Xplorer Maps debuts new sun shirt hoodies

By Megan Smalley

The UltraLight Sunshirt Hoodies feature original custom map art designs from Xplorer Maps.

Xplorer Maps, a Missoula, Montana-based wholesale vendor focused on creating hand-illustrated map art, has expanded into the apparel category this year with the launch of its new UltraLight Sunshirt Hoodies.

The new hoodies debuted in May just ahead of the summer season. All new hoodies feature Xplorer Maps custom map art designs, with about 35 map designs currently available for the UltraLight Sunshirt Hoodies.

“Xplorer Maps has done about 70 map designs over the years, but I strategically chose 35 that I thought would sell well on the new sun shirt hoodies,” says Founder and President Greg Robitaille.

The new sun shirt hoodies, which all feature UPF 50+ sun protection, are made from quick-dry lightweight performance fabric to ensure safe and comfortable outdoor adventures. The hoodies come in unisex sizing from small to XXXL for a more versatile fit and also include thumb holes for extra hand coverage.

Robitaille says he had noticed a rising demand for sun-protective apparel in recent years.

“I’ve seen more and more people on the rivers making a conscious decision to wear lightweight, SPF long-sleeved shirts,” he notes.

And people want more than just a simple sun shirt — they want their sun shirt to have a hood as well.

“People want to protect their neck, and a hood gives more facial coverage,” says Robitaille. “There are a lot of sun shirts out there without hoods, but for people spending hours on the river or on the lake, they want a hood.”

While many sun shirts are plain or feature simple designs, Robitaille says he wanted to stand out with something different for retailers.

“Most sun shirts are just plain colors,” he explains. “Our map artwork is incredibly unique, detailed, colorful and fun. If you’re going to wear a sun shirt, we could give you something more fun, attractive and unique.”

The new hoodies are also designed with comfort in mind, offering a 95% polyester, 5% spandex performance blend.

The new UltraLight Sunshirt Hoodies are the first of many new apparel items from Xplorer Maps. Robitaille says he has some short-sleeve and long-sleeve T-shirt designs as well as hoodies, onesies and hats planned for 2027.