Ridge Merino Solstice Sun Hoody Review
Over the past few years, the two biggest changes I’ve made to my outdoor gear is embracing sunshirts for UV protection and replacing some of my synthetics with merino wool. Last summer, I bought the Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Wool Hoody to do both.
Merino wool is growing in popularity for outdoor and travel gear, and there are lots of brands out there. I’ve found that Ridge Merino is my go to - based on fit, quality, and price. Plus, they’re based in Mammoth Lakes, California, and I love to support a local(ish) business.
“We make Merino wool apparel you can rely on for all of life’s adventures.
Husband-and-wife team Susan and Jeff Russell started Ridge Merino in 2014. With backgrounds in marketing and outdoor apparel development, they saw an opportunity in the outdoor space as Merino wool base layers were gaining traction among athletes.
No brand felt truly accessible or relatable to the everyday consumer, so they decided to build a more approachable company focused on crafting high quality Merino gear without gimmicks or compromise.
More than a decade later, Ridge Merino has grown from a small mountain town startup into a brand trusted worldwide. Still independent and family-owned, we now outfit not only outdoor enthusiasts but anyone seeking the comfort and performance of natural materials—delivering everyday versatility on and off the mountain.”
Since getting the Ridge Merino Solstice Hoody, I’ve worn it backcountry skiing, nordic skiing, trail running, hiking, gravel biking, and mountain biking. It’s the first sunshirt I reach for in the fall, winter, and spring. Compared to my synthetic sunshirts, it’s a bit heavier weight, so it’s not my first choice for really hot days, though that is about the only downside. Due to it’s thickness, it’s tougher than my lighter weight synthetic shirts, so I worry less about snagging it on a branch. Additionally, merino wool does not get nearly as stinky as synthetic, so it’s great for trips where you’re limited on packing and laundry.
As a tall person, I’ve found that the shirts from other merino brands are often too short and boxy in the torso and the sleeves are too short. The Ridge Merino Solstice hoody (and their other shirts I’ve bought) have a longer, slimmer fit which I love and the sleeves are long enough. Plus, the colors it comes in are super cute!
From Ridge Merino
Stay cool, covered and ready for anything in our bestselling Solstice Sun Hoodies. In addition to all natural 35+ UPF (no chemicals), these lightweight Merino sun hoodies breathe well, regulate temperature and resist odor.
Made with super soft, lightweight Merino wool fabric, the Solstice Sun Hoodie protects you from the sun with 35+ UPF. You get all the benefits of natural fibers—breathability, moisture wicking, odor resistance and temperature regulation—in a versatile, simple sun hoodie. Perfect for days on the lake, long hikes, bike rides and daily wear. Discreet thumb holes keep your sleeves in place, and the loose-fitting hood fits perfectly over a hat or ponytail.
Product Features:
UPF 35+
All the benefits of Merino wool: resists odor, wicks moisture, breathes well and regulates temperature
Natural and sustainable Merino wool reinforced with our (m)Force Technology
Loose-fitting hood designed to fit over hats and climbing helmets for sun protection
Woven drawstrings for hood
Thumb holes
Screen print embellishment
Hanger loop
Product weight: XS 6.5oz, S 6.6oz, M 6.9oz, L 7.3oz, XL 7.6oz
P.S. If you want to learn all about sun hoodies - check out Femignarly’s website and instagram account.
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