As runners continue logging miles through extreme heat and prolonged sun exposure, UPF-rated apparel is becoming an increasingly important part of modern running gear — especially during long outdoor efforts where sunscreen alone may not hold up. Expanding further into sun-focused performance wear, Fractel recently introduced several new pieces designed to keep runners cool, protected, and comfortable through high-exposure summer training.
Sierra Nevada Collection
Adventure Shirt
I’ve made it pretty clear at this point that I’m fully on board with collared and button-up running apparel, and the Fractel Adventure Shirt might be one of the most unique takes on the category I’ve seen yet.
The design immediately stands out. The limited-edition prints look like a mix between earthy topography lines and camouflage. And our review item was the Sapwood orange and white – a bold colorway that almost looks like the rings of a tree. Honestly, it may be the most unique running shirt I’ve come across.
Performance-wise, this is still very much built for movement. The recycled open-knit mesh keeps airflow high and the overall feel extremely lightweight, while the four-way stretch fabric moves comfortably on the run. The relaxed fit also helps it lean into the adventure/lifestyle crossover vibe rather than feeling like a super dialed race-day piece.
Like the other collared running tops I keep gravitating toward, the versatility is a huge part of the appeal. The button-up front allows for adjustable ventilation when things heat up, but it also helps the shirt transition naturally beyond the run itself. This feels just as appropriate for a long trail outing as it does hanging around afterward recovering with coffee or food in hand.
Fractel Velocity Tee
Sometimes the simplest pieces end up being the ones you reach for the most, and the Fractel Performance Tee fits squarely into that category.
Built for hot-weather running, this tee focuses on staying lightweight, breathable, and comfortable without overcomplicating things. The “Coolcore Breeze” mesh does a great job promoting airflow and moving sweat during warmer efforts, while the relaxed fit keeps the overall feel easy and unrestricted.
The stretch fabric moves naturally on the run, and the seams stayed comfortable without any noticeable irritation or rubbing. With UPF 30 protection added in, this feels especially well-suited for long summer miles where sun exposure becomes part of the equation. Simple, technical, and easy to wear — sometimes that’s exactly what you want from a running tee.
Hooded Suntop
Wearing long sleeves during warm weather is honestly pretty new territory for me. Historically, I’ve always associated long sleeves with cold mornings and rainy runs, not sunshine and heat. But after spending more time in highly exposed environments, and with a history of Melanoma in the family, I have been giving lightweight sun-protective layers a real shot — and I’ve been genuinely surprised by how far the technology has come.
The Fractel Hooded Suntop layer is a great example of that evolution.
Despite offering full coverage, it never feels overly heavy or stifling. The material is breathable, soft against the skin, and true to its purpose, impressively lightweight. This feels less like wearing an extra layer and more like adding a bit of insurance against long hours in the sun.
The fold-over hood provides excellent neck coverage, while thumb holes help keep the sleeves extended for maximum protection across the wrists and hands. There’s even integrated watch access, which is one of those small but genuinely useful features runners immediately appreciate.
I recently brought this along on a family trip to Hawaii, and it quickly became one of the most useful items I packed. After long runs, beach time, and probably a little too much sun exposure overall, it – along with it’s UPF 50+ protection, was the perfect thing to throw on while still staying comfortable and safe in the warm weather.
The idea of wearing long sleeves in the heat may still sound counterintuitive to some runners, but pieces like this make a very convincing argument.
While there are a variety of running hat companies out there (and we have reviewed a variety of great ones), Fractel really is committed to sustainability, quality, and social responsibility. Their products are working each and every day to be constructed from materials that are eco-friendly. Fractel also is a part of 1% for the Planet – demonstrating their commitment to giving back to society. People who purchase from Fractel can feel good knowing that they are supporting a company that cares.
Summer is here, and that means excess sweat and sun. If you are looking for some new hates to tackle the miles, Fractel is a company that you can feel good about supporting.
