July 8, 2020 
When I spent my first summer out of school as a working student, I made too many rookie mistakes to count.
One of them was opting for a baggie, cotton t-shirt every day of the week. I wrongly assumed it would be more breathable, and over the weeks developed a farmer’s tan of frightening contrast. Working on a farm in the south will do that to you. Being half Italian and from Massachusetts (where no one employs the protection of SPF 100) will do it worse.
Needless to say, some new freckles were born out of my naivety, and for an entire summer, I looked a little funny in a swimsuit.
I believed that terrifying tan lines and heat exhaustion were just part of the job…until the day I was finally introduced to the Sun Shirt.
The cooling fabric. The mesh under sleeves. The sun blocking protection. Sun Shirts are not only designed for athletic activity but are stylish, too. I’d like to think I’ve evolved from my days as a working student, so now it’s all I wear in the summer.
If you don’t have any Sun Shirts in your riding closet yet, here are a few suggestions to get you started.
Horze Women’s Blair Long Sleeve Sun Show Shirt
For a clean style and professional look, the Horze Women’s Blair Long Sleeve Sun Show Shirt in Peacoat Dark Blue can be worn in and out of the show ring. With UV Protection and mesh under sleeves, it’s a steal for $39.99.
Romfh Women’s Chill Factor Long Sleeve Sun Shirt
If you’re looking for a classic, feminine pattern, Romfh has you covered. The Romfh Women’s Chill Factor Long Sleeve Sun Shirt in Mulberry Plaid ($89.95) has discrete mesh undersleeves and is made with Chill-factor™ cooling fabric and treated with POWERFRESH™ antimicrobial to keep your shirt smelling fresh. Perfect for long rides on a warm day! Kids sizes also available.
Romfh Women’s Artist Print Long Sleeve Sun Shirt
Arguably the most fun of the bunch, the limited edition Romfh Women’s Artist Print Long Sleeve Sun Shirt in JW Horses ($115.00) has all the cooling technology of the Chill Factor in a fashion forward print. It the perfect statement piece for your summer riding closet.
Need a pop of color in your wardrobe? The Romfh Women’s Artist Print Long Sleeve Sun Shirt (in Equi Geo/Navy) is currently 37% off at Equishopper for only $71.88. Sizes are limited.
FITS Women’s Cool Breeze Short Sleeve Sun Shirt
As bright as it is cute, the FITS Women’s Cool Breeze Long Sleeve Sun Shirt in Coral ($80.10) features a moisture-wicking, antimicrobial fabric with UV protection, and flattering color blocking. It’s top quality ventilation to ride comfortably in any weather. Also available in short sleeves.
Stay cool, friends!
