Surfing Inspired Protection: Florence X Sun Pro Long Sleeve Hooded UPF Shirt

Leonard Schoenberger
Latest posts by Leonard Schoenberger (see all)

I love innovative products that serve a purpose.

Here’s a new favorite of mine created by pro surfer JJ Florence. You might have heard his name before: John John Florence, also known as JJ Florence, is a two time world surf champion. A few years back he started his own clothing line, because he saw the need for products that protect surfers in the harsh environments of the waves, wind and sun. Since he’s not only a world class surfer but an avid outdoorsman in general (not surprising given the fact that he’s from Hawaii) his focus was on designing products that can be used for multiple sports. That’s where the Florence X Sun Pro Long Sleeve Hooded UPF Shirt comes into play.

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Wearing the Sun Pro Hooded for some saltwater fishing for striped bass and false albacore in Long Island, NY
Wearing the Sun Pro Hooded for some saltwater fishing for striped bass and false albacore in Long Island, NY. Photo: Christian Anwander

What you get:

Available in four colors

Sizes: XS to XXL

UPF 50+ sun protection

Hood and integrated gaiter

Quick drying and highly breathable fabric

Made from recycled polyester

Price: $80

First Impression

Saltwater fishing with the Florence X Sun Pro Long Sleeve Hooded UPF Shirt
Saltwater fishing with the Florence X Sun Pro Hooded Shirt. Photo: Christian Anwander

First off, I love the feel of the Sun Pro on my skin. Made from 100% recyled polyester, it has a silky feel to it. It’s really lightweight and has sporty cut. Since the fabric is really flexible you won’t have any issues with freedom of movement.

If you’re a saltwater fly fisherman you know the importance of a quality shirt. In my eyes it has to tick a few boxes: breathability, sun protection, quick drying, good fit for freedom of movement. Some would argue that chest pockets come in handy. I agree with that argument but sometimes I prefer wearing amore athletic, minimalist shirt such as the Florence X.

Performance Check on the Water

A classic fishing shirt on the left with chest pockets and the more athletic Florence X Sun Pro on the right
A classic fishing shirt on the left with chest pockets and the more athletic Florence X Sun Pro on the right. Photo: Christian Anwander

The Sun Pro Hooded shirt from Florence X has all the above mentioned qualities. In terms of sizing, if you prefer a slightly looser fit, size up one size. The shirt features a UPF50+ fabric which means that the sun’s harmful UV rays won’t penetrate it. Now what makes the Sun Pro standout in my eyes from the rest of the crowd is its smart design of the hood.

Its hood basically extends into a face mask (gaiter) if you want it to. Originally designed for surfers to protect their face during long sessions out in the sun and salt, it serves fly fishermen in saltwater surroundings equally well. What’s best about this design in my eyes is the fact that even when you don’t wear the gaiter, the wider hood protects your neck and throat better than a normal fishing shirt.

Excellent allround neck and throat protection with the Florence X Sun Pro fishing shirt. Photo: Christian Anwander.
Excellent allround neck and throat protection with the Florence X Sun Pro fishing shirt. Photo: Christian Anwander.

Another great feature of the Sun Pro is its highly breathable fabric made from 100% recycled polyester. This fabric not only serves you well when it gets hot it’s also convenient for catch and release fishing where you often get your hands and arms wet. The fabric dries quickly which makes it a perfect choice for saltwater fishing.

Saltwater surroundings are the natural habitat of the Sun Pro Hooded.
Saltwater surroundings are the natural habitat of the Sun Pro Hooded. Photo: Christian Anwander

Final Thoughts

As you can tell I have become a fan of the Sun Pro Hooded Shirt. It not only ticks all the boxes of a great (saltwater) fishing shirt but due to its quick drying capacities and great breathability lends itself to an allround sport shirt. As you can see in the photo below I also got the short sleeve, non hooded version cause the fabric has a really comfortable feel to it. I think JJ Florence did an excellent job designing this shirt for ultimate face and neck protection which is crucial while fishing in hot environments where the sun beats down on you.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Nam-Epic-Waters-Review-3.jpg Wearing the Florence X Sun Pro Shirt Sleeve for some salmon fishing in Norway.
Wearing the Florence X Sun Pro Shirt Sleeve for some salmon fishing in Norway. Photo: Leonard Schoenberger

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FAQs: Florence Sun Pro UPF Shirt

What sun protection rating does the Sun Pro feature?

The Florence X Sun Pro Long Sleeve Hooded features a UPF 50+ rating which means it’s designed for bright and sunny conditions and will protect you even in the hottest climates.

Is the Sun Pro Hooded shirt breathable?

Yes, this shirt is highly breathable and on top that it’s made from a 100% recycled polyester fabric that is extremely quick drying.

Is the Florence X Sun Pro a good multi purpose sport shirt?

Absolutely. I have worn it not only for fly fishing but also for hikes and even mountain bike trips during the summer.