Gear Review: Ultralight COOLPLUS Crew By PAKA
The PAKA Ultralight COOLPLUS Crew is a trail-ready shirt made to beat the heat. We tested it in alpine sun and high desert —here’s how it performed.
Looking for the perfect lightweight layer for hot-weather hiking, running, or backpacking? The PAKA Ultralight COOLPLUS Crew is designed to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable in the heat! Whether you’re sweating it out on sun-baked trails or pushing hard through a midday climb. This is one of those rare shirts that blends tech and comfort so well, you’ll forget you’re wearing an alpaca wool sweater!
It's worth noting here that overall, I have become a big PAKA fan. I am a very sweaty hiker and generally rely on wool clothing to keep me feeling dry, regulated and less stinky than synthetic clothing allows. I know some of you reading this can relate! The COOLPLUS wool blend is a phenomenal piece for shoulder seasons and days above treeline. Keep scrolling to learn why that is!
Standout Features
- COOLPLUS® Fiber Blend – A high-performance wool blend engineered for moisture wicking and quick drying, designed specifically for active use in hot, humid climates.
- Super Lightweight & Breathable – You won’t feel weighed down or sticky in this shirt, even on steep, sweaty ascents.
- No Itch, No Funk – Unlike some wool blends, the COOLPLUS Crew is soft against the skin and does a decent job resisting odor over time.
- Slim Athletic Cut – A tailored fit that stays in place and won’t flap around during movement, while still offering freedom to breathe and layer if needed.
- Sustainably Made by PAKA – PAKA’s commitment to transparency and ethical production carries through to this shirt, which is made with traceable, responsible practices in Peru.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Featherlight and packable | Not as odor-resistant as 100% merino |
| Excellent breathability and quick-dry | Doesn't offer sun protection on its own |
| Feels soft and smooth next to skin | Fit runs slightly slim—consider sizing up |
| Looks great on and off trail | Limited color options available |
| Made sustainably and ethically |
Trail Testing
I’ve been wearing the PAKA Ultralight COOLPLUS Crew during some high-exertion late spring hikes in the Southern Rockies and can confidently say it’s one of the most breathable alpaca wool sweaters I’ve tested. On a 10-mile loop hike in direct sun, it stayed airy and cool even when my pack was getting wet with sweat. The shirt dries within minutes once you stop moving, and doesn’t cling or get heavy the way some other wool tops do.
The fit is sleek and simple—ideal for layering, and a nice midlayer. It packs down to the size of a pair of socks. I also appreciate the lack of excessive branding, loud colors, or gimmicks. It’s just a solid, lightweight shirt that performs exactly how you want it to.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense ultralight crew shirt that thrives in heat and sweat, the PAKA Ultralight COOLPLUS Crew might be your new favorite. It’s a great addition to any summer trail kit—especially for those who hike in hot or humid zones and want something featherlight, fast-drying, and made with purpose.
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