Ketl Mountain NoFry Sun Hoodie Review — My Go-To for Warm Weather Hiking
When the sun is out and the trail is calling, there are three essentials I always grab: sunglasses, a hat, and a solid sun hoodie. Over the past year, I’ve tested plenty of options, but one has stood out above the rest — the Ketl Mountain NoFry Sun Hoodie.
If you’ve seen any of our recent hiking videos, you’ve probably noticed me wearing it. I picked this hoodie up in the spring and have worn it through the summer and now into the fall. It’s officially become my go-to sun hoodie for warm weather hiking and backpacking.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. This supports the site and helps us keep creating honest gear reviews.
Why I Switched Back to Synthetic
A while back, I made a review about the Zpacks x Evolved Supply Co. Mirage Merino Sun Hoodie, which I wore through my entire PCT thru-hike. It’s still a great hoodie — but once the temperatures rise, merino can start to feel heavy and warm.
In places like the Southern California desert or here in the Alpine sun in Colorado, I found myself missing the breathability and feather-light comfort of a synthetic sun hoodie.
If odor control is your top priority, merino wins. But if you want breathability, quick drying, and light comfort, synthetic still takes the crown — and the Ketl Mountain NoFry nails it.
Fabric and Weight
The NoFry uses a synthetic micro-grid fabric that feels almost weightless. My size large weighs only 4.8 ounces — that’s the entire garment, not just the fabric.
For a long-sleeve hoodie, that’s impressively light. And on the trail, that difference is noticeable. It never feels clingy, heavy, or stuffy, even on the hottest days.
It’s rated at UPF 30, which initially seemed a bit low, but after a full summer of use, I never got burned or even tanned through the fabric. That’s a win in my book.
Key Features
1. A Roomy, Functional Hood
This might be the biggest (literally) feature of the NoFry. It has one of the roomiest hoods I’ve ever tried on a sun shirt. It moves naturally with your head and doesn’t tug.
Sometimes I forget I even have it up. The only downside? Because it’s so lightweight, wind can occasionally blow it off. A simple fix — clip it to the bill of your hat or tuck it under.
2. Chest Button Closures
I didn’t realize how much I liked chest buttons until I had them. The NoFry includes four buttons on the chest so you can adjust ventilation easily. I usually leave the top one open, but button them up when it’s windy.
Between the breathable fabric and the button venting, airflow is phenomenal.
3. Thumb Holes
A good sun hoodie protects your hands too, and the NoFry includes thumb holes that give just enough coverage.
4. Quick-Drying Performance
This hoodie dries fast. Whether it’s from sweat, rain, or a splash of water, it’s usually dry again in 5–10 minutes in warm weather (maybe 20 in the cold). That’s one of the main reasons I reach for it on every trip.
5. Stretch and Comfort
The NoFry’s stretchy fabric adds to its comfort. It moves naturally with your body, never feels restrictive, and breathes extremely well.
As a fun touch, there’s a small quote printed inside the hem that says,
“Live courageously or cowardly. It’s your choice.”
It’s a small thing, but I love that reminder every time I throw it on.
Fit and Sizing
The fit hits that sweet spot between athletic and relaxed. It’s not too tight, not too baggy — just comfortable and breathable.
My size large fits perfectly:
Sleeves reach my wrists without pulling
The length drops about 7 inches below my waist, longer in the front and back
It never rides up under a pack
For reference, I usually wear a large in most brands, and the NoFry fits true to size.
Price and Value
At around $65, this hoodie offers incredible value. You could easily pay over $100 for a merino sun hoodie, but for a high-quality synthetic piece like this, Ketl Mountain nailed the price point.
Even better — the lifetime guarantee. If it ever rips, you can send it back, and they’ll repair it for free instead of replacing it. It takes 4–6 weeks, but I love that commitment to sustainability and reducing waste.
Downsides
Nothing’s perfect, so here are a few small cons I’ve noticed:
Wind: The lightweight hood can blow off in gusts.
Durability: The thin fabric isn’t ideal for bushwhacking or sharp desert plants — I’ve noticed a few small snags after months of heavy use.
Odor: Being synthetic, it’ll pick up smells faster than merino. After a few days of backpacking, you’ll definitely know it’s been used.
Cold Weather: It’s so light that it doesn’t offer much warmth in chilly temps. Layer accordingly.
Final Thoughts
After wearing this hoodie all spring, summer, and fall, I can confidently say it’s one of my favorite pieces of hiking clothing.
It’s ultra-light, breathable, quick-drying, and comfortable, with a thoughtful design that performs incredibly well on the trail.
For $65, it’s hard to beat — and with Ketl’s lifetime repair policy, it’s a piece you can count on for years to come.
This is hands-down my favorite warm-weather sun hoodie right now. I’m even thinking about trying their short-sleeve version and checking out their pants and shorts next.
Check out the full video review below:
