Meet the Sun

Ah, spring—you're so good at keeping us on our toes. Just two weeks ago, it was 80 degrees here in upstate New York and felt like July. Now? It's back to 39 and is currently raining, although yesterday morning, we woke up to sleet. *Insert upside-down smiley face emoji here.*

Spring weather is chaotic, but dressing to keep up with its random ups-and-downs? That's even more chaotic. And yet, the one piece of clothing that's held steadfast through April's highest highs and lowest lows is my Free Fly Apparel Elevate Hoodie (originally $88, now $70), which is so consistently comfortable, I wear it once a week, if not more.

Available in XS-XXL in three colors.

Free Fly's whole schtick is making quick-drying, sun-protective clothing that doesn't feel or look like sun-protective clothing. If you've ever seen a men's fishing shirt, you know what I'm talking about; UPF clothing (which is the textile industry's version of sunscreen) has traditionally been unflattering and uncomfortable, made from thicker fabrics in fugly colors like beige, grey, and more beige.

Not Free Fly. For one, the brand uses bamboo to make most of its pieces, which is softer and more sustainable than other fabrics. Bamboo is also cool-to-the-touch and naturally breathable, perfect for staying cool on hot, summery days without ever weighing you down. And it's quick-drying, so if you do break a sweat or get rained on, it dries in a flash.

Free Fly's pieces are also incredibly lightweight, which is key reason why I love my Elevate Hoodie so much. Back during that heat wave we had a few weeks ago, I could throw this puppy on over a sports bra and call it a day. Now that it's back to cold, I'll do the same thing and throw a flannel over top, or add a base layer underneath. Either way, it's a versatile weight that keeps up with a very versatile season.

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I also appreciate that it's sun-protective, a quality that never goes out of style. I'm an avid fisherman (fisherwoman?) who spends most of her off-time out on the water in the sun, and the details are a game-changer. You don't need to be an angler to appreciate these touches, though—anyone who spends time outside or enjoys the water can reap the benefits of the Elevate Hoodie. For example, the crossover hood allows for full sun coverage at the neck, as do the thumbholes and top-of-hand construction that keeps the sleeves down and over the knuckles, out of the sun's rays. Additionally, the material is crafted with a sustainable odor-control technology, so you can wear it for days on end without having to wash it, and it won't get stinky.

I could go on and on, but I think it's clear—I love Free Fly apparel and I love this hoodie. I think you will, too. But if you want to explore other styles, there's plenty to go around. Scroll to shop more spring transitional staples to keep up with the season's wild temps.

Available sizes: XS-XL

Fun fact: These are actually my go-to travel pants, thanks to their supreme softness and barely noticeable elastic waistband that makes hours spent curled up in the car or airplane seat actually bearable. Like everything else Free Fly, they’re made of viscose from bamboo, which makes them breathable and never too stuffy, perfect for life on-the-go or lounging on the couch.

Colors: 3

Available sizes: XS-XL

If you’d rather show off your shoulders this summer, do it in this featherlight tank top. Its slightly cropped silhouette is perfect for wearing with jeans, shorts, skirts, the aforementioned travel pants—you name it. And the parts that are covered at protected thanks to the fabrics UPF 50+ that’s like sunscreen in clothing form.

Colors: 3

Available sizes: S-3XL

Even though Mother’s Day is around the corner, Father’s Day will be here before you know it. For dads, grandparents, uncles, boyfriends, and whomever else might appreciate a breezy long sleeve, there’s this lightweight top. It’s stretchy and versatile, perfect for wearing as-is when temps are soaring, or layering underneath flannels and sweatshirts on cool evenings. Also available in women’s styles.

Colors: 11

Available sizes: XS-XL

If there’s another spring transitional piece worth adding to your wardrobe, it’s a lightweight rain jacket, like the Cloudshield Rain Jacket. Obviously, it’s waterproof and features fully taped seams to keep rain where it belongs: outside of your clothes. But it’s also lightweight and packable, perfect for adding layers underneath or throwing in your pack when it gets too hot. Also available in men’s styles.

Colors: 3

Available sizes: XS-XL

One-and-done dress weather is around the corner, and for the days when it’s just too hot to even think about wearing an outfit, there’s this midi dress. The fabric is ultra-breezy on its own, only it’s cut in a relaxed silhouette that brings the material slightly away from the body for maximum cooling, plus has slits on the sides to allow for even more airflow. Yes, please.

Colors: 4

Available sizes: S-3XL

Speaking of breezy, the Breeze Shorts are as comfortable as they sound. The shell is a polyester/spandex blend that’s a bit more durable, while a bamboo boxer liner keeps things comfortable. The polyester/spandex blend also makes them quick-drying, perfect for days near the pool or at the beach. They come in a rainbow of colors, though, so good luck buying just one pair.

Colors: 13

Available sizes: XS-XL

Similarly, there’s a whole collection of Women’s Breeze styles that feature the same, durable poly/spandex blend in the most summery cuts. Enter, this skirt, which you’ll want to wear everywhere. It features a pull-on elastic band for easy dressing, plus two bamboo-lined pockets on the side and a stash pocket hidden in the right pocket for keeping valuables safe and secure. Throw it on over a bathing suit at the beach and call it a day.

Colors: 4

Available sizes: S-3XL

While the Elevate hoodie is just a smidge more durable for outdoor adventures, the original Lightweight Hoodie is ideal for hanging out and keeping the sun off your skin in comfort. It’s buttery, cool-to-the-touch, and feels like nothing’s there, so even if the sun’s beating down on you, you won’t overheat or get stuffy. If you do sweat, it’s quick drying, so you won’t be stuck in a soggy mess. Also available in women’s styles.

Colors: 18