The 11 Best Sailing Shirts
With so many options to choose from and even more circumstances to prepare for, it can be difficult to narrow down your search for the best sailing clothing brands. Fortunately, these brands know how to prepare you with the right sailing gear for just about anything. In addition, most of these options have a women’s shirt equivalent.
Musto Corsica Polartec Half Zip
To sail in cold or unpredictable conditions, it is crucial to have appropriate layers. The Musto Corsica Polartec Half Zip fleece is an excellent investment, in addition to a base layer shirt, that offers protection from damp sailing elements while regulating your temperature. Musto's durable clothing is renowned and backed by a lifetime guarantee on a lot of their sailing apparel.
It comes in various styles, colors, and sizes, costing $65 to $85 before taxes. Musto's durable sailing clothing is renowned and backed by a lifetime guarantee. Overall, it is a valuable purchase considering its versatility and protection.
Pros:
- 100% polyester
- Windproof
- Designed for optimal mobility
Cons:
- Could cause overheating in warmer weather
Zhik’s UVactive Zip Sports Polo
When most of us daydream about sailing, it is usually on a beautiful, sunny coast somewhere warm and inviting. Zhik’s UVactive Zip Sports Polo is a sleek, lightweight option to choose when you still want protection from the sun.
Top sailing teams such as Olympic sailors from Australia, Britain, New Zealand, and Singapore choose Zhik for its premium sailing clothes. At only $67.99 before tax, this shirt is an absolute must have for sailors everywhere.
Pros:
- Has a UPF 50+ rating
- Abrasion and snag resistant fabric
- Moisture wicking benefits and is water resistant
- Has a quarter-zip for additional heat relief when needed
Cons:
- Short sleeve, so no sun protection on arms
Go Outdoors Convect-200 Merino Long Sleeved Zipped Top
Merino wool is highly recommended by experienced sailors for those particularly in colder climates for sailing shirts. The Go Outdoors Convect-200 Merino Long Sleeved Zipped Top is priced at around $82.50.
This is an ideal base layer for a sailor that wants to enter cold conditions. You cannot go wrong with this brand that uses quality materials and is one of the best on the market.
Pros:
- Wool helps protect you against UV rays
- Highly absorbent and quick drying
- Wool maintains the same temperature when wet, keeping you warm
- Perfect base layer for its temperature control and moisture wicking properties
Cons:
- Wool is not ideal for especially warm weather conditions
- Wool as a material can be irritating to some people
- Stains easily
Gill Marine XPEL Tec Long Sleeve Top
If you are into water activities you most likely care about preserving the environment. Gill Marine has on site and aquatic trials ensure their attire endures harsh climates, granting optimal equipment for all surroundings no matter where you are at on the water.
Gill Marine XPEL Tec Long Sleeve Top is free of harmful PFC's and is derived of sustainable materials for $39.99. The fabric they use is perfect for a water and stain repellent finish and allows water to bead off. It also prevents oil, fish blood, and guts from staining while also protecting you from the sun.
Pros:
- Built in 50+ UV protection
- Water and stain repellent material
- Highly recommended for fishermen
- Eco-friendly, long lasting option for a budget friendly price
Cons:
- Might be too form fitting clothing for some
- Designed more for UV protection, not cold conditions despite long sleeves
Helly Hansen Protective Sailing Rashguard
Helly Hansen offers an excellent rash guard to help maximize your performance at regattas. These are equipped with UPF 50+ protection against the sun and to keep your body temperature consistent.
You do not have to worry if this has been tested by trained athletes and worth your time. Helly Hansen has a wide range and versatility make it a leading Scandinavian brand. This was co-designed with national team dinghy sailing racers for optimal protection and stretchiness.
Pros:
- Designed for dinghy sailing in mind
- UPF 50 for maximum sun protection
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Might be too tight for some
Musto’s MPX Active Baselayer Long-Sleeve Top
This $125 base layer shirt is perfect for sailors seeking durability, lightweight design, and protection against the cold wet offshore conditions. Musto’s MPX Active Baselayer Long-Sleeve Top offers exceptional thermal conductivity, anti-UV, and anti-bacterial properties to keep you warm, dry, and protected during your sailing journey by wearing a second skin.
Musto is a dependable sailing brand that most sailors in the world recognize. A lot of their products are great while wearing on the deck that provide comfort and support at sea.
Pros:
- Has a protective collar that also covers most of your neck in case the wind picks up
- Is a durable clothing option designed for comfort and style
- Fantastic base layer clothing option
- Form fitting but breathable design
Cons:
- Only comes in one color
- Not designed to be worn alone
Zhik’s UVActive Long Sleeve
Zhik UVactive's high gauge polyester knit fabric provides superior UPF 50+ protection from even the harshest UV environments. Its moisture management technology quickly wicks moisture for comfort during high activity.
Additionally, it is durable and resistant to abrasion and snags commonly encountered in marine situations. This is a great clothing option on the market that everyone should consider.
Pros:
- Moisture wicking, lightweight, and fast drying
- Is durable and designed for comfort
- Excellent for sunny or hot days
Cons:
- Limited colors available
- Nearly $60 while other brands offer cheaper options
Musto Aqua Top 2.0
Shield your neck and stay dry while sailing with Musto's Championship Aqua Top 2.0. Its 3-layer shell and high neck design provide full coverage.
This makes it ideal for colder conditions. At $140 pre-tax it is a top quality choice for sun protection and water exposure.
Pros:
- PU coating on the outside, fleece on the inside for water resistance and warmth
- Collar has a sock cord adjustment for secure protection of neck
- Comes in three different colors
Cons:
- Might be too heavy to wear or move around in
- $140 could be expensive for some
Zhik Mens Motion Long Sleeve Hooded Top
Do not forget to protect your head while sailing. Invest in a versatile sailing shirt with a hood like Zhik's Motion Long Sleeve Hooded Top for around $99.99.
It offers protection from the cold, wind, and sun, and is made of moisture-wicking and abrasion-resistant material. Even on a milder day on your boat, this is a perfect addition to your sailing clothing.
Pros:
- UPF 50+ Protection built in
- Made with recycled polyester and DWR coating for water resistance
- Can be used for layering or worn on its own
Cons:
- Hood and face attachment may feel tight for some people
- Only comes in one color
Regatta Gear's Coastal Softshell Vest
While sailing, an extra layer of warmth without restricting arm movement is necessary at times. Regatta Gear's Coastal Softshell Vest offers versatility with its weather-resistant material, ideal for any sailor in any conditions.
It is a valuable addition for colder weather or windy days. The vest is a hidden gem in the sailing community priced at $80 to $85 pre-tax.
Pros:
- Has zippered pockets
- Comes in three colors (different options for men vs women)
- Is lightweight and water repellent
Cons:
- Additional price for largest sizes
- Not ideal for sun protection
North Sails Tech Tee
North Sails offers a comfortable sailing shirt with good sun protection. North Sails Tech T short sleeve shirt comes in a variety of colors and is 100% polyester.
It is also lightweight and drys quick when it becomes wet from ocean spray. As a respectable sailing clothing brand, this is a quality option to add to your apparel.
Pros:
- UPF rating of UV 30
- Lightweight and dries quick
- Great for warmer climates or can use as a baselayer
- Great bang for buck at around $25 on sale
Cons:
- Not a very strong sun protection rating compared to other UV shirts
- Some prefer other fabrics being used
Finding the Best Sailing Shirts
To find the best sailing clothing brands you should factor in cost, comfort, and practicality. This means you need to prioritize brands that update their designs according to customer preferences.
In addition, consider reading reviews and compare similar clothing brands before deciding. You should aim for sailing clothing brands that are geared toward your type of sailing or desired activities on the water.
How Much it Costs
When considering sailing clothing brands do not assume that a high price equals the best quality. Comparing different brands can help you find good deals and price may also reflect the item's intended use.
Instead, you should set a budget before making a purchase to ensure affordability. The extra cost could mean higher quality but only depending on the fabrics used and the brand name.
How Comfortable it is to Wear
Comfort is paramount for sailors when choosing sailing clothing and often taking precedence over price. Sailing gear worn for extended periods must be worth the investment and reliable while also meeting expectations for sun protection. Various features may qualify as the best sailing clothing brands such as sustainable sourcing or other factors that matter to you.
Intended Use of Sailing Apparel
If you are aiming to find the right sailing apparel you want to avoid wasteful spending. For example, you could meet specific needs by researching something like sailing boots and sailing clothing beforehand to find brand satisfaction. A comprehensive understanding of the sailing clothing role in sailing is essential.
Changing Consumer Tastes
Each brand has a unique product lineup strategy and cater to sailing gear that has been successful for nearly a century. The best sailing clothing brands meet consumer desires and adapt to their preferences even if for casual sailing.
Sailing apparel brands have distinct niches and some update their designs while others keep their classic clothing line. Top brands adjust their designs to meet customer requirements and gain popularity among their apparel line such as Helly Hansen or Gill Marine.
Rules to Follow When Choosing the Best Sailing Shirts
When preparing for a sailing trip you need to consider a variety of factors before heading out. Without proper planning, you might be experiencing rough conditions or unlikely scenarios at sea. No one wants to be in a bad situation that they could have properly prepared for.
Weather Update
Preparing for the day ahead involves checking the forecast and assessing weather conditions to choose appropriate clothing. This includes extra sailing shirts, woolen beanies, or wet weather gear that can be done the night before for a hassle free morning.
More Layers Might Be Needed
Sailing out to sea can bring unexpected dampness and chilliness from the wind and ocean spray. Adding more layers of clothing is recommended for optimal comfort. Keep in mind that you can always take more off if you begin to get uncomfortable.
Consider a Change of Clothes
Bringing extra dry clothes is wise if not living aboard. If you are going into rough conditions or just want to be safe in having a second pair you should bring more. Choose wisely to maximize usefulness despite limited space.
Aim for Comfort Sailing Clothes
Living and sailing on a boat demands physical flexibility and freedom of movement. Comfort is prioritized over fashion since restrictive clothing can cause discomfort.
You want to be comfortable when wearing sailing gear for multiple hours at a time. This means you should aim for sailing clothing brands that understand what it means to move freely in their gear.
Fashion Comes Last
Sailing demands full engagement and prioritizes survival over fashion, especially during tough situations or when feeling seasick. Designer brands become irrelevant in such circumstances and those moments in sailing puts life into perspective.
Why Purchasing Layers is Important
Even if you are safely tucked into the boat, any experienced sailor knows you will still end up a little damp at the end of a fun day at sea. While you might expect to end up a little cold thanks to the lovely sea breeze, you might want the extra layers simply for protection.
Protecting from Harmful UV Rays
If it is particularly hot out when you go sailing, you might be thinking you want to wear lesslayers in order to cool off. However, the sun’s harmful UV rays do not take long to work their magic.
Not only are you at great risk of a sunburn by being out in the elements, being on the water makes you even more susceptible thanks to the reflection on the water’s surface. Consider adding layers or ways to shield your skin from the sun.
Sunburns are sometimes overlooked as a minor inconvenience, but sunburns are a known cause of skin cancer. It is always better to be safe than sorry, so it is highly recommended to wear cooling but protective clothing when you are going to receive ample sun exposure for long periods of time.
Cold Can Be Dangerous
When out on the sea you can expect to be cold when the weather is changing seasons. However, we also expect that our activity levels when sailing will keep us warm.While this can be true, hypothermia is a massive risk when out on the water, especially when combined with a strong wind.
Layering not only helps protect you from the moisture that can cause hypothermia quicker, but also from the wind. Even if you are not in cold weather and it is a warm and sunny day, the cold water can do more damage than you might think. It is always best to protect yourself and bring extra layers even as a precaution.
Choosing the Right Material
Proper attire and personal preference determine the ideal material for sailing. Rash guards offer UV protection and moisture wicking, while polos provide a sleek fit. In harsh conditions, comfort and protection outweigh style.
Over time, discover your perfect sailing attire. Opt for a snug base layer and add a water-resistant mid-layer, a comfortable and thick outer layer with a hood for torso, neck, and head coverage. This trio provides versatility for changing weather conditions.
