Newly released for 2021, the Sunslayer Hoodie by Vortex brings together much of the outdoor functionality in the company’s apparel line, with new fabrics intent on limiting outdoor exposure in the waning days of summer and the encroaching fall.
Made with 100% polyester, the Sunslayer fabric is designed to provide the wearer UPF 50 sun protection to all covered areas, to include the neck and arms.
The fabric also includes anti-microbial and moisture wicking patterns to rapidly eliminate sweat and odor.
Made with built-in stretch features, the Sunslayer also includes rolldown cuffs to provide your hands with additional protection when needed.
On the front interior of the hoodie is a partial chamois cloth material good for cleaning optic glass in the field without risking damage to the glass itself.
The Sun Slayer Hoodie is available in Forest Green Camo (featured), Dark Blue, and Turbulent Grey and comes in sizes Small to 3XL.
Product Evaluation Scores:
- Cost – Average (3/5): With its list price of $54.95, the Sunslayer provides a breathable, flexible material that protects the head, neck, and arms for those experiencing the outdoors in the late summer and fall. In comparison, the Zone Full-Zip Hoodie ($50) from 5.11, the Midweight Basic Hoodie ($50) from Rogue, and the Fallback Shooter Hoodie ($65) from Viktos all illustrate that amid the market of direct comparable the Sunslayer is appropriately (or of average) priced for the consumer.
- Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect the Men’s Sunslayer material had a very smooth and flexible feel on the arms and shoulders, though somewhat tight in the forearms (as per design). This was consistent to the cuff material at the wrist, which when unrolled ensured debris was kept out and heat was appropriately retained. This material proved further beneficial in the cool, damp fall mornings but was easily modified with sleeves rolled up as the day’s heat increased. The breathable and anti-microbial fabric also minimized sweat and helped to keep down odor despite several days of being worn under a plate carrier during drills, and not washed.
- Durability – Average (3/5): Durability wise, the Sunslayer was made from 100% polyester and had an appropriate (or average) durability as expected from most outdoor base clothing. There were instances during the evaluation where hook-and-loop (male) material from gear or gloves would pull and fray some of the superficial threading around the cuffs and sleeves, so over long-term wear this could possibly cause further issue. However, during the evaluation, no friction compromised the fabric around the neck (from rifle slings) and torso (from plate carriers). It is recommended that end-users consider using a layered approach with the Sunslayer, with the shirt as a base layer to provide the best overall use.
- Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the Sunslayer did an excellent job as a base layer to defray early morning chill and moisture. The sleeves could be rolled up when the temperature rose and the body needed more cooling surface. With the UPF 50 sun protection, the hoodie was worn throughout the day and no sunburn was experienced despite continual direct sunlight. The hoodie and high neck fabric had no drawstring and negated any friction from rifle sling or other gear. The interior chamois fabric was nice for cleaning optics, but it was limited only while the fabric was clean and as time, wear, sweat, and debris built up the fabric became less than ideal for cleaning lenses over a cleaning kit. Other elements like the rolldown cuffs were good during rain or damp mornings to further keep the hands warm, if gloves were not available.
- Weight – Good (4/5): At just 8.7 ounces (for the evaluated XL size), the Sunslayer was very lightweight and served as an ideal base layer for the cooler temperatures of fall or winter. The added hood and long sleeves gave added protection against direct elements over longer periods in the field or range. In contrast, the Zone Full-Zip Hoodie (7.2 ounces) from 5.11, the Midweight Basic Hoodie (8.25 ounces) from Rogue, and the Fallback Shooter Hoodie (12 ounces) from Viktos all illustrate that material/fabric choice can play a decisive factor to overall weight and that the Sunslayer is as a good light weight amid the market of alternatives for the consumer.
Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)
Product Link: https://vortexoptics.com/mens-sun-slayer-hoodie-forest-green-camo-072021.html
I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.
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