Gear Review: SITKA Gear Radiant Hoody

WHAT IS IT?

SITKA Gear Radiant Hoody

WHAT SETS IT APART?

As a functional base layer for those cool mornings that will have you shedding outer jackets or fleece tops, the Radiant Hoody wicks sweat, dries fast and features a Polygiene Odor Control Technology. Thumb holes are more than an afterthought, as SITKA designed spacious and double stitched openings that sit parallel to the cuff. This allows for smooth, secure thumb placement, as opposed to vertical openings or loops stitched to the sleeve’s interior. Available in sizes Small-XXL, the SITKA Radiant Hoody is offered in four colors — ember, Pacific, opal and blue haze.

HOW DO I USE IT?

SITKA Gear created a strong entry in the sun hoody space. There are lots of options out there — many of good design — but this garment has a few well-conceived features that make it stand out. Starting with the soft, airy knit fortified with UPF 20 sun protection, this hoody feels like an appealing cross between the traditional lightweight, stretchy material and an old-school cotton t-shirt. Made from 67% polyester, 33% TENCEL (sustainable fabric made from wood pulp), the Radiant Hoody has a substantial presence, yet it maintains that full range of motion we’ve come to expect from this type of shirt.

HOW MUCH?

$79

MORE INFORMATION:

SITKAGear.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

The three-panel hood — this general concept isn’t unique to the SITKA brand, but the Radiant’s hood features a significant overlap that offers a little more protection at the neck level. The drawstrings extend about 4 inches from the hood base when loose, and the rubber tabs seamlessly integrated into the tips make convenient, low profile grip points. With plenty of room to fit over a cap or even a Boonie style hat, the Radiant’s hood cinches tightly to create that glare-blocking isolation so critical for sight fishing.