Royal Robbins Salathé Sun Hoodie named to TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026
The Salathé Sun Hoodie is an ultralight sun hoodie that features built-in UPF40+ sun protection and MPT, the brand’s proprietary chemical-free mosquito protection.
BERKELEY, Calif. (Oct. 15, 2026) – For the second consecutive year, Royal Robbins has been named to TIME’s annual list of the Best Inventions. For 2026, the Royal Robbins Salathé Sun Hoodie was named an award winner, highlighting its combination of chemical-free mosquito protection and UPF40+ sun protection, in an ultralight, versatile design.
To compile this year's award winners, TIME solicited nominations from TIME editors and correspondents around the world, and through an online application process. TIME then evaluated each contender on a number of key factors, including originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact.
“The Salathé Sun Hoodie embodies what Royal Robbins has always stood for: purposeful innovation and versatile products that enable people to feed their soul through nature and adventure,” said Erik Burbank, Global Brand President at Royal Robbins. “We’re thrilled by this recognition, and proud to see the Salathé embraced by everyone from Yosemite climbers and Pacific Crest Trail hikers to everyday adventurers around the world"
Available in styles for men and women, the Salathé Sun Hoodie is the ultimate ultralight, versatile adventure sun hoodie. Weighing just 5.4 ounces, this hoodie is quick-drying and moisture-wicking. The Salathé is made with the brand’s proprietary 100% recycled polyester ripstop that offers built-in UPF40+ sun protection and chemical-free Mosquito Protection Technology ™.
Royal Robbins first launched MPT in Spring 2025 to provide an environmentally-conscious solution to protection against mosquitoes. Using no toxic chemical repellents or biocides, MPT offers mosquito protection that can’t wash or wear away.
Royal Robbins partnered with industry-leading university researchers, to test MPT fabrics for efficacy. Based on results from multiple controlled laboratory tests, MPT has proven 92% effective in preventing mosquito bites.
Since its launch, MPT has received numerous accolades, which underscore how valuable this innovation is to anyone who spends time outdoors. Additional awards for Royal Robbins MPT include CNN Underscored’s 2026 Innovation Award, Popular Science’s 50 Greatest Innovations, the 2026 Red Dot Award for innovative product design, among others. TIME’s inclusion of the Salathé in its Best Inventions of 2026 list, further solidifies this technology’s relevance.
Currently, the Salathé line comprises the Women’s and Men’s Salathé Sun Hoodie L/S, Salathé Sun Shirt and the Men's Salathé Sun Shirt Short Sleeve. For Spring 2027, Royal Robbins will expand the line with new colorways, and will launch the Salathé Sun Full Zip Hoodie, Salathé Bandana, Salathé Sun Hat and Salathé Bucket Hat.
For more information about Royal Robbins, please visit royalrobbins.com.
About Royal Robbins®
Founded in 1968 by world-renowned climbers and adventurers Royal and Liz Robbins, Royal Robbins is a leading designer, manufacturer, and retailer of versatile, durable, and stylish apparel for the next generation of adventurers. The brand maintains a commitment to environmental and social responsibility by prioritizing natural fibers and maintaining carbon neutrality in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Royal Robbins gear can be found in outdoor and specialty retail partners throughout the world. We believe nature and adventure are good for the soul.
To learn more, please visit royalrobbins.com.
