Here’s the thing about sun shirts: you’re going to be wearing one almost every day from April through October. Maybe longer if you’re in the South like me. So it better be something you actually like putting on.
I’ve tried a lot of sun shirts. The golf-looking ones, the ones that trap heat, the ones that look cute online and then fit like a paper bag. What I’ve landed on is a pretty short list of shirts that actually work for riding - protective, breathable, and won’t make you look like you wandered off the back nine.
Quick Comparison
| Brand | UPF Rating | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Ride | 50+ | Daily wear, breathability | $65-85 |
| Kastel Denmark | 30+ | Color variety, classic style | $70-90 |
| Tailored Sportsman | 50+ | Show-ready looks | $85-110 |
| Kerrits | 40+ | Budget-friendly | $50-70 |
| 70 Degrees | 50+ | Laser cut ventilation | $80-100 |
My Top Pick: Free Ride Perforated Sun Shirts
I’ll be honest - these are what I reach for most mornings. The perforated fabric actually breathes (not just marketing speak), the fit is designed for riders, and they hold up wash after wash.
What makes them different:
- Perforated panels where you actually sweat - underarms, back
- UPF 50+ protection
- Fitted enough to look good, roomy enough to move in
- Quarter zip that doesn’t dig into your chin in half seat
The real test: I’ve worn these through South Carolina summers. 95 degrees, 90% humidity. They’re not magic - you’re still going to sweat - but they dry faster than anything else I’ve tried and don’t turn into a clingy mess.
Price: $65-85 depending on style
Use code ELEVATED10 for 10% off: Shop Free Ride Sun Shirts
Kastel Denmark: The Color Queen
If you want options, Kastel has them. Every color, every pattern, and they’re all legitimately pretty. I own probably five of these in different colors.
What I like:
- UPF 30+ protection
- Lightweight fabric that doesn’t show sweat marks as badly
- The collar stands up nicely for extra neck protection
- Color variety is unmatched
What could be better:
- UPF 30 is good but not the highest
- Some styles run slightly short in the torso
Best for: Riders who want to look put together at the barn without sacrificing comfort. Also great for schooling shows where you want something nicer than your everyday shirt.
Price: $70-90
Tailored Sportsman IceFil
If you need something show-appropriate, Tailored Sportsman’s IceFil line is the move. These are what I’d wear to a rated show or anywhere I need to look polished.
What I like:
- UPF 50+ protection
- Cooling technology actually works
- Professional enough for competition
- Classic cuts that fit most body types well
What could be better:
- Pricier than casual options
- Not as breathable as perforated styles for everyday barn work
Best for: Showing, clinics, or anywhere you need to look professional while staying protected.
Price: $85-110
Kerrits: Best Budget Option
Not everyone wants to spend $80 on a sun shirt, and Kerrits proves you don’t have to. Their sun shirts offer solid UPF 40+ protection at a price point that won’t hurt.
What I like:
- UPF 40+ protection
- Affordable without feeling cheap
- Lots of size options
- Easy to find at most tack shops
What could be better:
- Breathability isn’t quite as good as premium options
- Colors can be limited
Best for: Riders on a budget, lesson programs, or anyone who goes through shirts quickly and needs to replace them often.
Price: $50-70
70 Degrees: The Ventilation Winner
If breathability is your absolute top priority, check out 70 Degrees. Their laser-cut panels are genuinely impressive for airflow.
What I like:
- Laser cut ventilation panels
- UPF 50+ protection
- Unique look
- Serious cooling effect
What could be better:
- The laser cuts can snag
- Style is very specific - not for everyone
Best for: Hot-weather riding, riders who run warm, or anyone who’s tried everything else and still overheats.
Price: $80-100
What to Look for in a Sun Shirt
UPF rating matters. UPF 50+ blocks 98% of UV rays. UPF 30+ blocks 97%. Both are good - don’t stress the difference too much unless you’re extremely sun-sensitive or have had skin cancer.
Fit for riding. You need length in the back that won’t ride up in half seat, sleeves that don’t bunch at the elbow, and a collar that protects your neck without choking you.
Breathability over everything. A sun shirt that traps heat is worse than no sun shirt. Look for mesh panels, perforated fabric, or moisture-wicking materials.
Quick-dry is non-negotiable. You’re going to sweat. The shirt needs to handle it.
The Bottom Line
For everyday barn wear, Free Ride’s perforated sun shirts are what I’d recommend. Breathable, protective, well-made, and designed by people who actually ride.
Use code ELEVATED10 for 10% off: Shop Free Ride
If you want color variety and classic styling, Kastel Denmark is a solid choice. For shows and clinics, Tailored Sportsman. For budget-friendly options, Kerrits.
Whatever you choose, just wear something. Skin cancer is real, and we’re all out there baking in the sun more hours than we’d like to admit.
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I actually use or have thoroughly researched.
