If you are a professional tradesman or laborer that works in a warmer climate zone, or if your summers are gruelingly hot, you’ll need and want a work shirt that cools and keeps moisture away from your skin.
You’ll want a lightweight shirt that keeps you as fresh as possible during long hours in office heat or direct on-site sunlight and helps you avoid overheating.
Not every shirt available on the market is appropriate for hot weather, so regardless of whether you are in an office or out in the open air, the correct shirt for the heat is a must.
We hope this guide will assist you in selecting your best work shirt for hot weather.
Comparison of Summer Work Shirts
| Work Shirt | Material | Sizing | Style | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dickies Temp-iq Performance | Polyester/cotton | Regular, Small- 2X, 2T-4T, Large Tall-4X | Yes | T-shirt |
| Carhartt Force Cotton | Polyester/cotton | S-3XL, Large Tall- 3XT | Yes | T-shirt |
| Carhartt Lightweight Button-Down | Chambray cotton | S-XL, XLTall, XXL-4XL | Two | Button-down |
| Wrangler ATG Long Sleeve | 92% Polyester, 8 % spandex | Medium to 4X And Tall sizings available | Two pockets, one with zip | Button-down |
| Hanes Long Sleeve Cool Dri | 100% Polyester | X-small-3XL | No | T-shirt |
| Carhartt K87 Workwear Pocket | Various options from 100% cotton to ploy-cotton mixes | Small to 5XL | Yes | T-shirt |
| Fly Hawk Bamboo Fiber | 25% Bamboo fiber, 40% Tencel, 30%cotton, 5% spandex | XXSmall-XL | No | Button-down |
| Hanes X-Temp Performance | Poly-cotton | Small-3XL | No | Polo |
| Van Heusen Big and Tall Air | Rayon and polyester | Regular, Tall and Big sizing available | No | Button-down |
Best Long-sleeve Work Shirts for Hot Weather
1. Dickies Temp-iq Performance Long Sleeve T-Shirt
- Smart temp wicking stain release
- Chest pocket w/ carpenter pencil division flat lock seams to reduce chafing reflective logo on pocket
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This is a terrific long-sleeved t-shirt for hot weather and features moisture-wicking and cooling properties. It is made in a poly-cotton mix and is lighter than a traditional heavy cotton t-shirt.
The shirt has a pocket on the front chest with a pencil stall for tradesmen that need a pencil readily at hand.
Pros
-
-
- Moisture-wicking
- Front pocket
- Lightweight poly-cotton mix
- Affordable
-
Cons
-
-
- Sizing considerations
-
2. Carhartt Force Cotton Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
- Carhartt Company Gear Collection
- Original fit
- 6.75-ounce,100% cotton for jersey knit
- Force material wicks away moisture for comfort
- Rib-knit crewneck collar and cuffs
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Carhartt is a manufacturer known for its work garments. This long-sleeve T is made in a poly-cotton fabric blend that features moisture-wicking.
It is styled in a relaxed fit guaranteeing breathability. The shirt also boasts stain-fighting technology to keep your appearance clean on the job. This Carhartt also comes with a front pocket.
Pros
-
-
- Relaxed fit
- Moisture-wicking
- Stain fighting
- Front Pocket
-
Cons
-
-
- Expensive
-
3. Carhartt Lightweight Button-Down Long Sleeve Work Shirt
- Carhartt Company Gear Collection
- Garment Washed For Softness
- Two chest pockets with button closures
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If you don’t want a T-shirt or need a good work shirt because you need to run between a worksite and the office, this Carhartt button-down shirt is a great option.
It is made with Chambray cotton that is very lightweight at 4.5 ounces. The work shirt features a pleated back in its design for ease of movement and had two front pockets. Shirts and Pockets use buttons.
Pros
-
-
- Various color options
- Lightweight
- Back pleat
- Pockets
-
Cons
-
-
- Sleeves very long
-
4. Wrangler ATG Long Sleeve Button-Down Shirt
- MOISTURE WICKING
- KNIT CONSTRUCTION
- UV PROTECTION
- MULTI-PURPOSE
- SECURE STORAGE
- MOISTURE WICKING
- KNIT CONSTRUCTION
- UV PROTECTION
- MULTI-PURPOSE
- SECURE STOR
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This shirt belongs to Wrangler’s ATG or All-Terrain Gear line of clothing. It has a nice look as a button-down shirt but boasts several features that make it noteworthy when looking for a long sleeve work shirt.
The shirt offers UPF 30 for UV ray protection, underarm panels for increased movement range, a sleeve loop for rolling up those sleeves when necessary, pockets, and a vented back for cooling.
A really cool extra is the glass cleaning fabric sewn inside the hem of the shirt should you need to clean glasses or sunglasses.
Pros
-
-
- Breathable
- UPF 30 protection
- Two pockets, one with zip closure
-
Cons
-
-
- Sizing considerations
-
5. Hanes Long Sleeve Cool Dri T-Shirt
- 100% Polyester
- Imported
- Machine Wash
- Two crew-neck T-shirts in Cool Dri jersey
- Long sleeves
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Hanes sells this long-sleeve cooling work t-shirt in packages of two. The T offers a UPF of 50+ to keep you as safe as possible while in the sun. Made from 100% Polyester, the shirt is incredibly lightweight at 4-ounce fabric.
While it has no chest pocket, it is moisture-wicking and quick-drying, an ideal shirt for laborers who work primarily outside in the sun.
Pros
-
-
- 2 Shirt-package
- moisture-wicking
- quick drying
-
Cons
-
-
- no pocket
-
Best Short-sleeve Work Shirts for Hot Weather
6. Carhartt K87 Workwear Pocket Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
- Carhartt Company Gear Collection
- Solid T-shirt featuring crew neckline, short sleeves, and single-chest pocket
- Care - Machine Wash Warm Like Colors,Non-Chlorine Bleach
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Carhartt is a renowned company for work apparel and this T-Shirt lives up to the manufacturer’s reputation. It is a terrific all-purpose work T offered in several fabrics and some very attractive colors. It can be purchased in
-
-
- 100% cotton
- 99% cotton-1% polyester mix
- 60% cotton-40% polyester mix
- 90% cotton-10%polyester mix
-
This T has a chest pocket with the Carhartt label sewn on the front.
Pros
-
-
- Fabric Options
- Color Options
- front pocket
-
Cons
-
-
- Sizing runs larger
-
7. Fly Hawk Fitted Bamboo Fiber Short Sleeve Button-Down Shirt
- Made from bamboo fiber, a natural and eco-friendly material. Its soft, skin-frinedly and breathable.
- This stylish formal/casual shirts features a button down collar and short sleeves.
- Great alternative of t-shirt. Suitable for both casual and formal occasion in hot weather/summer.
- Machine/ hand wash in water below 30 degrees. No chlorine wash and low iron. Please wash it with similar colors.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Made in lightweight bamboo fiber and Tencel fabric, this attractive dress button-down shirt has been designed for hot weather.
The fabric is antimicrobial to reduce odor risk and is moisture-wicking with some UV protection. This is a perfect shirt for meetings, office business, or important appointments.
Pros
-
-
- Good Fit
- Soft fabric
- Comfortable
-
Cons
-
-
- Hand wash
-
8. Hanes X-Temp Performance Men’s Polo Shirt
- Short-sleeve polo with three-button placket and tag-free labeling
- Hanes X-Temp technology dries faster as body heat rises, helping maintain cool temperature
- 40+ UPF rating for UV protection
- 5.5-oz. ring-spun cotton blend
- Either tagless or with easily removed tearaway tag for comfort
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This Hanes model features a material called X-Temp which is a blend of polyester and cotton that has been created to adapt to your body’s temperature to avoid overheating.
It has a UPF 40 for UV ray protection and is available in sizes small to XXXL.
Pros
-
-
- Soft Material
- Breathability
- No fading
- True to Size
-
Cons
-
-
- Some shrinking reported
-
9. Van Heusen Big and Tall Air Short-Sleeve Button-down Men’s grid Shirt
- Temperature activated cooling zone- woven with specialized yarns that are cool to the touch.
- Moisture-wicking properties
- Non iron wear goes straight from the dryer out the door
- Poplin fabric construction using filament polyester which provides a subtle luster and extra smooth surface
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The great thing about this classic button-down shirt is that it comes in sizes for tall and big body men.
Made from a lightweight mix of 68 % rayon and 32% polyester, the shirt gives the impression of lasting cool on the job.
Moisture-wicking and quick-drying it features a patch of yarn that is temperature-activated in the sections where you perspire the most to keep you cool.
Machine washable and no-iron means you’re ready to go after drying with no extra hassle.
Pros
-
-
- Moisture-wicking
- Quick drying
- Machine washable, no-ironing
- Tall and Large sizes
-
Cons
-
-
- Very long shirt tails
-
How Can I Choose the Best Shirt for Hot Weather?
A lightweight breathable shirt is an ideal choice for hot climates. The shirt should be made in a fabric that prioritizes breathability. Many work shirts are available in synthetic materials including
-
-
- nylon
- polyester
- rayon
- spandex
-
as well as bamboo fiber, chambray, cotton, hemp, linen, merino wool, silk or a cotton mix.
These fabrics are used for allowing the air to circulate and for moisture-wicking to keep you dry and cool on the job. Some shirts even feature mesh panels.
Others will have odor-resistant characteristics to counteract excessive perspiration. Let’s consider some of the most important qualities to look for when choosing your best work shirt for hot weather.
1.) UV Ray Protection and Ultraviolet Protection Factor
If you are fair-skinned or sensitive to sunlight, direct sunlight can do real damage and cause disease through a sunburn or even by causing skin cancer. Prolonged exposure without any form of protection will increase your chances of doing real damage to your skin.
For parts of your skin exposed to the sun like face, neck, arms, or hands you can use a potent sunblock creme, but UV rays can penetrate, so if you are working primarily outdoors in the direct sunlight, work gear that offers UV protection is a good idea.
2.) Fabric Weight
Since the heat will weigh you down, you don’t want a heavy fabric adding to your discomfort, Heavy fabrics may leave you feeling sweaty, sticky, itchy, and generally uncomfortable while attempting to work.
The heavier the shirt fabric, the longer amount of time it will need to dry. Plus, if you perspire a great deal, a heavier fabric will absorb the moisture adding to its weight. Lightweight materials are the optimal choice.
3.) Is It Cool and Does It Breathe?
Many hot weather pieces of attire will come with moisture-wicking features and some will come directly manufactured with a mesh panel on the front, back, or sides of the shirt to enable airflow.
Venting under the arms may be available on some models as well as quick-drying features. Every little bit helps in the war on extreme heat.
Choose work shirts that allow for breathability. You will not want a tight shirt that clings to the skin, but enough material to permit airflow
4.) Do I Need Sleeves?
For some, this may be a difficult decision. Both short sleeves and long sleeves shirts are options. This will depend a lot on your personal preference.
With direct sunlight, the rule is more coverage is better than less, however, some workers just can’t stand a long sleeve because they feel restricted in their movements.
If you find a shirt that has long sleeves but also features breathability and is really lightweight, that extra layer of protection should not be ignored.
Workers with sensitivity to sunlight may prefer a longer sleeve as added protection. Long-sleeved shirts in lightweight material do exist for hot weather climates.
If you prefer a short-sleeved shirt, there is always the option of sun protection sleeves. These sleeves will also furnish some protection from UV Rays to your hands.
Long-sleeved work shirts will afford you an added layer of protection for the sun but can also protect you from sand or dirt that may fly in windy conditions, vegetation, and even insects. And if you want, long sleeves can always be rolled up, at least partially.
5.) Color
If you choose a fabric produced with heat-resistant qualities, the color probably doesn’t matter. If you choose a standard lightweight fabric and choose a darker color like black or navy blue, the sun will roast you.
If you are in a shaded area, you probably will not have any problems. Darker colors tend to absorb heat, so white or light colors are probably a better bet for cooling, however darker colors and very vivid colors are able to absorb more UV rays than lighter toned colors.
6.) Style
Again, style will depend on your personal preference as well as your work environment. The three basic styles in work shirts for hot weather are T-shirts tend to be lightweight and casual.
These have a crew style without pockets but may be tighter fitting. You can always go up a size if a looser fit helps you to feel more comfortable.
Polo shirts that are considered casual but under a jacket or blazer can provide a slightly more professional look.
Button-up shirts can be worn at informal meetings, however, they are also perfect for professional business settings. Button-ups may tend to offer a looser fit which is important in hot environments.
The best work shirts for hot weather will be a bit versatile allowing you to move from onsite work to office meetings and even after-hours engagements.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, remember these principles when selecting your best work shirt for hot weather:
Select a lightweight fabric by feeling the weight of the material and holding it up to the light. If you can see a bit, it’s probably pretty lightweight.
Breathable fabrics have no competition when you are working in hot weather. Sunlight, high temperatures, and even humidity can really make your workday uncomfortable. select a fabric that breathes.
Protection from sun damage is important and your clothing is your first line of protection against harmful UV rays.
The style of the shirt is just as important as the fabric it is made from. Your shirt should guarantee breathability and not be tight or clinging to your skin.
Lighter colors in garments are preferable because darker colors absorb more sunlight and consequentially more heat. A lighter color will reflect the sunlight as opposed to absorbing it and will generate less thermal energy.
You need to be comfortable to do your best while on the job. If your work clothing is not manufactured for hot weather, you will feel tired in extreme heat and this can eventually compromise your safety.
