Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie
The Author on Primal Scream on Mount Washington
Overall Rating: ★★★★
MSRP: $75 USD
Manufacturer: Outdoor Research
Would I purchase this product again? Maybe
Is this something I keep in my day-to-day kit? Yes
Review:
Hating on sun hoodies is pretty hip to do these days. The guys over at the First Ascent Podcast have certainly popularized the hating on sun hoodies here in the Northeast.
But as a super pale person, who can get sunburnt in a matter of minutes it’s an absolute staple for me to wear a sun hoodie on all those spring ski tours and any summer rock climbing not in the shade! I find it so light and packable that I always have one in my pack from March- October. On most of those days, I wear the sun hoodie as my baselayer and never take it off. I know that some people like to where a t-shirt under their sun hoodie, but I’ve never felt that comfortable with a t-shirt on under.
I’ve had two different Outdoor research Echo hoodies, in the colors Pebble and Storm. A few months into owning my first one I burned some holes in the stomach of it while sitting around a campfire. Hence the replacement! I think the fabric itself holds up okay, I did notice it starts to pill after a few washes. The thumb loops on it are nice for when you’re putting it on under another layer, but I did find myself getting the thumb loops caught on various items which has been marginally annoying. Once I was climbing Swept Away a 5.11+ in Acadia and the thumb loop got stuck in a carabiner I had just clipped with the rope. Definitely not ideal! Although I was able to yank my arm down to rip the thumb loop fabric and continue with my send!
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
Handles sweat and smell pretty well
Not needing to cover your whole neck and upper body in sunscreen!
Lightweight
Cheaper than some alternatives
multiple color options
CONS:
I wear through one a season based on my (admittedly heavy) use.
Thumb loops are a little too big, I find them to be a snag hazard.
The Author during an ascent and subsequent ski descent of the South Sister in Oregon.
Nitty Gritty Details:
Weight: 5.2 Oz
Size: Medium
Material: Bluesign® approved 100% Recycled Polyester
Durability: 6/10
Final thoughts:
If you’re reading this looking for a sun hoodie, this is totally adequate. Based on the price, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with the product that you get! Next season when I look for another sun hoodie I may splurge a bit more and look at the Mountain Equipment or Patagonia offerings!
