Theres gear that works, and then theres gear that makes you feel unstoppable. Back when I guided backpacking trips near Yosemite in the 90s, that gear was a pair of rugged outdoor sandals. I saved for months, and something shifted when I finally threw them on. I didnt just feel prepared, I felt like a badass.

　　That same feeling hit me the first time I pulled on the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody sun shirt. With its sleek fit, helmet-compatible hood, and just-right chest pocket, this sun shirt quickly earned a permanent spot in my kit. Whether Im trail running against a coastal headwind, scrambling rocky ridgelines, or kayaking under the desert sun, this shirt brings the confidence and performance I want on every mission.

　　In short: The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody ($129) stands out from other sun shirts with a best-in-class hood, stretchy fabric, and a handy zippered chest pocket. Incredible performance and thoughtful features like this make it my go-to for everything from trail runs to alpine climbs. Its not the softest or most budget-friendly option, but if you spend serious time outside, this sun shirt delivers performance and style thats hard to beat.

　　Curious about how it compares to the competition? Check out our Best Sun Shirts of 2025 guide for the full lineup.

　　Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody $129 at Black Diamond Equipment$129 at Black Diamond EquipmentCheck Price at Rei MensCheck Price at Rei Womens

　　8.9 How we rate products Specifications UPF: 40+ Materials: 92% nylon, 8% elastane Weight: 6.7 oz. (men’s medium) Anti-odor treatment: HeiQ Pure Odor Control Treatment Pros Super-stretchy fabric Thumb loops that work Zippered chest pocket adds real-world utility Well-designed hood Longer cut stays tucked under a harness or pack Breathable and quick-drying for high-output activities Cons Pricey Not as soft as some others Durability questions Rob Simpson Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody Review

　　The Alpenglow Pro Hoody made me feel like a pro on all my adventures; (photo/Cammie Simpson) First Impressions When I first pulled the Alpenglow Pro out of the box, nothing obvious made it stand out from all the other sun shirts I own. It looked like yet another sun hoody, albeit with some nice touches, including a zippered chest pocket and a well-contoured hood.

　　But over time, it completely won me over. During 6 months of testing, I put the Alpenglow Pro through serious abuse, starting with 2 months in Baja, where I used it daily for kayaking, climbing, hiking, trail running, surf fishing, and snorkeling. Sun, saltwater, wind. You name it, this sun shirt stood up to it.

　　Then I brought it to England and Wales, where the cool, wet, and variable conditions were ideal for trail running, peak scrambling, and hiking. Whether used solo in the heat or layered in cold and wind, this hoody exceeded my expectations.

　　Though Black Diamond markets it to climbers, after half a year of wear, its become my default pick for just about any outdoor activity.

　　This hoody kept me out enjoying longer thanks to its full coverage and comfort; (photo/Cammie Simpson) Sun Protection That Goes the Distance Sun protection isnt optional when you spend long days outside, especially in high-exposure zones like the desert or on the water. The Alpenglow Pro Hoody delivers UPF 40 coverage across arms, neck, and torso, with a full-coverage hood that shields ears and the back of the neck better than most.

　　Even in Bajas brutal midday sun, it protected me from overheating. The fabric breathes well, dries quickly, and doesnt feel suffocating like some sun shirts. Whether paddling, hiking, or hanging out in camp, I never had to reach for a backup layer and didnt need to reapplysunscreen constantly.

　　What Stands Out Best-in-Class Hood The hood on this sun shirt is hands down the best Ive tested. It fits perfectly and is snug without being restrictive, whether youre wearing a helmet or not. There are no buttons or zippers, just well-designed elastic that keeps it in place. During a mountain trail race in Wales, the hood stayed put over my running cap even as gale-force winds blasted the ridge.

　　The elasticized hood performs with or without a helmet; (photo/Cammie Simpson). Zippered Chest Pocket More sun shirts should have a zippered pocket at the chest. Its discreet but perfectly sized for essentials like a car key, candy bar, or card. I use it constantly while hiking and running, and now miss it on other shirts that dont have one.

　　The zippered pocket is simple but addictive once you get used to it; (photo/Cammie Simpson) Stretch and Thumb Loops That Actually Work This shirt has serious stretch. As one of the stretchiest in our test, it moves with you whether youre climbing, running, or paddling. The thumb loops feel natural, dont bunch up, and allow full mobility without pulling or stressing the fabric. Thats rare for sun shirts, and a major plus for activities that require full mobility.

　　Excellent mobility with zero restriction; (photo/Cammie Simpson) Thoughtful, Longer Fit I like this shirts extended cut and fit. Its slightly longer than most, which helps keep it tucked under a harness or pack waistbelt without looking awkward. Its a small detail that hikers, backpackers, and climbers like me especially appreciate.

　　Room for Improvement Price At $149, the Alpenglow Pro isnt cheap. It might be overkill if youre on a budget or only need a sun shirt occasionally. But if youre logging serious days outside, the performance and versatility help justify the cost. Want a more affordable option? Black Diamond offers the Alpenglow Hoody (no chest pocket or zipper) for $50 less.

　　Durability While the shirt held up reasonably well, after about 15 washes and minor bushwhacking, I noticed some early signs of wear, including light pilling and a few snags. This may not be the most rugged option if youre frequently off-trail or rubbing against rock.

　　This shirt is highly versatile and moves well, but Im going to keep tabs on long-term durability; (photo/Cammie Simpson) Feel Against the Skin The fabric is functional and breathable, but lacks the ultrasoft next-to-skin comfort of others like the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody or NRS Silkweight. The BD Alpenglow can feel slightly clingy on hot, sweaty days compared to softer competitors. However, this is a compromise Im willing to make for more wind and weather resistance.

　　Conclusion Black Diamonds legacy in technical mountain gear runs deep. The Alpenglow Pro Hoody carries that legacy forward with innovative features and a refined design.

　　If youre after a premium sun hoody with exceptional fit, helmet-compatible hood, and details like a zippered chest pocket and thumb loops that work, this ones a winner. Its our daily driver for everything from beach days to big climbs, and I suspect it will stay that way for quite some time.

　　The Best Sun Shirts of 2025We tested the best sun shirts from REI, Black Diamond, Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear and more to help you find the best option for your needs and budget. Read more