buttoned chest pockets keep passports, tickets, and phones safe from drops and prying hands. Some models add a hidden pocket, useful for separating valuable papers.