ARMSTRONG UPF HOODED TOP
Protection • Comfort • Performance
Long days on the water are what we live for—but they're also when your skin takes the greatest beating.
The Armstrong UPF Hooded Top has been designed specifically for riders who spend hours under intense sun. Combining UPF 50+ sun protection, a lightweight stretch fabric and an integrated hood, it delivers maximum protection without compromising comfort or freedom of movement.
Whether you're wing foiling, downwinding, Foil Driving, paddling or simply relaxing on the beach between sessions, the UPF Hooded Top keeps you protected from harmful UV rays while remaining cool, breathable and comfortable throughout the day.
This isn't just another rash vest.
It's a technical piece of performance apparel designed for life on the water.
What this product is for.
Why You'll Love It
✓ UPF 50+ sun protection
✓ Integrated hood for maximum coverage
✓ Thumb loops to keep sleeves in place
✓ Lightweight four-way stretch fabric
✓ Quick-drying material
✓ Comfortable athletic fit
✓ Breathable all-day comfort
✓ Unisex sizing
Why Wear a Hooded UPF Top?
Sunburn isn't the only problem.
Long-term UV exposure contributes to:
- Premature skin ageing
- Dehydration
- Fatigue
- Reduced comfort during long sessions
- Increased risk of skin damage
A hooded UPF top provides continuous protection without the need to constantly reapply sunscreen to every exposed area.
It's one of the simplest upgrades you can make if you regularly ride in tropical climates.
UPF 50+ Protection
The Armstrong Hooded Top uses UPF 50+ fabric, blocking the vast majority of harmful ultraviolet radiation while remaining breathable and lightweight.
Unlike sunscreen, the protection doesn't wash off during your session.
Once you're wearing it, you're protected from:
✓ Intense midday sun
✓ Reflected UV from the water
✓ Long downwind runs
✓ Boat trips
✓ Beach rigging sessions
Integrated Hood
One of the biggest advantages over a standard lycra top is the built-in hood.
The hood helps protect areas that are often forgotten:
- Neck
- Ears
- Back of the head
These areas receive some of the highest UV exposure during long sessions.
The hood remains lightweight and comfortable without restricting movement, making it ideal for hours on the water.
Thumb Loops
The integrated thumb loops keep the sleeves securely in place.
Benefits include:
- Better wrist coverage
- Less sleeve movement while riding
- Improved comfort under wetsuits or impact vests
- Continuous protection throughout your session
It's a small feature that makes a noticeable difference during active riding.
Lightweight Performance Fabric
Constructed from 88% polyester and 12% spandex, the fabric combines stretch, comfort and rapid drying characteristics.
It feels soft against the skin while allowing unrestricted movement for:
- Pumping
- Paddling
- Wing handling
- Swimming
- Rigging equipment
Even after hours in the sun, it remains comfortable and breathable.
Who Is This Top For?
Perfect for riders who:
✓ Spend several hours on the water.
✓ Live or travel in tropical climates.
✓ Wing foil regularly.
✓ Paddle or Foil Drive.
✓ Want reliable UV protection.
✓ Prefer wearing less sunscreen.
Who Should NOT Buy It?
If you only ride short winter sessions in cold climates while wearing a full wetsuit, the additional sun protection may be less important.
For anyone riding regularly in places like Mui Ne, Australia, Hawaii or the Mediterranean during summer, it's one of the smartest pieces of apparel you can own.
How to Care for Your UPF Top
To maximise its lifespan:
- Machine wash cold.
- Do not use fabric softener.
- Do not bleach.
- Hang to dry in the shade.
- Avoid tumble drying.
- Do not iron.
Proper care helps preserve the elasticity and UV-protective performance of the fabric over time.
Performance Characteristics
Real World Performance
Experience
In Mui Ne, the sun can be just as demanding as the wind.
After years of teaching and riding in tropical conditions, we’ve learned that the best way to protect yourself isn’t applying more sunscreen—it’s covering your skin.
The Armstrong UPF Hooded Top has become one of our favourite pieces of apparel because you simply stop thinking about sun protection once it’s on.
The hood protects the neck during long reaches, the thumb loops keep the sleeves perfectly positioned and the lightweight fabric remains comfortable even on the hottest afternoons.
It’s one of those products that quietly becomes part of every session.
Things We Love
- Excellent UV protection
- Comfortable integrated hood
- Lightweight feel
- Quick drying
- Great fit
- Premium quality construction
Things To Know
This top is designed for sun protection, not thermal insulation.
For colder conditions, wear it as a base layer underneath a wetsuit or thermal top.
Best Conditions
- Tropical climates
- Summer riding
- Wing foiling
- Downwind
- Foil Drive
- Beach coaching
- Boat support
Best For
- Wing Foiling
- Downwind
- SUP & Foil Drive
- Beach Days
- Boat Trips
- Tropical Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear it in the water all day?
Yes. It’s specifically designed for prolonged water use and dries quickly between sessions.
Does the hood stay on while riding?
Yes. The hood is designed to sit comfortably while protecting your neck and head from direct sunlight without adding unnecessary bulk.
Is it only for wing foiling?
Not at all.
It’s equally suitable for:
- SUP
- Surfing
- Foil Drive
- Downwind paddling
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Fishing
- Any extended time spent on the water
How does it fit?
The UPF Hooded Top uses a unisex fit. Men can generally choose their usual size for a close athletic fit or size up for a looser feel, while many women prefer sizing down for a more fitted profile.
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Final Thoughts
FoilLab Tropical Essential
The Armstrong UPF Hooded Top is one of those products that quickly becomes indispensable. Lightweight, comfortable and exceptionally protective, it lets you spend long days on the water without constantly worrying about sun exposure. For anyone riding regularly in tropical or sunny conditions, it’s one of the best investments you can make—for both comfort today and skin health in the years ahead.
