Note: June 17, 2023. Please check out the composite review of the Anetik products the guys have been using for years. Click here.

I had heard about Anetik’s “shade socks” when I was looking for calf protection from jellyfish stings last year. Anetik strives to make the lightest, most breathable, UV shielding performance clothing for outdoor enthusiasts. When I stumbled upon their booth at this year’s Fred Hall Show, I was intrigued to see and touch the thigh high shade socks close up. They looked and felt like women’s hosiery a little more than I’d prefer, but after getting stung 5 times last year, I was desperate. The shade socks were designed for Florida kayak fishers who didn’t want to keep applying sunscreen to their legs. I got the camo color to look less freaky.

The show pricing was so good, I got the long sleeve performance shirt and shade mask as well, and was able to trial the gear on a recent 5 hr kayak fishing outing.

The shade mask’s contoured fit helped keep it in place better than any other mask I have used, and didn’t have a lot of extra material to blow around in the wind.

The long sleeve performance shirt was very breathable and comfortable on this warm, light wind day. When I opened my PFD to cool off, the heat from my body dissipated immediately.

The shade socks were also very breathable and completely eliminated the need for sun screen, yet didn’t feel hot at all.

The material used in the shirt and socks is very light and has an open weave that makes it more delicate than the other performance fabrics I’ve worn. The care instructions say to hand wash, separate from velcro, which is an indication that coming into contact with roughly textured items isn’t advised.

My assessment so far is that Anetik makes very nice looking, UV blocking, performance clothing that feel great and hold up well if washed away from snaggy items. On the next kayak trip without the shade socks, my sun tan lotion eventually washed off my legs and I got sunburnt. I’ll definitely wear the Anetik attire going forwad.